From chunky bands to larger lab-grown diamonds and distinctive settings, engagement rings have undergone a noticeable shift in recent years. Couples are increasingly opting for more personal designs that push the boundaries of tradition in favor of individuality. Following trends like curved bands, multistone settings, and modern takes on antique cuts, the latest change is challenging perhaps the most conventional element of all: the diamond itself. Now, a rise in alternative gemstones — from sapphires to pearls — is redefining the classic engagement ring.
New data from Adobe Firefly’s AI engagement ring design tool offers a closer look at how this shift is playing out in real time, as more couples use AI tools to design and visualize their dream rings. Firefly’s engagement ring prompts show a clear increase in gemstone-centered designs. According to the data, interest in alternative gemstone rings is surging across the board, with pearls up 89 percent, sapphires up 44 percent, aquamarines up 40 percent, emeralds up 31 percent, and rubies up 30 percent, while searches for diamonds have declined 15 percent.
Roen’s Ruby Halo Ring
The trend also varies by generation: Gen Z is driving an 86 percent spike in pearl-related designs, while Millennials continue to show stronger interest in both diamonds (up 16 percent) and emeralds (up 22 percent). The data suggests consumers are increasingly moving beyond a diamond-first framework toward color, meaning and individuality.
