What are the best engagement ring designs to choose from? Researching engagement rings can be hard work, because there are so many of them. That’s why this easy-to-read article explains the 12 most popular ring designs, their advantages, and their benefits, to help you make the right choice.
1. Low set solitaire rings
A low set solitaire ring has a single diamond held in place by metal claws. The reason why it is called “low set” is that when you look at its side profile, you’ll notice the diamond sits low down, close to the band. The advantage of a low-set solitaire is that the diamond won’t catch on clothes, hair or things around you because it’s securely tucked in. For people who want a classic ring but have an active lifestyle, it’s a practical and beautiful choice.
2. High set solitaire rings
A high set solitaire ring has one single diamond secured in place by long metal claws that hold the diamond high up. This means that if you look at its profile from the side, you’ll see there is a gap between the diamond and the band. The high-set solitaire is the ultimate, classic engagement ring. This style makes the diamond look larger and allows it to catch a lot of light, giving you maximum sparkle.
3. Rub over set solitaire rings
A rub over setting holds the diamond in place by “wrapping” it in precious metal. This style has various advantages. Firstly, it holds the diamond firmly in place. Secondly, it protects it from knocks and catching on things. Thirdly, it makes the diamond appear much larger than it actually is. It’s the perfect ring for people who are active or work a lot with their hands: whilst sleek and sophisticated, it’s an extremely robust design.
4. Tension set solitaire rings
The tension setting holds the diamond in place by pressure from the metal band. The diamond’s edges slot tightly into tiny little grooves in the metal, and the tension created by the ring’s band holds it securely in place. This style looks truly unique and allows you to see most of the diamond, which is visually pleasing and allows for plentiful sparkle.
5. Halo engagement rings
A halo ring has a centre solitaire, which is encircled by small diamonds that create a sparkling ‘halo’ around it. This ring style can have any shape – including round, square, pear or cushion cuts. What’s more, you can also have double or multiple halos. It is a fantastic way to take a simple solitaire and make it look much bigger and sparklier. It’s the ultimate ring design for those who love luxury.
6. Diamond cluster rings
A diamond cluster setting allows you to have any design you like. It’s a ring where lots and lots of small diamonds are set close together. They are very versatile, offering multiple design and styles, including square, round, oval, pear, rectangular and even heart-shaped rings. The other advantage of a diamond cluster ring is that several small diamonds cost less per carat than one large diamond would do. So you can have a big ring for an affordable price.
7. Sidestone, or diamond shoulder rings
Sidestones, also called shoulder stones, are small diamonds that are placed on the ring’s band on both sides of the main setting. Sidestones are fantastic for adding extra luxury and radiance to any engagement ring. For instance, if you love the simple elegance of solitaire rings but you’re missing that little bit of extra luxury, you could choose a solitaire ring with sidestones to have both.
8. Trilogy rings
Trilogy rings, also called three-stone rings, have three diamonds on the band. A trilogy ring symbolises the past, present and future of your relationship. This is a beautiful sentiment for an engagement ring! The main advantage of a trilogy ring is that it offers three times the sparkle of a solitaire. As an added bonus, you can also personalise your trilogy ring with coloured gems if you wish.
9. Illusion set rings
An illusion setting creates a “big look” ring at a very small cost. Its precious metal setting is patterned to mimic the facets of a diamond. But, in fact, the ring is set with only a few small diamonds. Among the best low-budget engagement ring designs to choose from, the illusion setting is a great option when you want luxurious sparkle at an affordable price.
10. Twist set rings
A twist setting is a design where the ring’s band twists around the central stone. This unique style symbolises two lovers entwined in an embrace – or some also say that it’s a design that symbolises infinity. This engagement ring is really eye-catching. If you want something that stands out from the crowd, it’s a fantastic choice.
11. Vintage style rings
Vintage style rings echo the popular designs of bygone days. You can have the lavish geometric diamond designs of the Art Deco movement in the 1920s, the intricate and romantic motifs of Victorian rings, or the delicate filigree and latticework from the Edwardian era – all translated into modern ring designs that look fantastic and feel wonderful to wear. There are many different vintage style rings to choose from, so all you have to do is pick your favourite.
12. Blue sapphire rings
Finally, if you want something a little bit different yet utterly luxurious, you cannot go wrong with a blue sapphire ring. Blue sapphires have a royal history, including Princess Diana’s blue sapphire ring, now worn by the Duchess of Cambridge. Sapphires are incredibly tough, ranking very close to the hardness of diamonds – and this makes them excellent for life-long daily wear. If you’re not sure about a diamond ring… then this could be the perfect alternative for you.
What engagement ring designs do you prefer?
If you’re not sure what engagement ring design your fiancée prefers, read these tips on choosing the perfect jewellery for someone else. Need more help? Don’t hesitate to contact us, our expert Personal Shoppers are always happy to chat and help you find your perfect engagement ring ?
Shop engagement rings at TheDiamondStore.co.uk.
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