Engagement Ring Styles and Settings Guide

An engagement ring setting is used to describe the part of the ring that holds the centre diamond or gemstone in place. It’s the foundation of the ring–it’s where the stone is mounted and determined the overall style, look and feel of the ring.

Engagement ring styles come in a variety of styles, each with its own unique features and characteristics. Some of the most popular engagement ring settings include solitaire, halo, pavé, bezel, channel, and three-stone settings, among others.

Choosing the right engagement ring setting is an important decision, as it directly impacts the overall finish of the ring. The setting should not only complement and secure the centre stone, but it should also reflect your personal style and preferences.

Different settings can accentuate different aspects of the diamond or gemstone, highlighting its brilliance, colour, or shape. Ultimately, the engagement ring style plays a crucial role in creating a piece of jewellery that isn’t just beautiful and comfortable, but also has some level of symbolism or significance to the wearer and/or their partner.

The pavé ring setting features tiny diamonds set closely together along the band of a ring. In French “pavé” means “paved” – the small diamonds are set so closely together that they appear to be paved across the surface of the band of the ring. One of the most attractive aspects of the pavé style is how it adds a sense of depth and dimensionality and can be used to accentuate other design elements in a ring. This setting style is a favorite among those who appreciate intricate detailing.

The prong ring setting features metal prongs, or claws, that hold a centre stone in place. Given that these prongs are typiacally quite small and dainty, a prong setting allows maximum light exposure which results in excellent light return throughout the stone, resulting in its signature brilliance. The claws are usually thin, small dots of metal that are bent and shaped to fit snugly around the stone and securely hold it in place, almost like a cradle. If you appreciate classic, elegant jewellery design, the prong engagement ring style is the choice for you, ready to be admired for a lifetime.

The channel setting features smaller diamonds that are set flush along the band within two metal walls. This results in a seamless line of diamonds or gemstones as there is no metal setting required between each individual stone. There are different types of channel settings, including a full channel setting, a half channel setting, and a quarter channel settings. These reference how far around the circumference of the band the stones go.

A full channel setting features diamonds or gemstones that totally encircle the full 360 degrees of the band, while a half indicates the channel covers 50% of the band and a quarter indicates 25% of the band features channel set diamonds. The channel engagement ring setting is a popular choice for couples who are looking for a modern and elegant look.

The bar engagement ring setting features diamonds set between two metal bars, which run parallel to the finger creating a minimalist and contemporary aesthetic. It’s often used as an accent setting, where the bars are placed on either side of the center diamond or gemstone, creating a unique and eye-catching look. Alternatively, the bar engagement ring style can be used on side stones instead of the centre stone and it can be customised to allow for a wide range of design options, diamond shapes, and accent stones.

Milgrain engagement ring settings, also known as millegrain, feature very small beads of metal that are used to frame the edges of the design, be it around the centre stone or the metal band, resulting in an antique look. Milgrain designs are typically characterised by a delicate, raised edge or border.

The term “millegrain” comes from the French word for “thousand grains,” referring to the tiny bead-like texture that is created along the edges of the metal. This style is often used in vintage or antique-inspired jewellery, and has seen a resurgence in popularity over the past decade, as has the desire for intricate design elements in engagement rings.

The split shank setting features a band that splits into two or more strands as it approaches the centre stone, creating an open, airy look that often accentuates the appearance of the centre diamond or gemstone.

The additional strands of band can be adorned with diamonds, intricate designs, or engraved patterns, adding a unique and personalised touch to the ring’s design. There’s a variety of split shank designs – double split shank, twisted split shank, bypass split shank and infinity split shank.

The five stone setting features a row of five diamonds or gemstones set in a straight line on the band, perpendicular to the finger. The diamonds or gemstones can be of equal size, or the centre stone can be larger than the side stones, creating a tapered, graduated effect on the stone sizes.

The stones can be set in prongs, bezels, or a combination of both, depending on the desired look. The multiple stones catching and reflecting light results in a brilliance and scintillation that’s particularly impressive and a great choice for those who want a statement piece.

The toi et moi setting is French for ‘you and me’, a fitting title given this ring design’s sentiment and inspiration. Two lovers are represented by twin centre gemstones that sit side by side on the ring’s band.

This setting was made popular back in the late 18th century during the French Empire period, and has remained a favourite among couples and celebrities alike who desire a distinctive and meaningful ring. The stones can be of equal or different sizes, shapes, colours and even stone types, providing endless possibilities for customisation. Some couples opt for matching stones, while others prefer contrasting gemstones that symbolise their individuality and complement each other.

Vintage settings are a popular choice for those seeking the aesthetic of an antique engagement ring without the history that comes with it…because you’re about to make your own history.

Vintage-inspired settings are typically inspired by design eras of times gone by, ranging from the intricate and ornate Victorian styles to the geometric shapes of the Art Deco movement in the 1920s. Vintage settings often feature intricate details and delicate filigree work, creating a sense of artistry and craftsmanship that’s rarely seen in modern designs. With their meticulous design elements and unparalleled charm, vintage setting styles are sure to be treasured for generations to come.