30+ Unique & Alternative Engagement Rings for One-of-a-Kind Couples
If a trad solitaire isn’t for you, we’re pretty sure you’ll fall hard for these unique and unusual engagement rings
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The classics will always have a place, but how do you approach choosing an engagement ring if your style is anything but standard issue? Whether you’re picking your own ring or you’re looking for unique engagement rings for a less-than-traditional partner, we’ve got you covered with our edit of offbeat styles.
“Unique and unusual engagement rings are becoming more popular, and this trend reflects a growing desire for self-expression,” reveals British jewellery designer Kiki McDonough. “Traditional diamonds remain timeless, but people are increasingly being drawn to vibrant gemstones, distinctive settings, and unexpected designs.
“I’ve always emphasised the beauty of coloured gemstones like topaz, amethyst and peridot, and I’ve noticed a growing interest in these stones for engagement rings. Nearlyweds want something that reflects their unique style and personality, and this shift is also driven by the desire to create a piece that feels meaningful and authentic to the couple,” she adds.
Kiki also goes on to say that ethics plays a huge role in how we continue to shop for engagement rings and fine jewellery pieces, too: “People are more aware of where their gemstones and gold come from – and they want to ensure that their engagement rings (or any fine jewellery) are responsibly sourced,” she says.
So, whether you’re looking to create a bespoke ring, shop for a vintage style, or choose something off the peg but still different, our edit of non-traditional engagement ring ideas is sure to inspire you.
The Best Unique Engagement Rings UK for Non-Traditional Couples
From unique engagement bands to vintage diamonds and antique jewellery engagement rings, these incredible pieces will have you thinking outside the (engagement-ring) box
1. AKVA Jewellery Unda Pavé Gold Ring – The Jewellery Room
Vintage-inspired engagement rings get a contemporary twist with the charming pieces from Denmark-based jewellery house, AKVA Jewellery. It’s hard to pick a favourite but if we had to, it might just be the Unda ring, made from 14-carat recycled gold set with the sweetest brilliant-cut diamonds.
- Sizing: H-T
- Expert take: Unda is the Latin word for wave, so this unique engagement ring would be perfect for couples who have an affinity with the ocean.
2. The Kitty Ring – Kitty Joyas
Originally designed and handcrafted as designer Kitty Joyas’s personal engagement ring, this gorgeous design features a show-stopping central diamond flanked by two smaller round diamonds and two small pink sapphires either side. We love the contrast of the dainty stones with the chunky setting – it’s a work of art.
- Sizing: Made to order
- Expert take: Since this design is handmade to order, you can customise the choice of the metal and stones for a truly unique engagement ring.
3. Blue Sapphire & Diamond Ring – Carrie Elizabeth Jewellery
Run, don’t walk! This one-off 14-carat yellow gold, diamond and sapphire engagement ring from Carrie Elizabeth Jewellery was lovingly created with Carrie’s love of vintage jewellery pieces in mind – and the stones handpicked by the designer herself in London’s Hatton Garden. A jewelled treasure that’ll turn heads wherever you go.
- Sizing: Small
- Expert take: If you love antique jewellery as much as Carrie, be sure to check out the exclusive selection of vintage engagement rings and pendants on her website.
4. The Serena Ring – Kimaï
Looking for an understated but beautifully individual ring design? The Serena ring from Kimaï would be our pick, with its brilliant pear-shaped diamond and asymmetric, off-centre setting. It’s made with 18-carat yellow gold and looks just like a diamond caught between your fingers.
- Sizing: H.5-R.5
- Expert take: We love the minimalist style of this piece – if your partner doesn’t typically wear much jewellery, we’re pretty sure they’ll be over the moon with this.
5. Pebble Solid Gold Diamond Ring – Alison Moore Designs
Another floating diamond style – this time centred in a pebble band. This unique diamond ring from Alison Moore Designs is available in either white or yellow gold of varying carat levels to cater for all tastes and budgets. The band is thin enough to slot nicely next to a wedding ring, too.
- Sizing: H-U
- Expert take: It’s the fabulous band that sets this ring apart from the rest – we love that the claw-set diamond keeps the piece timeless, but the band gives it a contemporary twist.
6. Tanzanite & Diamond Zig Zag Ring – Kiki McDonough
There’s no finer example of quirky and feminine jewellery than the rings from Kiki McDonough, and this glittering 18-carat white gold, tanzanite and diamond piece from the Special Editions collection is one such piece.
- Sizing: Made to order
- Expert take: The zig-zag setting is what really makes this alternative engagement ring design stand out. If you love the style but want alternative gemstones, contact the team to discuss creating a bespoke piece.
7. Dahlia Pink Lab Diamond Oval Ring – The Diamond Store
If you’re as pink-obsessed as we are then we may have found your dream engagement ring. Featuring a pink lab solitaire diamond on an 18-carat yellow gold band that’s also able to be engraved, this eclectic and feminine piece is one to rock the aisle in and treasure forever.
- Sizing: F-Z
- Expert take: No one knows more about – or has a wider selection of – sustainable lab diamonds than The Diamond Store. If you’re looking for more ethically sourced coloured diamonds, be sure to check out the Elara Collection, in which this unique engagement ring features.
8. Brennmore Gold Pear Cut Emerald Ring – Etsy
We’re obsessed with the rich shade of green in this pear-cut emerald. You can choose from varying metals for the band, but we love how the green hue looks against the yellow gold.
- Sizing: F-V
- Expert take: Note that engraving isn’t possible for this engagement ring style because of how thin and delicate the band is – however, this does allow for a slightly thicker wedding band to fit next to it which you could get engraved with meaningful text.
9. Le Vian White Gold Diamond & Multi-Stone Ring – Ernest Jones
With a long, established history dating as far back as the 15th century, Le Vian is one of the longest-serving jewellery houses in the world and each piece is a masterclass in everlasting elegance. Thank goodness, then, that the brand’s designs are readily available at high-street favourite Ernest Jones. This design, with its captivating array of pear-cut gemstones, is crafted from 14-carat white gold. We love.
- Sizing: I-S
- Expert take: The scintillating gems include London Blue topaz, Swiss Blue topaz, and purple tanzanite, each chosen for their stunning colour and brilliance. Perfect if your partner is a lover of blue.
10. Alexandrite & Diamond Cluster Ring – Etsy
Famed for its colour-changing properties depending on the angle you’re looking at it, alexandrite is perfect if you’re looking for something completely unique – and this vintage-style ring ticks all the boxes. It’s available with both moissanite and diamonds to suit your budget.
- Sizing: F-R.5
- Expert take: The metal of the band can also be adapted to suit your budget; choose from white, rose, or yellow gold. The starting price for this ring is for a silver-plated band.
11. AKVA Jewellery Spuma Ring – The Jewellery Room
Another simply stunning design from AKVA Jewellery, this time one that draws its inspiration from the spuma (or seafoam) from the Nordic shores where these beautiful creations are created. We love the chic curvy aesthetic of this unique engagement band – the brilliant-cut set diamond adds just the perfect amount of sparkle.
- Sizing: I-S
- Expert take: This engagement ring design is made from 14-carat recycled yellow gold that’s been sourced in Germany before being finished in the brand’s Copenhagen studio.
12. Entwined Yellow Gold Pearl & Diamond Ring – Lily Designs London
June babies: if you want to stick to your birthstone for your engagement ring, this style from Lily Designs London could be the one for you. Made from 9-carat yellow gold, the twisted setting for the freshwater pearl makes the piece unusual yet timeless. It’s giving us Arianna Grande engagement vibes!
- Sizing: XS-L
- Expert take: If you’re unsure about sizing, reach out to the brand who will send you a complimentary ring sizer to ensure you order the perfect fit.
13. Heliosa Diamond Ring – Loveness Lee
Intriguing, superbly crafted and dramatic in every sense of the word, the designs from London-based jeweller Loveness Lee are the epitome of glamour and uniqueness – and we can’t get enough. Each piece is an example of true artistry – case in point is the Heliosa 18-carat gold diamond ring, a reimagined version of the classic trilogy ring that has been inspired by the shapes and textures of nature.
- Sizing: Made to order
- Expert take: Since every one of Loveness’s pieces are handmade, no two will ever be the same. It doesn’t get more unique than that.
14. Thea Ring – 77 Diamonds
Looking for unusual engagement rings but nothing too ‘out there’? For a modern twist on a classic, we love the delicate Thea ring from 77 Diamonds which features a tapered diamond-set band and a brilliant rock centrepiece.
- Sizing: Made to order
- Expert take: Make this style your own by customising the metal. Choose from white, yellow, or rose gold, or platinum.
15. Aria Salt & Pepper Diamond Ring – Carrie Elizabeth Jewellery
Crafted in either 14- or 18-carat yellow gold, this stunning vintage-inspired engagement ring design from Carrie Elizabeth Jewellery is up there as one of the ultimate rocks to say yes to.
- Sizing: H-Y
- Expert take: Salt and pepper diamonds are a chic combination of light and shade – and are typically more affordable (though no less beautiful!) than white diamonds, so this is a great pick if you want a large stone and plenty of sparkle for your money.
16. Leda Ring – Gee Woods
Gee is a British jewellery designer whose designs are heavily influenced by art deco design – so if you love antique diamond rings and vintage pieces, her beautiful engagement rings are some to check out. The Leda ring is a one-off piece comprising an 18-carat yellow gold band set with a central step-cut sapphire and breath-taking diamond halo. The grooves underneath allow for a wedding band to be slotted in and worn underneath the ring.
- Sizing: L
- Expert take: Though this engagement ring comes in finger size L, it is able to be resized up or down a couple of sizes by Gee herself.
17. Claddagh Heart-Cut Diamond Ring – Chupi
Exquisite, timeless and exclusive, we adore the designs from Dublin-based jeweller Chupi. For a dazzling and unique engagement ring style, the Claddagh heart-cut ring features lab-grown diamonds set on a 14-carat textured gold band formed to look like a Hawthorn twig – a symbol of renewal and hope according to Irish folklore. In fact, the ring is cast from a Hawthorn twig Chupi herself found in the wild woods of Wicklow. Truly iconic.
- Sizing: F-X
- Expert take: This engagement ring style looks great worn alone but also stacked alongside other pieces. It’s also available in white gold.
18. Gold Handmade Lanthe Star Blue Sapphire Ring – Liberty
If you want an individual ring that really goes against the grain, this blue sapphire ring from Liberty is sure to make a statement. Crafted from 9-carat gold, it’s a vintage-meets-modern style that pays homage to Liberty’s art nouveau heritage, and we love it.
- Sizing: M-O
- Expert take: The delicately spaced blue sapphires make this ring for us, but if you want something even more subtle, you can also get this same design with white diamonds.
19. Yellow Gold Ruby Half Eternity Ring – Goldsmiths
Have you ever considered an eternity design for your engagement ring? Eternity rings have a beautiful meaning behind them and you'll often find more unique choices. This style from Goldsmiths features seven sparkling rubies on a yellow gold band – it would also work well as a wedding band to go alongside a ruby engagement ring.
- Sizing: A-Z
- Expert take: This ring is part of the Goldsmiths By Request collection, which means every piece is made to order.
20. Yellow Gold Opal Ring – The Diamond Store
For something completely different to a dazzling diamond, have you considered white opal? On this cocktail ring design from The Diamond Store, this gorgeous gemstone has been cut into a classic cabochon shape so you can really see its shimmer with every movement. We adore the vintage-style yellow gold setting, too.
- Sizing: F-Z.5
- Expert take: Looking to choose an engagement ring together? This is a super affordable option that could work as a placeholder ring to surprise your love with in the meantime.
21. Marina Ring – Gee Woods
Another vintage diamond from Gee Woods, this 18-carat yellow and white gold engagement ring is set with a cushion-shaped blue/grey spinel (a gemstone so striking it’s often confused with sapphires or rubies) and a pair of graduated diamond baguettes either side.
- Sizing: L
- Expert take: This is a one-off piece but can be resized to suit. Reach out to Gee if you’re looking for a bespoke option just like this, too.
22. Iris Blue & Purple Multi-Stone Cluster Ring – H. Samuel
When you can’t decide on just one gemstone or colour, this brilliant yet affordable piece from H. Samuel has it all: topaz, aquamarine, amethyst and lolite in varying shades of blue for a dazzling and eye-catching piece they’ll adore.
- Sizing: I-S
- Expert take: The band is made from 9-carat gold, which is what makes this piece so affordable. Be sure to take good care of the band to avoid tarnishing over time.
23. Twig & Leaf Teal Sapphire Ring – Etsy
Those who are wild at heart will adore this nature-inspired ring from five-star seller Doron Merev Weddings on Etsy. A delicate leaf – available in either rose gold, yellow gold, or white gold – contrasts the vibrant teal sapphire along a band that resembles a twig. This would be especially lovely if either you or your partner have a connection to Canada or the autumn season.
- Sizing: F-T.5
- Expert take: This stunning style can also be personalised with an engraved message.
24. Adore You Ring Stack – Kitty Joyas
If your partner is a bit of a magpie, stackable rings might be the perfect way to propose. This striking set from Kitty Joyas features two beautifully boho-style rings (both available to buy separately) forged from 14-carat gold using Kitty’s signature Bronze Age-style hammer technique. We love the textured finish for a stunning piece in its rawest state.
- Sizing: Made to order
- Expert take: The price in this case is based upon your design featuring a 1-carat diamond, but the size and quality can be customised to suit.
25. Le Vian Rose Gold Amethyst Ring – Ernest Jones
For deep colour, original settings and a cool twist on statement gems, this design from Le Vian at Ernest Jones has boldness in spades. It features a cushion-cut grape amethyst encircled by a halo of white diamonds, all set in a 14-carat rose-gold band featuring the brand’s iconic chocolate diamonds. An eclectic piece to shine in.
- Sizing: I-S
- Expert take: This unique engagement ring is currently on sale with 50% off – run, don’t walk!
26. Green Amethyst Forest Jewel Ring – Alex Monroe
We’ve long adored quintessential English jeweller Alex Monroe for his nature-inspired designs. His organic stones, dusty diamonds and beaten metals are beautifully pure – and this striking green amethyst ring is one such example.
- Sizing: J-U
- Expert take: We love the colour contrast of the triangle trillion-cut stone with the textured 18-carat yellow gold band, but you can also get this engagement ring in white gold.
27. Tamora Ring – Taylor & Hart
Another gorgeous unique engagement ring design for lovers of green and floral-inspired jewellery, this time from London-based jeweller Taylor & Hart, whose 18-carat yellow gold Tamora design features an oval diamond centre with marquise green sapphire petals.
- Sizing: A-Z
- Expert take: You’ll spot Taylor & Hart’s signature red ruby on the inside of the band – cute! There’s also the option to engrave this piece.
28. Yellow Beryl & Diamond Zig Zag Ring – Kiki McDonough
For a modern shape and contemporary cut that’s simply chic, we love this zig-zag ring design from Kiki McDonough, featuring a statement yellow beryl stone and the most delicate of diamonds. It’s finished with an 18-carat yellow gold band for maximum impact.
- Sizing: Made to order
- Expert take: Not feeling the yellow? This is another Kiki design that can be crafted with alternative gemstones.
29. Maya Sapphire Diamond Engagement Ring – Loveness Lee
Perfect for the recipient who loves to express their individuality down to the very last detail, this icy, über-cool asymmetrical ring design from Loveness Lee features a lab-grown sapphire and white diamonds. Like all of Loveness’s pieces, it’s handcrafted from her studio in London. Just divine.
- Sizing: Made to order
- Expert take: This piece can be made from either recycled 18-carat white gold or platinum, depending on your budget.
30. Toi et Moi Bespoke Diamond Ring – 77 Diamonds
If you want to go completely bespoke and create your own engagement ring design from scratch, this gorgeous Toi et Moi design from 77 Diamonds is just one example of the London-based jeweller’s custom service where the dedicated team will guide you through every aspect of the creative process.
- Sizing: Made to order
- Expert take: Have very specific ideas on what you want? You’re better off booking a face-to-face consultation with the design team. If you’re after a simpler style, you can do it purely online.
How to Make an Engagement Ring Unique?
“One of the most effective approaches to make your engagement ring stand out is to explore more unique gemstones,” advises Kiki. “Another way to achieve individuality is through selecting a more unusual setting or a combination of stones.
“Opting for designs that mix different cuts, shapes or arrangements of gems will make a ring stand out. For example, a vibrant central gemstone flanked by smaller diamonds or gemstones in contrasting colours can create a striking effect.
“Additionally, paying attention to the finer details of the ring’s design, such as an intricately crafted band or elegant and unexpected setting style, can make the piece feel entirely your own,” she adds.
Where to Buy Unique Engagement Rings?
If you’re wondering where to get unique engagement rings, look to some of the independent jewellery designers listed in our edit for individual ring designs, including Loveness Lee, Gee Woods, Carrie Elizabeth, and others, many of whom specialise in vintage pieces and one-off designs.
However, you’ll also find quirky and colourful pieces from high street favourites, including Ernest Jones, Goldsmiths, and H. Samuel if you look beyond these stores' standard platinum and diamond collections.
How to Find a Unique Engagement Ring?
You could go down the vintage route, design your own bespoke ring for a truly one-of-a-kind piece, or take inspiration from some of the ready to wear rings in our alternative engagement ring edit above – either way, you should always reach out to the experts for advice. Why not find out if you can book a consultation and talk through your ideas with them?
What is a Good Alternative to a Diamond Engagement Ring?
While diamond rings are a classic choice for an engagement, it’s worth remembering that there is a whole world of other gemstones out there that’s worth exploring. As Kiki explains, coloured stone engagement rings are a great alternative.
“There are also so many alternatives for those who don’t want a ring but something completely different instead,” says Kiki. “A necklace, for example, can be a beautiful and meaningful way to propose. You could choose a gemstone that holds personal significance. A bracelet is another lovely option and it’s something that will also be worn daily a reminder of the occasion.
“For men, you might consider cufflinks – either bespoke or engraved with something personal. Ultimately, it’s about finding a piece of jewellery that speaks to their taste and personality, ensuring the moment is truly special and meaningful to both of you,” she adds.
So, now you’ve picked the perfect ring… but have you thought about the all-important engagement announcement?
