Cue the confetti cannons and start saving your Pinterest boards, because Zendaya recently announced her engagement news – and we’re in love! And, although the internet is collectively losing its mind over the Euphoria star’s exciting life milestone, there’s another headline-worthy detail that has everyone talking: Zendaya’s choice of engagement ring. Yes, it’s official. 2025 is shaping up to be the year of the cushion-cut diamond.
Saying I Do to Zendaya’s engagement ring
If there’s one thing we know about Zendaya, it’s that she’s never been one to follow the crowd. Whether she’s slaying the red carpet in Valentino or giving us hair inspiration every awards season, she’s always a step ahead. So, when she debuted a cushion-cut engagement ring, it was no surprise she did it in style.
Zendaya’s ring is the perfect mix of timeless and modern. The cushion-cut diamond – a square or rectangular stone with rounded edges – oozes old Hollywood glamour, while the subtle sparkle gives it a fresh, contemporary twist. It’s chic, understated, and uniquely her. But why is this particular cut poised to dethrone the ever-popular oval or pear-shaped diamonds of recent years?
Why Cushion Cut diamonds are having a moment.
According to Talitha Cummins, former Broadcast Journalist and now Founder and Design Director of The Cut Jewellery, cushion cut rings are experiencing a resurgence for a range of reasons.
- A Nod to Vintage Elegance. Cushion-cut diamonds have been around since the 18th century, making them a romantic and timeless choices. With their square or rectangular cut with rounded edges, that give them a “pillow-type” look they’re reminiscent of a bygone era when glamour reigned supreme. While a rounder cut is usually brighter, a cushion cut generally will display brighter when viewed from different angles. This cut is a natural fit for modern brides looking to channel that timeless vibe.
- Subtle Sparkle, Maximum Impact. A sparkle that’s perfect for anyone who wants a little shimmer without the bling overload.
- The Zendaya Effect. Celebrities have always been trendsetters in the engagement ring department. When Ariana Grande showed off her toi et moi ring, the two-stone style exploded. When Hailey Bieber went oval, it felt like every jeweller on Instagram followed suit. Now, it’s Zendaya’s turn to crown the cushion cut as the ring of 2025. Having said that, while it is great to take inspiration from celebrities, you want your ring to reflect you, your relationship and why you see yourself wearing for the duration of your marriage.
The 2025 engagement ring trends forecast
Zendaya’s engagement also speaks to a larger shift in bridal trends: the move toward individuality. Today’s couples want rings that reflect their unique story, and cushion cuts fit the bill perfectly. They’re versatile and can be set in various styles, from minimalist solitaires to elaborate vintage-inspired halos. Whether you want a modern yellow-gold band or a platinum pavé setting, the cushion cut feels personal and unique without being over the top.
Another key factor? Cushion cuts tend to be more affordable than round diamonds of the same carat weight, thanks to their slightly smaller surface area. That means you can go bigger without totally breaking the bank. Score!
With Zendaya leading the charge, cushion-cut rings are set to dominate proposal season in 2025. Expect to see jewellers rolling out stunning new collections featuring this timeless cut, along with creative takes on settings and bands. We’re predicting a surge in vintage-inspired designs, coloured gemstone accents, and mixed metals.
And let’s not forget about the rise of lab-grown diamonds! As sustainability continues to be a priority for modern couples, more people are opting for eco-friendly options without sacrificing sparkle. Cushion cuts are especially well-suited for lab-grown stones, as their classic design makes them look just as dazzling as their mined counterparts.
