Phone addicts of a certain age all have one thing in common: they spend a lot of time scrolling through social media feeds, looking at that same boring photo of the same boring engagement ring. We’ve all seen enough generic, princess-cut diamond wedding rings to last us a lifetime!
There have to be a few unique rings out there, right?
Whether you’re prepping for an engagement, about to tie the knot, or approaching a big anniversary, the ring’s the thing! There is no reason to settle for a boring, traditional ring when so many gorgeous, distinct options are out there. When it’s your turn to post a ring photo on the Gram, do you want all your friends to yawn and scroll past it?
We’ve created this guide to help you find unique rings for all occasions. Keep reading to diversify your bling!
Try a Colored Gemstone
Did you know that, compared to most of the world’s gem-quality stones, diamonds aren’t particularly rare? They weren’t even used in wedding or engagement rings until the De Beers company unearthed a massive cache of the stones in South Africa. The company’s “Diamonds Are Forever” campaign began a shift that would make diamond rings a costly cultural norm.
Most colored gemstones, such as sapphires, rubies, and emeralds, are far rarer and more precious than your average white diamond. Their color is naturally compelling and allows for far more self-expression. If you’re looking for unique anniversary rings, why not choose a colored gemstone over a diamond?
Their rarity makes them costly, but lab-grown versions are more ethical and less expensive than their naturally occurring counterparts. You can choose a birthstone or select any color you love.
3D Print a Ring
In the twenty-first century, customization is everything. While you could pay top dollar to have a jeweler design a bespoke ring using the most precious materials, you don’t have to. The rise in 3D printing technology means that you can design a completely unique ring and have it in your hands almost as soon as you can imagine it.
3D printed rings are also less costly than precious metal rings. That makes them an ideal option for daily wear, especially if you have children or work with your hands. As long as you have the template, you can reprint your ring, even if it ends up in the garbage disposal!
If you know how to use modeling software, you and your partner can design rings for one another. You can include special images or meaningful quotes right in the ring design. The ring will be custom printed to fit the exact dimensions of your finger, so it will always fit perfectly.
The downside is that we don’t yet have the technology to print precious stones, so your ring might not have the “bling factor” of other rings on the list. If you’re not sold on sparkle, however, it’s a really original way to go!
Choose Vintage
If you’re getting married, it’s customary to wear something old, something new, something borrowed, and something blue. Why can’t that “something old” be your unique engagement ring? You can find unique men’s rings and women’s rings at thrift stores, antique stores, consignment shops, and vintage jewelry stores.
If you have your heart set on a diamond, this is also a great way to source an ethical one. You can buy an older natural diamond ring without supporting companies with unethical mining practices. Reusing old rings is also greener and more sustainable than buying new ones.
You might fall absolutely in love with a vintage cut or setting that you can’t find in most stores. Sometimes you can even learn about the history of the ring, and it might come with some awesome stories!
You can also ask relatives if they have any family rings that they are willing to turn into family heirlooms. Reusing a family ring is a meaningful and sustainable way to show your love and dedication. Best of all, your ring won’t look like everyone else’s!
Commission a Ring
Jewelers aren’t just those people who sit at the mall kiosk and wait around to clean your ring once a year! They are artists and fabricators who love to craft original pieces of jewelry. If you really want a ring that nobody else on earth has, you can commission a professional jeweler to design and create a bespoke ring for you.
This is one of the more expensive options on the list, but it’s often worth the higher price tag. You’re not simply buying a ring, but employing a master craftsperson. They will use the finest materials and might even allow you to hand-select any diamonds or gemstones.
You can also use components from existing rings in a new design. For example, if your mother gave you a family ring and you love the stone but hate the setting, the jeweler can use the stone in the new ring. The jeweler can melt down the old setting and use it to craft the new one.
Original rings aren’t simply rings, either. They are art pieces that increase in value over time. Investing in a brand new ring is like investing in a piece of wearable art!
Unique Rings for Unique Celebrations
The world is a thoroughly unique place, full of minerals and materials in all shapes and colors. Why would you choose a generic ring when so many unique rings are waiting? Whether you’re picking out engagement rings or wedding rings, there is an unconventional piece waiting for you!
Are you interested in learning about more off-the-wall fashion trends? Check out the rest of the blog for more posts that appeal to your original sense of style!