Today's engagement ring trends are leaning heavily towards unique, hand crafted, and individual. Long gone are the days when everyone had a version of the solitaire diamond with a plain gold wedder. The rapid increase in the availability of new metals along with computer aided jewelry design equipment is allowing brides and grooms to select engagement rings that are as personalized and symbolic as they wish.

* Textured bands have become huge. Not only in wedding rings, but also the shanks surrounding the engagement ring setting. Engraving, scroll work, filigree, micro pave, and mil grain working are all favorites. Worked metals can be produced in a variety of finishes and couples are leaping at the wide range of choices.

* Stacked bands are also becoming increasingly popular. Rings can come in a variety of colored metals, or alternatively contain different stones in each band. The beauty of this type of bridal set is the different variations the set of rings can provide.

* Multi-colored metals. No-one has to have a yellow gold engagement ring if thy don't want to. Palladium has become a popular choice for those who like the look of platinum but would prefer a less expensive option. Tungsten and titanium are also becoming more available in a huge range of tinted colors including grays and blacks. Engagement ring settings can be crafted from more than one yellow and white metal together. Some girls who prefer a more traditional look are opting for white and rose gold (think Katie Holmes' engagement ring as an example).

* Colored diamonds are available not just in pink, yellow and black. Think gorgeous earthy tones of champagnes, cognacs, and greens. While some colors are more costly, think pink, green and yellow, other hues are less expensive than a standard white diamond. This can be beneficial for the bride who wants the hardness of a diamond but isn't looking for the traditional blue white look.

* Rose cut diamonds are experiencing a surge in popularity as well. This is probably due to a resurgence in vintage style engagement rings, and possibly the fact that they are visually very different to contemporary cuts offering fire and brilliance. The rose cut was extremely popular during the 16th through 18th centuries. The facets tend to be large. Rose cut diamonds can be found in antique jewelry or through enterprising diamond cutters who are now offering the cut in new diamonds.

* Colored gems are hot on the heels of colored diamonds. Rubies and sapphires are only 1 step down in hardness from a diamond and are hardy enough for a lifetime of wear. The dramatic color of these stones can transform a conventional engagement ring setting into eye catching beauty. Semi precious gems are more cost effective, and as a rule are hard enough for everyday wear. Apart from a significantly smaller price tag, there are many, many hues for a bride to select from.

* All in one engagement and wedding rings are also becoming ever popular. These can be a great selection for those who don't like the bother of having to wear 2 separate rings. These rings are often made with a wider band and and provide plenty of design options. These can also be a great option for women who may have plenty of gems or diamonds lying around in jewelry they no longer wear.

Engagement ring trends are becoming increasingly mindful of individuality and uniqueness. Couples are free to have as intricate or as simple an engagement ring as they desire. Custom jewelers can be a great option for those seeking one-off engagement rings.