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Expertise you can trust: Brilliant Earth is known for its award-winning jewelry designs and seamless, innovative shopping experience. This Brilliant Earth engagement ring guide explores different engagement ring styles and types of engagement ring settings. All Brilliant Earth guides are meticulously researched and reviewed by our certified gemologists, content, editorial, and brand teams before publication to ensure industry-leading excellence and accuracy.
Engagement Ring Styles vs. Settings
Choosing the perfect engagement ring involves understanding two important elements: style and setting. While many people use style and setting interchangeably, these terms represent distinct features that influence the ring’s appearance and function.
- Engagement Ring Style: An engagement ring style refers to the overall aesthetic and design direction of the ring. It captures the visual theme, whether vintage-inspired, modern, classic, or nature-driven. Styles guide the artistic expression of the ring, shaping how it reflects personal taste and lifestyle.
- Engagement Ring Setting: An engagement ring setting refers to the specific technique used to mount and secure the center stone in the ring. The setting directly impacts durability, light performance, and day-to-day practicality. Settings also play a major role in highlighting the diamond or gemstone.
Think of style as the personality of the ring and setting as its architecture. A style conveys mood — romantic, bold, or timeless — while a setting provides the physical framework that secures the stone and supports the design. Together, they create the complete engagement ring.
Engagement Ring Styles
Engagement ring styles describe the visual direction of the design, which may include inspiration from historic eras, fashion movements, or unique artistic themes.
Vintage & Antique Engagement Ring Styles
Vintage-inspired engagement rings borrow from the romance of past eras such as Victorian, Edwardian, and Art Deco. These styles often feature filigree, milgrain edges, and hand-engraved details that distinguish them from more contemporary designs. Settings like cushion halos, cathedral mountings, and marquise side stones are particularly popular in vintage-inspired pieces. These timeless designs connect modern couples to the rich history and craftsmanship of jewelry traditions.
Classic & Timeless Engagement Ring Styles
Classic engagement rings feature timeless design motifs like clean lines and delicate diamond accents. These styles tend to include solitaires, three-stone settings, and simple pavé bands that highlight the center stone without overwhelming it. The simplicity and elegance of classic styles make them both the perfect choice for the piece of jewelry you'll wear forever and excellent future heirlooms. These rings remain popular across generations because of their versatility and ability to complement any personal style.
Unique Engagement Ring Styles
Unique engagement ring styles appeal to individuals seeking non-traditional or custom elements that reflect personal identity. This may include asymmetrical designs, colored gemstones, mixed metals, or organic band shapes. Settings like tension mounts, curved bands, or cluster gemstone arrangements offer alternatives to classic engagement ring settings that provide an element of distinction. With an array of design element options available, creating a unique style engagement ring has never been more exciting.
Modern Engagement Ring Styles
Modern rings emphasize bold lines and contemporary aesthetics that break from traditional engagement ring conventions. Features may include geometric settings, east-west orientation, or minimalist metalwork that creates visual interest through form rather than embellishment. Bezel settings, knife-edge bands, and architectural prong designs exemplify the clean, understated elegance paired with innovative stone cuts that define modern styles. The hallmark of a modern setting is its focus on individual expression rather than convention, often combining technical innovation with artistic vision.
Nature and Floral Engagement Ring Styles
Nature-inspired rings showcase organic motifs such as leaves, vines, and petals that evoke the beauty of the natural world. This style highlights intricate metalwork and often includes accent stones strategically placed to mimic natural forms like flower petals. Settings such as vine-wrapped bands, petal-shaped halos, and leaf-accented prongs create a romantic connection to the outdoors and seasonal beauty. These nature-inspired styles can be accented with diamonds or other gemstones (such as green sapphires that evoke leaves) to create meaningful symbolic designs.
Luxe Engagement Ring Styles
Luxe engagement rings emphasize grandeur and brilliance with dramatic, eye-catching designs that make a statement. These rings often feature halos, pavé bands, or multiple accent diamonds strategically placed to maximize sparkle and create a sense of opulence. Settings like three stone rings and substantial diamond bands showcase craftsmanship while creating a luxurious presence on the finger. Luxe styles all have one thing in common: no shortage of diamonds and an unforgettable impression that celebrates the significance of the commitment they represent.
Types of Engagement Ring Settings
An engagement ring setting is the method used to secure the center stone to the band. Each type of engagement ring setting offers different levels of protection, brilliance, and style versatility.
Cathedral Engagement Ring Settings
Drawing inspiration from Gothic architecture, cathedral settings feature elegant metal arches that gracefully rise from the band to cradle and elevate the center stone. This artistic design includes sweeping supports often complemented by intricate metalwork or accent stones along the arches. The elevated position allows additional light to flow through the diamond, enhancing its natural brilliance and fire while creating a dramatic, statuesque profile on the finger. This timeless setting adds architectural interest and romance to any engagement ring, making it a popular choice for those who appreciate both classic elegance and distinctive character.
Bezel Engagement Ring Settings
Bezel engagement rings feature a precious metal border that completely or partially encircles the center gemstone, securing it firmly in place. This sophisticated design can be crafted with a full rim surrounding the entire gem or as a partial bezel that embraces just portions of the diamond, allowing for creative variations in how the metal frames the gemstone. The bezel setting offers unparalleled protection for the gemstone's edges, making it perfect for those with active lifestyles or hands-on professions while creating clean, contemporary lines that can visually enhance certain diamond shapes. This modern yet timeless setting stands out from traditional prong designs with its sleek aesthetic and practical durability that ensures your diamond remains secure for generations.
Halo Engagement Ring Settings
Halo settings surround your center gemstone with a shimmering circle of smaller diamonds or complementary gemstones, creating a captivating "angelic" effect that frames the main diamond. These accent stones can be arranged in various patterns from simple circles to elaborate floral designs, and can feature traditional diamonds or colored gemstones like sapphires, emeralds, or rubies for added personalization. This enchanting design not only adds extraordinary sparkle but also creates the illusion of a larger center diamond — making it appear bigger than its actual carat weight while providing magnificent light performance. Available in countless variations from classic rounds to intricate shapes, halo settings transform even modest diamonds into show-stopping pieces that capture attention from every angle.
Solitaire Engagement Ring Settings
The solitaire setting is the most iconic of all engagement ring types, showcasing a single diamond as the centerpiece without additional gems to compete for attention. Its design ranges from the classic four to six prongs that modestly secure the diamond to more elaborate variations that might incorporate cathedral arches, knife-edge bands, or unique multi-prong configurations while maintaining the signature focus on a single gemstone. The simplicity of a solitaire allows the diamond itself to stand out without distraction, highlighting the diamond’s natural beauty while offering versatility that pairs seamlessly with wedding bands and other jewelry. This enduring style has remained the most beloved engagement ring design throughout history, symbolizing the pure, singular commitment between partners.
Pavé Engagement Ring Settings
A pavé setting features small diamonds set closely together along the band, creating the appearance of continuous sparkle and light reflection. From the French word for "paved," these rings use a specialized technique where tiny prongs or beads barely wrap over each melee diamond, securing them while exposing maximum surface area for light interaction and brilliance. This setting style adds considerable sparkle and luxury to a ring without overwhelming the center gemstone, effectively transforming even the simplest band into a dazzling showcase while adding minimal weight compared to more substantial settings. The endless sparkle effect makes pavé a cherished choice for both standalone rings and as complementary elements in more complex designs, offering timeless elegance that enhances any engagement ring style.
Three-Stone Engagement Ring Settings
Rich with symbolism, three-stone engagement rings feature a center diamond flanked by two significant side gemstones representing your relationship's past, present, and future journey together. These designs can be crafted with gems of equal size for balanced elegance or with a larger center stone surrounded by smaller accents, and may incorporate different shapes from traditional rounds to distinctive cuts like baguettes, pears, or trillions. The three-stone setting offers impressive presence on the finger with more total carat weight than a solitaire of the same center size, while providing the opportunity to incorporate birthstones or colored gems that hold personal significance. This meaningful design ranges from sleek, minimal arrangements to luxurious variations featuring hidden halos or additional accents along the band, making it a versatile choice that combines sentiment with style.
Hidden Halo Engagement Ring Settings
Hidden accent engagement rings feature a ring of small diamonds positioned beneath the center stone, visible primarily from side angles rather than from the top view. This innovative design can incorporate various metal finishes or diamond shapes in the concealed halo, often set slightly lower than the main stone to create dimension and unexpected visual interest. The hidden halo creates a delightful surprise of extra sparkle and brilliance without overshadowing the main diamond, adding value and light performance to the ring while maintaining a clean, classic appearance from above. This modern twist on the traditional halo setting combines understated elegance with added detail, perfect for those who appreciate subtle sophistication and thoughtful design elements.
East-West Engagement Ring Settings
East-west settings feature an elongated center gemstone set horizontally across the finger rather than in the traditional vertical orientation, creating an immediate visual distinction. This unique placement works especially well with oval, emerald, marquise, or pear-shaped diamonds, often complemented by a simple band that highlights the unusual orientation or enhanced with side stones that follow the horizontal alignment. The sideways positioning creates a contemporary, fashion-forward look that stands out from conventional designs while potentially offering a more comfortable fit for some wearers as the stone sits lower and doesn't extend as far up the finger. This distinctive setting appeals to those seeking a modern, unique engagement ring that reflects an independent spirit while still incorporating traditional elements in an unexpected way.
Split Shank Engagement Ring Settings
A split shank setting features a band that divides into two or more separate strands as it approaches the center gem, creating negative space that frames the diamond. This architectural design can incorporate simple polished metals for a clean, modern look or feature pavé diamonds along the divided sections for additional sparkle and dimension. The split shank visually enhances the appearance of both the center stone and the ring overall, making them appear larger and more intricate while providing excellent stability for the setting. This versatile style works beautifully with both classic and contemporary engagement ring designs, offering endless customization possibilities that range from subtle divides to dramatic, wide separations that make a bold statement.
High vs. Low Setting Engagement Ring
An important element to consider when choosing an engagement ring setting is the height. Setting height refers to how far the center stone sits above the band. This detail is often overlooked, yet it significantly influences the ring's appearance, comfort, durability, and practicality for daily wear.
- A high setting positions the diamond prominently above the band, maximizing its visibility and brilliance. Because the gem is elevated, more light can enter, which enhances sparkle and creates a dramatic, eye-catching look. High settings also pair well with wedding bands that contour around the engagement ring, as the raised diamond can sit comfortably above. However, the extra height may increase the likelihood of snagging on clothing or being bumped during active use.
- A low setting places the diamond closer to the finger, creating a more subtle and secure profile. This style is often favored by those with active lifestyles or professions that require frequent use of their hands, since the diamond is less exposed to accidental knocks. Low settings are also practical for stacking with straight wedding bands, as the lower profile allows the two rings to sit neatly together. While the sparkle may appear less intense compared to higher settings, low settings provide excellent durability and everyday comfort.
When choosing between setting heights, consider your priorities: If you value maximum brilliance and a show-stopping presence, a high setting may be the right choice. If you prioritize comfort, durability, and ease of stacking with other rings, a low setting might better suit your lifestyle. Many settings and styles also offer medium-height settings that balance these considerations. Ultimately, the best option depends on finding the balance between beauty, practicality, and personal preference.
Engagement Ring Setting Styles Chart
When selecting an engagement ring, it's important to understand what features to consider. From prong type to shank finish, learn all the details of engagement ring settings to pick the perfect piece.
Prong Type
Prongs refer to the metal that secures the center gemstone atop the setting. They are an essential feature in the overall look of a ring and a critical feature in ensuring your center stone stays put.
Center Gemstone Setting
The center gemstone setting, commonly referred to as the 'head' in ring anatomy, is the metal that connects the prongs to the shank of the design, keeping the center stone in place. Beyond security, the center gemstone setting determines how high or low your ring will sit on your finger.
Accent Gemstone Setting
The accent gemstone setting refers to how other accents besides the center gemstone are set. These accents could be along the band of a ring, surprise elements that rest on the inner edge of the band, or a hidden halo underneath the head.
Types of Bands
The ring shank, commonly called the band, is the part of the ring that encircles the finger. It's an important design element that affects both the appearance of the ring and how it feels to the wearer.
Finishing Details
Precious metal details are a great way to add interest or embellishment to your ring. Finishing details can affect the ring's overall appearance, giving it either a more contemporary or vintage look.
How to Choose an Engagement Ring Style
Selecting an engagement ring style involves thoughtful consideration of a few key factors, as this piece will be worn daily for years to come. Consider these elements when determining what engagement ring style is best for you:
- Assess lifestyle compatibility – Your daily activities, hobbies, and profession should directly influence your ring selection. For active lifestyles or hands-on work, consider durable, lower-profile settings like bezels or flush designs that won't catch on clothing or equipment. If you frequently wear gloves for work, a lower profile setting may be more practical.
- Establish budget priorities – Decide whether to allocate more of your budget toward the center diamond’s quality (focusing on the 4 C’s) or toward the setting's craftsmanship, intricate details, and additional accent stones. This decision allows you to maximize value in areas most important to you.
- Explore center stone shapes – Each diamond shape creates a distinctive look and significantly influences the ring's overall style. Round brilliants offer maximum sparkle with their ideal light performance, oval gems visually elongate the finger, princess cuts provide modern geometric appeal, and emerald cuts deliver sophisticated elegance with their hall-of-mirrors effect.
- Consider metal choice – Different precious metals offer varying levels of strength and wear resistance. Platinum stands as the most durable option, resistant to thinning over time and maintaining its integrity even after decades of wear. White gold and yellow gold provide excellent hardness and scratch resistance for daily use. Rose gold typically offers superior strength compared to other gold alloys due to its copper content. For active lifestyles or hands-on professions, choosing a more durable metal ensures your ring maintains its structural integrity throughout years of continuous wear.
- Factor in finger comfort – Beyond appearance, consider how the ring feels when worn. Elements like band width, thickness, inner curvature (comfort fit vs. straight), and setting height all impact everyday comfort, especially if you have never worn rings regularly before.
- Consider hand characteristics – The proportions of your ring should complement your hand's natural shape and size. Elongated stone shapes can make fingers appear slimmer and longer, while wider bands and cluster settings create balance on larger hands. Those with shorter fingers might prefer vertical designs that create the illusion of length.
- Think about ring stacking – If you plan to wear your engagement ring with a wedding band and possibly anniversary bands, consider how these rings will sit together. Some engagement ring styles, particularly those with unique shapes or very high settings, may require custom-fitted wedding bands or spacers.
- Understand maintenance requirements – Some intricate settings with multiple small gemstones or detailed metalwork require more frequent professional cleaning and inspection. Simpler designs tend to be more durable, easier to maintain at home, and less likely to lose diamonds over time. Consider how much maintenance you're willing to commit to.
- Evaluate long-term versatility – Consider how your ring choice will align with changing fashion trends and your evolving personal style over decades. Some designs have timeless appeal, while others may reflect current trends that could feel dated later.
Choosing an engagement ring style is a thoughtful balance between personal aesthetic preferences, practical lifestyle considerations, and personal values. By carefully evaluating these factors, you can select a ring that not only captures your unique style but also fits seamlessly into your daily life while symbolizing your lasting commitment.
Engagement Ring Styles & Setting Types FAQ
What are the different types of engagement rings?
The different types of engagement rings include solitaire, halo, three-stone, pavé, side-stone, tension, bezel, and more. Each type of engagement ring offers unique aesthetic and practical qualities.
What styles of engagement rings are popular?
Solitaires, hidden halos, yellow gold bands, three-stone designs, and vintage-inspired settings with intricate details are currently among the most popular engagement ring styles.
What are the best engagement ring band styles?
The best engagement ring band styles vary from person to person. The ideal band style ultimately aligns personal preference, lifestyle, and how it complements the chosen center stone.
What is an engagement ring setting?
An engagement ring setting is the metal framework that holds the gemstone(s) in place, determining both the ring's overall appearance and how securely the stones are held. The setting includes the head or prongs that secure the center stone, the gallery (area beneath the diamond), and the band that circles the finger. Beyond its functional purpose, the setting contributes significantly to the ring's aesthetic character, showcasing the designer's craftsmanship and artistic vision. Learn more in our Engagement Ring Anatomy Guide.
What is the most classic engagement ring style?
The solitaire engagement ring is considered the most classic style. This design typically features four or six prongs that securely hold a single round diamond above a plain metal band, creating a clean silhouette that maximizes the stone's brilliance. The enduring popularity of this style stems from its perfect balance of sophistication and simplicity, allowing the diamond to be the focal point.
What does setting price mean for engagement rings?
Setting price for engagement rings refers to the cost of the metal framework and craftsmanship alone, excluding the center stone, which allows couples to budget separately for the setting and the diamond or gemstone. This pricing approach gives shoppers flexibility to allocate their budget according to their priorities, perhaps choosing a more elaborate setting with a modest stone, or a simple setting with a higher-quality diamond. Setting prices vary based on the metal type, complexity of design, and additional accents.
How much does an engagement ring setting cost?
An engagement ring setting typically costs between $500 and $5,000, with simple solitaire settings at the lower end and elaborate settings with accent diamonds at the higher end of this range. The price varies significantly based on the metal chosen (platinum being the most expensive, followed by gold in various karatages), the complexity of the design, and the inclusion of accents. Custom settings generally command premium prices due to the additional labor and expertise required.
How do I know what type of engagement ring to buy?
You can determine what type of engagement ring to buy by considering your partner's personal style, lifestyle, existing jewelry preferences, and by gathering clues from their Pinterest boards, conversations with friends, or window shopping experiences. Observe whether they prefer minimalist or statement jewelry, modern or vintage aesthetics, and what metal colors they typically wear. Consider their occupation and hobbies — active lifestyles may require more durable, lower-profile settings, while those who rarely work with their hands might comfortably wear more delicate designs.
Are gold engagement rings in style?
Gold engagement rings are definitely in style, with yellow gold experiencing a significant resurgence in popularity. The warm tones of yellow gold complement many skin tones and offer a classic, timeless look that pairs beautifully with both vintage and contemporary ring designs.
