By
Ashley Bailey 
, Monday, December 08, 2008 12:00 AM
Ring designers clued us in to the hottest new engagement ring styles. A simple solitaire may be a classic (and safe) choice, but you're sure to please with these over-the-top dazzlers.
From left to right: Ricardo Basta $7,000; Amgad: $22,500; Peter Norman & Co, $28,850; Adria de Haume, $32,000
Trend #1: Neutral-colored Gems
Jennifer Lopez and Ben Affleck's relationship might not have lasted, but the lure of colored engagement rings sure did. Her 6.1-carat pink diamond engagement ring set the stage for a bevy of other colorful gemstones like beryl, sapphires, and rubies to take a leading role.
From left to right: Hearts on Fire, $6,500; Precision Set, $8,450, and band, $3,440; Diamond Ideals, $2,250, not including center stone; South African Diamonds Private Collection, starting at $8,500
Trend #2: Diamonds All Around
A gorgeous diamond gets lots of character from its surroundings. And these current styles drizzled with diamonds are definitely a hit among brides and designers alike. Not only do the extra diamonds add tons of sparkle, but they can enhance the size or at least give the illusion of a larger center stone. What bride-to-be (and groom too) wouldn't love that?
From left to right: Tiffany and Co., $48,200, and band, starting at $2,475; Art Carved, $1,879, and band, $1,535, not including center stone; Diana Classic, $1,899, and band, $345; RhondaFaberGreen, $7,855
Trend #3: Intricately Raised Settings
The newest ring settings are really raising the bar -- elaborate and (more important) lofty designs are hot. There's nothing like a delicately draped bow or precision-cut mold to give your center stone the spotlight.
From left to right: Mercury Ring, $2,495, not including center stone; Mark Schneider Designs, $2,975; Diaco Diamonds, $6,550; Novell, $2,200, not including center stone
Trend #4: Twisted Bands
Designers have opted to put a little more swing in their rings. From swirling diamond bands to more streamlined metal twists, we're enamored with this smooth move.
From left to right: OGI, $1,450, not including center stone; Whiteflash.com, $3,500; Gary Ptak, $13,700; VAN CRAEYNEST for Clay-pot.com, $3,285
Trend #5: Vintage Glamour
Heirloom styles, though rich in history, are definitely not a tired idea. Think intricate settings with metal and diamond detailing.
From left to right: Brilliant Earth, $5,500; greenKarat, $3,275; Bailey, Banks & Biddle, $6,900; Earthwise Jewelry by Leber Jewelry Inc., starts at $6,550
Trend #6: Eco-friendly Rings
These dazzling designers prove that it's hip to have more than just a green thumb. Decorate your ring finger with conflict-free diamonds and recycled gold settings.
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