One of the major trends over the last few years has been couples looking into mined diamond alternatives, and as specialists in moissanite gemstones we can assure you that this trend is here to stay. Choosing to set your engagement ring with moissanite has many benefits, and with an appearance practically indistinguishable from mined diamond, the number of people opting for this gem is only set to rise.  

Moissanite is a precious gemstone that occurs naturally even more rarely than diamond. Incredibly refractive and giving out the full spectrum of colours when exposed to light, this mineral displays huge amounts of fire. Most moissanite is grown in the lab, which is the case for all the moissanite we source. Our engagement rings can be set with either Charles & Colvard Forever One Moissanite or with our own branded Lily Arkwright Moissanite. As the world’s leading producers, Charles & Colvard have decades of experience developing gemstones with astonishing clarity. Our Lily Arkwright Moissanite is in no way inferior, but comes at a smaller price because we source the gems ourselves.  

Other benefits of moissanite engagement rings include their durability for everyday wear and their price tag, which comes in much lower than mined diamond and yet still offers a dazzlingly clear precious gemstone. All our moissanite comes with a limited lifetime warranty and a certificate of authenticity because of our incredibly high quality. You can read some of our five star reviews on TrustPilot here.

Have a look through our entire collection of moissanite engagement rings.

Photo Reference: Nathanael Desmeules on Unsplash

Another consideration for couples choosing their engagement ring is knowing its origin and that it has been ethically and sustainably sourced. As a piece of jewellery to last a lifetime, an engagement ring is a big commitment and knowing that no person or environment was harmed in its creation is increasingly a point of concern.

We are proud of our ethical and sustainable credentials here at Lily Arkwright, and all of our lab grown moissanite, diamonds, sapphires, rubies and emeralds come with none of the harmful effects of mining. All of our jewellery also comes with a twelve month warranty, and has been Assay Assured.

One of the joys of a solitaire is that it will never go out of fashion! These elegant and clean designs suit everyone. A solitaire ring showcases a single gemstone set in a metal band, highlighting and making the most of your chosen precious stone. These rings are popular for a reason, they look spectacular whilst being on the more understated side. The classical solitaire is perfect for those who want to place all of the focus onto the main gemstone, and to make a bold statement without fanfare.  

Photo Refererence: Grace 8mm/1.90ct Moissanite Platinum Ring

Our most popular solitaire is The Grace, which really lives up to its name. The four prong setting allows for the central moissanite to get as much light as possible, intensifying the refractive properties of the gemstone and making sure that it has the maximum amount of sparkle. The Grace also features a knife-edge band, meaning that as the metal leads up towards the centre stone it gradually sharpens to a rounded point. The reason this is done is to create an optical illusion whereby the gemstone looks set further away from the finger than it really is, while still being incredibly secure. This also makes the moissanite stone appear bigger, ensuring that whatever gemstone you choose looks the best that it possibly can.

Photo Reference: Annora Twist 1.50ct Moissanite Solitaire Ring

The Annora is another of our gorgeous and popular solitaires but with a twist, literally! The mount of this particular ring is a twist setting, creating a balanced asymmetrical shape. There are four prongs securing the central round cut moissanite gemstone; and this engagement ring would be perfect for those who want the elegance of a solitaire, but with a little added uniqueness.

Photo Reference: Lillie 7.5mm/1.50ct Round Cut Moissanite Ring

Our Lillie ring is the definition of class, with a tiffany-style mount and a knife edge band. With a six prong setting that fastens the gem securely, the Lillie puts all its focus on the centre stone. The band itself only measures across 1.6mm, making for a petite look and again drawing attention to the central stone. This engagement ring is also wed-fit, meaning that it will sit perfectly next to a wedding ring with any gapping or discomfit.

A major decision when choosing a solitaire, other than the size and type of gemstone, is the precious metal it comes in. Solitaires place more of a focus on the band than other ring types, simply because the shank is that much more visible. The majority of our rings, including our solitaires, come in platinum, white gold, rose gold and yellow gold (with options for both 18k and 9k). All of these choices make for stunning engagement rings and are Assay Assured. This means that each of our rings is independently verified as being made from that specific precious metal. Dating back hundreds of years in Britain, hallmarking is a practice carried out by the Assay office and proves that our jewellery is of the highest quality.

In addition, we are members of the National Association of Jewellers, which is an independent body of professionals who operate within the UK to establish high standards, and has thousands of quality jewellers within its ranks.

A particular trend that is likely to carry on gaining momentum over the next year is couples choosing to go for something entirely unique. The one-of-a-kind nature of a bespoke ring design reflects the intimacy and individuality of a relationship. Deciding on a beautiful piece of jewellery with exclusive character gives an heirloom quality to any engagement ring.

Lily Arkwright offers a bespoke ring design service for such couples. Our process involves discussing a number of concepts whilst looking through sketches and images to gain an understanding of some of the core elements desired. A model mock-up is then produced to give an in depth outline of what the ring would look like, before being finally sent off to our master goldsmiths here in the UK to be made.

Photo Reference: Bespoke 6.5mm/1.0ct Star Dust 18k Yellow Gold Ring

A shoulder set ring design describes a ring that has a row of smaller gemstones, usually diamonds, leading up from the band towards the centre stone. Whilst adding a massive amount of sparkle to the overall look of the ring, shoulder sets are very wearable and a classic choice.  

Photo Reference: Giselle 7mm/1.20ct Round Cut Moissanite Ring

Our most popular shoulder set is The Giselle, which is similar to our Grace ring but has a pavé of diamonds running up the sides of the shank. The medium sized band is a perfect balance to the centre stone, and is wed-fit so that it sits snugly alongside your wedding ring. All of Lily Arkwright’s moissanite gemstones have been inspected and graded by a fully qualified gemologist, and go through rigorous testing procedures to ensure our gemstones are of the best condition.  

Photo Reference: Coco 8x6mm/1.75ct Emerald Cut Moissanite Ring

The Coco is one of the newest editions to our collections and is available in all stones and cuts. The Coco is an extravagant ring whose profile includes a hidden basket detail when observed from the side, as well as a triple pavé along the band. This means that The Coco’s particular shoulder set has three rows of diamonds on the top and sides of the band, glittering from all angles. The hidden detailing of this ring is what makes it truly special and an undisputed leader in terms of sheer sparkle.  

Photo Reference: Jasmine 8.5mm 2.20ct White Gold Ring

Rather than a pavé of diamonds The Jasmine has a shoulder of diamonds in a channel setting along the shank. This particular way of placing the diamonds into the band is known to be one of the most secure and still adds an amazing amount of glitter and shine. Another tiffany-style mount is displayed on this ring, making it a favourite among those who want a classical and elegant look.

The beloved halo is a sure favourite that is unlikely to be going out of style any time soon. A circle of diamonds not only protects and makes the centre stone appear larger, but adds the ultimate lavish look. This luxury design will carry on being cherished for many years to come.

Photo Reference: Darley and Harlow Moissanite Rings in Platinum Rose and Yellow Gold

We have recently introduced two new rings into our halo collection - The Harlow and The Darley. The Harlow is a gorgeous ring set with a pear cut moissanite gemstone enveloped in a petite micro pavé of conflict-free diamonds. This ring has a unique edge but still with masses of sparkle.

The Darley is set with an elongated cushion moissanite gemstone surrounded by another petite pavé halo, creating an extravagant but delicate ring. Have a look at the rest of our halo ring collection to further inspire the hunt for your perfect engagement ring. All of our rings come with a 30 day hassle free returns policy*, and we have free and insured global shipping to give our customers peace of mind and assurance about their purchase.

Coloured stones have never really gone out of fashion, but there has definitely been a recent resurgence of couples wanting the more vintage and alternative look that these bright gems offer. Especially with renewed focus cast on Princess Diana’s engagement ring after its appearance on Netflix's The Crown, sapphires in particular have taken off. The vintage look that these coloured gemstones inspire is striking, and our collection of Chatham lab grown gemstones have the clarity and depth of colour that can only be found in the very best of mined stones. In fact, even though they have exactly the same chemical composition as the mined varieties, lab grown sapphires, emeralds and rubies can all be produced in larger carat sizes and in more uncommon shapes.

Lily Arkwright are also the only UK stockists of Chatham, supplying their exceptional quality gemstones in stunning designs that are the mark of British craftsmanship. You can check out the Chatham store locator here.

The Rosa blue sapphire engagement ring is one of the stars in our collection, with an oval cut sapphire nestled in a wreath of conflict-free diamonds. Set with a pavé of even more diamonds along its band, this really is a showstopper and looks sensational as an engagement or dress ring. Also available in moissanite, ruby and yellow sapphire this ring is as impressive and chic as they come. If you would like more information on us as a brand, make sure to check out Boho Weddings coverage of us on their blog.  

Of all of the metal types, rose gold has become a classic in recent years, and is set to carry on being a trend for engagement rings throughout this year and beyond. The pink hues of this glamorous metal compliments all skin tones and is just that little bit different. Rose gold should be a thought if you love its blush tones and want an alternative to the most popular options on the market. All of the examples of rose gold rings featured below are also available in other metal types.

Photo Reference: Serenity 7mm/1.2ct Round Cut Moissanite Ring

The Serenity is a beautiful solitaire which has a tapered mount designed that showcases the centre stone, and is a breathtaking option in rose gold.

Photo Reference: Bespoke Viola 8x6mm/1.50ct Ring in Rose Gold

The custom-made Viola ring pictured here is a gorgeous example of what rose gold can offer, with a lotus leaf basket which has been specially adapted to also include diamonds set into its mount.

Photo Reference: Aster Moissanite Ring

The Aster ring is similar to the Annora mentioned previously, but is set instead with a princess cut rather than a round cut moissanite. The princess cut is the second most popular after the brilliant round and its clean lines and geometric symmetry are perfectly offset when placed in the twisted mount of this ring.

Over the last year many have come to have a greater appreciation for nature, and this can be seen in an appetite for more whimsical and naturally-inspired engagement rings. The Eden is a gorgeous shoulder set which has vine-like detailing along its band, that wrap delicately around towards the main moissanite gemstone. Pairing wonderfully with one of our wedding bands, The Ivy, this duo both have the same plant-like structure, and have been specifically designed to be a perfect match.

Photo Reference: Eden 6.5mm/1.0ct Lab Grown Diamond Ring and Ivy Diamond Eternity Band

Our gemstones are less expensive than traditional mined diamonds because they have been grown in the lab. The Eden pictured is set with a lab grown diamond and although the rest of rings featured in this article are set with moissanite, the extensive range of lab grown diamond engagement rings we offer are chemically and optically exactly the same as the mined variety. You can view our lab grown diamond engagement ring collection here, all of which have been certified to international standards. There is the option to pay through Paypal or Klarna with all purchases made through us, with Klarna starting from a 0% interest rate.  

Photo Reference: Fleur 7.5mm/1.50ct Moisssanite Ring

The Fleur ring is another ring which has a whimsical and organic feel to it, and the centre stone is embraced by a double six claw cathedral style basket. The Fleur takes the floral feel to the next level by incorporating delicate leaves into the design of the band and its slight asymmetry only adds to its natural quality.    

Photo Reference: Leanora 5.5mm/7.5mm/5.5mm 2.70ct Total Moissanite White Gold RIng

Multi-stone rings are back in a big way this year, with the three stone ring becoming a popular choice. The added glamour and romance of a trilogy adds drama to any engagement ring, and our most popular is The Leanora. Set with three large moissanite stones, the four prong settings securely attach the gemstones and are constructed to let as much light through as possible.

Photo Reference: Giselle 1.0ct/6.5mm Two-Tone Moissanite Ring

Mixed metal ring designs are all the rage, why choose one metal type when you could have two! Made up of multiple different types of metal, and at Lily Arkwright the majority of our rings can come in this two-tone style. This is when the basket is in a different colour metal to the band of the ring and can really help to draw attention to the main centre stone or to add a little bit more embellishment to any design.

Photo Reference: Everyly and Amelia Split Shank Moissanite Rings

Another trend making a comeback this year, is the split shank design. As a classic shape seen in many vintage rings, a split shank divides the band into two or more separate pieces. Because of the multiple shanks on this form of engagement ring, there are more opportunities to display melee diamonds, often with a channel or pavé placed into each. This is the case with our Everly and Amelia rings which both have this stunning arrangement along their bands. Set with a radiant cut and a brilliant round cut respectively, these rings are also jaw-dropping when paired with a coloured gemstone centre.

Another set of trends to look at would be the popularity of different stone cuts. As the centre piece to any engagement ring the choice of cut is one of the most important decisions to be made.

Photo Reference: Loose Round Cut Charles & Colvard Moissanite

Brilliant round: eternally popular because it creates the most sparkle, with carefully designed facets to reflect the most amount of light, the brilliant round is likely to stay in the top spot again this year. There’s a reason that this is always number one and that’s because of its timeless class and ability to create the most amount of fire.

Photo Reference: Emerald Cut Forever One Moissanite Gemstone

Emerald Cut: traditionally associated with the gemstone of the same name, the stepped edges of the luxurious emerald cut are becoming increasingly popular in moissanite and diamond. In fact many celebrities have opted for the emerald cut in recent years, with the likes of Amal Clooney, Beyonce and Jennifer Lopez all choosing this style.  

Photo Reference: Loose Hearts and Arrows Cut Forever One Moissanite Genstones

Hearts and Arrows: a new cut available only recently with charles and colvard, this cut is similar to the brilliant round but amped up a level. There is a precision craftsmanship required to form one of these cuts, and all facets have to be accurately aligned in order to produce the eight arrows seen from the crown and the eight hearts seen from underneath in the pavilion. As trends go, this cut is a winner and its availability in moissanite make it truly sensational for an engagement ring.  

If you would like any more information regarding stone cuts, metal types are ring design in general do not hesitate to get in touch via our website, our email (hello@lilyarkwright.com) or by booking an appointment.

Our appointments can be in person at our UK showroom or held virtually by WhatsApp, and are carried out by our JET trained jewellery consultants.

We pride ourselves on our ability to produce stunning ethical and sustainable fine jewellery at an amazing price point, supported by unrivalled customer service. We offer the highest quality moissanite, lab grown diamonds and gemstones.

Lily Arkwright are proud Assay Assured jewellery retailers and committed members of the National Association of Jewellers based on honesty, integrity and professionalism. All precious metal jewellery offered by Assay Assured jewellery retailers carries the legally-required independent hallmark verifying the precious metal content, a protection over and above legal requirements. Read our glowing customer reviews on Trust Pilot.

If you are interested in booking a consultation or simply would like to find out more information about ourselves or our collections, please call us on 0161 537 6773, alternatively you can email our jewellery consultancy team at hello@lilyarkwright.com.

*On standard collections that are not designated 'made to order'.

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Wishing you all the best, The Lily Arkwright Team x