17 Non-Traditional Black Engagement Rings

So, you’re engaged. Or maybe you’re, ahem, an engagement ring dreamer. When it comes to choosing the one —the ring, that is — it’s okay to be choosy. We’re calling in all our ring-obsessed friends to take a look at some impossibly beautiful alternative engagement rings. If you can visualize something a bit more unique than the classic band combo for your big day, check out these sparkly and edgy non-traditional black-diamond rings.

1. ‘Lumiere’ Diamond Midi Ring ($440): This delicate charmer is sleek, stylish and unassumingly gorgeous. We want one, like, yesterday.

2. Black Gold Black Round-Cut Diamond Ring ($1,000): At first glance, this black beauty might appear to mimic the traditional style. But don’t be fooled. It’s anything but ordinary. Besides, black diamonds totally trump white ones in terms of style. There, we said it.

3. Paloma’s Sugar Stacks Ring ($3,650): This is one serious sparkler. Why settle for a single diamond when you can have a dazzling bon-bon-inspired pave design like this one?

4. Khai Khai Zigzag Arrow Ring ($750): Think outside the box with a whisper-thin arrow ring. Now might be the time to drop a few hints to your fiance about how much you’re in love with the zigzag style.

5. Rose Cut Pear Shaped Diamond Ring ($1,440): Say yes to the pear-shaped diamond.

6. Double Black Diamond Ring ($448): Simply striking — it’s an alternative to the traditional wedding band without being too blingy.

7. Coral Black Diamond Ring ($1,890): This chunky coral design is a bold and trendy ring choice and a way to get a lot of ring for your buck.

8. Grey and Black Diamond “Nova Gris Pave” Ring ($4,000): A set of three linked bands creates an interesting play of design and textures. This one comes with a pretty price tag, too, but hey, a girl can dream, right?

9. Black Diamond Love Knot Ring ($2,530): This interwoven knot of sparkling diamonds is captivating. There’s no better way to tie the knot. ;)

10. Sterling Silver Ring With Rough Uncut Black Diamond ($65): The matte unfinished look gives this ring unexpected appeal. Remember: Simple never goes out of style.

11. Dainty Black Diamond Band ($415): Embrace a minimalistic band featuring three dainty black stones. It’s the perfect stacking ring.

12. Big Leaf Ring ($2,975): Are you lusting for a ring that’s a bit out of the box? Check out this absolutely stunning leaf motif. You can totally rock this rock.

13. Tiny Wheat Engagement Set ($3,700): Here’s a new take on the traditional solitaire + band.

14. Black Diamond Eternity Band ($2,430): Not into the classic center stone? One look at this bedazzled eternity band, and you’ll be enchanted.

15. Rose Gold Ring With Smokey Quartz Black Diamonds ($865): We can’t decide what we’re in love with more — that alluring smokey quartz center stone or the delicate black halo surrounding it.

16. Hexagon Black Diamond ($1,870): Go for the hexagon. A beautiful black diamond offers great contrast to the slightly worn-looking matte finish band.

17. Black Diamond T-Bar Ring ($375): Can we say just say that this is freakishly gorgeous? Definitely the most unconventional of the bunch, this t-bar style might raise some eyebrows, but you can be sure it will capture everyone’s attention.

Who else has a thing for black glittery bling? Tell us about your favorite non-traditional ring styles in the comments.

Like us, you may be on the hunt for the perfect gold ring rotation that won't break the bank — but also won't turn your fingers green. It can be hard sometimes to find quality jewelry at an affordable price point, but we've done all the research so you don't have to. These are the best and trendiest gold rings on the internet, and they're made with high quality materials that won't disappoint. We've found simple stacking pieces and even some statement dome rings! No matter what you're in the market for, we've got something for everyone. Take a look — this is one jewelry trend that's not going anywhere.

These Gold Rings Are Worth Their Weight In Gold ;)

Jenny Bird Supernova Gold Ring

We love Jenny Bird because they're known for their unique and quality pieces, and this ring is no different! With its artistic dome shape, it's trendy and looks luxurious while being under $120! This is made with a gold ion-plated brass known for its longevity and durability, and it's sure to score you some compliments. So 100 percent there will be no green fingers here!

Mejuri Figure Ring

This Mejuri gold ring is a fun little twist (get it?) on our favorite gold band. Not only does it have a unique shape, but it's got a great price point. Mejuri is known for their quality, and all their gold pieces are sterling silver with a thick and durable layer of 18k solid gold. This ring is meant to show longevity, which we love! Plus, it comes with a two-year warranty!! Definitely add this one to cart.

Anthropologie Ribbed Fanned Stacking Ring

If you're looking for something that stacks nicely, then we'd highly recommend this gold ring from Anthropologie! We love how it was styled in the above picture — lots of gold jewelry looks great with a simple white button down. And as an added bonus, its shape was inspired by a croissant! So it can also serve as your daily dessert reminder. We love pieces with dual purpose. This ring is listed at $38 so it's a great price-point. We would definitely recommend this fun piece!

Nordstrom Rack Winding Snake Ring

Are you also waiting in anticipation for Taylor Swift's Reputation (Taylor's Version) announcement? Then this snake ring is perfect for you! The crystals make for a fun touch alongside the winding shape and crystal detail at the head of the snake. And with its amazing reviews, and the fact it's currently 91 percent off (meaning it's $19 instead of $225), it's definitely a must-have statement accessory! Grab it while it's still on sale, and in preparation for Reputation (TV), because this one will definitely sell out quickly.

Anthropologie Crystal Fanned Stacking Gold Ring

This ring is one of our favorites to use as a stacked ring, and since it has the crystal in the middle, it makes for the perfect statement. The thick dome shape is super trendy right now so you'll definitely be up-to-date on the latest jewelry trends. It also has gold-plated brass to ensure its longevity. For under $45, it's also at a super affordable price point!

Brook and York Custom Signet Ring

This gold ring is our favorite because you can customize the surface with your name for only only $84! Signet rings are actually trending right now, so definitely add this to your current ring rotation. We even think it could even make a great gift to someone you love since it's personalized. How sweet would it be to have matching name signet rings with your bestie?! We say it's a must.

Jenny Bird Daphne Imitation Pearl Ring

Who doesn't love a vintage touch with pearls? This ring is so reminiscent of vintage styles and it would be perfect stacked with a simple gold band. It has a timeless, classic look that could also be paired with simple, dainty rings or just on its own like in the above picture! Jenny Bird uses a high polish, 18k gold to plate all of their items, so not only is it stylish but it'll last you a long time.

Monica Vinader Siren Ring

If you're wanting to invest in a good quality, classic band, we'd highly recommend this hammered, 18k gold-plated ring from Monica Vinader. We'd prefer to style it with some of our aforementioned statement rings for a fun and accessorized look, but you can also wear it by itself for a dainty and petite look. With its great quality, it'll definitely stand the test of time while making for a classic stacking piece you won't ever want to take off.

Mejuri Boa Gemstone Coil Gold Ring

Looking for something with a little flair? We're seriously obsessed with this coil ring with the pop of red in it! You can get it with a beautiful garnet or simple white topaz! Both are sure to make a statement. This one is at a higher price-point, but with the quality we've seen from Mejuri, it will be sure to last a long time. But as an added security measure, just remember that you also have a 2-year warranty with this one as well. It's a great policy we'd definitely recommend taking advantage of when you need it!

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Brit + Co. may at times use affiliate links to promote products sold by others, but always offers genuine editorial recommendations.

All images via retailers, lead image via Jenny Bird.

This edible crescent-roll cornucopia is our way of making a normal cheese boardmore festive — and definitely more fun — during the holiday season. Our go-to this time of year is a massive cheese plate that can stand alone and be the main attraction, or the starter for a larger meal. Press on for the surprisingly easy steps to braid a breaded cornucopia.

Chris Andre

Materials + Tools:

  • 1 roll of tin foil
  • 2 packages of crescent rolls
  • 1 egg (for egg wash before cornucopia goes into the oven), optional

Chris Andre

Instructions:

Start by sculpting tin foil into the shape of a cornucopia (it looks like a cone with an upturned tail). Pro tip: Lightly pack tin foil so it's easier to remove later from your baked cornucopia. Crescent rolls should be buttery enough that this shouldn't be difficult.

Chris Andre

Your tin foil mold should look a little something like this.

Chris Andre

Pop open the crescent rolls and cut the triangles into strips. Pinch together the ends of strips to make strips longer.

Chris Andre

Braid crescent roll strips. You can make these as fancy as you want. Not a braiding pro? Skip this step and leave those strips alone.

Chris Andre

Wrap tin foil cornucopia with braids/strips. Make sure you cover all the tin foil. Leave a little wiggle room at the opening of the cornucopia, so that when you’re done baking you can pull some of that tin foil out.

Chris Andre

Use any extra dough to cover the bottom of your cornucopia. Pinch the sides and anchor those braids/strips in.

Chris Andre

Brush on egg wash before placing your cornucopia in the oven. Bake at 350 degrees Fahrenheit for 20 minutes. Take out of oven and cover spots of cornucopia that are already golden brown with extra tin foil. Bake for another 20 minutes at 250 degrees Fahrenheit.

Chris Andre

Let it cool down until it’s easy to handle. Remove tin foil.

Chris Andre

Place cornucopia in corner of your cheese plate. Arrange cheese on your serving tray.

Chris Andre

Add crackers — we like to have two or three options.

Chris Andre

Don’t forget to fill up your cornucopia. It's called "the horn of plenty" for a reason. Fill with fresh fruit like grapes, apples, and pears.

Chris Andre

Add nuts like walnuts and pistachios to fill in any empty spaces. Garnish with fresh herbs like rosemary and sage to finish it off.

Chris Andre

Voilà! Invite over your friends, open a bottle of wine, and dig in!

Chris Andre

A cornucopia cheese board will become your new favorite holiday tradition.

Show us your crescent-roll cornucopias on Instagram and check out our baking classes (and our Easy Thanksgiving Desserts piece) for more holiday food inspo!

DIY Production and Styling: Paris Fried

Paris Fried: Paris loves any excuse to celebrate and throw a themed party. She loves experimenting in the kitchen and has a terrible sweet tooth. When she's not crafting in her studio, she's at the farmers' market buying seasonal produce or at her favorite local theater watching double features.

This post has been updated.

Rumor has it that diamonds are facing some major challenges to their status as a girl’s best friend these days, but whoever thought diamonds were going out of style definitely didn’t know about chocolate ring pops! With Valentine’s Day, and the now-popular Galentine’s Day, coming up quick, you might need a quick DIY to let your gal pals know that you’re ready to bring on the bling.

Not only are we showing you how to make some edible bling, but we’ve also got some fun phrases as inspiration for what to attach to your ring pops. Now all you need are some fun party games and a DIY Conversation Heart Piñata, and you’re covered for the best Valentine’s Day party around!

Materials:

  • Candy melts in various colors
  • Ring pop rings
  • Edible glitter

Tools:

  • Gemstone silicone mold
  • Microwave

Instructions:

  1. Melt the candy melts in the microwave per the instructions on the package. Set aside.
  2. Dump a small amount of edible glitter into your gemstone mold and move it around to coat all sides of the mold.
  3. Pour the chocolate into the mold until the mold is filled to the top and tap the mold on the table to remove any bubbles.
  4. Put the ring pop ring into the mold and place in freezer to harden.
  5. Once hardened, remove the rings from the mold and attach a fun tag to give to your BFF!

Make sure to dump out any excess glitter after you’ve coated the mold so there’s an equal amount of glitter on all sides.

Don’t worry if you can’t get all of the bubbles out! You can use a toothpick in the chocolate to pop any hard-to-get bubbles.

When you’re removing the rings from the mold, don’t pull by the ring pop ring. If you pull too hard on the ring, it might break out of the chocolate and crack.

If you liked it then you should have put a ring on it, right?! (wink)

Who says you can't have more than one?

Almost too cute to eat (almost)!

Feel free to add funny quotes or stickers to your rings.

Enough chocolate ring pops for everyone!

Who would you give your chocolate rings to? Let us know in the comments and check out our email newsletter for more one-of-a-kind Valentine's Day content.

This post has been updated.

Though Black Friday is traditionally the official start of the holiday shopping season, we argue that it’s been kicking since mid-October. We know, we know: it still feels extremely early to start thinking about the holidays, but they’ll be here before you know it! Plus, many brands and retailers are already promoting their holiday goodies with plenty of sales and discounts available right now.

If you’re ready to embark on your holiday shopping journey, but still need answers to questions like ‘when’s the best time to shop?’ and ‘where should I shop for gifts?’ and even ‘how the heck do I save money this season?’, you’ve come to the right place. Consider this your go-to guide for holiday shopping in 2024.

Scroll on for our best guidance on navigating this busy time of year and finding the best gifts possible!

When's the best time to do holiday shopping?

Kaboompics / PEXELS

The best time to do holiday shopping really all depends on your personal shopping goals. Do you want to get a jump on items you know will sell out soon? Do you want to save the most money possible? Do you want to focus on handmade, personalized gifts? These factors will undoubtedly influence your holiday shopping schedule.

Cottonbro Studio / PEXELS

Shopping early can be advantageous for all of the aforementioned goals. A lot of retailers start promoting their holiday products early on, giving you ample time to snatch up that limited-time lip kit or fancy water bottle you’ve been eyeing way before the holidays.

Plus, some of the best deals for holiday shopping happen ahead of Black Friday and Cyber Monday – in 2023, Experian observed a surge in early spending in October, thanks to early discounts, a trend likely to continue in 2024.

Finally, shopping early can be especially helpful if your plan is to focus on handmade or personalized gifts, giving the artisan you buy from (or yourself, if you’re DIY-ing your gifts) plenty of time to craft the item with love and care.

Gallup reported in 2023 that one in four shoppers start shopping as early as September, a trend likely to continue in 2024 – so you might already be embarking on your shopping spree!

Mikhail Nilov / PEXELS

If right now is just still too darn early for you to start holiday shopping, Black Friday and Cyber Monday are some of the best times to shop since so many retailers offer their largest discounts of the entire year. Plus, the late November-early December timeline can feel a bit more appropriate for the gifting season opposed to late October-early November, when everyone’s still recovering from Halloween.

The only thing to consider during this time is the shipping timelines for the items you purchase – but most retailers will typically advise their specific shipping schedules, so you don’t risk your goodies arriving late.

Where should I shop for gifts?

Ron Lach / PEXELS

You have three main options when it comes to where to shop for holiday gifts: online, in-store, and via our amazing gift guides. Of course, each method has its advantages and disadvantages.

Shopping in-store offers a tangible experience: the opportunity to hold specific items in your hands and gauge exactly what they’ll be like when you give them as a gift. The pitfall with shopping in-person is that it typically requires a commute and journeys through potentially very busy malls and shopping strips, which can add to the already-stressful holiday experience.

In-store shopping can be more physically exhausting, but it’s all about preference! Sometimes strolling through the stores that get all dolled up for Christmas is the best part of the season.

Andrea Piacquadio / PEXELS

Per Google, 65% of those planning to shop for the holidays say they will shop online more. Shopping for gifts online can be super helpful since you can centralize your findings in your browser’s bookmark tab or via virtual cart(s). Plus, shopping online can pose more opportunities for saving some money: lots of retailers typically offer discount codes for online users, especially if you sign up for their digital marketing channels (like email and text) and make a purchase.

Shopping online isn’t just shopping, either. The internet can be a stellar research tool to help you vet whether certain products are worth it, where they can be bought, and when they’ll be available. In fact, Google reported that more than half of U.S. holiday shoppers who went into a store last year say they looked up product reviews online and/or located an item in-store by checking it online.

Kaboompics / PEXELS

Last but not least, scrolling gift guides has to be our favorite place to shop for gifts – and not just because we write and publish them.

At their very core, gift guides help streamline the holiday shopping process, alleviating the stress that bubbles up when you’re wondering what the heck to shop for in the first place. Our gift guides are backed by real people, real experiences, and real opinions from our editorial team. We only promote products that we really love and believe in, oftentimes ones we’ve tested and reviewed ourselves.

We have gift guides for just about everyone on your list, with more on the way! Check ‘em out:

What are the best kinds of gifts to give?

Kaboompics / PEXELS

The best kinds of gifts to give are thoughtful gifts that consider the giftee’s interests, wants, and needs. These gifts can be sentimental, practical, or both simultaneously. What matters most in a gift is that it’ll be meaningful to them past just the holiday season, whether it’s helping them get through daily tasks, reminding them of a memorable trip or event, or giving them small doses of joy.

“Shoppers are increasingly looking for personalized and unique gifts that reflect the recipient's personality and interests,” says Mia Anderson, Owner of ChicSew. “With the rise of online shopping, many consumers are opting for curated gift boxes or experiences that add a special touch.”

Cottonbro Studio / PEXELS

Gift boxes, personalized items, books of interest, self-care goodies, and even gift cards can all be thoughtful gifts depending on the recipient. If you have no clue what your giftee is into, it’s not a bad idea to ask them what they want the most!

“My idea of a great gift is something that is in tandem with the recipient's interest and offers something new to the person, be it learning a new skill, enjoying a calming activity, or simply spending quality time with the family,” says Alfred Christ, Sales Manager & Marketer at Robotime. “This season, we encourage shoppers to shift their focus on quality and the memories their gifts will create and not just merely material aspects.”

When is Black Friday?

Sora Shimazaki / PEXELS

Black Friday is always the Friday after Thanksgiving. This year, Black Friday lands on November 29.

When is Cyber Monday?

Kindel Media / PEXELS

Cyber Monday is typcally the Monday after Thanksgiving. This year, Cyber Monday will land on December 2. Oftentimes, retailers and brands extend their online offers through the week (coined Cyber Week) after the event. Salesforce reported that 67% of shoppers in 2024 plan on shopping during Cyber Week!

Subscribe to our newsletter to stay up-to-date on our best 2024 gift guides, shopping advice, and all things holiday!

The holidays at Starbucks are creeping up on us, people! Peppermint Mocha season will return on November 7. If you’re a die-hard Starbucks fan, you know Red Cup Day is a whole holiday in itself – the frenzy for a free reusable cup is truly no joke. There’s even an entire website dedicated to counting down the madness! Even though there’s no official word on when Red Cup Day 2024 will be, there are several clues that cue us into the annual event. Scroll on for details!

What is Red Cup Day?

Starbucks

Red Cup Day is Starbucks’ highly-awaited annual event that marks the start of holiday beverage season at the coffee chain. For one day only (and while supplies last), customers who order any of Starbucks’ holiday drinks will receive a reusable red cup that features a bespoke design for the respective year.

Starbucks

Here’s a list of all the drinks rumored to be available on the Starbucks holiday menu starting November 7:

  • Peppermint Mocha
  • Peppermint White Chocolate Mocha
  • Caramel Brûlée Latte
  • Sugar Cookie Almondmilk Latte
  • Chestnut Praline Latte
  • Salted Pecan Crunch Cold Brew
  • Iced Gingerbread Oatmilk Chai

What do the red cups look like for 2024?

Starbucks

Starbucks hasn’t officially announced when Red Cup Day will be for 2024, let alone what the famed red cups will look like this go-around. The one obvious point is that the cups will be red! They’ll also likely feature some festive motifs that echo the holiday season. Last year’s red cups boasted playful white and green stars and ornament-like shapes.

Why should I participate in Red Cup Day?

Starbucks

Red Cup Day = freebies, which can feel really rewarding if you’re really into receiving free goodies. Plus, it’s just a fun way to lean into the holiday spirit. The red reusable cup keeps giving beyond Red Cup Day, though! Every time you use the reusable cup for future Starbucks orders, you get a 10-cent discount as well as 25 bonus stars toward your Starbucks Rewards account to save up for more discounts on drinks, food, and merchandise.

When is Starbucks' Red Cup Day 2024?

Starbucks

Again, Starbucks hasn’t alerted us on when Red Cup Day will be for 2024, but based on previous Red Cup Days, we can infer it’ll land on the third Thursday of November. In 2022, Red Cup Day happened on November 17, and for 2023, it was November 16. The third Thursday of November in 2024 hits on November 21, so mark your calendars, everyone!

Additionally, check back here for official info as Red Cup Day approaches.

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This post has been updated.