Wedding rings have always been a big part of love, marriage, societal trends, personal taste and culture. For many years, people mostly used gold or silver rings. But these days, younger people, especially Gen Z (those born between the mid-1990s and early 2010s), are choosing coloured wedding rings instead. From rose gold to black, pink, blue, purple, green, and even rainbow colours, coloured wedding rings are now the trend.
But why are Gen Zs going for them?
1. A Need to Stand Out
Gen Z is often described as the most individualistic generation yet. They prioritise authenticity, creativity, and self-expression in every aspect of life, and their weddings are no different. For many of them, a coloured wedding ring is more than just jewellery; it’s a personal statement. Choosing a ring in a unique hue allows them to stand out and symbolise a love story that is distinctly their own. It’s not just about being different, it’s about being meaningfully different.
2. Personal Preference and Emotional Connection
Unlike previous generations that may have stuck with tradition for tradition’s sake, Gen Z places greater emphasis on personal preference and emotional connection. Some go for colours that hold special meanings in their relationships, like blue for trust, green for growth, or red for passion. Others may simply pick a colour that aligns with their aesthetic or mood. The freedom to choose colours that reflect who they are as individuals and as a couple is empowering and deeply personal.
3. A Symbol of Wealth, Class, and Taste
Coloured rings, especially those featuring gemstones like sapphires, emeralds, or rare diamonds often come with a luxurious appeal. For Gen Zs who appreciate fine things and aren’t afraid to showcase their success, opting for a high-quality ring is a way of demonstrating class and wealth. In an era where curated online images matter, a bold and beautiful ring easily stands out on social media, projecting both love and luxury.
4. Accessible and Affordable Replicas of Gold
As gold prices soar, many Gen Zs are turning to coloured alternatives that offer similar appeal without the hefty price tag. Lab-grown gemstones, coloured titanium, tungsten carbide, and coated stainless steel provide the same eye-catching brilliance and durability often at a fraction of the cost. These alternatives also appeal to Gen Z’s value-conscious mindset, giving them stylish options without financial strain.
5. Fashion-Forward and Trend-Conscious
It’s no secret that Gen Z is one of the most fashion-forward generations. Influenced by style icons, celebrities, TikTok trends, and Pinterest aesthetics, coloured wedding rings perfectly align with their desire for fashion-savvy accessories. Matching or contrasting the ring with wedding attire, nail polish, or even hair colour adds a new layer of style to their nuptial look. Simply put, coloured rings give fashion vibes, and Gen Z is all about the vibe.
6. A Break from Gender Norms
Traditional gold and silver rings are often tied to rigid gender norms and conventions. Gen Zs, who are more open in their approach to gender and identity, are ditching the traditional idea in favour of bold, inclusive, and colourful options. Rings in deep black, soft lavender, or multicolour designs are a celebration of diversity and self-expression values that connect deeply with this generation.
7. Influence from Social Media
Celebrities and influencers have a massive impact on Gen Z’s lifestyle choices. When stars flaunt matching black rings or when influencers reveal their custom-designed engagement bands, it creates a ripple effect. Gen Z, being highly engaged on platforms like Instagram, TikTok, and Pinterest, naturally follows suit, drawing inspiration and ideas for their own dream rings.
8. Sustainability and Ethical Sourcing
Many Gen Zs are environmentally conscious and want their rings to reflect their values. Coloured rings made from lab-grown gemstones, recycled metals, or ethically-sourced materials are seen as more sustainable than traditional options. This awareness of the planet and human rights further influences their decision to move away from conventional choices.
Promise Babatunde
