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28 alternative styles if you don't want a traditional engagement ring

28 alternative styles if you don't want a traditional engagement ring

Amanda Krause

Not every bride wants to wear classic diamonds.Shutterstock

Though many people dream of getting engaged, not every bride is as keen on wearing a traditional engagement ring.
Instead of diamonds and gold bands, some people prefer unique gemstones and unconventional shapes.
To help give you an idea of what's on the market, we've rounded up a number of alternatives to classic engagement ring styles.

The wedding industry may be changing, but engagement rings are still as popular as ever.

Especially when looking at the rocks worn by celebrities such as Hailey Baldwin and Hilary Duff, it's clear that traditional bands and classic-cut stones are still highly favored, despite changing ring trends over the years.

But not every bride wants to stay traditional on the big day. For example, some brides still purchase diamonds, but opt for distinct cuts, colors, and styles that better suit their personality. A 2017 study done by insurance group Allianz even found that many brides value honeymoons and homes over luxe diamond rings.

If you're looking for a unique ring — diamonds included or not — here are 28 alternative ideas.

Use a geometric shape to enhance the look of your diamonds.

Though its shape is unique, this ring still features some classic elements. Zales

You can make a traditional round diamond look distinct by placing it in the center of a geometrically shaped cluster of smaller stones.

Cost: $3,800

Find out more about the Vera Wang Love Collection Diamond Hexagon Frame here.

Instead of wearing a traditional band, opt for one that's shaped like a wave.

This design is sold with either a gold or silver band. Diamond Nexus

Whereas most engagement rings feature a diamond set on top of a band, this one places its sole stone in between a split ring.

Cost: $1,099

Find out more about the Messina Round Cut Engagement Ring here.

No one will expect your engagement ring to feature black diamonds.

The only traditional thing about this ring is the circular diamond in the middle. Kay

The edgy, black diamonds featured in this ring contrast with the more classic stones surrounding them.

Cost: $2,499

Find out more about the Black/White Diamond Engagement Ring here.

Choose a ring that features a unique diamond halo.

A yellow-gold band will make your ring stand out even more. Kay

The large marquise diamond on this ring fits perfectly in the crease of its contoured band, making for a one-of-a-kind engagement ring.

Cost: $1,319.40

Find out more about this Marquise Diamond Engagement Ring here.

Choose a ring in which the band and diamond are the same color.

The unusual flower shape of this ring is unlike most others on the market. Kay

Rose gold jewelry might be in style right now, but gems of the same color aren't as common.

Cost: $2,799

Find out more about the Neil Lane Morganite Engagement Ring here.

Mixing a yellow band with an unusual setting can make for a distinctive ring.

Triangles are a shape rarely seen on engagement rings. Artemer

Though there's a flashy black diamond in this ring, it's the triangle setting that really grabs your attention.

Cost: $890

Find out more about the Minimalist Black Diamond Ring here.

You don't need diamonds when you have colorful gems.

If you want an alternative ring, shop outside traditional jewelers. Mytheresa

The prong setting on this band allows for a variety of colorful gems to be placed side by side, creating an uneven but interesting look.

Cost: $2,957

Find out more about the Rainbow Frenzy 18k Gold, Diamond, Sapphire Ring here.

Understated bands are basically the opposite of classic sparkling rings.

This ring is part of a collaboration between Gigi Hadid and jewelry brand Messika. Saks Fifth Avenue

A diamond might be forever, but that doesn't mean it has to be the highlight of your ring — instead, focus on finding an attractive band.

Cost: $970

Find out more about the Messika by Gigi Hadid Move Addiction Ring here.

A V-shaped engagement ring also works as an unconventional wedding band.

Sharply shaped bands can eliminate the need for a center stone. Saks Fifth Avenue

Despite set traditions, there are conflicting opinions on how to wear your wedding band and engagement ring after being married. For brides who choose to go against the grain, a V-shaped engagement band is perfect to wear on its own after the wedding.

Cost: $3,900

Find out more about this Anita Ko Baguette Diamond V-Ring here.

An encased diamond is the perfect option for those who want some subtle bling.

The circle pattern of this band is also very distinct. Neiman Marcus

An engagement ring featuring a bold circular band and floating diamond might be radical for some, but is the perfect choice for someone seeking an alternative style.

Cost: $2,340

Find out more about the Chopard Happy Dreams Ring here.

Heart diamonds can be overdone, so choose something a little more whimsical.

Why have one heart on your ring when you can have four? Macy's

Engagement rings don't have to be all about glitz and glam — they can be fun, too. A ring like this one from Effy is quirky but also incorporates classic diamonds.

Cost: $1,363

Find out more about the Effy Multi-Sapphire & Diamond Heart Ring here.

Heart-shaped rings can also look elegant.

This ring lays flat, unlike many traditional engagement bands. Bing Bang NYC

A solid-color band and small diamonds are key to perfecting this distinct style.

Cost: $95

Find out more about the Bing Bang NYC Sparkle Heart Ring with Diamonds here.

A nature-inspired ring would be completely out of the box.

A gold band — like the one featured on this ring — will complement any color gem. Neiman Marcus

Choosing a butterfly ring can be a playful way to incorporate a colorful gemstone into your engagement ring.

Cost: $2,250

Find out more about the Stephen Webster Fly by Deco Drive ring here.

Use your engagement ring as a symbol of you and your spouse.

Though the focus of this ring is the initials, there are still plenty of diamonds. Zoe Lev

You can choose to include your new initials if you're taking your partner's last name, or you can instead choose a letter from both your and your partner's names.

Cost: $690

Find out more about the Diamond Initial Cuff Ring here.

If you want a gemstone on your engagement band, look for an exceptional color.

A colored gemstone will really pop when surrounded by a classic band and diamonds. De Beers

Engagement rings are highly customizable, so once you've found the perfect band, you can begin searching for the most noteworthy colored gemstone you can find.

Cost: $2,100

Find out more about the De Beers Talisman Essence Ring here.

Everyone will want to take a closer look at your intricate band.

Yellow-gold pairs perfectly with classic diamonds. Zales

A solitaire stone atop a gold band is arguably the most traditional engagement ring on the market, so change things up with a glitzy and detailed band.

Cost: $8,329

Find out more about the Diamond Vintage-Style Engagement Ring here.

Flower-shaped rings are common, so choose one with an irregular shape.

This flower-shaped band almost resembles a four-leaf clover. Zales

Roses aren't the only flower that represent love, so choose a floral ring that best represents your relationship.

Cost: $8,329

Find out more about the Cushion-Cut Diamond Flower Frame Engagement Ring here.

Flowers give brides the opportunity to add some color to their diamond rings.

The flowers also add some contrast to the round stone. Zales

If you want classic flowers on your ring but don't want them to be the center of attention, choose a ring that uses them as accents rather than focal points.

Cost: $549

Find out more about the Diamond Frame Flower Promise Ring here.