Engagement ring trends evolve gradually — unlike fashion, where seasons bring dramatic shifts, fine jewellery moves in longer cycles. In 2026, we are seeing a fascinating tension between a desire for individuality and a return to certain classic forms. Here is what our clients are choosing, and what is capturing their imagination.

Oval Diamonds — Still Dominant

The oval diamond has been the fastest-growing engagement ring shape for several years, and in 2026 its popularity shows no sign of fading. Oval brilliants offer several practical advantages — they appear larger than round brilliants of equivalent carat weight due to their elongated shape, they flatter the finger, and they are typically priced 20–30% below round brilliants of equivalent quality.

The most in-demand oval proportions in 2026 lean toward more elongated ratios — length to width ratios of 1.40 to 1.55 — creating a sleek, distinctive silhouette. Simple solitaire settings remain the most popular pairing, allowing the stone itself to dominate.

The Return of the Emerald Cut

After several years of oval dominance, the emerald cut is making a strong comeback in 2026. Its step-cut faceting produces a dramatically different effect to brilliant cuts — a deep, hall-of-mirrors quality that rewards close examination. Emerald cuts reward high clarity (inclusions are more visible in step cuts) and suit clients who appreciate understated, architectural elegance.

Lab-Grown Diamonds — Growing Awareness, Divided Opinion

Lab-grown diamonds have become impossible to ignore in 2026. They are chemically identical to natural diamonds, graded using the same criteria, and available at significantly lower prices per carat. However, their resale value is substantially lower than natural diamonds, and opinion among our clients remains divided.

At Jay Gems, we are transparent about both options and advise clients based on their specific priorities. For those who want maximum visual size for their budget and are not concerned about resale value, lab-grown is worth considering. For those who value rarity, provenance and long-term value, natural diamonds remain the choice.

Yellow Gold — A Strong and Sustained Return

White gold dominated engagement ring metal preferences for much of the 2000s and 2010s. In 2026, yellow gold has made a confident return and now rivals white gold in popularity among our clients. Yellow gold pairs beautifully with warmer diamond colours (G–J) and creates a classic, romantic aesthetic that many clients find more personal than the cooler look of white gold or platinum.

East-West Settings

The east-west setting — where an elongated stone such as an oval or marquise is set horizontally across the finger rather than vertically — has grown significantly in popularity. It is a subtle but distinctive choice that transforms a familiar shape into something unexpected.

Unique Side Stones

Baguette, kite, shield and trapezoid side stones are increasingly popular as alternatives to traditional round or pear-shaped side stones. These geometric shapes create a more architectural, distinctive profile and are a hallmark of clients who want their ring to feel truly custom rather than adapted from an existing design.

Thin Bands — A Continuing Preference

The preference for delicate, thin bands continues strongly in 2026. A thinner band emphasises the centre stone, creates a more feminine aesthetic, and suits the stacking trend — wearing the engagement ring alongside a wedding band and eternity ring as a set.

What We Are Seeing at Jay Gems in 2026

Our most requested combination in 2026 is an oval or emerald cut centre stone in a simple four-prong solitaire setting on a delicate yellow or white gold band. Clients increasingly come to us with a clear vision of what they want, informed by extensive research — and they want us to execute it with precision and to provide a stone that maximises their budget.

If you would like to discuss engagement ring design options for 2026, contact Jay Gems Bangkok to arrange a consultation — in person or virtually.