An East-West engagement ring is a classic engagement ring with a rebellious streak. Instead of setting the gemstone in the traditional upright (North-South) position, the centre gemstone is flipped horizontally across the band—creating a sleek, modern, and effortlessly cool design. It’s refined yet unexpected, perfect for those who appreciate tradition but love to add their own twist. Fans caught attention at Zendaya's stone - setting in her unconventional east-west engagement ring at Golden Globe 2025.
"For those in the know, unique designs like the East-West engagement ring is always on the top of the wish list. And most recently, celebrities such as Zendaya ignite the love and shine a brighter spotlight onto this trend." said Trang Do, founder and creative director of Kimjoux Fine Jewellery.
What makes the East-west Engagement Ring unconventional?
Zendaya’s engagement ring isn’t just turning heads because of who gave it to her—it’s the design that has everyone talking. The horizontal placement gives the ring a refined yet modern edge—understated, stylish, and just unexpected enough to make a statement.
If you appreciate tradition but love a hint of the unexpected, this modern setting is perfect when you:
✨ Want a sophisticated yet unconventional design
✨ Love elongated stones but prefer a balanced, more grounded appearance on your hand
✨ Value a secure, comfortable setting that works effortlessly for everyday wear
✨ Prefer a ring that’s distinctive without being over-the-top
At Kimjoux, we believe engagement rings should be as individual as the love they represent. And unconventional yet timeless engagement ring designs is what we are known for.
"The East-West setting embodies quiet confidence—a chic twist on tradition!"
Best Gemstone Shapes for an East-West Setting
Not all gemstones were meant to stand upright. Some were simply destined to be turned, allowing their beauty to shine in a new way. Here are the best shapes for an East-West setting:
💎 Oval – Graceful, soft, and endlessly elegant, this shape becomes effortlessly chic when set horizontally.
💎 Emerald Cut – Crisp, structured, and undeniably sophisticated. When flipped, it adds a modern, architectural feel.
💎 Marquise – A vintage classic that suddenly feels fresh and unexpected.
💎 Radiant & Cushion – Love the sparkle of a round diamond but want something different? These shapes balance brilliance with personality.
💎 Pear – Asymmetry meets artistry. A pear-cut diamond set East-West is playful, edgy, and packed with character.
Kimjoux takes the East-West setting a step further with our signature designs that feature a subtle, unconventional tilt. Inspired by the effortless movement of water—its tender ripples and quiet yet undeniable power—our designs embrace a fluid, organic aesthetic.
Each piece is crafted in a single, seamless motion, with buttery-soft gold flowing around the center stone like a gentle current.
And the result? A setting that feels natural, effortless, and full of quiet strength—just like the love stories it represents.
View our Bold Balance collection on website
How to Style Your East-West Engagement Ring?
One of the best things about this setting? It adapts to different styles beautifully. Whether you prefer minimalist elegance or bold statements, your East-West ring will feel right at home.
💫 Sleek & Modern: A single East-West emerald-cut diamond on a delicate gold band—understated, refined, and forever stylish.
💫 Bold & Expressive: Stack your ring with textured bands or mix in colored gemstones for a distinctive, artistic look.
💫 Vintage Glamour: A marquise or cushion-cut diamond with intricate side details for that timeless, old-Hollywood romance.
Ready to Design Something Unconventional?
We see the East-West setting as a quiet statement. It doesn’t scream for attention—it just naturally stands out. It’s for the ones who don’t follow trends, they set them. Whether you choose an elongated oval, a sharp emerald cut, or a playful pear, this setting makes your engagement ring feel intentional, sophisticated, and truly yours.
Contact us - we’ll help you design a bespoke engagement ring that feels like you:
✨ Personalized design consultations – Your vision, your story, your ring.
✨ Ethically sourced gemstones – Diamonds, sapphires, spinels, and more, chosen just for you.
✨ Uncompromising craftsmanship – Every detail, refined to perfection.
✨ A ring as unique as your love – No templates. No repeats. Just yours.
Every ring we create is handcrafted, ethically sourced, and made just for you. Because your love story isn’t mass-produced—so why should your ring be?
Let's start your bespoke journey today with Kimjoux's guides and create something beautiful, something different, something unforgettable 💍
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