Alicia J Diamonds reveal how 40% of engagements are to happen between now and Valentine's Day

Last year, 40 per cent of UK engagements happened between Christmas Eve and Valentine's Day. Christmas and New Year are two of the most popular times of the year to propose, and it's easy to see why. There's just something so magical about the festive season which makes it a perfect opportunity to pop the question. According to a YouGov Survey, the most accepted time for a couple to be together before getting engaged is between six months and two years, according to 57% of people. Being together for at least a year is the most popular choice, with 27%, followed by at least two years (18%) and at least six months (12%). With this in mind, Alicia J Diamonds unveil their engagement ring trend predictions for 2021...

Beautifully bespoke
Designing your own engagement ring is one of the biggest trends that we're seeing. One-off styles vary from big bold creations to more delicate subtle rings, but the common thread is that brides and grooms really value having a unique ring that's personal to them. Grooms want to show their bride how they have designed the ring themselves and been involved in the process. The beauty of bespoke is that personal touches can be included, for example, precious stones from family heirlooms or a birthstone. We've also seen grooms incorporate the birthstone of the couple's children within the design, with secret messages inscribed within the band. Bespoke means there are no hard and fast rules. Having a truly unique ring that the bride won't see on another finger but her own is important, as is telling the story of your ring.

Good things come in threes
When Prince Harry proposed to Meghan Markle with a trilogy, three-diamond ring, he sparked a lovely trend that is still going strong (royal ring styles have always been popular – Diana's world-famous sapphire and diamond ring, now worn by the Duchess of Cambridge, is still copied by thousands of brides.) The beauty of the trilogy ring is that each diamond can signify something special from your past, present and future. But we're seeing different multiple-stone rings as a rising trend, too. Many couples are going for two diamonds, to symbolise bride and groom. We've seen these added to with extra diamonds when children are born, or complemented with a stacking ring for each child. Again, the personal story is a big part of the popularity of multi-stone rings.

New take on vintage
We're finding that when brides choose their own ring, many are going for bold Art Deco and vintage styles with large stones cut in squarer asscher and emerald styles. We see this among brides with a confident modern style, who want to move away from the classic brilliant-cut diamond engagement ring. Alternative gemstone engagement rings in vintage styles are very popular with celebrities and influencers at the moment, too. As well as requests for sapphires, rubies and emeralds there's been a recent demand for striking black diamonds. People are also being more playful and experimental with the way they want their stone set.

When it comes to important purchases, an engagement ring is pretty high up there. Although incredibly exciting, it may also be one of the most expensive items you ever buy. Combine that with the stress of planning the proposal and it's easy to get overwhelmed! This is why Alicia J is here to rid you of your engagement ring buying worries for good. Creating bespoke jewellery for life's special moments, they believe that each customer is unique and that their jewellery should be too. Helping you create exceptional diamond and gemstone designs that you'll love for a lifetime, whether you have a style in mind or need inspiration, they have all the expertise and tools you need to make the perfect engagement even more special.

To find out more and to shop, visit https://www.aliciajdiamonds.com