In the most recent issue of W Magazine, writer Priya Rao talks about the new trend of creative engagement rings. I previously reported on the splash of color that made its way into bridal wear, and so the trend follows with bridal jewelry. While white solitaries will always be the traditional mainstay, a ring with focused on the rest of the color spectrum or a ring with a personal touch (either from a different era, a favorite stone, or in a unique setting) may be more the choice de jour. The fast-developing trend for creative, unique, and more personal engagement rings seems related to both the current economic situation as well as the desire for personal expression.
As Wall St. seems to sink deeper and deeper into ruin, dragging the dollar down with it, the ability of most Americans to plunk down a huge chunk of change for an impressive rock has been severely diminished. However, it may be said that hard times breed creativity, and these financial restrictions have widened the field of engagement ring possibilities. Note that W is showcasing some rings with out a huge center stone.
The point of a new trend is not to change your entire company or marketing angle, becasue trends are temporary for the majority of people who initially embrace the trend. Instead, just know in the back of your mind, your colorful creations may be the ring of choice for some new brides. The engagement ring is being reinterpreted as an opportunity for ingenuity, a refection of the special nature of the relationship itself. And whether the price for these stones remains high or not, the romance is certainly high for these new types of rings.
