Author: Nikhil Aurora
Linkedln Profile: https://www.linkedin.com/in/nikhil-aurora-aa39681/
An engagement ring is the first step towards a lifelong commitment. This small piece of jewellery will symbolize your love and commitment through the good times and bad. This is why choosing the perfect ring is of the utmost importance.
Selecting the perfect engagement ring can be an overwhelming process as there is so much to consider - but do not fret as we are here to help you navigate this important journey!
The first step while purchasing any diamond ring is knowing your 4Cs - carats, cuts, colour, and clarity. To know more, take a look at our Diamond 101 guide.
For a stress-free process, we recommend you follow these simple steps:
- Set the budget.
- Consider your partner’s style.
- Choose the diamond shape.
- Choose the right metal.
- Know your carat size.
- Always make comparisons.
- Get the correct size.
- Always buy certified.
- Ensure the certificate matches the diamond.
- Remember to negotiate.
Parts of an engagement ring
If you’ve already started looking for a ring, then you’ve probably come across certain words like prongs, peg, and shank, among others. Confused? Not to worry! These are the different parts of the ring, and knowing what the terminology means can help select your perfect engagement ring.
- Head: This is the part that holds the diamond.
- Prongs: The prongs are part of the head and hold the diamond. This is also known as the “claw setting”.
- Peg: The peg is located in the base of the head. It plants a hole in the diamond to keep it securely in place. Remember that not all heads have a peg.
- Mounting: This refers to the entire ring minus the diamond.
- Shoulder: This is the portion of the ring beside the main diamond where additional stones may be set. It usually rises higher than the rest of the band.
- Side Stones: The ring you choose may or may not have side stones.
- Shank: This refers to the band that makes up the bottom of the ring that wraps around the finger’s base.
Let’s move on to the different types of ring settings and styles.
Engagement ring setting and style
An engagement ring setting and style refers to the way a diamond is secured onto a metal band. This is important in both form and function as it protects and holds the center diamond and contributes to the look and feel of the engagement ring.
Picking the right ring setting and style depends on the center stone and your personal style. Most traditional engagement ring settings have four prongs holding the stone in place.
Another thing to consider when looking at engagement rings is to consider your partner’s daily lifestyle. A high-set diamond will be prone to chipping or might fall off if your partner’s work involves the use of hands or if they lead an active lifestyle. So, it is preferable to choose a lower setting. For a more personal touch, you can go for a setting and select a style that is custom-made for you. If you’re worried about making the wrong choice, you can always consult a professional gemologist.
Types of engagement ring setting and style
The purpose of the setting and style is to highlight the diamond's beauty and protect it from damage. With so many engagement ring settings and styles out there, it can be hard to know which one you should choose. Remember that picking an engagement ring is all about your individual preferences. Choosing a ring to reflect your style, taste, and values will help mark one of the most special and memorable moments in life. If you’re stuck on what type to choose, we’re here to help. We have created a short list of the different styles to make it easier for you.
Here are five common types of engagement ring setting and style.
1. Prong
A prong is a narrow metal support that holds the diamond in place. A ring usually has four to six prongs. When prongs are used to secure a single stone, the ring is called a “solitaire.” There are many variations to the prong setting. Some of them are common round, pointed, double claw, flat tab, and shared prongs.
2. Bezel
A bezel setting is a metal rim with edges fully or partially surrounding the perimeter of the stone. Unlike solitaire settings, which hold the diamond in place with delicate prongs, a bezel setting is a style in which the diamond is secured and surrounded by a thin frame of metal. A bezel setting is not as common as traditional prong settings. However, it offers a more unique and modern aesthetic. Along with providing unparalleled protection, they also have a sleek finish which makes them stand out.
3. Halo
This engagement ring setting refers to a style where tiny diamonds encircle the center stone. A halo setting is also one of the most popular styles for engagement rings, mainly because it makes the center stone appear larger than its carat weight. They come in many shapes and sizes, from glam double halos to large, vintage-inspired sunbursts and add more sparkle to an engagement ring.
4. Pavé
A pavé setting involves rows of several tiny stones fit into holes that set them level with the surface of the ring. The surrounding metal is raised to form beads that secure the gems. The multitude of pavé diamonds creates an eye-popping engagement ring with lots of sparkle. They also offer an extra shine without distracting from the center diamond.
5. Cathedral
A cathedral style uses sweeping arcs that extend from the shank to frame the centre stone, turning it into the ring's focal point. This engagement ring setting is ideal for accentuating your center stone because it allows the diamond to sit higher on your finger. And remember, a higher setting also makes it easier to add additional bands for a clean look.
Some of the other options include
- Basket
- Bar
- Tension
- Three-Stone
- Infinity
- Vintage
- Swirl
- Colour-Accent
- Tiffany
- Channel-Set
Now that you’ve looked at the different types of engagement ring settings and styles, you can go ahead and pick “the one”. We would like to leave you with a little bonus tip. Once you’ve found the perfect engagement ring, you’ll want to insure it. Should the ring ever be lost or stolen, you would receive fair compensation. Insurers typically require a diamond grading report before issuing a policy, and that’s another reason to make sure your purchase comes with one.