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21 Unique Engagement Rings that Are Not Your Basic Solitaire

All under $3,500, too.

By Jade Vallario
21 unique and affordable engagement rings that think outside the diamond solitaire box
Courtesy//Gallery Stock

Every item on this page was chosen by an ELLE editor. We may earn commission on some of the items you choose to buy.

The world has been put on hold, but your engagement doesn't have to be. In fact, some couples are even proposing during these uncertain times. For non-traditional folks like that, explore engagement ring styles that are anything but ordinary, from asymmetrical to heart shaped, and stones in every color. When you think outside of the diamond solitaire box, you realize there's a ring that represents your style better than a cookie cutter classic ever could. Ahead, 21 unexpected engagement rings for the alternative bride, all under $3,500.

1

WWAKE Nestled Opal & Diamond Ring

Nestled Opal & Diamond Ring
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Ethically sourced and handmade in New York, this beautiful opal and diamond ring from Wwake proves you don't need to spend thousands to have a dreamy engagement ring.

2

Sophie Bille Brahe Grace Diamant Diamond & 18kt Gold Solitaire Ring

Grace Diamant Diamond & 18kt Gold Solitaire Ring

The curve of pave diamonds on this 18k gold band is inspired by Pegeen Vail Guggenheim's surreal paintings of Venice's Grand Canal. To add to the effect, an invisible-set solitaire diamond floats atop or below, depending on how you decide to wear it.

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3

Selim Mouzannar 18kt Rose Gold Diamond and Sapphire Beirut Ring

18kt Rose Gold Diamond and Sapphire Beirut Ring
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This beautiful 18k rose gold ring is set with rose cut diamonds and a sapphire center, reminiscent of a flower. It's a contender for a would-be family heirloom.

4

Messika My Twin Toi & Moi 18K White Gold & Diamond Ring

My Twin Toi & Moi 18K White Gold & Diamond Ring

This ring by Messika is perfect for anyone stuck deciding between an emerald and a pear-cut diamond. Why not get both?

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5

Ruta Reifen Moon-Peach Oval Morganite Ring

Moon-Peach Oval Morganite Ring
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All Ruta Reifen rings are hand carved in wax at her studio in Brooklyn, making each piece all the more special.

6

Irene Neuwirth Love Diamond, Opal and 18kt Rose Gold Ring

Love Diamond, Opal and 18kt Rose Gold Ring

This 18k rose gold ring is too cute, with a pink heart-shaped opal and a pavé diamond halo.

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7

Alison Lou Lab-Ruby, Enamel & 14kt Gold Ring

Lab-Ruby, Enamel & 14kt Gold Ring

Made in NYC with a sustainable, lab-grown ruby set in lavender enamel, here's a ring meant for someone who loves color!

8

Anita Ko Diamond White Gold Triangle Ring

Diamond White Gold Triangle Ring

This invisible set triangle diamond is a contemporary update to a classic ring.

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9

Yi Collection 18K Gold And Aquamarine Ring

18K Gold And Aquamarine Ring
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Make a statement with this art deco-inspired ring featuring three emerald-cut Aquamarine gemstones.

10

Noor Fares Anahata Diamond, Sapphire, Opal & 18kt Gold Ring

Anahata Diamond, Sapphire, Opal & 18kt Gold Ring

Named Anahata after the Hindu heart chakra, Noor Fare's ring is literal, but sweet. It's designed to be worn on your pinky, but get the right size and you can wear it as an engagement ring.

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11

Michelle Fantaci Amaranthus Ring with Pear Shape Center

Amaranthus Ring with Pear Shape Center

A beautiful and ethically-sourced diamond ring in 14k gold, this design updates a pear diamond center with a modern bar setting. 

12

Jennie Kwon Painter's Blue Sapphire Ring

Painter's Blue Sapphire Ring

Handcrafted in Los Angeles, this romantic ring highlights three dreamy, rose-cut sapphires that you won't be able to look away from.

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13

Bea Bongiasca White Enamel Rock Crystal and Diamond Band Vine Ring

White Enamel Rock Crystal and Diamond Band Vine Ring

Check out this super fun twist on an engagement ring: it's a classic pavé band surrounded by Bea Bongiasca's signature enamel vines adorned with rock crystals.

14

Mateo 14k Blue Topaz Point of Focus Ring

14k Blue Topaz Point of Focus Ring
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Handmade in NYC, this asymmetrical band is sprinkled with pave diamonds and topped off with a vibrant blue Topaz gem.

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15

Makeda Ring with Diamond

Makeda Ring with Diamond
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Made entirely in Brooklyn, NY, this unique take on a signet ring features a mix of two round-cut diamonds, a rose-cut marquis center, and a diamond halo. Each handpicked stone varies in color and weight, so no ring is made the same.

16

Kat Kim Crescendo Flare Ring

Crescendo Flare Ring

Katkim's Creschendo ring wraps up your finger to display the pave band and unusual diamond tip. It's an alternative engagement ring for the minimalist.

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17

McFarlane Fine Jewelry Aquamarine Duet Ring

Aquamarine Duet Ring
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Two stunning Aquamarine gemstones—cut in pear and rounded shapes—are set on a matte gold band, making this ring an option for brides looking for something completely different.

18

Jade Trau 18kt Gold Signet Ring

18kt Gold Signet Ring

This Jade Trau ring is a cool take on a classic signet ring. Get this for the bride who loves diamonds but is looking for something more casual. 

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19

Mociun Lotus Garnet Luna Ring

Lotus Garnet Luna Ring
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More is more with this asymmetrical stone cluster ring, featuring white and champagne diamonds and pink topaz.

20

Anthony Lent Diamond and Diamond Tiny Hands Ring

Diamond and Diamond Tiny Hands Ring

Pros

    Cons

    18k gold hands symbolize the union of two people— This ring is so poetic. 

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    21 unique and affordable engagement rings that think outside the diamond solitaire box
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