Engagement Ring Styles

When it comes to selecting engagement rings a number of different criteria for selection exist. From the type of metal, the type and number of gemstones, and the specific shape of the metal band. Generally, the type of ring one chooses is the main criterion that affects the character and importantly the price of the ring. Whilst each of the individual elements that make up the engagement ring work together to help produce the final product, it is important that the type of gemstone placement be given attention.

Engagement Ring Styles

An engagement ring style refers to the overall character of the ring as it pertains to the size, number, and placement of gemstones on the ring. And these styles vary in terms of how greatly they differ from each other with respect to the specific features of the gemstone and how it corresponds to the metal band. So by style, it is important not to confuse it with engagement rings which are defined by the cut of the gemstone. Here we will look at the top engagement ring styles, get a general overview of their key features, how they differ from one another, and the important factors you need to keep in mind when purchasing your engagement ring.

1. Solitaire Engagement Ring

Solitaire engagement rings are generally considered the top choice in the world of engagement rings. Solitaire engagement rings are immediately recognizable by the presence of a centre stone which is not accompanied by other stones, with all the attention being solely focused on the main stone. Solitaire engagement rings were popularized by the success of diamonds; where the bright, white, glowing gemstone is viewed as the centre of attention, the need for the ring to accentuate its effects, with another element of the ring being designed in a particular way to ensure that the centre stone stands out. Diamond solitaire engagement rings in many ways have become a product category of their own, with jewellers providing extensive collections of this particular ring type, an indication of its value. 

2. Halo Engagement Rings

Halo Engagement rings are a particular variety of engagement rings that feature a main centre stone that is surrounded by a circle of smaller stones that produce a halo-like effect. Halo engagement rings are valued for a number of different reasons: from the simplicity of their design, and the wonderful visual style, to the potential connection to the mystical. The halo that surrounds the centre stone carries a number of advantages: from its ability to accentuate the effect of the centre stone to creating that distinct circular style, and can be seen as a more intricate engagement ring style. The circle of gemstones that surround the centre stone, known as round pavé, can vary in size from a more conventional round pave to the more intricate micro-pave diamond setting. The halo engagement rings need not be limited to diamonds, as other top gemstones like sapphires and rubies can take their place, either in the centre stone or as the surrounding stones. In addition to diamond alternatives. 

2.1 Floating Halo Style

A stylistic variant in the halo engagement ring style the floating halo style incorporates the basic halo setting but differs in the centre stone stands apart from the halo, and in some ring setting a level above it. The floating halo is a result of great craftsmanship that lays the centre at a higher level, whilst maintaining that halo life effect consisting of tiny accent stones. However the space between the two produces the floating effect that makes it a special design for those looking for a halo engagement ring.

2.2 Double Halo Style

As the name implies the double halo style engagement ring features two rather one halos: consisting of accent stones that circle the main or centre stone. Among the more luxurious additions depending on the type and clarity of the accent stone, double halo style rings simply double the core strengths of the basic halo engagement ring. Whilst this style is not for everyone, those looking for something more sparkly are in for a good choice. Some of the double halo styles are found in milkway like ring designs for you to choose from.

3. Three Stone Engagement Rings (Trilogy Engagement Rings)

Three stone engagement rings, as their name implies refer to engagement rings that have three main gemstones rather than one or two. Three stone engagement rings tend to feature a larger centre stone, supported by two larger, but slightly smaller side stones. Three stone engagement rings are like the new kids on the block, as they combine more than two gemstones in a single ring, with a variety of gemstone cuts and shapes to accompany them. In addition, three stone rings, due to the higher number of stones, give more customisation features for the jewellery designer. Who can combine a variety of gemstone types, colours, and sizes in a single ring? Three stone rings are also known as trinity rings, and this particular style has become more popular in recent times, with modern couples preferring them over traditional styles.

_{Three Stone (Trilogy) Engagement Ring Style}

4. Cluster Engagement Rings

Cluster engagement rings can be seen as the products of modern technology when it comes to ring design and craftsmanship. The ability of modern jewellery designers to place a number of gemstones in a particular way, to produce various stylistic effects that match the specific design of the ring band is a great addition to the world of engagement ring designs. Cluster engagement rings are becoming popular due to their cost-effective character. Since a single large gemstone with a larger carat (e.g. 1-carat diamond) is quite pricey, whereas a larger number of smaller diamonds of various sizes, arranged well can match the presence of a single large stone. This produces a cluster-like effect that is not too different from a single stone ring. And in addition to value for money, cluster engagement rings now come with their own set of styles which keeps your options open.

5. Vintage Engagement Rings

The term ‘vintage’ is a term with a wider application in the world of engagement rings. As rings that fall under this category contain a number of styles, and stylistic variants, almost all of them take inspiration from artistic periods of the decades past. Technically, vintage engagement rings apply to any ring whose style is not of the present. This means there is no single ‘vintage design’ to look for. Rather what you have are a collection of styles inspired by famous times that have placed their mark on the market for engagement rings. These include eras such as the Victorian, Edwardian and Art Deco eras. When it comes to core characteristics of vintage engagement rings customers should look out for elements such as filigrees and milgrain, in addition to the presence of geometric shapes and features of nature. Of course, how these elements are integrated into a specific ring design depends on the jeweller in question.

6. Colour Accent Engagement Rings

In case you are hearing about this for the first, the explanation is simple: colour accented engagement rings feature classic gemstone engagement rings, whether diamond, sapphire or any other top gemstones but differ in that they necessarily feature accent stones, quite a few, and almost always the accent stones are of vibrant colour. Meaning the accent stones which embellish the crown and/or shank of the ring, are of the coloured gemstone variety: with sapphires for blue accent stones, rubies and garnets for red accent stones, amethysts for purple accent stones, aquamarines for sea blue accent stones and so on. Essentially colour accented engagement rings are ring styles that feature top quality ring designs that feature a main stone such as diamond or sapphire or amethyst, but additionally feature an array of coloured accent stones to enhance its look. If you are someone who likes more colour in their engagement rings, this would be it.

7. Split Shank Engagement Rings

If the idea that two or more gemstones are better than one in an engagement ring is true, then why go for a ring style that features a design that appears to have four bands combined into one? Well with the split shank engagement ring you stand to gain a remarkable ring style where the metal band of the ring split in two on both sides of the ring as it nears the shoulder, just before the crown. Producing the effect of four rather than two metal shanks that connect to the middle of the ring. Among the more stylistically complex but visually captivating styles, a spilt shank is a wonderful option for anyone who wishes to communicate a sense of style in an artistically intricate design. The selling point is the style of the band, and the split shank engagement ring comes in a number of variants from those which are embellished with accent stones to those which feature filigree and milgrain additions. A stylish and distinct engagement ring that opens the door to numerous customisation options.

8. Filigree Engagement Rings

A variant in the vintage line of engagement rings, the filigree engagement ring style refers to a particular range of fine bridal jewellery that features fine ornamental metal working that is present as distinct tracery. For those who are familiar with certain forms of Eastern architecture, the prevalence of lines of metal that creep in stylistic ways producing a particular look is what is captured in the filigree engagement ring style. A ring style that is traditionally associated with designs from the past or that is inspired by different cultures, the filigree style is not a modern one, and is suitable for those with a particular stylistic preference when it comes to their choice of engagement rings. It is an engagement ring style that is suitable for those who value artistic skill and wish to incorporate metalworking that communicates a level of complexity and value.

If there is anyone who is looking for a Celtic-inspired engagement ring style then the Claddagh engagement ring could be the ring style for you. A ring and jewellery that predates their adoption in the engagement rings, the origins of the Claddagh style go back centuries to Irish folklore with the characteristic feature of a heart or heart-shaped gemstone held by clasping hands. Meant to symbolise love and loyalty the Claddagh is a ring style that contains elements of nature and is associated with a place called Claddagh in the West of Ireland from which the name is derived. The stylistic choice to opt for a Claddagh engagement ring can come down to a number of factors, however, the simple question is that if you love Ireland's Celtic culture and want a ring that communicates it then the Claddagh should be the choice for you.

9. Flush Set Engagement Rings

An interesting name for an interesting ring style. The flush set engagement ring is a ring style that takes inspiration from bezel set engagement ring but differs in that the main gemstone (or gemstones if we are talking about a multi-stone ring) is drilled into the metal band. The keyword here is ‘drill’. Unlike in bezel setting, where the gemstone appears to be encased in the metal band, the flush set engagement rings incorporate the gemstone into the band, as if the metal has been craved out to make room for the gemstone. Whilst there is some debate on how the flush set is developed the core idea is that the gemstone has been set inside a drilled region in the band.

10. Cathedral Engagement Rings

A somewhat difficult ring style to define, since the cathedral setting rests on the basic idea of having the centre stone set in an elevated position. Almost like the spire of a Christian cathedral, with the key components of the ring: from the gallery, shoulders and the crown structured in a way to elevate the centre stone. It is important to note that the exact setting that is adapted to produce a cathedral style engagement can vary: with prongs, trellis type claws used to produce the elevated effect. The key however lies in the elevated structure where the centre stone stands noticeably apart from the rest. Generally, cathedral styles only come in solitaire settings and are a great option for those wishing to showcase the centre stone of their ring of engagement.

11. Baroque Engagement Rings

A rarer ring design, that technically could fall under the heading of vintage engagement rings styles, owing to its historical inspiration. The baroque style goes back to 1500 and its stylistic tradition continued for a few hundred years it was one that was characterised by richness, and grandeur and often had an upward orientation. Influenced by the religious upheavals in Europe the baroque style was defined by its emphasis on ornamentation. Thus the baroque engagement ring style takes inspiration from this period and lays strong emphasis on luxury, and extravagance, with styles inspired by ecclesiastical architecture being a feature. Of course, finding such baroque-style engagement rings is not easy, but for those who are inspired by those times and wish for a more distinct ring style the baroque engagement ring is a good option.

12. Art Deco Engagement Rings

Another ring style that comes under the heading of vintage engagement rings, the art deco inspired engagement ring style is known for its boldness. The art deco was an artistic movement of the 1920s and 30s that placed emphasis on order and the symmetry of design at the same time combining elements of luxury. Art Deco inspired ring styles are not the easiest to come by as most jewellery companies provide ring styles that come under different periods of the past. However, when you find an art deco style engagement ring you will notice it. The presence of square and emerald shaped gemstones, and the rigidity of the ring style are some such features to look for.

13. Minimalistic Engagement Rings

The minimalistic or minimalist engagement ring comes down to one core idea: simplicity. Much has been made of engagement ring designs in terms of complexity, the presence of new stylistic additions, and how these reflect in the final character of the ring: notably in terms of the number of gemstones, the nature of the metal band etc. In minimalistic engagement rings what you are getting is a ring design that follows a design philosophy that believes that less is more. A ring that follows this guideline makes do with less but seeks to communicate as much as it can in terms of the final character of the ring. So when it comes down to it we are not talking about the type of setting, gemstone type, or metal band features. Whilst setting could have an impact, what the ring designer is seeking to do is to produce an engagement ring design that contains the key features of an engagement ring and nothing more. They are generally more affordable but not necessarily and are easy on the eye.

14. Oval Engagement Rings

Oval engagement rings are defined by the presence of the oval cut diamond or other gemstones. The oval cut is actually a gemstone shape that is an elongated round that, differs from the more popular round brilliant cut. The origins of the oval shaped stones and diamonds specifically go back many years into the past, however, their popularity started to grow around the 1960s with the emergence of the modern oval cut that was popularized by a member of the Abraham Tolkowsky diamond cutting family. Oval cut diamonds can be considered a more trendy option that stands apart from more conventional diamond cuts that dominate the market today. Oval cut diamonds, and other gemstones that feature this look, have grown in popularity in recent years. In diamonds, an oval cut stone captures much but not all the sparkle of a round brilliant cut diamond but with a more distinctive, elongated shape. And isn't it a great choice in coloured gemstones like sapphires?

15. Cushion Cut Engagement Rings

The cushion cut gemstone is known for its combination of style and restraint. A gemstone shape holds an interesting middle ground between the top variants like round cut diamonds and other princess diamond cuts. The term cushion cut is generally used in relation to diamonds, which is where many of the gemstone cuts originate from, but there are also adopted in other top gemstones. A cushion cut combines elements of the old mine faceted diamond pattern, which has sort of gone out of fashion with the design of the modern round brilliant cut. It is easily identifiable via its soft rectangular, or square, with rounded edges that appear like a cushion. The smooth edges make it comfortable on the eye and a solid choice for engagement rings.

16. Princess Cut Engagement Rings

Among the more contemporary diamond and gemstone cut options, the princess cut captures many of the positives that engagement ring buyers look for in the gemstone shape of choice. The immediately distinguishable square shape and its cut edges make it a visually striking choice for engagement rings. This diamond cut is known to showcase great thanks to its angular, geometric patterns on its surface. And compared to other non-round cut diamonds, it is among the top stones that showcase the brilliant cut facets with quite a visibility when viewed under the light. Whilst diamonds are top gemstones for princess cut, other gemstones like sapphire, emeralds and rubies and even amethysts make a good choice when paired with a solid band. Princess cut engagement rings are among the most popular gemstone cuts in the market today, arguably second only to the round brilliant cut. A clean, clear diamond or gemstone cut for the modern buyer.

17. Pear Engagement Rings

Pear shaped diamond or gemstone engagement rings are among the more exotic shapes in the world of fine jewellery. Also known as tear shaped engagement rings, rings that feature gemstones that are cut in this fashion are relatively rare and are considered a stylistic variant that is among most distinguishable in the diamond world. Whilst diamonds are the popular choice of the gemstone when it comes to pear engagement rings, typically any light or colourless gemstones like moissanite or even white sapphires can be great options to capture the white clarity of this shape. The most striking aspect of the pear engagement ring is the distinct curves of the pear cut gemstones, with its lovely shape that meets at the pointed end. Known for its great scintillation and brilliance the pear shaped engagement ring is a femininely stylistic choice. Whilst it is not the most convenient option, it is a gemstone cut that is also among the oldest (the 1400s). Being a product of technical breakthroughs in gemstone faceting, the pear engagement ring is a choice for the stylistically confident.

18. Emerald Cut Engagement Rings

The emerald cut is among the oldest gemstone cuts in the world. And true to its name its origins come from the particular shape that was applied to emeralds of old. The origins of emerald cut go back hundreds of years to the 16^th century, when it was recognised for the reduced pressure it applied to gemstones which helped prevent breakages like chipping. Over time the emerald cut started to see greater adoption in the diamond industry owing to its distinct elongated look, with clean lines and visible symmetry. Known for its strong visual presence on an engagement ring, the sparkle and brightness are not the main strengths of this gemstone so when it comes to purchasing gemstones cut in this fashion it is important to optimise for clarity. As a variant of the step cut family, emerald cut stones are a great choice for engagement rings which feature a sapphire, ruby or emerald centre stone.

19. Two Tone Engagement Rings

There are two ways to understand two tone engagement rings. One definition is that they consider engagement rings that are built using two different types of metals: such as gold and platinum, or platinum and palladium. The difference in the type of metal produces a noticeable visual effect. Whilst subtle it is different. The definition of the two tone engagement ring, and the most popular type involves a singe metal ring that contains metals of different hues: such as featuring a combination of two hues such as rose gold and yellow gold or white gold and rose gold. The trick so to speak lies in the unique band style that must accommodate two tone to metals that differ in terms of hue or tone and sometimes the type. The two tone engagement is certainly an option for those looking for something stylish and outlandish at the same time.

20. Custom Engagement Ring Designs

Nowadays many couples are going for a custom engagement ring design. Of course, these designs are also based on the same design principles and characteristics. However, mixing up a traditional design with some original ideas would help us to get a really unique custom design.

What is the Right Engagement Ring Style for You?

When it comes to picking the right engagement ring style there is no shortage of options. In addition to the most recognised styles, engagement rings also come in combined or mixed settings such as oval halo, split shank, channel setting and so on. Today with the rise of customised jewellery, potential jewellery buyers can make other additions and personalised changes that alter the engagement ring style in unique ways, whilst keeping the fundamentals of the main ring style in place. The problem when it comes to choosing a specific engagement ring style, the challenge lies in being able to find stylistic elements that match your expectations and that can operate within your budget range.

Certain types such as designer engagement rings, come with specific styles that combine various features of other styles but provide them in more top designs, which come with the added cost factor. In addition, potential buyers must understand that not all jewellery companies are able to provide these various alternatives: either in terms of set ring designs or custom-made options. Also, certain designs tend to feature only certain gemstones: such as diamond simulants, or artificial diamonds. So there are a lot of factors to consider when picking the right engagement ring style, the key is knowing what you want, and what you are willing to pay for it, and finding a jeweller who can meet your demands.