New to the Old Money Engagement Ring Trend? Here’s What to Know

A Cathedral Solitaire Screams Old Money Engagement Ring

Engagement rings don’t come more classic than a cathedral solitaire, with its architecture-inspired design. What is a cathedral engagement ring? The ring’s center head is mounted on a low band, and graceful arches reach up to cradle the diamond. This creates an elegant transition from band to brilliance that adds a touch of sophistication. What’s more, It also enhances the visual prominence of the diamond, which can make it appear larger and more radiant. 

The structural integrity of the cathedral setting can also ensure that the diamond is securely held in place. Offering peace of mind for those with active lifestyles while providing versatility for customization to suit individual tastes. It’s a classic design that transcends fleeting trends, offering that old money elegance that you’ll have around for generations. Keep your look sleek and minimal for a modern take. Or go with a more traditional engagement ring design with delicate milgrain edge detail.

Conjure New Money with an Old School Diamond

No matter what engagement ring style you like, diamond shape alone can have a lot of impact on aesthetic. And at the end of the day, there are some that just read more old money than others. A cushion shaped diamond is one of those with its pillow-like soft curves, big facets, and rainbow flash. Cushion diamonds engagement rings read inherently old-school. And I mean, if Megan Markle can do it…

You can also go with true antique cuts. Like the old mine cut (the cushion’s predecessor) or the old European (the round brilliant’s earlier cousin). Both of these shapes offer an antique look like you definitely got the ring from your grandmother. They have larger facets, often with a culet at the base, and may be slightly less perfected to precision than modern cut diamonds. Originally crafted to look their best in candlelight, they have a distinct glow that’s totally different from modern, bright brilliance.

A Sleek Gold Bezel Engagement Ring

While many people see bezel-set engagement rings as totally today, their history actually dates back thousands of years. Various ancient cultures used bezel settings to secure gemstones worn as symbols of status, protection, or religious significance. Its distinctive feature is a slim metal rim that surrounds the entire circumference of the gemstone, holding it securely in place. This not only provides protection for the gemstone but enhances brilliance by reflecting light back onto the stone’s surface. While they’ve certainly evolved over time, bezel settings still offer these distinct, old money qualities.

Today, bezels also include half-bezel set engagement rings. Here, instead of a full circle of metal, the diamond has bars along two opposing sides. It’s a modern take that offers both a ton of light and sparkle. And of course it’s also protective, sleek, and sophisticated. Get the old money engagement ring of your dreams with a sculptural half-bezel that’s made for modern life.

Art Deco Accoutrements

Another historically-inspired engagement ring design perfect for any old money aficionado is an Art Deco engagement ring. Inspired by the fashions of the Roaring Twenties, Art Deco jewelry is definitely old school and old money-worthy. Like the time period itself, these rings demonstrate bold geometry and ornate sparkle. The look is best accomplished with emerald cut or Asscher cut diamonds. Often used during the period, these step-cut diamonds give you instant Art Deco appeal. Their elongated, rectangular facets and big flash give you a hall-of-mirrors sparkle. And they work beautifully in vintage engagement ring styles.

A deco five-stone ring, which echoes the center diamond cut with graduated size baguette diamonds should do the trick. Or you can go all out with something more ornate like an Art Deco-inspired halo engagement ring that encircles your center stone with multi-shaped diamonds to create a detailed, dazzling effect.

Need an Old Money Engagement Ring? Channel Royalty

This one might surprise you—the princess cut diamond is totally old money. Distinguished by its square or rectangular shape and sharp, angular corners, princess cut diamonds have exceptional brilliance and sophistication. Known for its fire, the cuts facets utilize a radiating pattern that maximizes its sparkle. Its clean lines and geometric precision exude a sense of timeless elegance.

In the realm of the “old money” aesthetic, princess cut diamonds brings a touch of modern luxury and classic style. Their shape offers a harmonious blend of tradition and innovation. It’s confident and refined, embodying the understated glamour and quiet sophistication often associated with old money families. And its precise craftsmanship and attention to detail reflect a commitment to quality and enduring beauty. So it’s a fitting choice for anyone who appreciates the finer things in life (and in jewelry).

Think Bigger Than Just a Old Money Engagement Ring

If you want to complete your old money aesthetic beyond your engagement ring, there are totally classic jewelry pieces you can drape your arms and ears with as well. Diamond stud earrings are a forever piece that are often passed down from one generation to the next, as they’re like the little black dress of any jewelry collection. We love a pair of diamond studs to wear for everyday looks, adding the perfect finishing touch to your wardrobe. You can find them in nearly any shape or size you like, and they’ll always be in style.

Tennis bracelets are another piece that reads old money, with their endless line of diamonds encircling your wrist. Originally known as an “eternity bracelet,” the tennis bracelet found popularity in the 1980s thanks to tennis champion Chris Evert. There, she famously lost her diamond bracelet during a match at the U.S. Open. She requested to pause the game until it was found and the rest was history.

Its sleek, minimalist design—a continuous line of individually set diamonds—epitomizes understated glamour and sophistication. Its appeal lies in its versatility. It can effortlessly transition from day to night, making it a staple accessory for high society gatherings and formal events. Owning a tennis bracelet isn’t just about flaunting wealth, tho. iIt’s a statement of enduring taste, sophistication, and luxurious elegance that transcends passing trends.

Get the Old Money Engagement Ring Look

Explore our complete collection of signature engagement rings to find the one that speaks to your old money soul, or start designing your own with our ring quiz. You’ll answer a few simple questions, get a free sketch, and kick off the custom engagement ring design process with our dream team. Need a little more help? Ping our team of designers at hello@frankdarling.com with a bit about what you’re looking for and your budget and we’ll get you help in no time.