Designing a Bespoke Ring Inspired by Taylor Swift: Tips for Personalising Vintage Style

When news broke that Taylor Swift was engaged – wearing a 7-10-carat antique elongated cushion-cut natural diamond ring - jewellery lovers and romantics were entranced.

The centre stone of the ring has been described as Georgian-inspired, featuring a vintage old-mine cut diamond nestled in yellow gold, offering a perfect example of how timeless elegance is making a modern comeback.

At Simon West Jewellery, we couldn’t help but admire the design.

“Taylor is obviously into that vintage diamond charm - just like we are,” commented Simon.

The value of her centre stone has been estimated anywhere between US $250,000 and US $1 million, depending on its provenance and quality.

But the real value goes beyond price. It’s in the story, the craftsmanship, and the individuality behind it.

If you loved Taylor’s vintage-inspired look and design, here is how you can design a bespoke ring that is uniquely yours.

1. Choose Your Centre Stone with Meaning

The centre stone is the heart of any engagement ring.

In Taylor’s case, the old mine cut diamond - popular in the Georgian and Victorian eras - gives a romantic, candlelight shimmer that feels rich in history.

It’s a far cry from the high-sparkle perfection of modern brilliant cuts.

Tips:

• Consider antique diamond cuts like old mine, rose cut, or cushion cut if you want a soft, vintage light return.

• Natural diamonds with a little age or quirky character can enhance that heirloom look.

• Think beyond diamonds - sapphires, morganites, or even moissanite can offer colour and individuality.

2. Metal Matters: Go Warm or Go Bold

Taylor’s ring features a warm yellow gold setting, which adds a vintage glow and highlights the softness of the diamond cut.

Yellow gold is classic, romantic, and perfectly suited to antique-inspired designs.

Tips:

• Yellow gold works beautifully with vintage cuts and warmer-toned diamonds.

• Rose gold offers a modern romantic twist on vintage elegance.

• For a more timeless or contemporary touch, platinum or white gold offer cool contrast - ideal if you’re mixing old and new elements.

3. Mix Old and New for a Fresh Take on Tradition

Bespoke design doesn’t mean replicating the past. It’s about honouring history while creating something new. Taylor’s ring may nod to Georgian times, but it sits firmly in the now.

Tips:

• Combine antique stones with a modern setting, like a sleek bezel or open gallery.

• Add hidden details, like a secret sapphire underneath the centre stone or delicate milgrain edging only visible from the side.

• Opt for asymmetrical side stones, or split shanks for a modern twist on classic silhouettes.

4. Make It Personal: Engravings & Custom Touches

A bespoke ring tells your story. Custom engraving is one of the simplest, yet most meaningful, ways to personalise your design.

Ideas to Consider:

• Initials or wedding date inside the band.

• A line from your favourite song or poem (Taylor would approve).

• A matching motif from your partner’s ring or a symbol with personal meaning (stars, hearts, florals).

You might also consider incorporating heirloom elements, like a gemstone or gold from a family piece. This adds emotional value and connects generations.

5. Set the Tone with Side Stones or a Halo

Taylor’s reported solitaire design keeps the focus on her incredible centre stone, but that doesn’t mean yours has to. Vintage rings often featured shoulder details, halo settings, or side stones to add depth and sparkle.

Side Stone Options:

• Tapered baguettes for an Art Deco feel.

• Pear-shaped diamonds for elegance and flow.

• Coloured gemstones to introduce personality.

A halo of small diamonds can also enhance the appearance of size and sparkle while keeping the design classic.

6. Be Inspired, Not Bound by Celebrity Style

At Simon West Jewellery, we encourage clients to draw inspiration from iconic rings - whether it’s Taylor Swift’s Georgian glamour or Grace Kelly’s regal style - but always to let their personal story shine through the design.

Our Process:

• We work closely with you to explore stone options, settings, and custom details.

• Every bespoke ring is crafted in Melbourne, reflecting our dedication to timeless quality.

• Our team can even source antique or antique-cut diamonds that reflect the charm of vintage eras while ensuring durability and sparkle.

Inspiration to Reality

Taylor Swift’s engagement ring is more than just a celebrity showpiece - it’s a reflection of a shift in taste. Couples today want rings that are personal, meaningful, and rooted in design history.

If you’re dreaming of a vintage-inspired engagement ring that’s every bit as poetic and powerful as your love story, our team at Simon West Jewellery would be honoured to bring it to life.

Please explore our latest designs and news online at simonwestjewellery.com .