Antique Engagement Ring Buying Guide: Taylor Swift and Zendaya Spark Trends

The allure of antique engagement rings has significantly increased, influenced by endorsements from celebrities like Taylor Swift and Zendaya. Swift's engagement to Travis Kelce in August 2025 showcased a bezel-set antique diamond crafted by Kindred Lubeck of Artifex Fine Jewelry in New York, leading to heightened interest in elongated cushion-cut diamonds, as noted by Lisa Levinson from the Natural Diamond Council. Zendaya's east-west set ring by Jessica McCormack has also shaped current trends. Experts, including Catherine Taylor (Sandra Cronan) and Eliza Walter (Lylie), recommend focusing on distinctive cuts rather than traditional 4Cs, ensuring practicality for everyday wear, purchasing from reputable sources, and considering the remodeling of heirloom stones. Antique diamonds, often hand-cut, are unique and may display yellow or brown tones. Victorian open-back settings are sturdier than Georgian closed-back styles. Walter's design for Charlie Newman, featuring a 3-carat old European-cut diamond from her grandmother's ring, exemplifies how remodeling can maintain historical significance while allowing for personalization.