If you’ve spent any time around Denver’s engagement ring scene lately—whether browsing Cherry Creek North, scrolling through Instagram, or quietly analyzing your best friend’s new ring at brunch—you’ve probably noticed something: styles are changing fast. What Colorado couples want for Winter 2025 and early 2026 feels a little more personal, a little more meaningful, and a lot more “Denver.” At David Ellis Jewelry, we talk with hundreds of shoppers every year, and you start to see patterns. Here’s what’s actually trending in Denver right now.
Lab-Grown Diamonds Are Officially Mainstream
A couple of years ago, people still asked, “Are lab-grown diamonds real?” Now? The question is, “Can I compare a few oval lab-growns side by side?” Denver has always leaned eco-conscious, and lab-grown diamonds fit right into that mindset. Couples love that they can get:
- A larger carat size without jumping way up in budget
- An option that feels environmentally responsible
- The same sparkle and durability as mined stones
Most of the stones we show are created using CVD or HPHT methods and come certified by GIA or IGI, just like natural diamonds. Ovals, radiants, and round brilliants are the top requests. And many clients start by brushing up on the basics. Our guide on the 4 C’s of diamonds breaks everything down in a simple, local-friendly way. If sustainability is part of your lifestyle (think composting, reusable water bottles, skiing in gear that lasts) you’ll probably gravitate toward lab-grown options too.
Yellow Gold Is Having a Real Moment Again
It’s funny how trends circle back around. For years, white gold dominated Denver’s engagement ring cases. But recently, almost every month someone asks to see yellow gold. Why the shift? Yellow gold gives off this warm, buttery glow that looks incredible against our Colorado sunlight. It also plays nicely with vintage-inspired designs…something you’ll appreciate if you love poking around antique shops in the Highlands or South Broadway. We’re seeing everything from classic 18k yellow gold solitaires to chunky bezel settings. It feels timeless without trying too hard. And if you’re curious whether your gold jewelry is authentic, our popular resource on How to Tell If Your Jewelry Is Real is a helpful place to start.
Ovals, Cushions & Radiants Are the Big Three Shapes
Denver’s most-requested shapes for Winter 2025 and beyond are pretty consistent:
- Oval-cut diamonds – the crowd favorite; flattering on just about everyone
- Cushion-cut diamonds – soft, romantic, slightly vintage
- Radiant-cut diamonds – modern sparkle with clean lines
People love ovals because they “look bigger.” Radiants are the choice for someone who wants sparkle with a bit of structure. Cushions appeal to the sentimental types. One thing we hear all the time: “I want something elegant but not overly flashy.” These three cuts provide that balance.
Mountain-Inspired Details
If you’re getting married in Colorado—Aspen, Estes Park, Vail, Breckenridge, etc.…this trend probably makes you smile. More couples are choosing rings that subtly nod to the outdoors. Think:
- Leaf or vine engraving
- A slim band with organic texture
- A tiny sapphire tucked under the center stone
- Hand-engraved mountain ranges on the inside or outside of the band
We also see a lot of interest in Montana sapphires—their colors look like they were pulled straight from an alpine lake. These rings don’t scream “nature,” but they quietly celebrate it.
Custom Engagement Rings Are Huge in Denver
If there’s one thing truly unique about Denver shoppers, it’s how many of them want something custom for their engagement rings. And not “custom” as in extravagant…custom as in personal. Some couples want a slight tweak to a classic solitaire. Others want a fully bespoke design using design software, wax molds, and a hand-selected diamond. The most common reasons people go custom?
- They want a ring that doesn’t look like everyone else’s
- They want to blend a few different styles they love
- They want to incorporate something meaningful (a birthstone, a hidden halo, a certain band style)
If you’ve been searching for “custom engagement rings in Denver,” you’re not alone. It’s one of our busiest request categories right now.
Colored Gemstones Are Growing Fast
There’s something refreshing about a bride who says, “I don’t care if it’s traditional. I want color.” Sapphire engagement rings are having a real surge here, especially blue sapphires and teal tones that feel organic and earthy. Emeralds and rubies are also gaining traction, although emeralds require a little more care. Denver’s artsy neighborhoods (RiNo and South Broadway0 seem to influence this trend, and some folks just want their ring to spark a conversation.
Modern Minimalism: East-West & Clean Solitaires
Not everyone wants a classic look. Minimalist settings are showing up frequently:
- East-west settings (stones set horizontally across the finger)
- Knife-edge bands
- Hidden halos that give sparkle without altering the silhouette
- Ultra-thin solitaires
These styles appeal to Denver’s tech workers, medical pros, and anyone who wants something clean, modern, and easy to wear without snagging on jackets or ski gloves.
FAQ: Denver Engagement Ring Trends
What styles are most popular in Denver right now?
Ovals, radiants, yellow gold settings, custom rings, and nature-inspired pieces are leading the way for Winter 2025.
Are lab-grown diamonds common in Colorado?
Very, Denver has embraced lab-grown diamonds faster than many cities because of their value and sustainability.
Where can I get a custom ring made in Denver?
David Ellis Jewelry in Cherry Creek offers full custom design, from origination to casting to the final polish.
Is yellow gold coming back?
It’s not just back, it’s everywhere. It’s one of the top requests for the Winter of 2025.
How do I choose the right ring?
Think about your daily routine, whether you’re active, how much maintenance you want, and which shape you naturally gravitate toward. A consultation from David Ellis can help to guide you in the right direction.
Visit David Ellis Jewelry in Cherry Creek
If you’re starting the process or ready to design something from scratch, come see us in Cherry Creek North. We’ll walk you through diamonds, gemstones, metals, custom options, and everything in between…without any pressure. Colorado couples deserve rings with meaning, and we love helping you build something that’ll last a lifetime.