Bold, beautiful and eye-catching, bombe engagement rings are the perfect choice for brides who love all things vintage. These rings get their name from their domed shape. The word bombe is French, with two possible meanings. The literal translation from French to English is bomb-shaped. This is certainly apt, as bombe rings have a design that features a large, curved dome, which curves out to the sides in a subtle explosion. Another translation of bombe is the popular French frozen dome-shaped dessert that has a similar appearance to the ring’s design. Wherever this ring’s name originated, it has a long history dating back to the Georgian era, with a resurgence in the Art Deco era. Today, it has gained popularity yet again, as a glamorous ring that makes a statement.
To show you how stunning these engagement rings can be for those wanting a retro ring, we’ve put together a few examples for your custom ring design inspiration.
Get Inspired by These Bombe Engagement Rings
Here are just a few examples of bombe engagement rings…
Brilliant-Cut Pave Rows
Image: laurenaddison.com
Bridging the gap between bold and classic, this design makes use of a timeless element – pave diamonds. Rather than a subtle band, however, the ring features multiple rows of pave diamonds. A chunky, domed platinum band curves to the centre. The result is a ring that has maximum sparkle. If you prefer rings without centre stones, or you’re looking for a way to incorporate diamonds without spending a fortune, designs like these are worth considering.
Gold Chunky Channels
Image: rafjewels.com
For a traditional take on bombe rings, channels showcase the ring’s diamonds and metal band to perfection. Vertical gradient channels set with round diamonds leading to the band add lots of sparkle, while a trademark bombe channel of baguette diamonds takes centre stage, running downwards in a gradient design. This ring looks striking in yellow gold but it would work with any other metal.
Sapphire & Diamond Rows
Image: shrevecrumpandlow.com
One of the many great things about bombe rings is that they are big and bold by their very nature. This means that you don’t have to play it down when designing your dream ring. If you love colour and unique rings, this design will be perfect. Rows of tiny Princess-cut sapphires are placed along the dome, while a round bezel-cut diamond is positioned front and centre. A cool-toned band in white gold or platinum would work, but warmer-toned metals would be a good choice if you want to add even more visual detail.
Sculpted Diamond Bar
Image: rickjewelers.com
Another classic design, this ring oozes retro elegance. A sculpted gold domed band creates swirls along the top, which graduate to the back of the band. At the top, tiny diamonds are positioned in a bar, with contrasting metal making sure that the vertical bar stands out from the gold band. This ring would work in any metal. Keep it two-tone or go for a single metal for something a little more subtle.
Emerald & Diamond Cluster
Image: moirafinejewellery.com
You could also incorporate precious gems such as emeralds in other ways. This design is similar to the pave bombe design above, however, instead of using pave diamonds, it uses small diamonds in a variety of shapes. The effect is a ring that catches the light, sparkling brightly. A solitaire emerald set on the dome contrasts perfectly with the cluster design.
Rose Gold Channel
Image: naasjewelry.com
On the topic of subtle, you’d be surprised to know that bombe engagement rings can be simple. Although these rings are best known for their larger-than-life appeal, modern variations take a more understated approach. This design features the trademark dome design, in rose gold. A small channel lies in the centre, with tiny diamonds positioned vertically along the channel. This pretty ring would work in any metal.
Gold Three Stone
Image: marrowfine.com
Yet another example of a feminine, minimal take on bombe rings is this three-stone ring. Also known as trinity or trilogy rings, these are by far the most romantic rings of all. Each stone represents a stage in your journey together as a couple – your past, your present and your future. There are many types of three-stone rings, but for those wanting to bring in the vintage appeal of bombe without going over the top, this version would work in any metal and any stone.
Ready to turn your ring idea into reality? Cape Diamonds offers a custom ring design service that will help you design your very own retro-inspired bombe engagement ring.