Most popular diamond shapes for engagement rings in 2026

Most popular diamond shapes for engagement rings in 2026

Engagement ring trends are shifting in 2026.

Last year, oval diamonds dominated the conversation. They weren't just popular—they were by far the most requested diamond shape we saw. Couples loved their elegant proportions, flattering elongated silhouette, and ability to look both modern and timeless.

This year, we're seeing something different.

Ovals remain one of the most popular choices, but more couples are exploring radiant, pear, emerald, and marquise cuts. The demand is still for elongated shapes, but the aesthetic is evolving.

Rather than leaning purely toward classic elegance, many couples are gravitating toward designs that feel more modern, architectural, and distinctive—or a thoughtful blend of contemporary and timeless elements.

Here's what's trending now.

The Biggest Shift Of 2026: Looking Beyond The Oval

The oval diamond isn't going anywhere.

It's still one of the most flattering and versatile diamond shapes available. But after several years at the top—and after being the clear favourite among engagement ring shoppers last year—many couples are asking a new question:

What else is out there?

The strongest trends of 2026 are shapes that offer the same elongated look as an oval while bringing a different personality and visual character.

We're seeing increased interest in diamonds with stronger lines, more defined geometry, and a slightly more architectural feel.

At the same time, classic elegance continues to hold its place. The trend isn't about abandoning timeless styles—it's about finding a balance between modern design and enduring beauty.

Radiant Cut Diamonds: The Fastest-Growing Shape

If one shape is gaining the most momentum this year, it's the radiant cut.

Radiant diamonds combine the brilliance of a round diamond with the elongated silhouette of an emerald cut. The result is a diamond that feels modern, bright, and bold.

For many couples, the radiant cut captures exactly what they're looking for in 2026: exceptional sparkle paired with a more contemporary presence.

Why Couples Love Radiant Cuts

• Exceptional sparkle

• Contemporary look

• Durable cut with trimmed corners

• Beautiful in solitaire settings

• Often appears larger than its carat weight

For many shoppers, the radiant cut delivers everything they loved about an oval—with even more brilliance and a stronger modern edge.

Pear-Shaped Diamonds Continue To Rise

Pear-shaped diamonds have become one of the most popular alternatives to oval engagement rings.

Their teardrop shape creates an elegant, elongated appearance while feeling slightly less expected.

They're also remarkably versatile.

A pear diamond can feel romantic and vintage-inspired in one setting, then sleek and contemporary in another.

Why Pear Shapes Are Trending

• Elegant silhouette

• Excellent finger coverage

• Distinctive without being unconventional

• Works with both classic and modern designs

For couples looking for something unique but timeless, pear shapes strike a beautiful balance between individuality and tradition.

Emerald Cuts Are Having A Major Moment

Emerald cuts are attracting more attention than we've seen in years.

Unlike brilliant-cut diamonds, emerald cuts aren't about sparkle. They're about clarity, proportion, and presence.

Their appeal comes from:

• Clean architectural lines

• Large open facets

• Mirror-like flashes of light

• Understated sophistication

Among all the trending shapes, emerald cuts may best represent the growing preference for architectural design.

They feel intentional, refined, and quietly confident.

An emerald cut makes a statement without trying to.

Expert Insight

Emerald cuts tend to grow on people. The longer you look at them, the more impressive they become.

Many clients who initially come in asking for an oval leave surprised by how much they're drawn to the clean geometry of an emerald cut.

Marquise Diamonds Are Back

One of the biggest surprises of recent years has been the return of the marquise diamond.

Once associated with vintage engagement rings, the marquise has been reintroduced through modern, minimalist designs.

Today's marquise rings often feature:

• Thin bands

• Hidden halos

• Solitaire settings

• East-west orientations

The shape itself offers exceptional visual impact.

Its elongated profile creates the illusion of a larger diamond while making fingers appear longer and slimmer.

Why Marquise Is Trending Again

• Strong individuality

• Excellent finger coverage

• Vintage influence with a modern twist

• Appears larger than many other shapes of equal weight

The marquise perfectly reflects another major trend we're seeing in 2026: taking classic shapes and presenting them through a modern lens.

Where Does The Round Brilliant Fit In 2026?

The round brilliant remains the benchmark.

No shape produces more sparkle, and no shape has proven more timeless.

While shoppers are exploring more alternatives than ever, round diamonds continue to appeal to those who prioritize:

• Maximum brilliance

• Classic design

• Versatility

• Long-term style

In many ways, the round brilliant represents the enduring appeal of classic elegance.

Even as architectural and contemporary styles gain momentum, classic engagement rings continue to resonate with many couples.

Trends change.

Round diamonds don't.

Diamond Shape Trends At A Glance

The Best Shape Is Still The One You Love

Trends are useful.

But they shouldn't make the decision for you.

The best engagement rings aren't chosen because they're popular. They're chosen because they feel personal.

Sometimes that's an oval.

Sometimes it's an emerald cut.

Sometimes it's a shape you never expected to love until you saw it in person.

A La Maison d'Or Perspective

The biggest engagement ring trend we're seeing in Ottawa isn't a specific diamond shape.

It's individuality.

Last year, oval diamonds were overwhelmingly the most requested shape. This year, couples are arriving with a broader range of ideas and a greater willingness to explore alternatives.

Many are drawn to modern, architectural shapes like emerald and radiant cuts.

Others still prefer the softness and timeless elegance of an oval or round brilliant.

Most fall somewhere in between.

The growing popularity of radiant, pear, emerald, and marquise diamonds reflects a desire for something more personal—something that feels less predictable while remaining beautiful for decades to come.

After more than 75 years of helping couples get engaged, we've learned one thing:

The rings people love most are rarely chosen because they're trending.

They're chosen because they feel right.

Choosing Your Diamond Shape In 2026

The most popular diamond shapes of 2026 reflect a move toward personal style and self-expression.

Oval diamonds remain strong, but radiant, pear, emerald, and marquise cuts are gaining ground quickly.

The biggest shift isn't necessarily toward one specific shape.

It's toward engagement rings that feel more individual—whether that's modern and architectural, classically elegant, or a blend of both.

Each shape offers something different:

• Different light performance

• Different proportions

• Different personality

The best way to decide is to compare them side by side.

What looks best online isn't always what feels best on your hand.

If you're ready to explore these trending diamond shapes in person, visit La Maison d'Or—where Ottawa gets engaged.