30 Unique & Alternative Engagement Rings for One-of-a-Kind Couples
If a trad solitaire isn't for you, you'll fall hard for these unique and unusual engagement ring styles
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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 alternative 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, with more couples choosing lab-grown diamonds: “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 alternative 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.
Unda is the Latin word for 'wave', so this unique engagement ring would be perfect for couples who have an affinity with the ocean.
- Sizing: H-T
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.
Since this design is handmade to order, you can customise the choice of the metal and stones for a truly unique engagement ring.
- Sizing: Made to order
3. Juliet Morganite & Diamond Ring – Carrie Elizabeth Jewellery
Carrie Elizabeth’s Juliet ring from her dedicated Written in the Stars engagement collection has all the components of a beautiful engagement ring: a 14-carat solid gold band, sparkling diamonds and an elegant design. But it also offers a twist on tradition thanks to the gorgeous cushion-cut, ethically sourced morganite gemstone for a soft hint of colour.
- Sizing: H-Y
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
5. Gold Teal Sapphire Forever Ring – Alison Moore
If you love the idea of a contemporary hint of colour, this unique engagement band style from Scottish jewellery designer Alison Moore is available in a range of gemstones, including ruby and tsavorite, and either white or yellow gold to cater to all tastes and budgets. The band is thin enough to slot neatly next to a wedding ring, too.
- Sizing: J-V
6. Aquamarine & Diamond Zig-Zag Ring – Kiki McDonough
There’s no finer example of beautiful feminine jewellery than the rings from Kiki McDonough, and this glittering 18-carat white gold aquamarine and diamond piece from the Special Editions collection is one such example. The zig-zag setting is really what makes this engagement design stand out. If you love the style but not the gemstone, contact the team to discuss creating a bespoke piece.
- Sizing: Made to order
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 design is one to rock the aisle in and treasure forever.
- Sizing: F-Z
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
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 and the scintillating gems include London Blue topaz, Swiss Blue topaz, and purple tanzanite, each chosen for their stunning colour and brilliance. We love.
- Sizing: I-S
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
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 sea foam) 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.
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.
- Sizing: I-S
12. Triffid Single Row Diamond Ring – Jeremy Hoye
Brighton-based jewellery designer Jeremy Hoye is known for his unique handmade pieces, and his selection of artisanal engagement ring styles are no different.
Break from tradition with this sleek 18-carat gold design which features a single row of twinkling diamonds – a design inspired by geodes found on the beach. A fabulous option for those who want something different to one large stone.
- Sizing: J-P
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
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. Make this style your own by customising the metal – choose from white, yellow, or rose gold, or platinum.
- Sizing: Made to order
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.
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.
- Sizing: H-Y
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 (can be resized up or down)
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
18. Gold 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. If you want something more subtle, you can also get this same design with white diamonds.
- Sizing: M-O
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: 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
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 (can be resized up or down)
22. Aria Platinum Diamond Ring – Lily Gabriella Fine Jewellery
In a nod to the alternative engagement ring trends of coloured stones and twisted shapes, this stunning design from Lily Gabriella Fine Jewellery contains a 1.44-carat oval-cut tourmaline surrounded by snaking, sparkling diamonds. Perfect for those who want a classic look but with an offbeat silhouette.
- Sizing: Made to order
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
24. La Princesa Ring – Kitty Joyas
For a romantic reimagining of a traditional solitaire, Kitty Joyas’s La Princesa features the most beautiful, oval-cut, pink-coloured sapphire (or a timeless diamond, if you prefer) set in the designer’s signature chunky gold band.
We love the textured finish for a stunning piece in its rawest state. The price in this case is based on the stones and materials pictured, but the size and quality can be customised to suit all budgets.
- Sizing: Made to order
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
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. 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.
- Sizing: J-U
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. There’s also the option to engrave this piece.
- Sizing: A-Z
28. Entwine Green Diamond Ring – Jeremy Hoye
For a striking, organic style that combines a slightly more traditional solitaire with a modern and vibrant finish, the Entwine ring from Jeremy Hoye is a hand-carved piece crafted from recycled 18-carat yellow gold, topped with the most beautiful rich green diamond.
- Sizing: J-P.
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.
This piece can be made from either recycled 18-carat white gold or platinum, depending on your budget.
- Sizing: Made to order
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
Alternative Engagement Rings FAQ
We answer your most commonly asked questions to help you find the perfect proposal piece…
What counts as an alternative engagement ring?
So, what should you consider when choosing a non-traditional engagement ring – and how can you ensure your engagement ring of choice is 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 ensure individuality is by choosing a more unusual setting or a combination of stones.
“Opting for a design that mixes different cuts, shapes or arrangements of gems will make your engagement ring stand out. For example, a vibrant central gemstone flanked by smaller diamonds or gemstones in contrasting colours can create a striking look.
“Additionally, paying attention to the finer details of the ring’s design – such as an intricately crafted band or elegant and unexpected setting – can make the jewellery piece feel entirely your own,” she adds.
Where can I buy alternative engagement rings in the UK?
If you’re wondering where to get unique engagement rings in the UK, look to some of the UK’s best independent jewellery designers such as Loveness Lee, Jeremy Hoye, Gee Woods, Carrie Elizabeth and others, many of whom specialise in vintage pieces and one-off designs.
However, you’ll also find some quirky and colourful pieces from high street favourites including Ernest Jones and Goldsmiths if you look beyond the 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 designs 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?
Are alternative rings more affordable?
Alternative engagement rings can be more affordable, it depends on your choice of metal and gemstone. Cheaper gemstones tend to be the quartz varieties – think amethyst, rose quartz, garnet and others – while sterling silver and 9-carat gold are more budget-friendly metals but will need carefully looking after to keep them in good condition.
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.
What are the current trends for engagement rings in the UK?
According to UK jewellery brand Abbott Lyon, solitaire rings still dominate the engagement market, with 47% of couples opting for a traditional solitaire style. But oval-shaped diamonds are also on the rise for 2026, as are bezel-set engagement rings – in part thanks to Taylor Swift who brought the design back into the spotlight when she got engaged to NFL star Travis Kelce earlier in 2025.
So, now you’ve picked the perfect ring… but have you thought about the all-important engagement announcement?
