I always love to be invited to the engagement parties where the new couple are proudly showing off their gorgeous new ring. Everyone is always blown away by the stunning sparkle and shine of our engagement rings. We try to explain the difference is that we focus not only on the center stone, but also what type of setting will highlight that stone while capturing the newly engaged couples style. This is the magical combination that makes our engagement ring sparkle like no other.
Are all engagement rings exciting? YES! What many people fail to recognize is that the setting and diamond you choose will make a BIG difference on how your diamond shines. Pairing a diamond with the wrong setting is like putting a light under a basket -- you might snuff out its radiance. The right setting not only compliments your unique tastes, but it also displays your stone in all its splendor. So while you're hunting for the perfect diamond, I always tell people to consider a setting that will show off the beauty of the stone as well. On the other hand, if you're looking to upgrade an existing ring, finding the right setting could unlock new dimensions of sparkle and shine.
So, for summer 2021 trends and styles, I’ve chosen a few of our favorite settings and detailed why one style might fit your diamond or finger better than any other.
Solitaire
The solitaire style of engagement ring is one of the most recognizable and common settings throughout history. Simple yet elegant, a single diamond is held in place by 4 to 6 prongs. A beautiful example is this Timeless Round Cut Solitaire Engagement Ring by Fana.
The biggest advantage of the solitaire setting is that more of your diamond is exposed, allowing light to pour through the stone and magnify its brilliance. This is especially true in a lower prong setting. Solitaire style also shows off any and all diamond cuts, be it round, princess, pear, or marquise. Fana also adds that amazing Blue Sapphire in the shank of the ring to allow you to be ready with your “something blue” for the big day!
Halo
In a halo style ring, small diamonds are placed in a circle or square around a larger center stone, forming a shimmering "halo". This exquisite setting makes the center stone pop and appear bigger. Halos are also a fantastic option if you have a smaller diamond and want to boost its appearance, while increasing the overall sparkle of the ring. You can even add a double halo, or halos of different shapes, such as flowers. Plus, you can contrast the colors of the halo by using various gemstones or metals.
Three Stone
This classic style is steeped with meaning. Each of the three stones represent the couple’s history. The first stone represents the past, the middle stone the present and the final stone the future. This style is also extremely versatile for a variety of different occasions. Not only does it work for engagements, but also anniversaries, the birth of children and other important life events.
The stones in this style of ring can vary in size, but more often than not, the center stone is accompanied by 2 smaller ones and this one has some surrounding diamonds in the shank of the ring. You can further personalize this style with colored side-stones, such as sapphires, emeralds or other birthstones. This Fana 3 stone is a great example of how accents can beautifully highlight a three-stone arrangement. You can also see again the addition of the Blue Sapphire in the shank.
Split Shank
You may have heard jewelers refer to something called a "shank". Well, the shank is actually the band of the ring, which encircles your finger. In a split-shank, the band is split into two, creating a unique and striking appearance. With designs that can be either contemporary or classic, a split-shank draws the eye towards the center stone, making it more noticeable. A split-shank also gives additional real estate to add side-stones and sparkle. This Simon G Engagement ring is a graceful example, where the center stone is offset by prong style stones in the band and the sides.
Vintage
If you crave a piece of fine jewelry that speaks of a bygone era, look no further than a vintage ring. Vintage rings are designed to look like they were made during specific time periods, such as Victorian, Edwardian or Art Deco. They often have multiple stones or halos. Additionally, two key features that usually distinguish vintage rings are milgrain and filigree. Milgrain is the term used to describe tiny raised beads of metal. Filigree is the fine threads of metal twisted into delicate designs, like leaves or flowers. Both milgrain and filigree give the ring its distinctive vintage look. This Noam Carver Engagement Ring showcases both to stunning effect. Notice how the filigree inlaid with smaller stones, paired with the delicate milgrain texture, beautifully display the center diamond.
Enhance Any Diamond at Yelton Fine Jewelers
As you can see, the setting of a ring makes an enormous difference in how the diamond is presented. Whether it's solitaire, halo, three stone, split shank, vintage, or custom, each style has its specific strengths.
At Yelton Fine Jewelers, we have over three decades of experience in curating the perfect balance of bling and ring. We've seen how different stones work within different settings and know how to bring out the light in every shape of diamond. Make an appointment today and we can walk you through our wide selection of styles. Together we'll discover the perfect setting to show off your one-of-kind love with one-of-a-kind style.