Your engagement ring is a timeless symbol of love and commitment – something that is meant to last a lifetime. While ring trends come and go, the meaning and symbolism of your ring remain the same. With that said, there may come a point when you decide you want to update your ring. You may want to add new details, such as a new stone when your child is born. You may want to add an engraving or change the setting to something more practical for your lifestyle.
A ring that is chosen entirely for its trend appeal rather than its timeless design will often be harder to update. A ring that has a design that can be updated down the line will be easier to update, on the other hand. On the other hand, you don’t want to be limited to a ring that you find boring or overly simple.
How can you ensure that your engagement ring stands the test of time, both in durability and style? Future-proofing your ring is about finding the perfect balance between current trends and long-term wearability.
Future-Proofing Your Engagement Ring
There are a few ways that you can ensure that your ring can be worn for decades to come, without the need for a major redesign or a ring replacement. Here are a few things you could consider.
Choose a timeless style
Ideally, you want a style that you will love now and forever. While it’s tempting to choose a ring that’s currently the latest celebrity-inspired style on Instagram, remember that you’ll need to imagine how it will look in 10, 20 or even 30 years. Will it still be something you would wear or would it lose its appeal as you get older? Timeless designs typically feature clean lines and classic cuts. That doesn’t mean you have to incorporate elements to personalise the ring, though. You could look at details such as hidden halos, engravings, secret stones, diamond alternatives or any other touches that make a classic ring unique to your style preferences. If you choose a simple setting, it will also be easier to change stones if you decide that you want a gemstone instead of a diamond in a few years.
Invest in quality over size
While a giant diamond might seem appealing, a high-quality, modest-sized gem can often be a wiser investment for the long term. Larger stones can be more prone to chipping and may not be practical for daily wear. A quality stone, regardless of its size, will hold its brilliance and value over the years. Opting for a high-grade stone in a durable setting is an excellent way to future-proof your ring. If you’re on a budget, you could look at designs that don’t feature a large diamond but instead feature smaller stones or clusters.
Consider a versatile design
Versatility is another factor that ensures that your ring is future-proof. Consider a ring that pairs well with different kinds of bands, as you might want to add an anniversary or eternity band later on or update your wedding band. Designs that are too intricate or unconventional might limit your options for complementary pieces in the future. Stacked rings can be a great option, as they give you more ways to mix and match your rings depending on your style.
Focus on longevity & durability
When it comes to long-lasting rings, metal and settings also play a significant role. Metals like platinum are incredibly durable and less likely to get scratched or lose their shine over time. Settings like a bezel or others that hold the stone in place securely will prevent stones from catching on clothing or coming loose. Think about how willing you are to maintain your ring and consider your lifestyle, too. Some metals and stones require regular upkeep to stay looking their best. If low-maintenance longevity is important to you, choose stones with a higher Mohs rating and metals that will be easy to maintain over time.
Factor in lifestyle changes
On the topic of lifestyle, think about how your current lifestyle may evolve over the years. If you have a job that requires a lot of hand-washing or anything else that can subject your ring to wear and tear, you will want something more practical. When you have children, keep in mind that your ring may fit differently or you may want something simpler. Stepping up your fitness routine, moving to a warmer climate and various other changes can also come into play. Choosing a ring that will adapt to your lifestyle, however, it changes, is the best way to make sure that you can wear it forever.
At Cape Diamonds, we offer a range of timeless, classic engagement rings to suit every style. Whether you’re looking for a specific style or you’d like to plan your dream ring with our custom design service, get in touch with us and let us help you design a ring that’s made for now and forever.