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Shopping for an engagement ring is such a special moment, but with so many styles and designs to choose from, it can also feel a little overwhelming. On top of metal choice, diamond cut and carat weight, one of the decisions you’ll likely face is whether to go for a classic engagement ring or a contemporary engagement ring.
While you’re browsing, whether it’s in-store or online, you might not even realise there’s a difference between contemporary and classic engagement rings. Understanding what the differences are will help you choose a ring that best reflects your (or your partner’s) personal style.
In a nutshell, classic engagement rings are timeless; they’re a selection of engagement ring designs that have been loved for generations and will continue to be loved well into the future.
Contemporary engagement rings, meanwhile, have a more modern feel and often feature unique settings, fancy cuts or bold design details that reflect today’s trends, as well as your own unique, personal style.
If you’re unsure which style to choose, this guide is for you. Read on to learn the main differences between contemporary and classic engagement rings, explore the most popular styles of each and discover some handy tips that will help you choose the perfect engagement ring.
What Are Classic Engagement Rings?
Classic engagement rings are the kinds of engagement ring designs that never go out of style. Often crafted in 18K gold or platinum, their ongoing appeal lies in their ability to highlight the brilliance of the centre stone above all else by featuring very little embellishment and by using simple, minimalist settings and plain bands.
Popular classic engagement ring designs include simple solitaires, trilogies, halos and pavé bands, with the iconic Round Brilliant Solitaire standing tall as the most popular classic engagement ring style of all.
Popular Classic Engagement Ring Cuts
While this list is by no means exhaustive, classic engagement rings will typically feature centre stones in one of the following cuts:
- Round Brilliant – by far the most popular classic engagement ring cut, the iconic Round Brilliant is beloved for its unmatched, all-over sparkle and perfectly balanced proportions
- Oval Cut – the Oval Cut delivers a brilliant sparkle, while its proportions create the illusion of a larger stone. Oval Cuts also gracefully elongate the finger, further adding to their appeal
- Cushion Cut – usually square but occasionally rectangular, a Cushion Cut stone has softly rounded corners and edges that give it a romantic, vintage-inspired feel. Its “pillow” shape feels both elegant and distinctive, while its faceting gives it a brilliant sparkle that rivals that of a Round Brilliant
Why Australian Couples Choose Classic Engagement Rings
There are many reasons why couples in Australia, and around the world, continue to gravitate towards certain classic engagement styles above others, even as trends come and go.
Classic engagement rings are timeless and future-proof by design. They’ll never go out of fashion, remaining beautiful 20, 50 and even 100 years from now. Classic engagement rings can also be paired easily with wedding bands, while their clean lines and simple designs mean they’re suitable for everyday wear, making them a practical choice for the modern couple.
They can also hold a lot of sentimental value, often mirroring rings worn by family members in the past or by cultural and style icons throughout history.
Plus, their understated designs help keep the focus on the true meaning of the ring (commitment, love and partnership), rather than on what’s in fashion and what’s on trend. For many couples, this makes a classic style feel more significant and enduring.
At Moi Moi Fine Jewellery, our Classic Collection brings this timelessness to life with premium lab grown diamonds and SUPERNOVA Moissanite. Refined over our 20 years of fine jewellery experience in Australia and beloved by Australian couples for many years, our Classic Collection showcases our most popular classic engagement rings.
View the range in-store in Sydney or Melbourne or shop online today.
What Are Contemporary Engagement Rings?
While classic engagement rings focus on timeless simplicity and time-honoured traditions, contemporary engagement rings, also called modern engagement rings, creatively showcase individuality in several ways, including the use of unique settings and unconventional centre stone cuts.
Key Features of Contemporary Engagement Rings
Contemporary engagement rings embrace bold design details and unexpected touches, often inspired by current trends, as well as your own style. Key features include:
- Unique settings, including east-west centre stone orientations, bezel settings and even tension settings, which hold the gemstone in place without prongs
- Geometric gemstone cuts, such as Marquise, Pear, Radiant or Emerald
- Mixed metals, such as yellow and rose gold combined in a single ring
- Coloured gemstones, such as pink, blue or green lab grown diamonds
- Sustainably and ethnically sourced gemstones, such as lab grown diamonds and Moissanite, by those wanting to make more conscious purchases
Why Couples Choose Contemporary Engagement Rings
You may be drawn to a contemporary engagement ring for any number of reasons, but the main reason Australians are choosing them today is for self-expression. Contemporary engagement rings enable you to stand out from tradition, to proudly display your own personal style and to explore original, one-of-a-kind custom design options that tell your unique story.
Whether you’re drawn to mixed metals, coloured diamonds or a unique setting, we can help you find or create a modern engagement ring that feels uniquely you here at Moi Moi Fine Jewellery.
Book a custom engagement ring design consultation today to explore what’s possible.
The Difference Between Contemporary and Classic Engagement Rings
The difference between contemporary and classic engagement rings comes down to more than just looks. The two styles represent very different design philosophies, so once you understand what each brings to the table you can more easily decide between the two.
Classic engagement rings are always a safe choice, because they never go out of style. Contemporary engagement rings are better for those who want something more distinctive. They’re less about tradition and more about expressing personal style and individuality.
Here’s how the two compare:
Design Style
Classic engagement rings are simple and traditional, keeping the spotlight firmly on the centre stone. Contemporary designs are bolder and more experimental, often playing with new shapes and featuring design details that celebrate individuality.
Gemstone Choice
Classic engagement rings will often feature timeless white diamonds in enduring cuts like the Round Brilliant. Contemporary engagement rings are more likely to include lab grown gemstones, coloured stones and alternative cuts, Marquise and Pear.
Settings
Solitaires and prong settings are hallmarks of classic engagement ring designs, while east-west settings, hidden halos and even double bands may be used in contemporary engagement rings to create something unexpected.
Popularity and trend cycles
Classic engagement rings are always in demand. They can be on-trend for a certain amount of time, but even when the trends move on these designs will remain a popular choice. Contemporary designs embrace evolving jewellery trends, allowing your ring to feel modern while still reflecting your unique style.
How to Choose Between Classic and Contemporary Engagement Rings
Choosing between a classic engagement ring and a modern engagement ring isn’t just about which one looks nicer in the display case, although this may definitely be a determining factor. What it really comes down to is how the ring is going to fit into our life, your style and how you see yourself wearing it in the years to come.
Here are a few things worth thinking about before you decide:
Consider Your Personal Style
When choosing an engagement ring, it’s incredibly important to choose something that feels like you. If your jewellery box is filled with timeless jewellery pieces you’ve worn for years, a classic engagement ring might be the natural choice. If you love being fashion-forward and on top of the latest trends, or you’re the kind of person who likes to wear something that’s going to make you stand out in a crowd, a contemporary engagement ring design may be the way to go.
The same goes if you’re choosing a ring for your partner, rather than shopping for one with them. Go to their jewellery box for inspiration or consider how they style themselves day-to-day to help guide your decision.
If you’re really unsure, you can always consult one of our design experts here at Moi Moi. They’ve seen and heard it all before and will be more than happy to guide you towards the right ring for your partner.
Think About Lifestyle and Wearability
This is a ring you’ll want to wear every day, so practicality matters. Classic styles, with their simple settings and clean lines, tend to be durable and low maintenance. Contemporary rings, meanwhile, often feature design details like pavé bands, hidden halos or intricate settings that make them so eye-catching. These little touches don’t require much more than routine cleaning, and in return, they give you a ring that feels truly special and distinctive.
Future Proofing Your Ring Choice
It’s worth asking yourself: will I still love this design in 10 or 20 years’ time? Classic engagement rings are made to age gracefully, retaining their appeal for years and years to come. Contemporary engagement rings feel bold and exciting, and because they embrace individuality, many will continue to feel relevant to you personally as your style evolves. They’re also a great choice if you love the idea of your engagement ring reflecting the person you were at the moment in your life when you became engaged.
Of course, some couples choose to upgrade or replace their engagement rings years later. Victoria Beckham has worn 15 different engagement rings throughout her 26 years of marriage to David Beckham. So if you find your tastes change in the future, you can always replace your engagement ring with something that feels more like you at the time.
Budget Considerations
Your budget may also help guide your decision. Classic engagement ringscan sometimes be more affordable, owing to their relatively simple designs. The rise of lab grown diamonds has made them even more affordable, allowing you to choose a larger gemstone at half the cost of a mined diamond equivalent.
Contemporary engagement rings are where you’ll often see more intricate craftsmanship and custom features, like coloured gemstones, unique band designs or distinctive settings. These details can make them a little more of an investment, but they also give you a ring that feels completely your own.
Popular Styles of Classic vs Contemporary Engagement Rings
When you’re choosing between classic engagement rings and contemporary engagement rings, it can help to look at the designs that define each style.
Here are some of the most popular examples you’ll see in both categories:
Popular Classic Engagement Ring Styles
- Solitaire Engagement Rings – the most iconic of all engagement ring designs, a classic solitaire engagement ring showcases a single centre stone in a simple setting on a plain band. Our Taylor, Audrey and Fiona engagement rings are all traditional solitaire engagement rings from our Classic Collection.
- Trilogy Engagement Rings– featuring three stones that together symbolise the past, present and future, trilogy ringscarry extra meaning while still feeling timeless. Our Agnes, Aubrey and Tara engagement rings are all examples of trilogy engagement rings from our Classic Collection.
- Halo Engagement Rings– a halo is a circle of smaller gemstones that surrounds the centre stone, adding extra sparkle and giving the illusion of extra size. Halo engagement rings often have a vintage-inspired feel to them
- Pavé Engagement Rings– tiny, “pave-set” gemstones set along the band add subtle brilliance and sophistication, complementing the centre stone without overwhelming it
Classic engagement ring designs like these are loved for their versatility. They’re easy to wear every day and pair beautifully with a wide range of wedding bands.
Classic celebrity engagement ring examples include:
- Meghan Markle’s three-stone engagement ring, with a cushion-cut centre stone flanked by two round diamonds
- Hayley Bieber’s oval solitaire on a plain gold band, a fabulous example of a classic engagement ring that shows how enduringly popular the style remains
- Natalie Portman’s engagement ring, which features a round brilliant centre stone surrounded by a double halo of smaller diamonds, set on a pavé band
Popular Contemporary Engagement Ring Styles
- East-West Engagement Rings– by setting the stone horizontally rather than vertically, east-west designs give a fresh, modern look to traditional cuts. East-west emerald, marquise and oval cuts are especially popular. Our Jolene and Iliana rings are perfect examples of modern east-west engagement ring designs
- Toi et Moi Engagement Rings – meaning “you and me” in French, Toi et Moi engagement rings feature twocentre stones, often in different shapes, representing the bond between two people
- Geometric Halo Engagement Rings– instead of the traditional circle, geometric halos use shapes like hexagons or octagons to frame the centre stone with a bold, modern edge
- Split Shank or Double Band Engagement Rings– bands that divide or run parallel create a striking, architectural look
- Engagement Rings with Hidden Halos and Accents– small touches like diamonds tucked under the setting or tiny gemstone accents give a contemporary ring unexpected sparkle from every angle
Contemporary styles like these are perfect for couples who want their ring to feel modern, distinctive and a little different from tradition.
Modern celebrity engagement ring examples include:
- Zendaya’s east-west cushion cut diamond engagement ring has helped make east-west settings a popular engagement ring trend in 2025
- Emily Ratajkowski’s Toi et Moi engagement ring, which features a pear cut and a princess cut diamond side by side. She recently repurposed both stones into two separate ‘divorce rings’, following her split from Sebastian Bear-McClard
- Blake Lively’s oval-cut blush pink-diamond engagement ring with a hidden halo and a rose gold band
Shop Contemporary and Classic Engagement Rings at Moi Moi
Whether you’re drawn to the timeless elegance of a classic solitaire engagement ring or the bold style of an east-west setting, the most important thing is choosing a design that feels true to you.
Classic rings will always be a popular and safe choice, thanks to their enduring appeal and versatility. Contemporary rings bring something distinctive and modern, perfect for couples who want their jewellery to reflect their personality and style.
At Moi Moi Fine Jewellery, we’re here to help you explore both worlds. With Australia’s largest ready-to-wear collection of contemporary and classic engagement rings, you can compare styles side by side and find the one that speaks to you. Our rings are crafted with premium lab grown diamonds and SUPERNOVA Moissanite, giving you brilliance, beauty and peace of mind that your ring is consciously crafted and made to last.
Visit us in Sydney or Melbourne to try on your favourites, or book an appointment with one of our jewellery consultants for tailored advice. You can also browse our full range online and start your search from the comfort of home.
Whether classic or contemporary, your dream engagement ring is waiting for you here at Moi Moi.
FAQs
What makes an engagement ring “classic”?
Classic engagement rings are timeless, simple and elegant designs. Think solitaires, trilogies, halos and pavé bands crafted in 18K gold or platinum, often with a Round Brilliant or Oval cut centre stone. These styles never go out of fashion and continue to be loved generation after generation.
What defines a contemporary engagement ring style?
Contemporary engagement rings are more adventurous in their design. They often feature unique settings such as east-west orientations, hidden halos or split shanks, along with alternative cuts like Pear, Marquise or Emerald. Colour lab grown diamonds, SUPERNOVA Moissanite and mixed metals are also common in contemporary engagement rings, giving these them a bold, modern feel.
What is the difference between contemporary and classic engagement rings?
The main difference between contemporary and classic engagement rings lies in their design philosophy. Classic rings favour tradition, simplicity and symmetry, while contemporary rings embrace individuality, trend-driven features and creative settings. Both are equally beautiful. The choice depends on whether you prefer timeless elegance or a modern statement.
Are classic engagement rings still popular in today?
Absolutely. Classic engagement rings are consistently among the most popular choices, both in Australia and globally. While certain cuts or styles may trend at different times, classics like the Round Brilliant solitaire will never go out of fashion.
Are contemporary engagement rings more expensive than classic rings?
The cost of any engagement ring, whether classic or contemporary, depends on factors such as the gemstone size and quality, the choice of metal and the complexity of the design. While some contemporary rings may involve more intricate features that add to the price, choosing lab grown diamonds or SUPERNOVA Moissanite keeps both classic and modern designs accessible at a range of budgets.
Which styles of classic engagement rings are the most timeless?
The Round Brilliant solitaire is often considered the most iconic classic style. Trilogy rings, halo designs and pavé bands are also enduring favourites. These styles remain popular because they pair well with wedding bands and look just as elegant today as they did decades ago.
