Engagement Ring Style Guide
Everything you need to know about settings, styles, stones & more.
When choosing an engagement ring, there are several factors and elements to consider to find the perfect one, and it should all begin with choosing the engagement ring style. Engagement ring styles vary from simple solitaire designs and classic trilogy rings to unique asymmetric, cluster and curved band designs. With so many options available, the possibilities are endless, so it’s important to know the basics about engagement ring styles before choosing or designing your engagement ring.
Today, we’re explaining everything you need to know about engagement ring styles - read on to learn the difference between styles, settings, stones and more.
Engagement Ring Styles
A good way to differentiate engagement ring styles is to look at the number and composition of the stone(s). Some engagement rings have one stone, while others have a central diamond accompanied by accent stones - read on to discover what these different styles are called and find your favourite.
What are the main engagement ring styles?
Solitaire
Trilogy
Toi et Moi
Halo
Cluster
Solitaire Engagement Rings
A solitaire engagement ring is one with a single stone. This is a classic type of engagement ring that never goes out of style, and is perfect for those looking for a simplistic ring where the single diamond or gemstone is the main event.
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Trilogy Engagement Rings
A trilogy engagement ring is one that features three - or a trilogy of - stones. This is an extremely popular engagement ring style, as it allows for a symmetrical, uniform look with more sparkle than a solitaire. Trilogy rings can feature three of the same stone, but also allows for creative combinations of different types of gemstones for a unique result.
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Cluster Engagement Rings
A cluster engagement ring is one that features a cluster of more than three stones. Perfect for those looking for a more statement style with lots of sparkle, cluster engagement rings can feature stones of different types, shapes, colours and sizes in either symmetrical or asymmetrical configurations.
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Toi et Moi Engagement Rings
Toi et Moi engagement rings are engagement rings with two stones set on the band. Translating to ‘you and me’ from French, these rings are a unique style that have recently grown in popularity, with the two stones symbolising the union of two people to create a sparkling statement. Toi et Moi engagement rings are usually asymmetric by nature, with each stone being a different type, cut or size.
Halo Engagement Rings
Halo engagement rings are similar to solitaire engagement rings, as they usually have one central stone, however they feature multiple smaller stones that surround the central stone, creating a ‘halo’ effect. This is a popular choice for those looking for a vintage style engagement ring, especially when the central stone is a coloured stone like a ruby, emerald or sapphire and surrounded by diamonds.
If you'd like to design a halo or toi et moi engagement ring, we offer a bespoke engagement ring service.
Collet Settings
Collet settings describe how the stone(s) are held in place on the engagement ring. There are two main styles: bezel and claw.
Claw settings
Claw settings are where an engagement ring's stone(s) are held in place with claws. Sometimes called prongs, they come in different styles, from round and square to tapered talon shapes.
Popular prong settings are 4-claw and 6-claw, but some unique engagement ring designs can have more.
Bezel / rub-over
More suitable for those with manual jobs, bezel set, or 'rub-over' engagement rings are those where the stone is fully surrounded with the metal.
Some say bezel set engagement rings appear more vintage or antique in style, while being more protective and practical.
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- Bezel Engagement Rings
- all engagement rings
Engagement Ring Band Settings
How stones are set on an engagement ring band can also differ. There are two main engagement ring band settings, high-set or wedfit, and low-set, and they can be easily identified by the required shape of a wedding ring that will fit beneath it.
High-set / Wedfit
High-set engagement rings are rings that have the stone(s) set high away from the band, generally creating a more statement look, as the stone sticks out more.
This setting is sometimes called wed-fit, because a straight wedding ring will easily stack beneath the engagement ring.
Low-set
Low-set engagement rings are those that hold the stones lower down, closer to the band. These generally create a more understated look and many say they are more comfortable, being less likely to catch than high-set rings. Most low-set engagement rings need to be paired with a curved wedding ring beneath it, as the stones are closer to the skin creating gaps if paired with a straight band.
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- High-Set Engagement Rings
- Low-Set Engagement Rings
Engagement Ring Band Styles
While many focus their design on the stones and their setting, you should also consider the style and design of the band, as there are many options to choose from.
Single
The most popular engagement ring band style, a single band engagement ring is the simplistic, no-frills look that allows the stones to be front and centre.
Stoned / Eternity
Any band style can be stoned to add extra sparkle to part or the whole of the engagement ring band. Small diamonds or other gemstones can be set on the band in different ways to create different looks: scallop set diamond bands create a scalloped-shaped edge, while pavé holds the stones in with small claws.
Shaped
A shaped engagement ring band is thought to be non-traditional, perfect for someone wanting a unique ring. Shaped rings could be curved, twisted or have a crossover design for a dynamic, flowing or romantic look.
Split Shank
A split shank engagement ring adds elegant interest to your design; it is a single band that splits into two around the central gemstone, usually used in solitaire rings.
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Have more questions?
Visit our Journal, where you'll find a helpful gallery of engagement ring articles to answer all of your questions.
Shop our ethical engagement rings, or go bespoke
At Wild Fawn, our engagement rings are made by our talented female team in our London workshop, and we only ever use recycled metals, ethically-sourced gemstones and lab-grown diamonds. We have a beautiful selection of ready-to-ship engagement rings in a wide range of styles discussed in this article, or design your own with our bespoke engagement ring service - simply book a free consultation to get started.