Beyond Tradition: Exploring the World of Colourful Engagement Rings

Over the last few years there’s been a huge increase in people looking for more alternative engagement rings, enter colourful engagement rings!

We know the timeless style of the beautiful diamond solitaire ring which came into popularity in the late 1800s is an eternal style and will keep its popularity until the end of time! 

However it isn't for everyone. More recently artisan designed engagement rings have become a lot more sought after. Brides and Grooms are keen to express their individuality by choosing a more unique engagement ring design whether that is vibrant and colourful diamonds, chunkier engagement ring bands or unique gemstone settings.

A diamond choice that has been incredibly popular when it comes to handmade bridal jewellery is the salt and pepper diamond. They are versatile and unique, coming in the most beautiful shapes. The darker ones have a fantastically dramatic black finish.

I was on the fence about them at first as a bridal jewellery designer, but having made multiple non-traditional engagement rings using salt and pepper diamonds, I have become slightly obsessed! So much so that I actually made myself a black diamond ring in silver as a present to myself. 

Another way to add a gorgeous and subtle element of colour to handmade bridal jewellery is by using a yellow diamond as the centre stone. It is bold and bright, while having the mesmerising sparkle of a white diamond.These are a firm favourite colourful engagement ring design here at Madeleine Holloway, they are classic with a delicate twist!

Of course, dark blue sapphires as a central stone are a stunning and popular choice when it comes to handmade bridal engagement rings, and have been since 1981 when Princess Diana became engaged with the incredibly iconic twelve carat Ceylon sapphire ring. The 12 white brilliant diamonds encasing the statement sapphire really show off the priceless stone.

Another fantastic idea to customise your colourful ring is by incorporating white diamonds alongside or around the coloured central stone. It is a glamorous and stylish way of adding extra sparkle to your ring!

One of my favourite handmade custom bridal rings I have designed and made was a divine dark blue sapphire and gold band. I set the oval stone horizontally with white diamonds either side. I thought this made a very individual and beautiful engagement ring.

On the subject of blue! Tanzanites and aquamarines are also a stunning choice, they have a lightness and brightness to their appearance reminding you of those ocean and blue sky days. These scrumptious purpley blue alongside a deep 18ct yellow gold makes an extraordinary and vibrant engagement ring. 

I hope this has given you some exciting ideas and inspiration for what’s out there to find the perfect engagement ring for you! Have a look through my fine bridal jewellery collection or if you can’t quite find the right style, get in touch as I am more than happy to create a totally bespoke handmade engagement ring for you, that encapsulates your own personal style! 

The Evolution of Signet Rings

Let’s dive into why wearing modern pinky and signet rings is all about expressing your own unique style and flare! These tiny treasures are no longer just about status and wealth, they now have greater meaning - celebrating personal stories and embracing funky designs, bringing a splash of fun to your fingers. 

Historically signet rings were a mark of prestige, deep seal engraved with the family crest. There is something very beautiful about the traditional signet ring, they really are quite a piece, which is why they’ve continued to evolve in the world of jewellery. Here is a stunning solid 18ct yellow gold traditional signet ring I made at the end of last year.

In the last few years modern style signets have had an uprise in popularity and have been spotted on many celebrities, the most recent being Leo Woodall in Netflix’s One Day. Gwyneth Paltrow and Rhianna are also known to love a pinky ring. Rhianna very glamorously wore a 9 carat pear diamond ring on her toe earlier in the year too!

This has been really exciting to see as a jewellery designer, I think for women to wear them is a form of empowerment and jewellery that is their choice, it has been described as a symbol of inner strength and independence. The ones I have made for female customers in the last year have all had a personal meaning to them and have been bought for themselves to wear, which has been such a joy to empower women to express themselves through their own style.

Recently and on a more personal level I have made three signet style Celtic knot bands for my sisters as a request to be my bridesmaids next year. The rings are inspired by a band similar which has been in my family for generations. The Celtic knot band represents the journey of life and eternal love. As this ring symbolises life, friendship and love I thought this is a very apt gift for a bridesmaid.

As a fine jewellery designer it’s so exciting to see the evolution of the traditional signet ring into modern day jewellery. So whether you prefer more of a sleek minimalist look, bold chunky styles or intricate designs, let your pinky ring be a nod to your self expression. As you slip one on, remember that it’s not just an accessory but tells the world a story that’s uniquely yours. Happy styling! 

My Story

Hello, I thought knowing a bit more about me and my making processes will give you more of an insight in to where your jewellery comes from and the inspiration behind it.

So, welcome to my first blog post!

I recently posted this on Instagram which gives a brief sum up of how my business started and where I am now.

You may also want to watch this video of me making one of my best sellers, The Silver Diamond Stack..

Thank you so much for reading my first post, please enjoy a 20% discount code for your next order.

Code: Blog20

All the best,

Mads