The round brilliant-cut diamond will forever be a classic and likely the most widely purchased diamond shape. In Singapore, at least, it seems to still be the most in-demand choice – local jewelery brand Holly Gray’s co-founder, Hanya Seah, said that Singaporeans largely stay with safe designs when it comes to engagement rings. In fact, 90 per cent of the custom orders she gets are for a solitaire. Around the world, however, there has been a growing appreciation for fancy cuts, which include any other diamond shape besides the round.

While a heart-shaped diamond might not be for everyone, there are other fancy cuts that can be as timeless as the solitaire. Take, for example, the emerald, cushion, oval or Asscher cut, which all make for simple and sophisticated ring designs and are gaining popularity with those who desire a ring style that is out of the ordinary and yet still classic.

There are also those who prefer to get a completely unique and bold design they have in their minds customized. All one needs is to find a jeweler who can realize it for them. Seah remembered a particularly memorable double-arrow diamond engagement ring she produced for a client. “We were intrigued by the unconventional choice of the client and had to specifically get the custom-cut diamonds, since you wouldn’t be able to find arrow-shaped diamonds anywhere,” she shared.