Couples are making sustainable wedding choices from the beginning - engagement ring trend

When it comes to choosing an engagement ring, many couples are looking to take inspiration from the likes of royalty and celebrities who decided to remodel or repurpose their symbol of enduring love from a vintage or pre-loved item or family heirloom.

Not only does it give your engagement ring a deeper meaning or story, it’s also a more sustainable way to shop, for one of the most important pieces of jewellery you’ll ever own – you’ll end up saving potentially thousands of pounds, plus you could end up with something completely unique to you.

One such jeweller who is helping couples with this big decision is Rachel Fox, Jewellery expert TV presenter from Channel 4’s Millionaire Hoarders,  and Store Manager from pre-owned luxury jewellery seller, S&R Jewellers. As one of London’s top specialists in this area, S&R Jewellers reports a huge uptick in the number of couples choosing the pre-loved route for their engagement ring.

“I absolutely love helping couples choose their ring;” says Rachel, “Not only does it feel incredibly special to be part of such an important moment in their lives, but there’s something magical about finding a piece with history and character that resonates with them. Whether it’s a vintage Art Deco diamond ring or a family heirloom that’s been carefully restored or redesigned, these rings often have a story to tell—and it’s wonderful to see couples embrace that.”

Rachel highlights that opting for pre-owned or heirloom jewellery doesn't just mean settling for second-hand. "The craftsmanship in vintage and antique jewellery is often superior to what you find in modern mass-produced designs. These pieces were created in an era where attention to detail and hand-finishing were the norm. Plus, there's a sense of romance in knowing that the ring has a history and been loved before."

Another major draw for couples is the opportunity to customise and breathe new life into an existing piece. "It's very common for people to bring in an heirloom ring and ask us to help modernize it," Rachel explains. "Whether that means resetting a stone, adding a personal engraving, or blending two family pieces into one, it's a wonderful way to honour tradition while creating something unique to your story."

The sustainability factor also plays a significant role in the decision to go pre-loved. With increasing awareness of the environmental and ethical impacts of diamond mining and jewellery production, many couples are seeking more eco-friendly and ethical alternatives. Rachel notes, "Buying pre-owned jewellery means no new resources are being extracted, and you're making a conscious choice to reduce waste."

For those considering this route, Rachel offers some practical advice. "First, do your research. Look for a reputable jeweller who specialises in vintage and pre-loved pieces and has a strong understanding of gemstone quality and authenticity. Don't be afraid to ask questions about the history of the piece and its condition. And remember, it's always possible to make adjustments or updates to suit your style."

Ultimately, choosing a pre-owned or heirloom engagement ring allows couples to create a piece that is not only beautiful but also rich in meaning and sustainability. It's a choice that reflects a growing trend toward mindful consumption and individuality in the jewellery world.

So, whether you're drawn to the allure of vintage glamour, the sentimental value of a family heirloom, or the desire to make a more sustainable choice, a pre-loved engagement ring could be the perfect way to symbolise your own love story. As Rachel puts it, "Every ring has its own unique charm—and it's incredibly rewarding to help couples find the one that feels like it was always meant to be theirs."