ENGAGEMENT RING SETTINGS

When we talk about engagement rings, you may notice us describing the settings for the pieces with terms you haven’t heard before, like “side stone” or “solitaire.” If you’re new to the world of jewelry design, particularly engagement ring design, you may need a little assistance to lead you to the right engagement ring. Have no fear! Rottermond Jewelers is ready to provide a handy guide to engagement ring settings, which will also discuss the aesthetics of the settings and the kind of tastes for which they’re ideal.

SOLITAIRE

Solitaire settings are, as the name implies, “solitary.” They only utilize one center stone without any diamonds or gems along the shank. Traditionally, solitaire rings have featured prong settings—which are great for showing off diamonds. However, there’s nothing stopping contemporary designers from utilizing bezel settings, and in fact, many of the most modern styles have taken advantage of half-bezels, as well as etching and finishes in the shank itself. But when you’re looking for a style that embraces what prongs can do, or you’re looking to show off a big, gorgeous center stone, the solitaire is a great choice.

TENSION-SET

We discussed prong and bezel settings when talking about solitaires, but it’s important to distinguish the tension-set as a unique form of engagement ring setting. Why set it apart? Because it requires that the entire structure of the engagement ring shank be worked around the design. Tension settings usually come in one of two varieties. First, the engagement ring aficionado will often see a “tweezer” style (though far more beautiful!) shank curving against either side of the center stone. Alternatively, a center crown can be shaped like a “U” to show off the sides and point of a diamond. In either case, it’s a marvel of engineering that draws a lot of attention to the overall design of the ring.

HALO

Halos are a particularly bold engagement ring style, and this is thanks in part to the history that goes into halo rings. Popularized during the Art Nouveau and Art Deco periods, halos are characterized by the disc of precious metal and stones that circles the center stone. The halo can add up to a carat of “visible weight” to the center stone, making it a great choice for a more compact diamond, such as a round cut. A trend of the Art Deco period, adding sapphires to the halo, can also be a great choice for the woman who wants to add some color and personalization to her ring.

SIDE STONE

The name “side stone,” in this case, refers to the general idea of stones being set along the shank of the engagement ring. An extremely broad category, side stone engagement rings can be as simple as prong-set diamonds arranged in a straight line, or as complex as entire panels of invisible-set stones. As with halo rings, there can be a multiplicity of colored gems, but unlike halos, they don’t necessarily steal the show. Emeralds, sapphires, rubies, and colored diamonds can all make an appearance on the side stone ring. Striking a happy medium between the center-focused solitaire and the multi-stone mosaic of a halo, side stone rings are great for the woman who appreciates balanced beauty.

THREE STONE

From one large center stone to two mid-size stones on either side of it, the three stone engagement ring will inevitably draw the eye across it. Designers use the three stone style to show off complementary and contrasting shapes, such as pairing round-cut diamonds with two chevron cuts; or a large princess cut with two smaller ones. The three stone look is also treasured for its symbolic value. With a prominent three, these rings can be used to represent any big triad in a woman’s life—maybe her guy proposed in March. Maybe she wants three kids. Really, the sky’s the limit when it comes to this remarkable style of ring.

If you’d like to learn more about engagement ring styles, particularly those we offer at Rottermond Jewelers, don’t hesitate to give us a call today at 248-685-1150 for our Milford, Michigan store; or 810-220-0015 for our Brighton, Michigan showroom!