I’ll be honest — when I first started writing about jewellery years ago, I thought engagement ring trends would come and go as quickly as fashion seasons. Ovals, pears, cushions — you name it, they’ve all had their “moment”. But every time I walk into a boutique or browse an online catalogue, there it is again: the round engagement ring, quietly reigning supreme.
It’s the ring you see glinting on a friend’s hand at brunch, or in those romantic proposal videos that make you tear up for people you don’t even know. There’s something about that perfect circle of light that feels eternal — a reflection of what the whole thing symbolises, really. Love, forever, no corners, no edges.
But what’s fascinating is how this classic design has evolved — not just in looks, but in ethics, sustainability, and technology. The story behind the sparkle is a lot deeper than you might think.
The Science (and Magic) Behind the Sparkle
The round brilliant cut — that’s the technical term for what most of us call the “round diamond” — was first developed in the early 20th century. A mathematician named Marcel Tolkowsky worked out the ideal proportions for maximising light return, and the result was that unmistakable brilliance you see when light hits the stone just right.
It’s funny to think about — geometry and romance, hand in hand. But that’s exactly what the round engagement ring represents: a marriage of artistry and science.
Over the decades, jewellers have played with variations — adding halos, vintage-inspired settings, or sleek minimalist bands — but the core remains the same. That perfectly symmetrical sparkle has stood the test of time.
And if you ask most jewellers in Sydney or Melbourne, they’ll tell you that even when trends shift towards fancy shapes like ovals or emeralds, the round cut still outsells the rest. It’s not just tradition — it’s that the cut simply flatters almost every hand, catches light from every angle, and suits every kind of setting, from classic solitaires to modern bezels.
The Rise of the Conscious Consumer
Here’s where things get really interesting. In the last five or six years, the world of fine jewellery has quietly undergone a revolution. More and more Australians — especially millennials and Gen Z couples — are asking where their diamonds come from. They want transparency, ethics, and sustainability, not just sparkle.
That’s led to a major shift towards lab grown diamonds — and if you’re still picturing cheap imitations, think again.
Lab grown diamonds are real diamonds, chemically and optically identical to those mined from the earth. The only difference is how they’re formed: in a controlled environment rather than deep underground. And because they’re created using advanced technology, they come without the environmental toll or ethical concerns often associated with traditional mining.
I actually spent an afternoon with a gemologist last year who showed me both types side by side. Honestly, I couldn’t tell the difference — not by eye, not by light performance. And that was kind of the “aha” moment for me.
It’s not just about saving money (though let’s be real, the price difference is significant). It’s about the shift in values. The idea that love shouldn’t cost the planet.
If you’re curious about how to care for these stones, there’s a great resource I came across on maintaining their shine — here’s a handy guide on lab grown diamonds.
Why the Round Engagement Ring Still Feels So Modern
You might think something that’s been around for over a century would start to feel a bit old-fashioned. But the round engagement ring keeps reinventing itself — much like the little black dress or a perfectly tailored suit. It’s timeless, but never boring.
Right now, we’re seeing a mix of vintage and contemporary influences:
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Thin gold bands that make the diamond appear to float.
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Bezel settings that protect the stone while adding a sleek, architectural look.
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Hidden halos, where smaller diamonds are tucked beneath the centre stone for an extra glint when you move your hand.
There’s also been a rise in custom design, where couples are deeply involved in the process — sketching ideas, choosing metals, even selecting ethical stones that align with their story.
One brand that’s been leading this custom movement is Novita Diamonds, where you can explore or even design your own round engagement ring. The beauty of going custom is that you can take that classic round shape and make it entirely your own — whether that’s a minimalist rose gold setting or an elaborate, vintage-inspired heirloom.
The best part? Many jewellers now offer lab grown options alongside mined diamonds, so you can design your dream ring without compromise.
From Luxury to Legacy
There’s something deeply personal about engagement rings. You wear it every day; it becomes part of your story. And over time, it’s not about how big the diamond is, or whether it came from a lab or a mine — it’s about what it represents.
Still, the conversation around “luxury” has changed. What used to be defined by rarity or price tag is now defined by craftsmanship, story, and sustainability. A beautifully cut lab grown diamond in a thoughtful, handcrafted setting feels far more luxurious than a generic ring that cost a fortune but carries questionable origins.
Jewellery experts say the shift mirrors a larger trend across fashion and design — conscious luxury. The idea that what’s precious should also be purposeful.
Stories Behind the Sparkle
I once interviewed a couple from Perth who had just gotten engaged with a round-cut lab diamond ring. The proposal was low-key — a picnic at Kings Park with a view of the city — but when she told me about it, her face lit up in a way that no marketing campaign could ever capture.
She said, “It’s not just the ring. It’s knowing it’s beautiful, ethical, and completely us.”
That’s the real magic of jewellery, isn’t it? The emotion behind it. The thought that goes into it. Whether you go for a half-carat minimalist design or a dazzling two-carat statement, the feeling’s the same — it’s the story you carry on your hand.
And honestly, there’s something grounding about that. In a world that moves so fast, where everything’s disposable and digital, having something so tangible and timeless feels comforting.
A Few Tips If You’re Ring Shopping
If you’re starting your engagement ring search, here are a few things I’ve picked up along the way:
Try different styles on in person. What looks stunning online might feel different on your hand. The round cut, luckily, flatters almost everyone.
Ask questions. Don’t be shy — good jewellers love sharing their knowledge. Ask about cut proportions, certification, and whether the diamond (lab or mined) is conflict-free.
Think about lifestyle. If you’re active or work with your hands, a bezel or low-set ring might be more practical than a high-prong setting.
Don’t overlook the band. The metal tone can completely change the vibe of the ring — yellow gold for warmth, platinum for sleekness, rose gold for romance.
Consider the long-term. Trends come and go, but classics endure. A round engagement ring will still look elegant decades from now.
The Circle That Never Ends
Maybe that’s why the round cut resonates so deeply. It’s not just its symmetry or sparkle — it’s the symbolism. A circle with no beginning or end, representing love that’s infinite, steady, and whole.
And now, with new technology and more conscious choices, the story of the round engagement ring is evolving — becoming not just a mark of love, but of values.
If you’re about to propose, or just dreaming ahead, don’t feel pressured to chase what’s trendy. Go for what feels like you. Whether it’s a classic round solitaire or a unique custom design with a lab grown diamond, the most beautiful ring will always be the one that holds meaning.
Because at the end of the day, love isn’t about perfection — it’s about connection. And that little circle of light on your finger? It’s just the beginning of a much bigger story.