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You probably know by now, the number one call or text message I receive is about buying an engagement ring. As Tucson’s only private jeweler and the number one jewelry store for buying engagement rings, I sell a lot of diamond rings…. for anniversaries too. This is because I highly personalize diamond ring shopping and make the process easy, simple and fun. To see how, please watch my two minute video here.

There are so many different engagement rings styles and diamond settings it can be confusing. So I’ve written this 3-part blog series to explain and detail the differences. The “setting” of an engagement ring, refers to the way that the diamond(s) or gemstone stone(s) are held in place. Each setting creates a unique look. In Blog #2 of 3, let’s discover the one that’s perfect for you.

Bezel

Bezel settings are very secure and have been a popular choice for decades. They work by wrapping a strip of metal around the stone, so that it is completely encircled along the circumference. This enables it to be held most securely. It is thought of by gemologists as the safest setting but it does mean that the stone is not able to shine as brilliantly as this setting type does absorb a lot of light while it conceals a large part of the diamond. There are full bezel settings to consider which encircles the stone completely and partial bezel settings that don’t cover the entire edge of the stone, rather it allows the sides to visible, allowing for a touch more dazzle.

Solitaire

A solitaire diamond ring is one of the most classic and enduring engagement ring styles ever created, so much so that there is even a ‘solitaire setting’ made exactly for this style of ring. The solitaire setting is a prong style and usually pinches the edges of the solitaire with four claws in a basket setting. These prongs are often set at each corner of the diamond. It allows for the diamond to receive a lot of light and holds it with a very minimalistic style. Popular and pretty, this type of ring setting never goes out of style.

Cathedral

A cathedral setting ring sounds sophisticated and it really is. This style of setting is often seen on more vintage style rings or rings inspired by yesteryear. Essentially, the cathedral setting mounts the stone above the ring’s shank. This means that it is held by arches of metal hence the term “cathedral.” One of the most popular styles of ring, the cathedral setting is timeless and has the added advantage of making the stone more prominent and can even make a stone look larger than it actually is.

Three Stone

The clue is in the name of this one – a three stone setting refers to an engagement ring where there are three stones set alongside each other. More often than not the center stone is the largest and the ones either side are slightly smaller, although this is not always the case. Often the sides are set with color gemstones such as ruby, emerald or sapphire.

Halo

A halo setting ring is rim or halo of diamonds or smaller stones positioned around the centre stone, creating more drama and bling. It’s a beautiful style and allows for some interesting designs that place the focus well and truly on the centre stone. It can also be a cost-efficient way to add more sparkle and make a smaller center stone appear larger.

Cluster

The cluster setting is a little rarer to find these days but it is still a very striking and graceful way to set diamonds. The cluster setting normally involves lots of smaller stones being set together to form a burst or cluster of sparkle and shine. Sometimes there is a central, larger stone, but some cluster setting designs can have stones all of the exact same size.

Next month, in Part three, I’ll highlight the reaming ring setting styles. Until then, if you would like to see and try on any of these styles in the privacy and comfort of my office, please schedule an appointment.