90s fashion was characterised by chic style and the revival of clean-cut luxury and 1990s engagement rings were no exception. The trends that led the way on the catwalk were often sleek and simple, fashionistas of the 90s were pioneering minimalist trends and jewellery designers were creating pieces that matched this aesthetic down to the ground.
With so many 90s fashion trends making a comeback to our wardrobes – from sheer dresses to cat-eye sunglasses – it’s no surprise that 90s engagement rings are back as well. So, if you’ve always had a soft spot for the elegant minimalist looks of the 90s, an engagement ring from this decade will be perfect for you!
Today, we’re travelling back through the decades to discover the most classic engagement ring style of the 1990s and what makes them quite so special.
Which metals were popular in the 1990s?
In the 1990s yellow gold and rose gold were both out and clean white metals were all the rage. White gold, platinum, and palladium were the go-to choices for anyone who wanted to reproduce the elegant, modern 90s aesthetic loved by celebrities such as Victoria Beckham and Kate Moss. Popular engagement ring styles during this era veered away from fuss and frivolity. Instead, they made an impact through modern minimalism, and white metals were key to this aesthetic.
Gemstones that were in vogue
When it came to choosing a gemstone in the 1990s, simple yet striking was always a popular way to go. Classic 90s engagement ring designs usually featured large single stones that were designed to make an impact without any need for a complicated design.
As with other decades, you simply couldn’t beat a classic diamond ring in the 90s. However, different variations on this timeless stone were also coming into vogue. Fancy yellow diamonds and pink diamonds were favoured during the 90s, especially for those who wanted their jewellery to make an impact.
As a single diamond was normally the most important element of 90s engagement rings, the diamond cut had to be meticulously chosen. During this era, elongated cuts were particularly popular, with marquise cut diamonds embodying the aesthetic of the time. The lengthened style of the marquise cut is a flattering shape, making the wearer’s fingers appear more slender. This gemstone cut fits perfectly with the elegant and luxurious 90s style.
The signature styles of the 90s
Variations on the classic solitaire ring dominated engagement ring trends throughout this decade. Often, the designs were kept as simple as possible, with a distinctive diamond-cut taking centre stage. For those looking for a bit more sparkle, baguette cut diamonds adorning the ring shank were also popular. This style is perfect if you want to stay true to the clean-cut 90s style while adding that little something extra.
What did people pay for engagement rings in the 1990s?
Like in every decade, the cost of an engagement ring in the 1990s depended on a plethora of factors, from the quality of the diamond to the carat of the metal. With the popularity of solitaire rings and large statement diamonds, a classic 1990s engagement ring would likely be more expensive than rings that were popular during different decades, such as trilogy rings or eternity rings featuring multiple smaller diamonds.
Are 90s engagement rings in style now?
The sleek, stripped-back elegance of 90s-style jewellery has made a serious comeback over recent years. Likewise, white gold and platinum have seen a surge in popularity as 90s and 00s fashion trends have resurfaced.
So, if you think minimalist styles and bold singular gemstones are perfect for you, there’s never been a better time to opt for a vintage 1990s engagement ring. Browse our full selection of vintage engagement rings to discover your perfect match.
