Different Types of Engagement Rings (Style, Shape, Setting & How to Choose)
Engagement rings come in many styles, shapes, and settings, each with unique features that appeal to different tastes. With numerous options available, selecting the right one for your partner can feel overwhelming. If you are looking for guidance on how to choose an engagement ring, you’re not alone. Many buyers turn to online resources for help selecting a ring within their budget to make the process less intimidating. This article will explore the different types of engagement rings, including their styles, shapes, and settings, to help you find the perfect one for your partner.
Engagement Ring Styles vs Settings
When you start
exploring engagement rings, the terms “style” and “setting” can be confusing. Both describe aspects of a ring, but they refer to very different things.
Style
Think of style as the personality of the ring. It’s the overall vibe or aesthetic.
- Are you going for something classic and understated?
- Romantic and vintage?
- Edgy and modern?
That’s style. It’s the kind of language people use when they say a ring “feels like them.” It’s more about the emotional impression the ring gives off.
Setting
Setting is more about the mechanics. It’s how the center diamond, or whatever stone you choose, is physically secured into the ring. This includes the structure that holds it in place and whether there are any additional stones or design elements worked into the band.
It’s a practical decision, but it also affects how the ring looks and feels to wear. So while style helps you express personal taste, setting deals with the technical design that brings that look to life. The two work together to shape your overall vision, and the setting helps make it possible. Understanding both is key to finding a ring that feels just right.
ENGAGEMENT RING SEARCH
Item Code: 31883-100
18k White Gold Tacori 2620RDP Dantela Crown Diamond Engagement Ring (0.25ctw, For 1ct Center Diamond)
18k White Gold Tacori 2620RDP Dantela Crown Diamond Engagement Ring (0.25ctw, For 1ct Center Diamond)
Price:
$4,390.00
*Center diamond not included in price
Item Code: 34489
14k White Gold Two Tone Verragio Tradition TR150R4-2T Diamond 4 Prong Engagement Ring with Rose Gold Inlay
14k White Gold Two Tone Verragio Tradition TR150R4-2T Diamond 4 Prong Engagement Ring with Rose Gold Inlay
Price:
$3,420.00
*Center diamond not included in price
Item Code: 32813
18k White Gold Simon G. MR1394 Fabled Diamond Engagement Ring
18k White Gold Simon G. MR1394 Fabled Diamond Engagement Ring
Price:
$2,340.00
*Center diamond not included in price
Item Code: 1991
Platinum Vatche U-113 6-Prong Solitaire Engagement Ring
Platinum Vatche U-113 6-Prong Solitaire Engagement Ring
Price:
$1,800.00
*Center diamond not included in price
Diamond Shapes and Stone Options
When purchasing a diamond, the shape or cut is typically the first characteristic that buyers notice. That's because different diamond shapes have distinct appearances that give them unique personalities. Round diamonds are classic and timeless, while fancy shapes like the oval or pear offer more distinctive aesthetics.
The
best way to start selecting a diamond is by learning about the various options available, including different diamond shapes and their corresponding qualities. As you read, picture each diamond shape in an engagement ring or piece of fine jewelry to help you visualize your ideal selection.
Round Shaped Diamonds
The
round diamond shape, also known as round brilliant, is a traditional shape and one of the most popular. It features
57 or 58 facets that maximize its brilliance and fire. Round diamonds display incredible light performance due to their symmetrical shape and precisely cut proportions, making it a timeless choice for engagement rings and other fine jewelry.
Round diamonds are particularly sought after for their exceptional sparkle, as their facet arrangement is specifically designed to reflect light back to the viewer's eye. This classic shape complements virtually any hand size and ring setting style, from solitaire to halo designs.
Oval Shaped Diamonds
Oval diamonds are elongated and elegant, offering a unique twist on the classic round shape. The elongated form can make the finger appear longer and slimmer, making it a flattering choice for many wearers. This shape combines the brilliance of the round cut with a more distinctive silhouette, giving it both traditional appeal and modern character.
The oval shape's elongated outline creates what jewelers call the spread effect, where the diamond appears larger than other shapes of equal carat weight. Oval diamonds often show excellent fire and brilliance, though they may sometimes display the “bow-tie effect” (a dark area across the center). When properly cut, oval diamonds strike an excellent balance between uniqueness and timeless elegance, making them an increasingly popular engagement ring choice.
Cushion Shaped Diamonds
Cushion-shaped diamonds have rounded corners and brilliant facets. This shape combines a square or rectangular outline with soft, rounded edges, giving it a vintage yet contemporary appeal. Cushions can have a chunky or crushed ice appearance based on the facet arrangement, offering different aesthetic options to suit personal taste.
With roots dating back nearly 200 years, cushion cuts were once the most popular diamond shape before the development of the modern round brilliant. Their romantic, pillow-like appearance makes them excellent for vintage-inspired settings, while still offering the fire and sparkle expected in contemporary jewelry designs.
Princess Shaped Diamonds
The princess cut is a modern and popular choice, known for its sharp, square shape with pointed corners. It offers a high level of brilliance due to its facet arrangement, combining traditional and contemporary styles. The princess shape works well in various settings and is often chosen for its bold and dramatic look.
Princess-cut diamonds typically feature 76 facets, creating an exceptional amount of sparkle and scintillation. Their geometric, clean lines make them versatile for multiple setting styles, from classic solitaires to more elaborate designs. Additionally, the princess cut is known for being less prone to showing inclusions than some other shapes, making it both beautiful and practical.
Pear Shaped Diamonds
Pear-shaped diamonds, also known as teardrop diamonds, combine the best features of round and marquise shapes. This unique shape has a rounded end on one side and a pointed tip on the other, creating a stunning, asymmetrical design. When set in a ring, pear diamonds can be positioned with the point facing toward or away from the wearer, offering flexibility in styling.
Pear cuts require skilled craftsmanship to ensure proper symmetry and to avoid the bow-tie effect, which can appear across the center of some pear diamonds. When well-cut, they offer exceptional brilliance while making a distinctive statement that stands out from more common diamond shapes.
Emerald Shaped Diamonds
Emerald-shaped diamonds are renowned for their step-cut facets, which create a “hall of mirrors” effect. This rectangular shape with beveled corners emphasizes clarity and luster over brilliance, offering a sophisticated and elegant look. Emerald cuts are ideal for those who appreciate understated, timeless beauty and prefer depth over sparkle.
Emerald diamonds have fewer facets than brilliant cuts, which means they don't hide imperfections as easily but instead highlight the diamond's other qualities. Emerald cuts offer a refined elegance that appeals to those with classic taste, and their elongated shape can make fingers appear longer.
Marquise Shaped Diamonds
Marquise diamonds have an elongated shape with pointed ends, creating a striking and elegant appearance. This shape often maximizes carat weight, making the diamond appear larger than other shapes of the same weight. Marquise diamonds are excellent for those seeking a unique and dramatic look. The distinctive look of the marquise cut has an interesting history, allegedly designed to resemble the smile of the Marquise de Pompadour at the request of King Louis XV of France.
Marquise diamonds are prized for their ability to elongate the finger and their impressive surface area, which can make them appear larger than round diamonds of the same carat weight. Their brilliant facet pattern provides sparkle, while their unique silhouette guarantees they'll stand out in any setting.
Asscher Shaped Diamonds
Asscher-shaped diamonds feature a square shape with trimmed corners and a step-cut facet pattern. This shape is similar to the emerald cut with a higher crown and smaller table. The Asscher cut offers a vintage charm and is often chosen for its distinct and bold appearance. Developed in 1902 by the Asscher Brothers of Holland, the Asscher cut features concentric squares creating a fascinating “windmill” pattern when viewed from above.
This Art Deco-inspired cut experienced a revival in popularity in the early 2000s and continues to attract those who appreciate its architectural elegance. An Asscher's unique faceting creates a captivating play of light that's different from the sparkle of brilliant cuts, instead offering a clear, hall-of-mirrors effect that showcases the diamond's clarity and color.
Heart Shaped Diamonds
Heart-shaped diamonds are a romantic and symbolic choice. They require precise cutting to ensure symmetry and brilliance, making it one of the most challenging shapes to perfect.
Typically containing 56 to 58 facets, heart-shaped diamonds offer impressive brilliance when well-cut. For the best visual impact in smaller carat weights, heart diamonds are often set in bezel or three-prong settings that protect the delicate point while highlighting the distinctive shape.
IN STOCK DIAMONDS
1.088 F VS1 Round Ideal
A CUT ABOVE®
$7,950
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1.098 F VS1 Round Ideal
A CUT ABOVE®
$7,950
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1.06 F VS1 Round Ideal
A CUT ABOVE®
$7,568
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1.03 H VS2 Round Ideal
A CUT ABOVE®
$4,937
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Whiteflash: Your Trusted Source for Engagement Rings and Diamonds
When it comes to selecting the perfect engagement ring or diamond jewelry, you want to make the right choice with complete confidence.
Whiteflash offers an extensive collection of loose diamonds, including our precision, natural
A CUT ABOVE® diamonds as well as lab-grown options, alongside designer engagement ring settings from renowned names like
Tacori and
Verragio.
Empowering Informed Diamond Purchases
Our comprehensive diamond search tools, detailed grading reports, and high-definition imaging enable you to compare cuts, evaluate color and clarity, and understand precisely what you're getting before making a purchase. With our GIA-trained team available to guide you through the selection process, you have access to both the premium inventory and expert knowledge needed to make an informed decision, whether you're building:
- A designer brand ring
- Choosing from our in-house diamonds
- Exploring our Houston Jewelry Store
From loose diamonds to complete engagement rings, we provide the quality, transparency, and customer care that make your investment pay off!
Related Reading
Engagement Ring Styles
Classic engagement rings are simple yet elegant, making them the ideal choice for
individuals who value tradition. These rings feature a clean design, accented by a single diamond or gemstone that’s beautifully complemented by subtle details. The look is refined and sophisticated and will never go out of style.
Classic engagement rings can easily match any wedding band and will look beautiful even after decades of wear. If you’re drawn to the idea of a family heirloom, classic styles are a natural fit. There are many variations within this category, such as solitaire rings, pavé settings, and milgrain detailing.
Luxe Engagement Rings: The Show-Stopping Style
Luxe engagement rings are all about the bling. These rings turn up the volume on sparkle, whether it’s with a high-carat center stone or dozens of micro-set diamonds covering every surface.
The look is bold, eye-catching, and perfect for someone who wants their engagement ring to be the ultimate statement piece. If you’re drawn to the idea of a ring that will dazzle onlookers and impress your loved ones, this is the style for you.
Vintage-Inspired Engagement Rings: The Romantic Option
If you’re looking for something with a sense of history, consider a vintage-inspired engagement ring. These rings draw design cues from the past, often featuring details such as:
- Milgrain edging
- Filigree work
- Step-cut side stones
They bring a romantic feel that’s full of character, often combining symbolic elements, such as three-stone settings, with intricate craftsmanship. If you love a sense of history and detail, this style might be for you.
Nature-Inspired Engagement Rings: The Whimsical Choice
Nature-inspired styles are all about organic beauty. From delicate floral motifs to vine-like bands and gemstone accents that resemble leaves, these rings feel soft and whimsical. They’re great for someone who finds meaning in the natural world and prefers a ring that feels a bit more personal and unique.
Modern Engagement Rings: The Sleek and Stylish Design
Modern rings often feature clean, sculptural designs. Think wide bands, split shanks, or minimal prong settings that still highlight the center stone. These rings often have an architectural or edgy quality, perfect for someone who wants a sleek, contemporary look that stands apart from traditional styles.
Engagement Ring Settings
Classic engagement rings are simple yet elegant, making them the ideal choice for individuals who value tradition. These rings feature a clean design, accented by a single diamond or gemstone that’s beautifully complemented by subtle details. The look is refined and sophisticated and will never go out of style.
Classic engagement rings can easily match any wedding band and will look beautiful even after decades of wear. If you’re drawn to the idea of a family heirloom, classic styles are a natural fit. There are many variations within this category, such as solitaire rings, pavé settings, and milgrain detailing.
Luxe Engagement Rings: The Show-Stopping Style
Luxe engagement rings are all about the bling. These rings turn up the volume on sparkle, whether it’s with a high-carat center stone or dozens of micro-set diamonds covering every surface.
The look is bold, eye-catching, and perfect for someone who wants their engagement ring to be the ultimate statement piece. If you’re drawn to the idea of a ring that will dazzle onlookers and impress your loved ones, this is the style for you.
Vintage-Inspired Engagement Rings: The Romantic Option
If you’re looking for something with a sense of history, consider a vintage-inspired engagement ring. These rings draw design cues from the past, often featuring details such as:
- Milgrain edging
- Filigree work
- Step-cut side stones
They bring a romantic feel that’s full of character, often combining symbolic elements, such as three-stone settings, with intricate craftsmanship. If you love a sense of history and detail, this style might be for you.
Nature-Inspired Engagement Rings: The Whimsical Choice
Nature-inspired styles are all about organic beauty. From delicate floral motifs to vine-like bands and gemstone accents that resemble leaves, these rings feel soft and whimsical. They’re great for someone who finds meaning in the natural world and prefers a ring that feels a bit more personal and unique.
Modern Engagement Rings: The Sleek and Stylish Design
Modern rings often feature clean, sculptural designs. Think wide bands, split shanks, or minimal prong settings that still highlight the center stone. These rings often have an architectural or edgy quality, perfect for someone who wants a sleek, contemporary look that stands apart from traditional styles.
Engagement Ring Settings
Prong Settings: The Classic Choice
Prong settings are one of the most popular and timeless methods for setting a diamond or gemstone in a ring. In this setting, small metal claws or prongs hold the stone in place, allowing it to be prominently displayed. There are typically four or six prongs holding the stone, though there can be fewer or more, depending on the design and the shape of the stone.
One of the main advantages of a prong setting is that it allows a large portion of the diamond to be exposed and viewed from more angles. The minimal metal coverage allows more light to enter the stone from various angles, enhancing its brilliance and sparkle, and revealing the diamond's full beauty.
Cathedral Settings: A Stunning Choice For Viewing Angles
Cathedral settings rise up from the band in a way that resembles cathedral arches. This is an excellent choice for making a diamond appear larger and more sparkly, as the cathedral setting requires the diamond to be set slightly higher off the ring's band, thereby magnifying the stone and allowing more light to pass through.
Cathedral settings by nature have higher set diamonds, this means that generally they fit well next to a wedding ring (see wed-fit rings). It’s easiest to see what a cathedral setting looks like from the side, as from above they can look very similar to a standard prong setting.
Bezel Settings: A Modern, Unique Choice
A bezel setting (sometimes called a 'rub-over' setting) is a
type of ring setting where the diamond is encircled by a metal rim, which holds the stone securely in place. Instead of using prongs, the metal completely (full bezel) or partially (demi bezel) surrounds the edges of the gemstone, offering sleek and modern designs such as a wave shank which can't be achieved with any other setting.
Bezel settings can accentuate the shape of the stone by framing the diamond's table in a lustrous precious metal, however, the encased stone may appear smaller as the girdle is hidden.
Tension Settings: A Unique Floating Appearance
A tension setting is a design in which the compression-spring pressure of the shank holds the stone firmly in place. The minimal interference of metal can give the impression the stone is floating.
Only extremely hard stones like diamonds, sapphires and rubies are recommended for this diamond ring setting, as they can withstand the required pressure to keep them snugly in place. One point to note is that since this design is customized to fit the center stone, it can be difficult to resize at a later date. Despite this, it's one of the most unique types of settings, making it ideal for the wearer who wants something totally different.
Bar Settings: A Contemporary Twist
A bar setting is a series of two or more thin vertical bars of metal that sit between each stone and hold them firmly in place. Bar settings can also be applied around some or all of the ring. The surface of the ring will be relatively smooth and unobtrusive, perfect for the active wearer. It also gives a classic engagement ring style a contemporary feel.
Gypsy Settings: A Smooth, Vintage Aesthetic
Gypsy settings create beautiful, simplistic engagement rings and wedding bands, and they can also be a popular choice for men's rings. This setting sets the stone flush into a hole in the ring so it doesn't protrude at all. The ring's metal is then pressed and hammered around the stone's perimeter to secure it in place. This diamond ring settings style protects a stone from being nicked because it securely holds the diamond extremely well.
Because it has an entirely smooth surface, it's less prone to snagging on clothes or getting scratched during daily wear. One of the least commonly found settings, the gypsy style has a distinct boho vibe, making it an excellent option for those with an affinity for vintage or antique rings and a free-spirited aesthetic.
Tiffany Settings: A Timeless Favorite
As its name implies, the Tiffany setting was designed by Tiffany & Co. in 1886. This diamond ring setting features six prongs that are positioned to showcase a diamond's sparkle as much as possible. It's typically paired with a plain band to draw all eyes to the diamond.
Since Tiffany trademarked this setting, there's only one store where you can get it. And, although it certainly amplifies a ring's beauty, it features higher-set prongs, so you'll want to have it checked yearly to ensure the diamond doesn't come loose. We do offer a similar setting, which you can see in the image below.
Channel Settings: A Smooth, Secure Design
Popular for both engagement and wedding rings, a channel setting sandwiches a row of stones with no metal separating them between two horizontal parallel channels for part or all of the ring.
A channel set ring, which makes up 5% of designs based on our data, protects the girdle of the stones while providing better security for small stones than a prong or pavé setting. Its surface is also completely smooth and unobtrusive.
Toi Et Moi Settings: A Sentimental Choice
The toi et moi setting is French for “you and me”, a fitting title given this ring design’s sentiment and inspiration. Two lovers are represented by twin centre gemstones that sit side by side on the ring’s band.
This setting was popularized in the late 18th century during the French Empire period and has remained a favorite among couples and celebrities alike who desire a distinctive and meaningful ring. The stones can be of equal or different sizes, shapes, colors, and even stone types, providing endless possibilities for customization. Some couples opt for matching stones, while others prefer contrasting gemstones that symbolize their individuality and complement each other.
Whiteflash: Your Trusted Source for Engagement Rings and Diamonds
When it comes to selecting the perfect engagement ring or diamond jewelry, you want to make the right choice with complete confidence.
Whiteflash offers an extensive collection of loose diamonds, including our precision, natural
A CUT ABOVE® diamonds as well as lab-grown options, alongside designer engagement ring settings from renowned names like
Tacori and
Verragio.
Empowering Informed Diamond Purchases
Our comprehensive diamond search tools, detailed grading reports, and high-definition imaging enable you to compare cuts, evaluate color and clarity, and understand precisely what you're getting before making a purchase. With our GIA-trained team available to guide you through the selection process, you have access to both the premium inventory and expert knowledge needed to make an informed decision, whether you're building:
- A designer brand ring
- Choosing from our in-house diamonds
- Exploring our Houston Jewelry Store
From loose diamonds to complete engagement rings, we provide the quality, transparency, and customer care that make your investment pay off!
Related Reading
LAB GROWN DIAMONDS
1.00 D VVS2 Round Ideal
Precision Lab Diamond
$1,150
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1.01 D VVS2 Round Ideal
Precision Lab Diamond
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1.02 D VS1 Round Ideal
Precision Lab Diamond
$995
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1.02 D VVS1 Round Ideal
Precision Lab Diamond
$1,295
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How to Choose the Engagement Ring Type
Searching for an engagement ring can be overwhelming, with numerous types to choose from. Before you start shopping for an engagement ring, consider setting a budget. This will help narrow your options and find the perfect ring within your price range. Many factors contribute to the quality and size of a diamond, so your budget will help you prioritize these quality factors.
It's always a balance between your ideal budget and achieving the desired size and quality. Collaborate with your designer as a team to source the best diamond options at the best price, striking the perfect balance for your needs.
Learn About the 4 C’s of Different Types of Engagement Rings
When searching for an engagement ring, start by learning about the
4 C’s (cut, color, clarity, and carat weight). This will help you understand how diamonds are priced and why two seemingly identical diamonds of the same size can have radically different price tags.
How to Choose the Engagement Ring Style
When selecting a diamond for your engagement ring, start with the stone shape. It's the star of the ring. If she doesn't have a favorite diamond shape in mind, here are some factors to consider when selecting a diamond shape and the overall style of the ring:
Personality and Overall Style
What is her style? Is she chic, trendy, feminine, classic, or conservative? Find a ring style that matches her fashion and taste.
Finger Proportions
Is she petite with small fingers, or are her fingers, hands, and body frame larger? For larger fingers, consider a three-stone ring or a halo style that can span the width of her finger. You'll want the ring to be proportionate to her hand.
Lifestyle
Does she have an active lifestyle? Select a diamond shape without strong angles that can be chipped or scuffed or a setting that can get caught or snagged. A bezel setting is a good choice for someone with an active lifestyle.
Most women have a few diamond shapes in mind and may be trying to decide between two or three different options. Considering these factors will help you lean toward a specific diamond shape and overall ring style.
Related Reading
Find your Dream Engagement Ring and Loose Diamonds at Whiteflash Today!
When it comes to selecting the perfect engagement ring or diamond jewelry, you want to make the right choice with complete confidence.
Whiteflash offers an extensive collection of loose diamonds, including our precision cut, natural
A CUT ABOVE® diamonds as well as lab-grown options, alongside designer engagement ring settings from renowned names like
Tacori ,
Verragio, Simon G, and A Jaffe.
Empowering Informed Diamond Purchases
Our comprehensive diamond search tools, detailed grading reports, and high-definition imaging enable you to compare cuts, evaluate color and clarity, and understand precisely what you're getting before making a purchase. With our GIA-trained team available to guide you through the selection process, you have access to both the premium inventory and expert knowledge needed to make an informed decision, whether you're building:
- A designer brand ring
- Choosing from our in-house diamonds
- Exploring our Houston Jewelry Store
From loose diamonds to complete engagement rings, we provide the quality, transparency, and customer care that make your investment pay off!