In This Guide
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Engagement Ring Styles vs. Settings
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Engagement Ring Styles
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Types of Engagement Ring Settings
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Engagement Ring Setting Design Details
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Engagement Ring Styles & Settings FAQ
Engagement Ring Styles vs. Settings
When picking the perfect engagement ring, it's essential to understand the terminology of and difference between style and setting. Though it can be difficult to distinguish between the two, style refers to the general look or feeling a ring evokes — be it vintage or nature-inspired, for example. The setting of a ring is more technical, referring to the actual manner in which a center stone is set (bezel or prong-set) and what kind of accents it features — or lack thereof (solitaires). To dive into the distinctive details between style vs. setting, read on.
Engagement Ring Styles
Straight Style
Designed to enhance, straight engagement rings draw the eye to the center stone while honoring the silhouette.
Nature-Inspired Styles
Nature-inspired engagement rings bring on the bloom with design motifs such as floral patterns, diamond petals, organically shaped clusters, and twisting vines of precious metal. These styles can be solitaires or accented with diamonds or other gemstones.
Double Halo Styles
Stealing glances, capturing hearts, promising forever with twice the spark. Discover our double halo engagement rings collection designed with glamour.
Popular Engagement Rings
Discover our most popular engagement ring settings, thoughtfully crafted to highlight the brilliance of your center stone and reflect your personal style.
Types of Engagement Ring Settings
Solitaire Settings
Solitaires are timeless classics. Derived from the Latin "solitarius," meaning alone or isolated, solitaires feature a single center stone with no additional diamond accents along the band. They can feature distinct design motifs, such as a split shank, textural element, or thick band width. In their most classic form (a simple, thin band with four to six prongs supporting the center stone), solitaires are the archetypal engagement ring and the most popular of all time.
Halo Settings
Halo engagement rings feature shimmering accents surrounding the center gemstone. These accents are traditionally diamonds but can be other gemstones such as sapphire, emerald. These "angelic" styles are beloved for their added sparkle — they also have the unique ability to enhance the appearance of the center stone. Halo designs come in many forms, such as a round, square, or even floral silhouette. They can feature further accents along the band or a plain band.
Three-Stone Settings
Three-stone engagement rings feature two large diamond accents along either side of the center stone. Together, they symbolize the past, present, and future. Historically, the accents are round but can come in various shapes, from baguette-cut to kite-shaped. While some three-stone engagement rings are traditional and sleek, others are more luxe: think of extra accents along the band or a hidden halo.
Hidden Halo Engagement Rings
Hidden Halo engagement ringsare designed to dazzle in the most unexpected way. From a top-down view, they may appear to be classic solitaires—but look a little closer, and you’ll discover a secret halo of diamonds tucked just beneath the center stone. This subtle sparkle adds depth, brilliance, and a sense of surprise to your ring. Whether paired with a plain band or accented shank, hidden halos offer a beautiful twist on traditional elegance—perfect for those who love understated glamour with a touch of mystery.
Split Shank Settings
Split shank engagement rings feature a band that splits into two or more strands as it reaches the center stone. This creates an open, sculptural look that can accentuate the look of the center stone. Split shank designs can be solitaires or adorned with engravings or accents, but they all feature a single, double, or even triple split shank design.
Engagement Ring Setting Design Details
When selecting an engagement ring, it's important to understand what features to consider. From prong type to shank finish, learn all the details of engagement ring settings to pick the perfect piece.
Center Gemstone Setting
The center gemstone setting, commonly referred to as the 'head' in ring anatomy, is the metal that connects the prongs to the shank of the design, keeping the center stone in place. Beyond security, the center gemstone setting determines how high or low your ring will sit on your finger.
Finishing Details
Precious metal details are a great way to add interest or embellishment to your ring. Finishing details can affect the ring's overall appearance, giving it either a more contemporary or vintage look.
Types Of Engagement Rings FAQ
How do you choose an engagement ring style?
Choosing the right engagement ring style is all about personal preference. Consider what styles you're drawn to, whether classic or contemporary, and narrow down to the style you love the most. We suggest viewing and trying on engagement ring styles in person before making your final choice — seeing it in person can be quite different than viewing it online. If you aren’t near one of our showrooms, our cutting-edge virtual try on technology allows you to visualize any engagement ring on your finger from the comfort of home.
What style of engagement ring is most popular?
Solitaire engagement rings are widely considered the most traditional and most popular style.
How do you know which engagement ring fits your lifestyle?
If you're trying to determine what engagement ring will fit your lifestyle, consider how active it is. Those who are very active (often hiking, for example) may opt for a super secure bezel-set engagement ring or a low-profile ring to avoid snagging.
How can you find out what type of engagement ring your partner wants?
It's best to consider the overall style of your partner: are they sleeker and more sophisticated? Or do they opt for a more bold, eye-catching look? This will help inform them of the engagement ring style they'd love to wear forever.