Ring Design and Style

The diamond engagement ring carries tremendous meaning, and its form is iconic. As a result, the engagement ring isn’t as strongly affected by fashion as other types of jewelry. However, there’s still room for distinctiveness and individuality. The basic form has also evolved over the years, and new styles have been added from time to time.

Some experts also say that engagement rings are growing more varied because of brides’ increasing influence in purchase decisions. Most engagement rings sold today can be divided into five design categories – diamond solitaires, solitaires with accents, threediamond rings, diamond cluster rings, and diamond bands.

The classic diamond solitaire ring is a single diamond with a prong setting in a simple band of precious metal. This remains the most popular version of the design. Modern variations may have different setting styles – bezel or tension, for example – but most don’t stray far from the original concept. 

Essentially a solitaire embellished with smaller diamonds, this is now the favorite engagement design with most age groups. More than 1/2 of brides currently receive a diamond solitaire with accents. There are countless variations. In many, the center diamond is flanked by smaller diamonds of the same or complimentary shape. Other styles feature clusters or short rows of melee on either side of the center. Small diamond or colored gemstone melee may also be set partway or completely around the ring’s shank.

Originally created for anniversaries, three-diamond jewelry made its debut in 2000. The concept is defined by three diamonds of significant size representing the past, present, and future of a relationship. The concept has been applied to other jewelry forms, but the symbolism of the three-diamond ring appeals to many younger brides. As a result, about 1 in 10 diamond engagement rings fall in this category.