Engagement ring styles reflect the wearer’s personality, lifestyle, and taste. “Style” refers to the overall aesthetic of a ring — its look and feel — and “setting” is the way stones are arranged and mounted on a ring. Understanding which type appeals to the wearer may help narrow down choices when ring shopping. Here are some of the options to choose from when selecting engagement rings:
1. Classic
Classic or traditional engagement rings utilize clean lines, pavé accents, and solitaire settings. The three-stone appearance, where a smaller stone on each side flanks one larger stone, is a setting often associated with the classic style. Using small stones in another color, filigree designs on the band, and the choice of gold can add personality while still retaining a classic style. Some examples of classic ring styles include:
- Solitaire: A single stone, most often a diamond, set on a clean, simple band. The stone can be any color and shape, and the band color may vary, too.
- Halo or double halo: The center stone is encircled with smaller stones to create an illusion of one large center stone. Double halos feature two circles around a center stone.
- French cut: This features a square or rectangular diamond. The stone may be set straight up and down, or the square shape is put on its tip to create a diamond shape.
2. Vintage
Vintage-inspired rings feature intricate details that replicate the look of one-of-a-kind rings created by craftsmen. Antique-inspired rings might use filigree, milgrain, or floral motifs to create a whimsical, romantic style. Rings mimicking a certain era might see other details and use of both white and yellow gold or Victorian milgrain and diamond clusters. Even though they are inspired by certain periods, vintage-style rings can still feel timeless and become heirloom pieces for future generations.
3. Romantic
Wedding rings typically evoke some sense of romance, but the style offers more delicate, soft details. Warmer-toned golds, round or pear-shaped diamonds, and curved lines are options for engagement rings. Pink stones and rose gold can be found in many options, such as cushions or emeralds. Heart-shaped diamonds are another option that helps capture the style representing love and fidelity.
4. Modern
Modern styles can be inspired by bold lines of modern architecture. They are more sculptural and often feature a stand-out centerpiece stone and a sleek, wearable design. The gemstone might be a diamond, but a large emerald or sapphire could be used to add style. Bevel settings, when metal wraps around the center stone, are found in some modern rings to create a floating look. Though the number of stones tends to be minimalist, bold features like asymmetry and squared-off shapes add interest to this ring style.
5. Unique or Custom
If traditional styles don’t suit the wearer, there are several unique options for one-of-a-kind engagement rings. There are rings to fit every personality, from nature-inspired designs to rings full of colorful stones or no stone at all. Some individuals or couples may even seek the custom route and create a ring entirely from scratch that blends elements from multiple styles. Jewelers may be open to customizing one of their existing rings to make your dream design. Some options to create a unique engagement ring include:
- Gemstone. Use a colorful stone or opt away from stones for a pearl. Adding more than one kind of stone also helps a ring stand out.
- Metal. Try out rose gold, platinum, or mixed metals to give your ring a non-traditional look.
- Setting. Insert more than one stone, mix stone shapes, or try an asymmetrical setting to give your engagement ring a unique style.
Finding Engagement Rings
Finding an engagement ring to help reflect a wearer’s style might involve many try-ons at the store. To help avoid burnout, become familiar with engagement ring styles beforehand and determine what features matter most to you, such as a modern or vintage style. Set a budget and know what metals, gemstones, and design details to look for. Whether you’re looking for a classic solitaire or a modern geometric design, there is a ring to fit your style preferences. Contact a jeweler to help determine which style fits your preferences and other custom options you might want to choose from.
