Wedding Jewelry Trends for 2026: Big Diamonds & Bold Metals

Wedding Jewelry Trends for 2026: Big Diamonds, Golden Glamor, & Deep Personalization

Getting ready to say “I do” in 2026? If you’ve already picked out your attire and found the perfect wedding bands, the next step in your wedding planning journey is to hone in on the biggest wedding jewelry trends for 2026.

BriteCo recently attended the JCK (Jewelers Circular Keystone) Show in Las Vegas, where we had a first-hand look at the ceremonial styles that will be big looks next year, namely:

• Bold beauty
• Personal significance
• Modern twists on classic designs

From statement-making diamonds to rings crafted with flowers from wedding bouquets, couples are selecting pieces that showcase their unique personalities, with every element purposeful and long-lasting.

Along with reflections from our resident expert, Rachel Akmakjian, Director of Jeweler Relations for BriteCo, we’ve pieced together what you can expect in wedding accessories in the coming year.

The Return of Marquise Diamonds

Few trends at JCK were as striking as the return of flagship diamonds, a trend four decades in the making. “A long, long time ago — let’s talk about the 1980s — the Marquise diamond was all the rage. And then, to be honest, it kind of disappeared. Now with solitaire engagement rings, you’re going to see a lot of Marquises coming back. Women are getting very big solitaires with Marquise diamonds as the centerpiece,” says Akmakjian. This striking cut has been particularly popular among younger couples looking for something distinctive and striking. The Marquise diamond cut adds classic charm with a contemporary twist while still flattering the finger.

The trend is also being driven by the rise of lab-grown diamonds, according to industry insights. Larger center stones that once seemed unattainable are now possible because of the accessibility and affordability of lab-created diamonds, which all but look and feel the same as mined alternatives. In addition to encouraging younger couples, this affordability factor is encouraging many others to replace their original engagement rings with more striking, modern designs. As Akmakjian noted, “Through the embracing of lab-grown diamonds, a lot of the younger generation are getting these really big center stones. And to be honest, the older generation — the great-aunts, the grandmothers, the mothers — are getting a little bit jealous. So we’re starting to see that generation actually purchase much larger diamonds and get upgrades for themselves, too.”

From Bouquet to Band: Floral-Inspired Jewelry

Another trend that’s both beautiful and sustainable is the rise of floral keepsake jewelry. By conserving petals from the actual wedding bouquet within specially-made rings and pendants, couples are transforming their actual wedding flowers into enduring mementos.

Leading the way in this trend is jewelry maker Heavy Stone Rings, which excels at crafting these custom-made rings, as we saw at JCK. “This is actually one of my favorite things this company does. … It’s a special day, and your flowers are some of the most beautiful parts of your wedding, but then you never see them again. Instead, you can actually save pieces of your flowers, and Heavy Stone Rings will turn them into a custom piece for you. I just think that is the most unique and beautiful idea,” says Akmakjian.

This trend is also part of a broader cultural shift in wedding planning towards a more sustainable and romantic approach. Because fewer couples are choosing strictly conventional materials, these organic designs tell a more intimate, sentimental tale that can be preserved and worn every day.

Golden Glamor Makes a Return

As we saw at JCK, gold is once again the metal of choice for 2026 wedding jewelry, from wedding bands to statement pieces that accent the attire of the special day.

According to Akmakjian, “In today’s jewelry trends, you are going to see a lot of gold styles: chunky gold jewelry, stackable bracelets, stackable necklaces. Gold was out a long time ago. But now it’s back in and back in a very big way.”

Experts say the warm, classic feel of gold combined with contemporary silhouettes and vintage-inspired accents is responsible for this renaissance. Although platinum and white gold used to rule bridal trends, yellow gold’s comeback gives a novel, fashionable, and nostalgic interpretation.

This also aligns with the general tendency toward individual style rather than tradition. The couple’s story and style are now taken into consideration while choosing jewelry, whether it’s fashion-forward or heirloom-inspired.

Men’s Alternative Wedding Bands Are a Big Hit

The days of needing everything to match for wedding accessories are long gone. In 2026, couples are wearing mixed metals and combining new and old pieces to create unconventional pairings based on their personal preferences. For example, one trend includes wearing Art Deco diamonds layered with simple modern pieces. Or, pairing white gold bands with yellow gold engagement rings.

As we saw at JCK, Heavy Stone Rings is also embracing this new direction, especially for men’s alternative wedding bands and precious metal rings with unique touches. Akmakjian shared of the collection: “We see a lot of mixed metals and some nice wooden inlays — I always love the ones with antler bone. They can take antlers from a hunt of yours as well. It’s one of the really unique styles coming out for men that we didn’t see previously.”

Another playful option Heavy Stone offers is a ring that splits in half to reveal a secret engraving. “For all those men who like to play with their wedding ring, I don’t know anything better than that,” Akmakjian added. These designs reflect a growing desire for jewelry that feels personal and tactile, not just symbolic, and prove that men want their wedding bands to say something, too.

For grooms looking to express individuality while staying stylish, exploring the latest men’s jewelry trends is the perfect place to start.

Alternative Stones & Unexpected Gems

Engagement rings with personality, symbolism, and a touch of color are also becoming an increasingly popular look in 2026. At JCK, we saw a number of alternative gemstones such as salt-and-pepper diamonds, opals, sapphires, emeralds, and Moissanite used in wedding jewelry designs.

Not only is the look stunning, but the symbolism of these colorful gemstones is profound. Opals represent passion and creativity, sapphires symbolize truth, and emeralds signify growth and renewal. Additionally, these alternative gemstones allow couples to be more frugal without compromising style or individuality. “We’re seeing more people choose stones that reflect their personality and values, not just what’s traditional,” noted Akmakjian. “There’s a lot more interest in color, symbolism, and designing something that feels different from everyone else’s ring.”

Jewelry With Meaning: The Spirit of 2026

The theme that unites all of these wedding jewelry trends is intentionality. In 2026, couples are choosing jewelry that tells a story, whether it’s a modern gold piece that complements everyday life, a vintage-cut diamond that evokes the past, or a ring embellished with flowers from their bouquet.

Jewelry is no longer merely an adornment; it now symbolizes who you are, where you’ve been, and what you’re creating together. Furthermore, in a culture where everything is mass-produced, these highly personal touches are more meaningful than ever.

Getting Married in 2026? Keep These Tips in Mind:

• Go big: Don’t be afraid to select striking patterns and larger stones that reflect your style.
• Get personal: Seek out items with symbolic or emotional significance.
• Think long-term: Select jewelry that will evolve with you.

Wedding Jewelry Trend FAQs

What Are Some of the Biggest Trends for Wedding Jewelry in 2026?

Based on trends we saw at the JCK trade show in Vegas this year, popular wedding jewelry looks for 2026 include Marquise diamonds, alternative gemstones, unique men’s designs, and lots and lots of gold.

Are There Ways to Save on Engagement Rings and Wedding Bands?

Yes! Consider affordable alternative options such as lab-grown diamonds for engagement rings and yellow gold for bands.

Does an Engagement Ring Always Have to Feature a Diamond?

No! While diamond wedding rings have been a trend for decades, there’s no reason you have to follow convention. Many couples are opting for more color and individuality. Love sapphires? Make that your center stone. It’s your ring, so it should fit your personal style.

Where Are the Best Places to Shop for Trendy Jewelry?

Look to social media for trends — Pinterest and Instagram are great for sourcing ideas, and many posts will link to the maker. You can also look in marketplaces like Etsy, where unique designs are abundant.

How Can I Make My Wedding Jewelry More Meaningful?

There are many ways to add meaningful touches to your wedding jewelry so you can always keep memories close to your heart. Whether it’s special engravings or preserved designs that incorporate your wedding flowers or other textiles, many trends tap into this personal connection.

Protect Your Wedding Jewelry with BriteCo Insurance

Whether you plan on incorporating one of these 2026 wedding jewelry trends or going the more traditional route, protect all your special pieces with comprehensive jewelry insurance from BriteCo. Our policies start as low as $5/month and protect you from theft, loss, damage, and mysterious disappearance so you can enjoy a lifetime of memories.

Get your quote from BriteCo now and be covered by the end of the day!

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