ENGAGEMENT RING GUIDE – FINDING THE ONE
Buying an engagement ring is one of the biggest decisions you are going to make before getting married. It is a symbol of your love and commitment and a piece of jewelry you will be keeping forever and potentially passing down through the generations possibly along with your wedding bands. With all that in mind, it’s important to choose the perfect ring best suited to you and your partner.
To help you understand the different rings available, we’ve put together a comprehensive engagement ring education guide to help you learn more about your choices.
Engagement Ring Styles
Through the centuries, as the engagement ring traditions and customs evolved, so did the engagement ring style. Engagement ring styles in recent centuries have developed along with the fashion industry. Below are some of the popular engagement ring styles to guide you in your engagement ring shopping.
There are several different types of styles to choose from when it comes to buying engagement rings. It’s best to understand your partner’s ring style to help you with the decision. Is your partner more traditional or more trendy? These tidbits will help properly inform your choice and ensure you get the best ring.
Solitaire Engagement Rings Styles
The Solitaire is the most classic and traditional engagement ring style. It is, by far, the most common and popular engagement ring style for proposals. Solitaire settings refer to one single stone diamond or gemstone custom pieces set into a ring. Solitaires are also, bar none, the best in practical versatility. A solitaire can match wonderfully with most wedding rings. And, since there has never been a clearly defined style for settings, couples can freely choose other styles for the setting, classic, vintage engagement ring, bold avant garde combinations to discuss with many jewelers.
The Diamond is the favored choice for a solitaire engagement ring style, usually on a white gold, yellow gold or rose gold metal setting, in its round shape, the clean lines of the ring bring out the stone to sparkle brightly. However, the current millennium has seen a trending in other center stones, crystals in their color and luminiscence and special meaning.
Shop this diamond solitaire engagement ring from Blue Nile.
Prong Set Engagement Ring Styles
The prong setting has four -6 metal (yellow gold or white gold or rose gold) prongs extending from the ring’s basket over the gemstone, an effective way to keep the center diamond in place securely while letting more light into the stone. Most jewelers and diamond experts prefer the four prong setting (or six) because of the balance of cost and security without destroying the design. The prong setting is simpler to make and comes out cheaper than other settings for one diamond central stone.
Shop this prong set engagement ring from Blue Nile.
Vintage Engagement Ring Style
Romantic nostalgia. A style that harks back to another era for vintage-loving brides-to-be. With the proper prongs and setting design, you can make this ring look like a vintage family heirloom even if it’s brand new.
Shop this vintage-style engagement ring from Blue Nile.
Channel Setting Engagement Ring
The channel setting engagement ring is where the stones on the ring’s shank are put on a track between two metal walls. The diamond or other gemstones are against one another without a small gap by prongs or beads or bezels. In this setting, the center diamond is accented by gemstones, like smaller diamonds or other stones for additional glamour and sparkle.
Shop this channel set engagement ring from Blue Nile.
Three-Stone Style
The three-stone style ring is the perfect ring to mark your journey together. This is one of the most popular engagement ring styles, called Trinity Ring or Trilogy ring – representing friendship, love and fidelity, or past, present and future. In this style, three stones (if not diamonds) are set horizontally. The three-stone style is popular for engagement ring styles and anniversary rings. There are more than a few styles of three-stone diamond rings.
Shop this three-stone engagement ring from Blue Nile.
Single Coloured Stone Engagement Ring
This style started in the 1940s when color-treated gemstones were used in proposal rings. Some of the popular stones are the blue and teal sapphire, ruby, emerald and morganite. These can be a lot cheaper than diamonds and you, or you and your partner can come up with your own unique style to match your personality.
Shop this single gemstone engagement ring from Blue Nile.
Halo Engagement Ring Styles
The halo setting engagement ring style is where a ring of small accent stones, usually tiny diamonds, surround a larger center stone. The halo setting can be the same shape as the center stone (or whatever the diamond shapes are) or they can be different, too. The accent stones flash with the light ang put attention on the center stone and attract attention on the ring.
Shop this halo engagement ring from Blue Nile.
Flush Setting Ring
A flush setting is where the diamond is set on a drilled hole in the metal band that results in the stone sitting “flush” with the ring band. The stone does not stick out in any way. To keep the gemstone in place, the jeweler hammers the metal around it.
Sometimes called the Gypsy setting, the flush setting is a more contemporary technique for setting stones in jewelry.
Shop this flush set wedding ring from Blue Nile.
Bezel Set Engagement Ring Styles
A bezel setting is a popular choice for engagement rings. This is the type that holds the diamond inside a custom-made thin band of metal surround the outside of the stone to keep it in place and protected, at the same time, showcasing its beauty. The surrounding metal has a slight overlap on the stone edges that keep it safe.
This style is a bit more expensive than a prong setting because it needs a higher expertise from the jeweler and more metal to create it.
Shop this bezel set engagement ring from Blue Nile.
Shank and Split Shank Style
The split-shank style is when the band is parted as it nears the center stone. There will be a visible space between the band the the center diamond or halo, resulting in the ring appearing larger. This style is quite almost a unique ring because it costs more than other styles.
This style is more expensive than other types because of the additional metal used on the split. However, its elegance and beauty will be really worth the price tag when you realize you have got the right engagement ring sparkling on your finger!
Shop this split shank engagement ring from Blue Nile.
Cluster ring style
A cluster engagement ring style is when the setting has smaller white diamonds set closely together to look like a larger diamond. Or it can be a large stone in the center or group of stones of equal size or same carat weight. With other gems to choose from besides diamonds, you can choose birthstones of loved ones, as a keepsake of memorable moments, in one dazzling jewelry!
Cluster rings are also cheaper because these are easier to make than solitaires, and often made from “leftovers” of bigger diamonds.
Shop this cluster-style engagement ring from Blue Nile.
Select a diamond or gemstone
When choosing your diamond, it is good to consult an expert jeweler. There are the 4 Cs in assessing a diamond’s quality and value and trained jewelers with their trained eye can sometimes assume stone’s 4 Cs even at first glance. They can also help you make sure you get the right certificate for your stone. You have to know that not all stones that look the same size or same shape may differ in their carat weight. However, if the variety of stones seems overwhelming it’s best to zero in on your top choices and learn more about those instead of studying all the different varieties.
In choosing your engagement ring style, you choose one that suits your personality, or your partner’s personality, if you are the one proposing. And when you have decided, don’t forget to get the correct ring size of the wearer. These styles and types that we have mentioned above are just a few things to guide you in choosing your diamond. An expert will guide you more. Remember, your engagement ring is going to be one of your most cherished jewelry pieces.
Whether you have your heart set on a particular gemstone, carat size, carat weight, color, shape, and clarity, or are open to all possibilities, becoming familiar with gemstone properties and attributes will help you shop with confidence. Shop Gemstone Engagement Rings.
Choose the perfect metal
For this aspect in purchasing your engagement ring, the expert jeweler’s advice is not only handy but important. If your fiancee has an active lifestyle, the metal chosen and the ring design must not be too delicate or intricate that it will easily be damaged in her everyday wear.
When selecting a metal, three major considerations to keep in mind are color, durability, and budget. Consider white gold, yellow gold, rose gold, or platinum. Each metal has a series of pros and cons but quite possibly the biggest consideration when it comes to selecting either rose gold or yellow gold will all boil down to personal style. It’s important to also have a keen understanding of what your partner wants and likes in their jewelry.
Find Your Ring Size
Before ordering your ring, make sure you have an accurate finger size. We will teach you how to determine ring size in a few easy steps.
Care For Your Diamond Ring
Diamonds may be the hardest material known to man, but they are not indestructible. Learn how to protect and care for your diamonds and ensure they last a lifetime.
Care For Your Gemstone Ring
Gemstones are unique and yours may have special care requirements. Handled with care, gemstones can maintain their pristine beauty and last a lifetime.
Set the budget
It is important that you or you and your partner, if you’re going to share in the cost, set the budget for your engagement ring. Remember, even if the engagement ring has the most sentimental value in a woman’s possession of jewelry pieces, there is still the wedding to prepare for and your future life together. Having a set budget will prevent you from going overboard and regretting some decisions later.
Select a Ring
After you agree on the budget, then you can freely shop around for the ring that you would want. Don’t rush in deciding so as to avoid impulsive choices that you would want to take back later.
Decide on your Shape
The diamond’s shape is important, as well as that of the whole ring because it might not look as nice on your fiancee’s finger as it is in the display cabinet. Try on different shapes and styles and choose the one that looks best on your finger.
Frequently Asked Questions About Engagement Rings
The general rule for buying an engagement ring is spending at least 2 months salary on the engagement ring.
The ring is given to the recipient upon the proposal of marriage, even if the marriage does not eventually happen. Regardless of who broke the engagement. When the marriage happens, the gifting is regarded as complete and the recipient still is entitled to the ring in case of a divorce.
There are some places when the receiver breaks off the engagement, the giver can ask for the ring back.
Traditionally, it is the man who does the proposing and pays for the engagement rings. But since the latter part of the last century and more so in this current millennium, this tradition has not been followed already. Either the couples choose, shop and pay for the engagement ring together, as the first step towards a shared life, or as more women earn more than their partners, they either share in the cost or pay for the ring themselves, to ensure they get the ring that they really want.
There is no hard and fast rule in the wearing of engagement rings nor wedding rings. What matters is that the ring or rings you are wearing represent your love and commitment to each other.
These are the most popular engagement ring types/styles:
Classic ring style
Three-stone Engagement ring
Solitaire Engagement Ring
Halo Engagement Ring
Double halo engagement ring
Cluster engagement ring
Twist Engagement ring
Bezel engagement ring
The common metals in engagement ring settings are yellow gold, white gold, rose gold and platinum. However, there is no one best metal for every ring. Choose the metal for your ring based on your taste, cost and staying power.
Talking about design and style, these should fit the wearer’s personality and taste. For all you know she would prefer other styles like vintage engagement rings or etched engagement rings with your names or significant dates in your journey together.
Promise Rings – it represents your commitment to your partner even before engagement. Currently, promise rings are also given to a friend as a symbol of unending friendship.
Engagement Ring -Traditionally called the “Circle of Trust” because of its significance of the commitment and wedding to officialize a lifetime partnership as a married couple. It used to be that partners exchange engagement rings while sharing their engagement vows with each other. This ring is considered to have the most sentimental value.
Wedding Rings/Wedding Bands – This means that the couples have exchanged their vows of love and lifetime commitment to each other, publicly, officially. It is customarily worn on the third finger of the left hand because of the ancient belief that the vein of the left finger is directly connected to the heart.
Anniversary bands -the ring that symbolizes your continuing love and and strengthened commitment. Every anniversary has its own meaning.
Birthstone Rings -Birthstone rings have a stone that is significant to the wearer, and the meanings of these stones are supposed to protect them, calm them, strengthen them, etc. Birthstone rings are usually given at birth or during baby showers.
The brilliant round diamonds are the classiest engagement rings. This type is the classic and timeless choice and it can go very well with different settings and styles.
The customary estimate is at least 2months salary worth.
The traditional etiquette for buying an engagement ring is that the groom buys the engagement ring. But nowadays, couples split the cost. The man should take note of his fiancee’s personality before suggesting she share in the ring payment, there are still some women, regardless of how modern they are, who expect the man to buy the ring.
As a custom, the engagement ring is given upon proposing marriage, and the wedding rings are exchanged during the official wedding. The two rings are placed together on the same finger of the left hand.
Nowadays, there are tips online on buying an engagement ring. Like deciding on the ring style, diamond shape, the metal, the carat weight, etc. There are even quizzes to help you choose the perfect engagement ring for you.
Here are the top 5 most popular engagement ring styles:
Diamond solitaire ring – then and now, still the favored option
Pave setting – chosen by those who like continuous sparkle
Three-stone rings – for those who want gemstone combinations
Halo rings – those who want to highlight the center stone
Bezel engagement ring setting – most popular after the diamond solitaire
A curved or contoured wedding band is the best combination with the engagement ring. The design is meant to match the engagement ring, framing it in a way that it appears larger by adding sparkle and width to the center stone. The result is elegant and natural.
Here are ten of the most timeless engagement rings:
Round diamond center stone
Cushion or pillow-cut diamond
Princess cut
Oval
Emerald
Radiant
Asscher
Pear
Marquise
Heart
The 4 Cs of engagement rings are Color, Clarity, Carat Weight and Cut. These are the factors in the grading system for evaluating the quality and price of diamonds.
In Western countries, an engagement ring is traditionally worn on the third finger (ring finger) of the left hand. The origins of this can be traced back to the Ancient Romans who believed the finger had a vein that was connected to the heart. The vein is called the Vena Amoris or “Vein of Love”.
A generation ago, a man was expected to spend one month’s salary on an engagement ring, but the generally accepted “norm” these days is two month’s salary. This means that if you earn $1,000 each month, the ring should cost $2,000. Many argue that in a world of equal opportunities, there should NOT be a defined amount.
The best and most accurate way to measure your ring size is to get professionally measured by a jeweler. However, you can order a plastic or paper ring sizer online which comes with a sizing chart. Alternatively, you could wrap a piece of paper or string around your finger, measure the size and compare it to a sizing chart. You may check out our ring size guide for more information.
There are many places that you can buy an engagement ring such as at a high street jeweler, a boutique store, or, more commonly these days, online. Purchasing a ring online gives you a far great choice than buying an ring in-store and can often result in significant savings. However, always choose a reputable website when making your purchase to be sure your purchase is safe.
To clean your diamond engagement ring, we would recommend that you prepare a solution of warm water and mild detergent. Leave your ring to soak for approximately 30 minutes and then gently, using a soft toothbrush taking care not to dislodge the stones. Rinse under running water and repeat if required.
Your engagement ring should be moved to your ring finger on your right hand for your wedding day, leaving the wedding finger free for your future spouse to place your wedding ring on. The engagement ring can be returned to the ring finger of the left hand after the ceremony.
An engagement ring is usually given as part of the proposal and usually has a diamond or diamonds, while a wedding ring is traditionally a plain metal band in yellow gold or white gold. Some wedding bands also have diamonds like diamond-encrusted eternity bands that you give to your partner when you exchange your vows during the wedding ceremony and wear throughout the rest of the marriage.
Research varies between countries but the average spend on an engagement ring in the US is between $1-5000.
A ring is generally presented as a gift by someone to their prospective spouse when proposing marriage or soon after a proposal has been accepted. It symbolizes a formal agreement to future marriage.
Platinum is a precious metal that is a popular choice for wedding and engagement rings and is more durable than other precious metals with greater longevity. This is a bet best for diamonds to ensure they are also well protected in the ring setting. Other options include slightly less expensive white gold and yellow gold.