Mixed metal designs remain a popular choice for engagement rings. Done right, mixing metals can turn a basic ring into something truly unique. This approach works well in a wide variety of designs, from minimal to bold. If you’re looking for something that makes more of a style statement than single metal rings, these rings will be a great choice. With that said, there are a few things you’ll need to keep in mind.
In this guide, we’ll share some of the most important questions to ask yourself when considering this type of engagement ring. Whether you’re looking for pre-made rings or going with a custom design, it’s essential to keep these questions in mind.
Before You Get That Mixed Metal Engagement Ring…
Here’s what to ask before you go ahead and get that eye-catching mixed metal engagement ring you’ve been looking at for weeks…
1/ Do the metals blend well together?
This is by far the most important question of all. Many mixed metal engagement rings have a high visual contrast. Platinum is often paired with rose gold, for example. This combination is striking, but it can be very dramatic. Yellow gold and white gold blends are often used in more classic designs, working well if you want something a little more subtle. Rose gold and yellow gold can be even more subtle, as both are warm tones. Essentially, all metals can be mixed. The key here is how they are mixed…
2/ Does the combination suit the design?
Which brings us to the next thing to consider. How will the metals be mixed? A high contrast blend, such as rose and white gold, is already bold. If you mix these metals in a complex design, the ring itself has a risk of being over the top. Subtler designs that feature criss-cross bands, mixed metal settings, and bands, clusters, or twists will keep a good balance. White and yellow gold rings work very well in knotted, stacked, halo, channel, and moi et toi styles. Rose and yellow gold styles work well in a variety of styles – especially those with more subtle elements.
3/ Will the metals match the stones?
Next, it’s time to think about the stones in your ring. If you’re going with white diamonds, you can easily go for two or even three-tone rings, as long as the design is balanced. Things start to get a little more difficult to balance when you choose different stones. Black diamonds can look good with a subtle yellow gold and platinum subtle twisted band design. In a bolder chunky rose and white gold ring, it will be overpowering. Gemstones can be especially tricky in multi-tone bands. With a warmer metal combination, champagne diamonds or warmer stones, such as morganite, help to balance without clashing. Always keep the stones in mind.
4/ Will the ring look good in the future?
The ring may seem great right now, but how will it look in a year? What about five or even ten years? Future-proofing your ring is essential, whatever design you choose. Mixing metals can result in a ring that may not always stand the test of time. If it’s done carefully, the ring will look subtle and timeless, now and forever. If the design is chosen based on current trends, it may look over the top, outdated, or too much down the line.
5/ Do the metals suit your personal style?
Finally, do the chosen metals really suit your style? You may love the idea of multi-tone metal rings, but would you wear this ring day in and day out? Choosing metals that suit your other jewellery is always key when choosing your engagement ring. This is a ring you will wear for the rest of your married life. When there is more than one metal, it can be harder to match to clothing and other jewellery. The last thing you want is a ring that doesn’t quite suit your style. If it’s very subtle, it won’t clash. Details like hidden halos, minimal settings, delicate twists, or similar won’t make the ring too bold. Thicker shanks, big twists, and other details will highlight the contrast much more.
The best way to mix metals the smart way is to work with an experienced jeweller. A custom-designed ring will ensure that you strike the perfect balance with your band and stones. You will be able to get expert advice on how to plan your ring, too.
Ready to start planning your dream ring? Contact Cape Diamonds and let us know how we can help turn your engagement ring ideas into reality.