Engagement Ring Trends from the 2000s

For many of us, there’s a lot of nostalgia around the 2000s. This is unsurprising when you consider that January 1, 2000, was the day that we all realized we had survived the Y2K bug. We were all relieved to see that the change in the century didn’t cause the mass confusion stemming from faulty computer programming.

The 2000s were also a time when we experienced new technological growth, such as the advent of Facebook and Twitter. Many of these inventions are around today, and they may even be a significant global force.

The world of fashion also changed. For the past decade, everyone had been looking for basic, plain styling. This was a reaction to the 1980s when everything seemed to be over the top. Then, the 2000s looked for a happy medium between plain and dramatic. As with other aspects of fashion, jewelry like engagement rings evolved to fit modern trends. In this article, we’ll look at our favorite engagement ring trends from the 2000s.

1. Pave ring bands became popular.

While previous decades occasionally saw smaller diamonds placed on the band of an engagement ring, the 2000s brought this concept to a whole new level. Now, a pave diamond ring became popular and typically featured a large center stone with many smaller ones cascading down the band. Frequently, this would involve a straight line of small diamonds that would start at the top of the ring and go partway down the shank. This way, the ring would have some lovely sparkle without breaking the bank or being overwhelming.

2. Double bands

Another popular trend in the 2000s was the double-band engagement ring. In this case, a couple would purchase a wedding set rather than a single ring. Then, the bride would wear the engagement ring with its larger diamonds or gemstone until her wedding day. Then, the second band would be added as a wedding ring, and both rings would be worn together.

One thing that was great about this style is that you get another harmonious look. In some ways, the second band would complete the design as a whole, much like a couple became complete through their wedding vows.

3. East-West setting

Most of us are used to seeing the center stone of the ring set from north to south. In other words, the shank passes by the short side of the center stone. With an East-West setting, it’s the opposite way — the length of the diamond crosses the width of the finger rather than going in the same direction.

This style change gives a more modern look to the ring without adding a lot of bling. It’s a very 2000s approach to having just the right amount of style.

4. Princess cut diamonds

While the Princess cut diamond was not invented in the 2000s, this is when it became popular. That’s because a princess cut combines its symmetrical four sides with the modern edge of sharp corners. Besides, the name of the cut itself grants a romantic vibe.

5. Rose gold makes a comeback

Rose gold is a metal that goes in and out of style frequently. One reason for this may be its exotic look, as most people are used to white and yellow metals for jewelry. However, the pink color also provides a romantic vibe, making it perfect for engagement rings.

You might see any ring style featuring rose gold, and the diamonds could be any size. Also, some 2000 engagement ring settings feature more than one color of gold. Frequently, this would be rose and white or rose and yellow, though we also saw yellow and white combined.

With Clarity Rings Featuring a 2000s Vibe

Even though ring styles come and go, there are many current ring settings that feature a 2000s vibe. If that’s what you want, then we have you covered. Let’s look at some examples.

Petite French Set Diamond Engagement Ring

This pave diamond engagement ring features that famous sparkly shank look. You can wear this ring by itself, or you can follow the double band trend with a matching pave wedding band. Either way, you get a choice of several different center diamond shapes, along with our entire range of mental options.

Created Sapphire Center And Oval Cut Three Stone Diamond Ring

For the woman who wants a unique twist on classic elegance, this created sapphire and diamond ring is a perfect choice. It features a stunning created sapphire center stone flanked by two sparkling oval-cut diamonds. Available in your choice of white, yellow, or rose gold, this ring offers timeless beauty with a modern flair. Perfect for pairing with a pave wedding band or a simpler style to suit your taste.

Classic Four Prong East West Engagement Ring

We love this modern take on a classic design. It features a solitaire East-West said diamonds with a plane prong setting. Choose from a radiant, emerald, or oval cut loose stone in a wide variety of sizes. You can also choose 14k or 18k gold in any color or platinum for the setting. We also have a matching wedding band.

Under Bezeled Accent Diamond Engagement Ring

An ultra-modern take on a 2000s classic, this ring features a large central stone with basil-set side diamonds cascading down the shank. You can pick almost any shape of center stone, including the Princess cut, in various sizes. Again, this setting is available in any of our metals, so there’s plenty of opportunity to make it yours.

Lily Diamond Engagement Ring

If you want a round solitaire with a twist, this ring setting delivers. Rather than setting round diamonds in boring prongs, this one cradles them in Lily-like petals. Especially if you use a rose gold or white gold setting, this technique adds a little bit of color that accents the center stone. For a more pronounced 2000s vibe, select the matching wedding ring. This is contoured to fit around the center stone without being hidden.

The Takeaway

The 2000s were a time of relative optimism and romantic ideals. Therefore, it’s probably no surprise that the ring styles of the day featured a lot of small accent diamonds and romantic details. Perhaps it’s no surprise, therefore, that many of these style elements remain popular 15 or 20 years later. And, if you want to create a special ring that brings out the best of this wonderful decade, there are many options available.