Hancocks London, the renowned independent British jeweller, is releasing its 2026 Engagement Trends Report, which reveals emerging styles, shifts in buyer behaviour, and what today’s luxury clients value most in rings.
London, December 2025
From vintage cuts to bespoke craftsmanship, the report highlights what couples are seeking in high-end engagement rings. Insights draw on sales data, bespoke commissions, and expert commentary from Guy Burton, Managing Director of Hancocks London. The report covers seven main areas:
Section 1: Emerging styles and cuts
- Vintage resurgence: Old Mine Cushion leads client requests; Asscher and Marquise cuts see a sharp rise in interest.
- Influence of celebrity culture: The “Taylor Effect” has driven demand for specific antique cuts by 30 per cent.
- Art Deco & Edwardian influence: Classic design styles remain popular for bespoke commissions, highlighting fine engraving and tri-wire bands.
2 Section 2: Design trends
- Preference for substantial, well-crafted rings over ultra-thin, delicate designs.
- Alternative settings: East-West designs gaining popularity.
- Coloured gemstones, particularly rare sapphires such as Padparadsha, are increasingly requested.
Section 3: Buyer behaviour & experience
- Couples increasingly value the in-person buying experience, often coming in together to explore rings before their engagement.
- Connoisseur-driven choices dominate: rare stones, antique diamonds with unique colours like cognac and champagne, and extraordinary craftsmanship.
- Sustainability and ethical sourcing are important, with antique diamonds and recycled materials highly valued.
- Men’s engagement rings are evolving: thicker bands and signet rings are popular.
- Upgrades and anniversary purchases are on the rise, particularly around 10-year milestones.
Section 4: Media influence and social trends
- Clients avoid mass-market Instagram designs; one-of-a-kind is now key.
- Hybrid shopping 24/7: research online, WhatsApp for direct communications, see in person, then purchase.
- Celebrity engagements, particularly Taylor Swift’s, influence high-end antique diamond demand globally, and is set to continue into 2026.
Section 5: British craftsmanship and market positioning
- Independent British jewellers are increasingly chosen over global luxury houses, especially by American buyers.
Section 6: Natural vs lab-grown diamonds
- Natural diamonds dominate luxury sector of the market.
- Lab-grown diamonds occupy entry-level, fashion-focused markets.
- Education on rarity, cut, and character remains crucial for discerning buyers.
Section 7: Value, investment, and craftsmanship
- Buyers seek rare, investment-worthy stones with enduring quality.
- Craftsmanship significantly influences long-term value retention.
- Certification: GIA remains the trusted standard; cut quality and character outweigh colour or clarity alone.
Guy Burton, Managing Director of Hancocks London, said:
“Hancocks has spent over 175 years guiding people through some of the most meaningful decisions of their lives — sourcing rare stones, designing truly individual rings, and celebrating the craftsmanship that sets our rings apart. With this report, we wanted to share expert insights to help those who are about to get engaged and provide meaningful guidance on the elements that define true quality, rarity, and enduring value in an engagement ring.”
