Neil Lane on Hailey Baldwin and Ariana Grande Rings—And Why the Fancy Cut Diamond Is Here to Stay
Jeweler to the stars Neil Lane has seen his fair share of ring styles evolve over the decades, especially as a trendsetter himself. The longtime force behind the rings featured on the Bachelor franchise is now seeing a rapidly-ascending, new crop of engagement ring styles that are specific in shape and cut. In fact, two recently-engaged celebrities (Hailey Baldwin and Ariana Grande) both said “yes” to these popular shapes—opting for fancy cut diamonds—and Lane shares his expertise with The Knot.
“Pear and oval stones are getting a lot of attention lately,” he says. “However, I’m partial to the marquise. Its defined edges and unexpected shape pair well with elaborate settings—think, halos side stones, diamond bands, you name it. What makes the stone especially appealing is its unique blend of romanticism and modernity.”
Baldwin’s ring, a massive oval-shape diamond, was designed by Jack Solow of Solow & Co. Inc. Diamond Jewelers. “I love the simplicity of the solitaire diamond and on a thin band—it’s really quite elegant and effortless at the same time,” Lane notes of the model’s new sparkler from Justin Bieber. Solow revealed Thursday that Bieber was intent on finding Baldwin the ideal diamond, ultimately settling on a spectacular oval-shape stone that was worthy of his future bride.
#solow pic.twitter.com/gGeYc09CY3
— SOLOW & CO. (@SolowCo) July 11, 2018
Interestingly enough, manager Scooter Braun—who introduced Bieber to Solow—also oversees recently-engaged pop songstress Ariana Grande. The Sweetener singer got engaged to Pete Davidson last month after a whirlwind few weeks of dating.
“Ariana’s platinum and diamond ring is the epitome of glamour and reminds me of old Hollywood,” Lane explains. “It’s a striking design with a 3-carat, pear-shaped center stone, diamond halo and a diamond band that intensifies the sparkle.”
Accompanying the rise of these shapes is the resurgence of the fancy cut, which encompasses everything from the emerald to the oval to pear-shape stones. It also includes the marquise as well as kite-shape diamonds.
NEW YORK, NY – JUNE 14: Ariana Grande performs onstage during the Songwriters Hall of Fame 49th Annual Induction and Awards Dinner at New York Marriott Marquis Hotel on June 14, 2018 in New York City. (Photo by Kevin Mazur/Getty Images for Songwriters Hall Of Fame)
“The popularity of fancy cut stones comes in waves. What was old is now new again,” Lane says. “Over the last few decades, brides have become more involved in the ring selection process and now choose them alongside their partner. We’re finding that both men and women are drawn to these romantic stones so it’s no surprise that sensuous shapes like the oval and pear are back in fashion.”
Indeed, according to The Knot’s 2017 Jewelry & Engagement Study, about 33 percent (or one in three couples) responded to our survey by confirming they had shopped for the ring together.
For couples who are looking to go this particular route with cut, Lane concludes by passing along some advice. “If you’re looking for a ring that is both modern and versatile, try a fancy cut diamond like a pear or marquise with a tiny halo,” he muses. “Letting the center stone be the focal point of your ring. For a subtler look, opt for a tinted stone like the morganite, this soft blush-colored diamond is both modern and feminine.”
Secure your ideal wedding vision by starting with The Knot’s Style Quiz, here.
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