The East-West engagement ring style is shaping up to be one of the defining engagement ring trends of 2026. As predicted in our 2026 Engagement Ring Trend Forecast, today’s couples are drawn to designs that honour tradition while expressing individuality, and the East–West setting strikes that balance effortlessly.
To explore what makes this setting so special, we spoke with our Production & Design General Manager, Jackie Mahoney, who shared her insights into why this trend, and our Selene design in particular, is capturing so much attention.
What Is an East–West Engagement Ring Setting?
An East–West engagement ring setting reimagines tradition by turning the centre stone horizontally across the band, rather than the classic vertical orientation. The result is a fresh, unexpected silhouette that still feels timeless.
As Jackie explains, it’s “a modern take on a classic look”, one that subtly challenges convention while maintaining elegance and wearability.
A DESIGN WITH HISTORY
While it may feel contemporary, the East–West setting has surprisingly deep roots. Dating back to the 15th century, this style was often referred to as a “horizontal” or “transverse” setting and offered a bold alternative to traditional ring designs that came beforehand.
Its revival came during the Art Deco era of the 1920s and 1930s, a period defined by geometric forms, symmetry, and clean, architectural lines. Engagement rings of the time often featured step-cut stones such as emerald and baguette cuts, set in a way that emphasised their structure and clarity.The East–West setting emerged naturally within this aesthetic. By placing elongated stones horizontally across the finger, jewellers highlighted their sleek proportions while creating a look that felt strikingly modern. This direction also reflected the broader societal changes of the time. Women were embracing more streamlined fashion and a new sense of independence, and their jewellery followed suit.
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Selene Radiant Cut Diamond Engagement Ring | Gerard McCabe
INTRODUCING SELENE
At the heart of this trend is Selene, one of our most sought-after contemporary engagement ring designs. The design features a central radiant or emerald cut diamond, set horizontally in a refined semi-bezel setting. The result is a sleek, sculptural look that feels both bold and balanced.
The horizontal setting naturally elongates the appearance of the finger, making it particularly flattering across a variety of hand shapes. Its lower profile also makes it ideal for everyday wear, sitting closer to the finger and reducing the likelihood of catching or snagging.
Jackie highlights the thoughtful craftsmanship behind the design: “With a nice, rounded band that gives a finer look with structure and strength, this design works well for radiant cut, emerald cut and long cushion shape stones.”
Selene is available in both natural and lab-grown diamonds and can be custom made from 0.70ct to 3.00ct and beyond, allowing each piece to be tailored to your unique vision. This engagement ring can also be paired with the matching Selene linea ring to create a bridal stack that is Truly Yours.
A STYLE THAT'S HERE TO STAY
There’s a reason East–West engagement rings are everywhere right now. Their appeal lies in both form and function. The horizontal orientation can create the illusion of a larger diamond by emphasising its spread across the finger, maximising visual impact without increasing carat weight. At the same time, the lower setting offers a practical advantage, making it more comfortable for daily wear.
Beyond that, versatility is key. This setting complements a wide range of diamond shapes, from the clean symmetry of emerald cuts to the soft curves of oval stones and the bold points of marquise diamonds.
Jackie notes the growing demand for the style, adding: “With an east-west set diamond becoming increasingly popular and likely to grow even more with Miley Cyrus now engaged and wearing a gorgeous long cushion shape east-west chunky gold ring.”
The East–West engagement ring is far more than a passing trend. It reflects a broader shift in how modern couples approach design, seeking pieces that feel personal, distinctive, and effortlessly wearable.
Selene is just one expression of this movement. Within our custom engagement ring collection, every design is tailored to your story and crafted with intention, precision, and artistry.
If you’re considering an East–West setting for your engagement ring, our team would love to guide you through the process. Book a consultation online or visit our Adelaide Arcade or Rundle Mall Plaza boutiques to begin your journey.
