Last month, pop star Dua Lipa sparked rumors of an engagement after posting a photo of what many believe to be her engagement ring. Though Lipa has not confirmed whether she is engaged to actor Callum Turner, the picture of the ring, reportedly from Tiffany & Co., suggests she may be veering away from traditional wedding jewelry. Featuring a large white diamond set on a bold, chunky gold band, the ring represents a shift in engagement ring trends.
“Historically, engagement rings were delicate, focusing on a central stone,” explains Sarah Ysabel Narici, founder of jewelry label Dyne. “Thin bands were preferred to highlight the stone and align with traditional ideals of femininity.”
However, traditions around engagement jewelry are changing. Chunky gold bands are becoming increasingly popular, reflecting a broader trend away from traditional designs. Jessie Thomas, a London-based jeweler known for her “bombe” style rings, says many couples are now seeking unique yet timeless pieces.
“Thankfully, the expectations around engagement rings have evolved. More clients are looking for bold statement pieces,” says Thomas. “I love the sculptural look of chunky gold rings. They’re unique, fashionable, and timeless, making them perfect for everyday wear.”
A chunky band also brings a minimalist appeal. While thinner bands are often used to make the stone appear larger, a thicker band works in the opposite way. “It’s an excellent way to showcase a large stone without being too flashy,” adds Thomas.
Another brand pushing the boundaries of engagement rings is Kimaï, a lab-grown diamond specialist. Co-founder Jessica Warch notes that chunky gold bands are becoming a symbol of individuality.
“Dua’s ring is unconventional – she’s not afraid to break tradition,” Warch explains. “We see this shift with our customers. The modern generation wants to express their personalities through what they wear. Chunky gold bands and unique designs represent this shift, prioritizing personal style over tradition.”
If you’re considering a chunky gold engagement ring like Lipa’s, it’s important to try on various styles to find one that suits you and feels comfortable.
“Chunky doesn’t mean heavy or uncomfortable,” says London jeweler Rachel Boston. “Make sure to test different band widths to find what’s comfortable for everyday wear. A tapered band that narrows at the back can also enhance comfort. I recommend a flush set or bezel stone for a streamlined, understated look with a chunky band.”
When choosing a wedding band, there are plenty of options to complement or contrast your engagement ring.
“I suggest a plain gold band or a diamond eternity ring,” says Thomas. “Both options are simple and won’t overshadow the engagement ring. Some clients who opt for chunkier styles even treat their engagement ring as a hybrid wedding ring.”
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