By Talitha Cummins, founder of The Cut Jewellery
When Zendaya makes an entrance, she doesn’t just walk the red carpet—she owns it. This time, though, it wasn’t her show-stopping gown or megawatt smile stealing the show; it was a single, dazzling ring. A ring that has everyone talking. Is it an engagement ring? A fashion statement? A decoy to keep us guessing?
Whatever the reason, Zendaya’s jewellery moment didn’t just turn heads–it set off a wave of obsession for this fresh, modern take on a timeless style. And honestly, we get it. The East-West setting is effortlessly cool, subtly different, and now the must-have trend for anyone rethinking tradition.
Let’s unpack Zendaya’s viral ring moments, explore why East-West cushion-cut diamonds are stealing the spotlight and figure out if following celebrity jewellery trends is really worth it.
Zendaya ring Golden Globes
When Zendaya recently graced the Golden Globes red carpet, it wasn’t just her effortless confidence and sense of style that had people talking. Perched delicately on that finger was a dazzling East-West cushion-cut diamond ring, an unexpected choice that has sparked endless speculation–Is she engaged? Is this a fashion statement? And, more importantly, how can we get one?
While gossip surrounding her personal life rages on (cue the “did Tom Holland finally put a ring on it?” whispers), one thing is clear: she has set a major trend for jewellery lovers everywhere.
What is an East-West Cushion-Cut Ring?
A cushion-cut diamond is a timeless shape that combines a square or rectangular outline with soft, rounded corners resembling a pillow. Known for its romantic and vintage appeal, this cut enhances the diamond’s brilliance and fire with larger facets.
What makes an East-West cushion-cut ring unique is its orientation. Unlike the traditional vertical orientation of a cushion-cut diamond, the East-West setting rotates the stone horizontally. This unexpected twist adds a playful yet sophisticated edge to the classic cushion-cut, making it ideal for anyone who loves to blend tradition with individuality.
This style is also surprisingly versatile–it works with various diamond shapes (oval, emerald, pear and more), making it a favourite among designers who want to create eye-catching yet wearable pieces.
Celebrity Engagement Ring Trends
Zendaya isn’t the first celebrity to spark a jewellery obsession. From Hailey Bieber’s iconic oval diamond on a simple gold band to Blake Lively’s pink diamond halo ring, Hollywood has no shortage of stunning engagement ring moments. Who could forget Kim Kardashian’s 15 carat stunner or Ariana Grande’s unique pearl and oval combo?
These rings don’t just set trends; they influence how millions of people think about engagement and statement jewellery.
Should You Follow Celebrity Jewellery Trends?
Here’s the thing: celebrity engagement rings are mesmerising for a reason–they’re often designed with unlimited budgets and the most sought after jewellers in the world. While they provide endless inspiration, it’s important to consider whether these trends align with your personal style and budget.
Tradition vs. Modern Trends
While there’s nothing wrong with going for a traditional round-cut solitaire, the rise of unique settings like the East-West cushion-cut reflects a shift in how people view engagement rings. It’s less about sticking to convention and more about choosing something that represents your personality and story. Zendaya’s choice reminds us that you don’t have to settle for the expected.
What to Look for When Buying a Ring
If you’re considering an East-West cushion-cut (or any trend-driven design), keep these tips in mind:
- Prioritise Quality: The 4 Cs–cut, clarity, colour and carat–still matter. A horizontal setting can emphasise the diamond’s surface area, so make sure the stone is well-cut and high-quality.
- Consider Lab-Grown: Opting for a lab-grown diamond can give you the look and size of a Zendaya-worthy sparkler without the heart-stopping price tag. Lab-grown diamonds are not only more affordable but also environmentally friendly, making them an increasingly popular choice for ethical jewelry buyers.
- Think About Longevity: Trends come and go, but your engagement ring will (ideally) be with you forever. Choose a style that resonates with your aesthetic and lifestyle.
- Work with a Reputable Jeweller: Whether you’re designing a custom piece or buying ready-made, ensure your jeweller is trusted and transparent about sourcing and materials.
The Zendaya Effect
With her East-West cushion-cut ring, Zendaya has once again proven her power as a trendsetter. Whether you’re inspired to adopt this style for your next big jewellery purchase or simply admire it from afar, one thing’s for certain: this is one red-carpet moment that will keep shining in our memories–and Pinterest boards–for years to come.
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