Guide to Engagement Ring Styles & Settings

Choosing the style and setting of your engagement ring is the most crucial decision you'll make, as it sets the tone for the entire ring and dictates the type of diamond you'll need to purchase. With so many styles to choose from, it can be overwhelming to make a decision.

To simplify the process, it's helpful to take a look at recently purchased engagement rings to get a better idea of what you like. We'll review a range of ring styles to help you narrow down your options and explain the most common settings to help you make an informed decision.

Keep in mind that your ring style is a personal choice that should reflect your personality and taste. Whether you prefer a classic solitaire or a modern, minimalist design, your ring should make you feel confident and beautiful. And don't forget about the setting - The setting can add a touch of elegance and personality to the ring, and even affect its durability and maintenance needs. Therefore, it's important not to overlook the importance of the setting when selecting your dream engagement ring.

Prong Setting:

A prong setting is a popular choice for engagement rings and involves using small metal prongs to hold the diamond or other gemstones securely in place. This type of setting allows maximum light to enter the diamond from all angles, which enhances its sparkle and brilliance. Prong settings can vary in the number of prongs used, typically four or six, and can be made from various metals such as platinum, gold, or white gold. A prong setting provides a classic and timeless look, making it an excellent choice for those who prefer a traditional and elegant style.

Solitaire Setting:

A solitaire setting is another classic and timeless option for an engagement ring. It involves a single diamond or gemstone being set into a metal band without any additional embellishments or accents. This simple and minimalist design showcases the beauty and brilliance of the diamond, making it the focal point of the ring. Solitaire settings can be made from various metals, and the diamond can be set in different ways such as prong, bezel, or tension settings. This type of setting is ideal for those who appreciate simplicity, elegance, and understated beauty in their jewelry.

(Solitaire Engagement Ring Inspiration)

The Tiffany Setting:

The Tiffany Setting is a classic engagement ring setting that was introduced by the renowned jeweler, Tiffany & Co. in 1886. It is characterized by a six-prong setting that lifts the diamond above the band, allowing maximum light to enter the stone and enhancing its brilliance and fire. The prongs are set to be minimal and discreet, ensuring that the diamond remains the focal point of the ring. The Tiffany Setting was revolutionary in its time as it replaced the previously popular bezel setting, which covered the diamond's surface and minimized its sparkle. The setting has remained popular throughout the years and is considered a timeless and iconic design that is synonymous with elegance and luxury. The Tiffany Setting is available in various metals and diamond shapes, making it a versatile and sought-after choice for engagement rings.

Bezel Setting:

A bezel setting is a popular choice for engagement rings and involves a metal rim or collar that surrounds the diamond or gemstone, holding it securely in place. The metal can be a full or partial bezel, and it can be made of various metals such as platinum, gold, or white gold. This type of setting provides a modern and sleek look and is ideal for those who lead an active lifestyle as it provides excellent protection for the stone. The bezel setting can also come in different variations, such as a flush or half bezel, where the metal partially covers the diamond. This type of setting is a great choice for those who prefer a contemporary and minimalist design while also ensuring the diamond's safety and security.

Tension Setting:

A tension setting is a modern and unique option for engagement rings, where the diamond or gemstone appears to be suspended between two metal bands without any visible prongs or other means of support. The metal bands exert pressure on the stone, holding it securely in place, and creating the illusion of a floating diamond. This type of setting is often made from durable metals such as titanium, platinum, or palladium, which can withstand the tension required to hold the stone in place. The tension setting provides an elegant and contemporary look, and it allows maximum light to enter the diamond, enhancing its brilliance and fire. However, due to the high level of precision required to create this type of setting, it is typically more expensive than other setting options. Tension setting is ideal for those who appreciate a modern and unique design and want to showcase their diamond in a creative and innovative way.

Channel Setting:

A channel setting is a popular choice for engagement rings, where diamonds or gemstones are set flush between two metal walls, creating a smooth, continuous surface of stones. The stones are held in place by the metal walls and are not separated by any prongs or metal. The metal walls also provide additional protection to the stones, making it an ideal choice for those who lead an active lifestyle. This type of setting is often used for wedding bands, where smaller diamonds are set into the band in a continuous line. The channel setting provides a sleek and modern look and is available in various metals such as platinum, gold, or white gold. It can also be customized to suit individual preferences, such as varying the width of the channel or using different shapes of stones. The channel setting is a popular choice for those who appreciate a sophisticated and elegant design, and it offers a timeless and classic look that will never go out of style.

A pavé setting is a popular choice for engagement rings, where diamonds or other gemstones are set closely together and secured by tiny prongs, creating the appearance of a surface paved with stones. The prongs are usually very small and are not visible, allowing the diamonds to appear as if they are floating on the surface of the ring. This type of setting provides a sparkling and glamorous look, making it a favorite among those who love a high level of bling. Pavé settings can be used for the entire band or just for the ring's halo, where smaller stones surround a larger central diamond. The pavé setting is often used for vintage-inspired rings, as well as modern designs, and is available in various metals such as platinum, gold, or white gold. The pavé setting is a popular choice for those who want a ring that is both timeless and glamorous, and it offers a luxurious look that is sure to impress.

A halo setting is a popular choice for engagement rings, where a central diamond or gemstone is surrounded by a circle of smaller diamonds, creating a "halo" effect. The smaller diamonds are usually set in a pavé setting, which enhances the overall sparkle and brilliance of the ring. The halo setting can be customized to suit individual preferences, such as varying the size and shape of the central diamond or using colored gemstones instead of diamonds. The halo setting is often used for vintage-inspired rings, as well as modern designs, and is available in various metals such as platinum, gold, or white gold. This type of setting provides a stunning and sophisticated look, making it a favorite among those who want to make a statement with their engagement ring. The halo setting is a popular choice for those who appreciate a timeless and elegant design, and it offers a unique and eye-catching look that is sure to turn heads.

Cathedral Setting:

A cathedral setting is a popular choice for engagement rings, where the center diamond or gemstone is held in place by arches or prongs that extend upwards from the band, resembling the arches of a cathedral. This type of setting adds height and dimension to the ring, making it appear larger and more prominent on the finger. The arches can be plain or decorated with diamonds or other gemstones, providing additional sparkle and elegance. The cathedral setting is often used for solitaire diamonds or larger gemstones, but can also be used for smaller diamonds in a pavé setting. This type of setting is available in various metals such as platinum, gold, or white gold and can be customized to suit individual preferences, such as varying the number and design of the arches. The cathedral setting provides a classic and timeless look, making it a favorite among those who appreciate a traditional yet elegant design. The arches symbolize strength and support, making it an ideal choice for couples who want to celebrate their enduring love and commitment.

Bar Setting:

A bar setting is a popular choice for engagement rings, where diamonds or other gemstones are held in place by metal bars that run perpendicular to the ring's band. This type of setting creates a sleek and modern look, where the diamonds appear to be floating between the bars. The bar setting is often used for smaller diamonds in a pavé setting, as well as for larger diamonds or gemstones. The bars can be plain or decorated with diamonds or other gemstones, providing additional sparkle and elegance. The bar setting is available in various metals such as platinum, gold, or white gold and can be customized to suit individual preferences, such as varying the number and design of the bars. The bar setting provides a contemporary and unique look, making it a favorite among those who appreciate a modern and stylish design. The clean lines and simplicity of this type of setting allow the diamonds to shine brightly, making it an ideal choice for those who want a ring that is both elegant and understated.

Flush Setting:

A flush setting is a popular choice for engagement rings, where diamonds or other gemstones are set into the band so that they sit flush with the surface of the ring. This type of setting creates a sleek and contemporary look, where the diamonds appear to be seamlessly integrated into the band. The flush setting is often used for smaller diamonds in a pavé setting, as well as for larger diamonds or gemstones. The diamonds can be set in a single row or in a pattern, providing additional texture and visual interest. The flush setting is available in various metals such as platinum, gold, or white gold and can be customized to suit individual preferences, such as varying the number and arrangement of the diamonds. The flush setting provides a minimalist and sophisticated look, making it a favorite among those who appreciate a clean and modern design. This type of setting is also practical and secure, as the diamonds are set deeply into the band, reducing the risk of damage or loss.

 

Three-Stone Setting:

A three-stone setting is a popular choice for engagement rings, where three diamonds or other gemstones are set in a row along the ring's band. The center stone is typically larger than the two side stones, creating a focal point and enhancing the ring's overall brilliance. The three-stone setting is a versatile option, as it allows for customization of the diamond shapes and sizes, as well as the metal type and design of the band. The three stones are often said to represent the past, present, and future of a couple's relationship, making it a meaningful choice for an engagement ring. The three-stone setting can also incorporate other design elements such as a halo, pavé diamonds, or a split shank band, to add additional sparkle and detail. This type of setting is both elegant and timeless, making it a classic option for those who want a ring that will never go out of style.

 

Antique/Vintage Setting:

An antique or vintage setting is a unique and timeless choice for an engagement ring, as it offers a glimpse into the past while also embodying the elegance and sophistication of a bygone era. Antique or vintage engagement rings are typically over 50 years old and are often characterized by intricate detailing, unique metalwork, and vintage gemstones such as old European, old mine, or rose-cut diamonds. The antique or vintage setting can incorporate a range of styles, including Art Deco, Victorian, Edwardian, and Retro, each with their own distinct design elements and gemstone preferences. The metal choices for an antique or vintage setting are typically yellow gold or platinum, which was popular during these eras. The antique or vintage setting can also incorporate other design elements such as filigree, engraving, milgrain, or other delicate detailing that adds to the overall beauty of the ring. This type of setting is ideal for those who appreciate history, unique design, and the charm of a bygone era.

Cluster Setting:

A cluster setting is a design in which a group of smaller diamonds or gemstones are arranged closely together to create the appearance of a larger stone. This setting can be used for the center stone or as an accent to enhance the overall sparkle and brilliance of the ring. The cluster setting can take on a variety of shapes and designs, including round, square, oval, pear, and floral arrangements. This setting is often chosen as a more affordable alternative to a single large stone, as it creates the illusion of a larger diamond without the same cost. Cluster settings can also incorporate other design elements such as halos, pavé diamonds, or colored gemstones to add additional depth and detail to the ring. This type of setting is ideal for those who want a statement piece that is both affordable and unique in design.

Eternity Band:

An eternity band is a type of ring in which diamonds or other gemstones are set continuously around the entire circumference of the band. This design creates a never-ending circle of stones, symbolizing the eternal love between two people. Eternity bands can be set with a variety of stones, including diamonds, sapphires, rubies, emeralds, or a combination of gemstones. The diamonds or gemstones are typically set in a prong or channel setting, and the band can be made of a range of metals, including platinum, white gold, yellow gold, or rose gold. Eternity bands can be worn as a wedding band, anniversary band, or as a stacking ring to complement other pieces of jewelry. This type of band is ideal for those who want a timeless and elegant piece of jewelry that represents their everlasting love and commitment.

Shank/Split-Shank:

The shank of a ring refers to the band or the part of the ring that encircles the finger. The shank can be a simple, plain band, or it can be adorned with diamonds or other gemstones. A split-shank ring has a shank that splits into two or more bands before joining the setting. This design creates an open space or negative space between the bands, which can be left plain or decorated with additional diamonds or other design elements. Split-shank rings can be set with a variety of diamond shapes, including round, oval, pear, or cushion cuts, and can be set in a variety of settings, including prong, pavé, or halo settings. The split-shank design adds a unique and elegant touch to the ring, and is ideal for those who want a more elaborate and intricate design that stands out from traditional ring styles.

 

Infinity Engagement Ring Setting:

An infinity engagement ring setting features a symbol of infinity, which is created by a loop of diamonds or metal that encircles the center stone or the entire band. This design symbolizes the endless love between two people and is perfect for couples who want to express their everlasting commitment to each other. The infinity loop can be made of diamonds, precious metals, or a combination of both, and can be set in a variety of settings, including prong, bezel, or pavé settings. The center stone can be any shape or size, and is typically set in a solitaire or halo setting. The infinity symbol adds a unique and meaningful touch to the ring, making it a beautiful and romantic choice for an engagement ring.

Diamond shape: Different settings are more suitable for different diamond shapes. For example, a round diamond looks great in a prong or bezel setting, while an emerald-cut diamond looks better in a halo or three-stone setting.

Lifestyle: Consider your lifestyle when choosing a setting. If you lead an active lifestyle or work with your hands, a low-profile setting such as a bezel or flush setting may be more practical than a high-profile setting like a pavé or channel setting.

Personal taste: The setting you choose should reflect your personal style and taste. Take a look at rings you currently wear or admire to get an idea of what you prefer.

Budget: Different settings have different costs associated with them, so consider your budget when making your choice. Some settings, like pavé or channel settings, require more diamonds, which increases the cost of the ring.

Metal type: ANUCLUB provides a range of metal types for engagement rings,including 925 silver, 10K, 14K, and 18K white gold, yellow gold, and rose gold. The rings are made of high-quality materials and are crafted with precision and attention to detail.

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If you are interested in creating a unique customized ring, please contact our experts who will assist you in designing it and ensure that you don't overpay.

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