This is the new era of craftsmanship, where innovation meets conscience, and beauty is measured not only by how a ring sparkles, but by the story behind it.

A New Definition of Luxury

In the past, luxury was synonymous with exclusivity and opulence. But for the contemporary couple, true luxury lies in transparency, meaning, and exceptional design. An engagement ring is no longer chosen purely for size or prestige; it’s selected for the craftsmanship, care, and ethical values behind it.

Couples today want their jewellery to say something about who they are. They’re seeking pieces that are responsibly made, beautifully designed, and built to endure. This has sparked a remarkable transformation within the fine jewellery industry, where tradition and technology now coexist in perfect harmony.

Brands like Lily Arkwright are at the forefront of this movement, combining timeless British design with sustainable practices and meticulous attention to detail. Each ring is handcrafted using lab-grown diamonds, moissanite, or responsibly sourced gemstones, a modern expression of ethical luxury that doesn’t compromise on brilliance.

The Rise of Lab-Grown Diamonds

Few innovations have reshaped the jewellery world quite like lab-grown diamonds. Created using advanced technology that replicates the natural diamond-forming process, these stones are chemically and optically identical to their mined counterparts, just without the environmental impact.

What makes lab-grown diamonds particularly special is their high level of traceability. Every stone’s origin can be verified, giving couples the confidence that their engagement ring reflects their values. In essence, lab-grown diamonds have taken the elegance of traditional jewellery and infused it with a sense of purpose and progress.

Far from being a trend, they represent a lasting evolution in fine jewellery, one that merges craftsmanship with consciousness.

The Beauty of Sustainable Craft

Behind every exquisite engagement ring lies an intricate process of design, precision, and artistry. The most respected jewellers understand that true beauty is found in the details, the curve of a setting, the symmetry of a cut, the feel of a band balanced perfectly on the hand.

Sustainable craftsmanship means applying traditional principles thoughtfully in a modern context. Recycled platinum and gold are now integral to responsible jewellery design, offering the same lustre and longevity as newly mined metals but without the environmental cost.

This approach celebrates both heritage and innovation, timeless artistry meeting 21st-century responsibility.

Bespoke Design: The Ultimate Expression of Love

For couples who want something truly one-of-a-kind, bespoke engagement rings offer the ultimate personal touch. The bespoke process allows clients to be part of the creative journey, from the initial sketch to the final polish.

Design consultations delve into every detail, including stone shape, setting, metal, and proportion, ensuring the ring reflects not only the wearer’s style but also the couple’s shared story. Hidden gems, engraved initials, or vintage-inspired flourishes all add layers of meaning to the design.

The result is a piece that transcends trends: a future heirloom, meticulously crafted and deeply personal.

The Evolution of Ethical Luxury

There’s a growing understanding that sustainability and sophistication can coexist seamlessly. Today’s ethical jewellers don’t see responsible sourcing as a limitation; they see it as an opportunity to create something even more meaningful.

At Lily Arkwright, ethical luxury isn’t a buzzword; it’s a philosophy. Each piece is created with integrity, balancing traditional craftsmanship with modern values. Their master goldsmiths handcraft every ring in the UK, ensuring precision, care, and lasting beauty.

By pairing lab-grown diamonds and moissanite with recycled metals, they demonstrate how modern technology can honour centuries-old jewellery techniques, a fusion of artistry and innovation that redefines what it means to wear something truly special.

Timeless Design Meets Modern Values

While sustainability and ethics are shaping the future, design remains at the heart of every engagement ring. In 2025 and beyond, the most coveted styles are those that blend classic elegance with contemporary flair, oval and emerald cuts, sculptural bands, and subtle vintage influences reimagined for the modern era.

The enduring appeal of these designs lies in their versatility. They can feel as modern today as they will in decades to come, a true reflection of love that’s timeless yet ever evolving.

A Sparkling Future

As fine jewellery enters this exciting new chapter, engagement rings have become more than a symbol of love, they’re a statement of values. The new generation of couples wants to celebrate romance while making responsible choices that feel true to them.

This movement towards ethical luxury represents a brighter, more thoughtful future for the industry. It proves that sustainability and artistry are not opposites but partners, united by craftsmanship, innovation, and a shared respect for the beauty of creation.

In the end, the perfect engagement ring doesn’t just shine on your hand; it resonates with your heart. And in that sense, modern craftsmanship has never been more meaningful.

Astrea London is the luxury jeweller shaping the conversation around lab-grown brilliance. The house focuses on the very top of the market, D and E colour, VS2 plus, and now unveils D IF rarity that represents a fraction of a per cent worldwide. Every stone is certified with advanced light performance grading from respected laboratories, a promise of clarity and calibre that is felt at first sight.

“I have always believed in sustainability and innovation in design. Joining Astrea London feels like a natural step; together, we are embracing the future of diamonds in a way that is both responsible and beautiful,” says Sarah Jessica Parker.

Founder and CEO Nathalie Morrison adds, “Sarah Jessica epitomises timeless style, innovation, and integrity. Together, we will continue to push boundaries, creating jewellery that represents the highest craftsmanship and redefines what it means to own a diamond today.”

The creative plan is immediate. Twelve cornerstone designs arrive this year, pieces that balance precision with ease, made for a lifetime of wearing, not just a single night. Under Parker’s direction, Astrea London will present diamonds at the highest level of rarity, curated with care, produced with rigorous ethics, and finished with impeccable detail.

Astrea London is also expanding in the places that matter to modern luxury. You will find the brand in Villa La Coste in Provence, at Fairmont Windsor Park in the United Kingdom, and on Kea Island with One&Only. In October, the story continues in Dubai with the addition of three new spaces, including a flagship at Mandarin Oriental Jumeirah. Guests will be able to book The Seven Carats Afternoon Tea Experience at Astrea’s partnered laboratory in Dubai, a quiet celebration of beauty and process.

There is philanthropy at the core. A portion of yearly income supports education for underprivileged children along with other global causes, a reminder that the brightest luxury carries responsibility.

What this means for our readers

For couples planning engagements and weddings, this is a new lane for high jewellery, certified brilliance, modern stewardship, and the kind of design leadership that shapes taste. For vendors and partners, it is a signal that luxury is evolving rapidly, with transparency and technology becoming integral to the love story.

Key details at a glance

• Appointment, Sarah Jessica Parker, Global Creative Director and Founding Partner
• Focus, top one per cent grading, D and E colour, VS2 plus, debut of D IF rarity
• Certification, advanced light performance grading from IGI, GCAL, and currently GIA
• Collection, twelve cornerstone designs this year
• Openings, three Dubai boutiques in October, including a flagship at Mandarin Oriental Jumeirah
• Impact: a portion of annual income supports education for underprivileged children

Where to experience Astrea London

Villa La Coste in Provence, Fairmont Windsor Park near London, One&Only Kea Island in Greece, and from October in Dubai at Mandarin Oriental Jumeirah, along with two additional locations.

Credit note

This article includes information provided by Astrea London along with our editorial perspective.

Engagement rings symbolise the love between a couple and are purchased to be worn for a lifetime. With so many options to choose from, knowing the diamond shape, cut and banding to select can make finding the right ring overwhelming. 

To support those planning a proposal in the new year, experts at engagement and wedding ring jeweller, Queensmith, have released exclusive internal data detailing the trends they predict will be big in 2024. 

Topping the list for style is the classic solitaire. This traditional ring dominated the market in 2023, making up 43% of Queensmith’s sales, an annual increase of approximately 5%. And, its popularity isn’t expected to slow down with the timeless elegance of a central solitary diamond, or gemstone, contributing to its enduring appeal. 

It is not just the gorgeous design alone that has created a high demand for solitaire rings. As with many walks of life, celebrities have had a huge influence on engagement ring trends with Molly Mae, Zoe Sugg and Zoe Kravitz all getting engaged in 2023 and appearing to sport solitaire or diamond band engagement rings. Hailey Bieber, engaged in 2018, remained a substantial influencer in 2023, with her oval solitaire ring taking centre stage and further impacting buyer’s choices. 

Diamond bands and trilogy rings came second and third most popular respectively, with their positions remaining relatively stable in 2023, accounting for 21% and 16.7% of sales compared to 21% for diamond bands and 16.8% for trilogy rings in 2022. 

More bespoke styles have become increasingly popular as couples aim to make their engagement ring feel more personal to them. Throughout 2022, Queensmith witnessed a consistent increase in the demand for ‘other’ styles such as toi et moi (“you and me”) or five-stone rings and that demand has significantly increased throughout 2023, nearly overtaking halo rings altogether. 

When looking at the most popular diamond shape, Queensmiths’ data reveals that the leading diamond shape for 2023 remains the classic round shape, capturing 55% of sales, despite experiencing a 4% decline compared to the previous year. 

Despite the popularity of the round diamond shape, it’s interesting to note that five years ago, round diamonds constituted a huge 75% of sales, marking a significant decrease over time. September 2023 marked an unexpected low for round diamonds, with sales dropping to a low of 51%.

Although oval diamonds are still growing in popularity making up 23.9% of sales, this increase of just 2.37% from 2022 was a lower growth rate than expected. Queensmith saw popularity for ovals rise throughout the first half of the year, peaking in July and slowly falling again. This could indicate fatigue with oval designs, leading people to seek something more distinct and exclusive now.

The most unpredicted shift has been the rise of emerald-shaped rings. With only 3.8% of total sales in 2022, this year has seen a 2.9% increase, the largest rise out of all the diamond shapes, replacing last year’s pear in 3rd place most popular. Emerald cuts call for super high quality with their open facets making flaws and poor colour more visible. The increased availability of top-quality lab diamonds has allowed people to afford top-quality (lab-grown) emerald cuts.

Discover De Beers Jewellery, with its storied history and unparalleled craftsmanship, has become synonymous with the celebration of love and matrimony. The brand’s deep connection with weddings transcends mere jewellery; it’s about creating symbols of enduring love and commitment. De Beers diamonds have become an integral part of the marital journey, from the proposal to the wedding day and beyond

The Proposal: Beginning with a De Beers Diamond

The journey often begins with the proposal. De Beers’ engagement rings are iconic, embodying the promise of a lifetime. Each ring, from the classic solitaire to more contemporary designs, tells a story of love and devotion.

The “Promise”, for instance, features intertwined bands symbolizing the union of two souls. In contrast, the “Caress”, with its delicately encircling design, embodies the gentle touch of a loved one.

Crafting the Perfect Ring: A Personal Journey

For many, choosing an engagement ring is a deeply personal experience. De Beers excels in offering a bespoke service where couples can be involved in every step of the creation process. From selecting the diamond to choosing the setting and design, the brand ensures that each ring is as unique as the love it symbolizes.

Bridal Jewelry: Complementing the Bridal Glow

Beyond engagement rings, De Beers offers a range of wedding day jewellery that adds an extra touch of elegance to the wedding day. Their bridal collection includes stunning diamond necklaces, earrings, and bracelets that complement the bridal attire. These pieces are designed to enhance the bride’s radiance, creating a harmonious and sophisticated bridal look.

For the Groom: Elegance in Detail

De Beers also acknowledges the groom’s role in the wedding. The brand offers a selection of men’s wedding bands, cufflinks, and other accessories that balance masculinity with the understated elegance of diamonds. These pieces are crafted to be both a fashion statement and a symbol of lifelong commitment.

Celebrating Anniversaries: Milestones Marked with Diamonds

De Beers is a part of the couple’s journey well beyond the wedding day. Anniversary gifts, often featuring diamonds, are a way for couples to renew and celebrate their commitment. Be it a diamond eternity band or a custom piece signifying a significant milestone. De Beers offers a way to commemorate these special moments.

A Legacy of Love: De Beers’ Timeless Appeal

What sets De Beers apart in the realm of weddings is the quality of their diamonds and the legacy and emotion imbued in each piece. A De Beers diamond at a wedding is more than just an accessory; it’s a heirloom, a tangible representation of love and memories that will be cherished for generations.

De Beers in the Heart of Matrimony

In the heart of every wedding adorned with De Beers is a story of love, a narrative that the brand has helped shape and immortalize. As couples across the globe celebrate their most significant moments, De Beers continues to be at the forefront, not merely as a jeweller but as a custodian of love’s most precious moments.

A Legacy Carved in Sparkle

Historical Odyssey: The De Beers Journey

Founded in 1888 by Cecil Rhodes, De Beers emerged from the diamond-rich soils of South Africa. Rhodes’ ambitious vision transformed the diamond industry, orchestrating the merger of several major mines under the banner of De Beers Consolidated Mines. This consolidation gave De Beers control over the diamond supply and established its dominance in the global market.

A Constellation of Gems: The De Beers Collection

De Beers’ catalogue is a breathtaking array of masterpieces. Each piece, from the classic solitaire engagement rings to the intricate designs of the high jewellery collections, is a work of art.

Behind the Brilliance: Artisanship and Expertise

The creation of a De Beers diamond is a journey of precision and passion. Skilled artisans, with years of training carefully select each diamond for its unique beauty. The cutting and polishing process is an art form, ensuring that each facet perfectly captures and reflects light, creating that signature De Beers sparkle.

Glamour Redefined: Celebrities and De Beers

De Beers has graced the annals of Hollywood and beyond, adorning celebrities and royalty alike. Their diamonds have sparkled on the necks and hands of iconic figures at grand events such as the Oscars and royal weddings. These moments underscore the brand’s status in high society and its role in defining what luxury jewellery means on the global stage.

Ethics and Elegance: Sustainability at Heart

De Beers has taken significant strides in ethical sourcing and sustainability in recent years. The brand’s commitment to ethical practices extends from the mines to the market. Their “Building Forever” initiative focuses on protecting the natural world, partnering with local communities, and leading with innovation to create a positive, lasting legacy.

The Global Stage: De Beers’ Worldwide Presence

De Beers has established itself as a global luxury icon with boutiques in cosmopolitan cities like London, New York, and Tokyo. These boutiques are not just stores; they are emporiums of elegance, offering a personalized experience that reflects the brand’s commitment to excellence and exclusivity.

Vision Forward: Innovating with Time

As the world evolves, so does De Beers. The brand is at the forefront of technological advancements in diamond identification and grading, ensuring that each gem meets its high standards. With an eye on the future, De Beers continues to explore new frontiers, from lab-grown diamonds to new ways of engaging with a digitally savvy clientele.

The Timeless Essence of De Beers

In the realm of luxury and elegance, De Beers stands unrivalled. Its legacy, steeped in history and innovation, continues to captivate. As custodians of some of nature’s most enduring creations, De Beers sells diamonds and dreams woven in the fabric of timelessness and beauty.

Visit De Beers for more products.

This month, award-winning ethical jeweller Lebrusan Studio launches its innovative Propose with a Gemstone service. Doing exactly as it says on the tin, it’s a new opportunity for the brand’s ethics-conscious clients to pop the question before commissioning an engagement ring.

Suitors are invited to visit Lebrusan Studio’s Design Team at the London Diamond Bourse, in Brighton or via video call to establish a budget and view the jeweller’s exciting stock of responsibly sourced diamonds and precious gemstones. Once a stone is selected, Lebrusan Studio will deliver it in a secure presentation box, alongside a mock engagement ring with an empty setting, offering the loose stone a proud seat for optimal visual impact on question day.

As a brand that advocates a slow and conscious approach to consumerism, this new service allows Lebrusan Studio’s clients to invite their partners into the bespoke process instead of investing in a piece of jewellery they’re not 100% certain about. 

“An engagement ring is a symbol to be treasured forever. It’s important that its design aligns with your partner’s vision and can withstand the tests of time,” the brand explains.

“If your loved one is a person who’d appreciate the opportunity to have a say in their special jewel, proposing with a loose gemstone or diamond is a chance for them to design an engagement ring that’s truly their cup of tea. 

“Romance isn’t dead; designing a unique engagement ring is a fun, once-in-a-lifetime experience for you to remember together. Your decision to pop the question in this way is a demonstration of thoughtfulness, and the one-in-a-million gemstone you’ve chosen in private will make the finished engagement ring a collaborative artwork.”

Popping the question with a loose gemstone is also an opportunity to side-step the tricky matter of guessing your partner’s ring size, and for those overcome by a sudden urge to make the leap, a much quicker route than waiting for a fully-fledged engagement ring to be brought into fruition.

For Lebrusan Studio, the launch of this service follows a long period of sourcing. Now, the fruit of that labour is a carefully curated stock of sapphires and diamonds for jewellery shoppers to choose from. An exciting assortment of shapes, sizes, colours and stories, these gems are either pre-loved relics or newly mined stones of responsible origins.

Those that are reclaimed were removed from old pieces of jewellery for a second lease of life, sourced at auction or bought directly from jewellers and individuals who no longer needed them; an opportunity to minimise environmental impact by creating a new piece of jewellery with material that’s already above-ground. 

Meanwhile, newly mined options are traceable, fair-traded and sourced from a small handful of trusted suppliers for whom best practice principles, minimal environmental impact, fair labour and community benefit are of the utmost importance. For those who wish to make a purchase with positive socioeconomic impact, these gemstones are a chance to champion artisanal and small-scale miners.

Having recently attained its coveted Created in the UK certification, Lebrusan Studio’s offering beyond each gemstone proposal is a design and manufacturing process based entirely in Britain; namely Hatton Garden, London’s historic jewellery quarter. It’s here that Lebrusan Studio’s master hand-engraver and stone-setter are based, amongst other important cogs in the designer brand’s small manufacturing machine. 

The launch follows a busy few months at Lebrusan Studio, with the eponymous brand shortlisted for no less than four industry awards since April. Most recently, Arabel Lebrusan has been hailed a Brand Champion by Professional Jeweller’s 2023 Power List, whilst the business’s unfaltering focus on corporate social responsibility (CSR) has earned it a place on Professional Jeweller’s CSR Initiative of the Year shortlist.

This summer, Lebrusan Studio also lifted the lid on its new Amare Collection of delicate ‘love rings’. 

The Vintage Ring Company is appealing to anyone planning to pop the question this Christmas – encouraging them to consider buying their engagement ring second-hand.

Based in Brighton and London, the innovative vintage jewellery retailer boasts a glittering stock of pre-loved engagement rings. The jewels, which are sourced carefully by the brand’s expert co-founders Arabel Lebrusan and Claire Roberts, start at £650 and span in age from Edwardian to modern. 

“In purchasing a vintage engagement ring, you’re investing in a little piece of social history,” the brand says. “Though vintage jewellery is loveable for its exquisite craftsmanship, preserved materials and period design features, its beauty resides even deeper than surface level.

“Pre-loved jewels are veiled in intrigue, each telling a hundred stories of a life once lived. They’re a vessel for cultural tradition, bridging the gap between one epoch and the next, inviting us to create new legacies at the same time as honouring old ones. For their chronicles alone, no two vintage engagement rings are ever the same. We think that’s pretty special.”

As well as celebrating the romanticism of reclaiming old jewellery, the independent brand also places sustainability at the core of its ethos. 

“It’s no secret that global warming has reached crisis point. It’s now vital that humankind ceases the continued use and abuse of the planet’s natural resources,” the jeweller penned in a recent Instagram post. 

“In offering a vintage engagement ring a second lease of life, the modern-day couple is significantly minimising their impact on the environment. Recycled jewels avoid the need for further mining of materials, and thus contribute zero new carbon emissions.”

The jeweller’s appeal comes at the most prosperous time of year for online retail. “With the period between Thanksgiving and Valentine’s Day the busiest for engagement ring sales worldwide, we present ourselves as a source of calm in an overwhelming storm of competitive sales and low stock,” the brand explains.

“For many, the run-up to Christmas is a period of stretched funds, tight timeframes and hurried decisions. Those looking to pop the question over the festive period can seek relief in The Vintage Ring Company’s refreshing offering of affordability, quality and a personalised shopping experience.”

The team can be visited by appointment at their London Diamond Bourse headquarters or by private appointment in Brighton.

thevintageringco.com