Last Updated on 08/03/2024 by Above Diamond

15 Popular Engagement Ring Styles You Need to Know

Selecting an engagement ring or wedding ring style is one of the most important steps before making a custom diamond ring order.

Have you ever felt overwhelmed when choosing an engagement ring or wedding ring? With so many styles available—online, in magazines, and in real life—the options can seem endless, and the decision becomes difficult, almost like navigating a major sale.

What makes it even more confusing…

You may have heard various terms thrown around about diamond settings—prong setting, pavé setting, channel setting, and more. The more you hear, the more confusing it gets.

We understand this because we’ve been there too.

That’s why we’ve written this article to explain, in simple terms, the different types of engagement ring styles, what they look like, and their advantages and disadvantages.

The engagement ring styles you’ve seen can be categorized into 15 types, which we’ll explain today. We’ve also included diamond setting techniques. This article has everything you need to know about engagement ring styles.

Once you’ve found the style that suits you, feel free to contact us so we can help you find the ideal cut diamond for your ring.

1. Solitaire & Prong Setting

A diamond ring style you’ll see often and one that’s considered a timeless classic is the “Solitaire Style with Prong Setting”, perfect for lovers seeking a traditional engagement ring.

A “Prong Setting” uses metal prongs to hold the diamond or gemstone, curving inward to secure the stone.

Prong settings come in various types—round, flat, sharp, or “V” shaped, often used for “Princess Cut Diamonds.” Most prong settings feature either four or six prongs. Four prongs create a classic look, while six provide extra durability.

This setting enhances the diamond’s appearance by minimizing metal and allowing light to pass through, making it brilliant and eye-catching.

Many people choosing a 1-carat engagement ring opt for this style.

Advantages of the Prong Setting

The diamond is elevated, making it easier to see.
More of the diamond’s surface is exposed, allowing light to enter and increasing brilliance.
Compatible with many diamond shapes, including fancy cuts.
Easy to clean due to its minimalistic structure.
Classic look suitable for any occasion.

Disadvantages of the Prong Setting

If the diamond is raised too high, it may catch on clothing or hair (consider lowering the diamond for a more active lifestyle).
Over time, the diamond may loosen (a check-up every two years ensures its security).

2. Bezel Setting

The bezel setting is the second most popular ring style, offering a sleek, modern look perfect for those with an active lifestyle.

Unlike prong settings, bezel settings encircle the diamond with a thin bezel, offering more security—similar to a sturdy phone case.

Bezels can fully or partially surround the diamond, offering options for security and visibility.

This setting is perfect for those who work with their hands and don’t want to worry about their ring catching on things.

Advantages of the Bezel Setting

More secure than prong settings, ideal for active wearers.
Modern, sleek appearance.
Won’t snag on clothing or objects.
Provides excellent protection for the diamond.
Easy to clean, with minimal concern for diamond loosening.

Disadvantages of the Bezel Setting

Can make the diamond appear smaller due to less surface area exposure.
Less brilliance compared to prong settings as less light reaches the diamond.

3. Classic Tension Setting

In a classic tension setting, the ring holds the diamond in place using pressure from the metal band on both sides. This creates the illusion that the diamond is floating.

Advantages of the Classic Tension Setting

Strong, secure grip on the diamond.
Unique and modern style, standing out from traditional settings.
Exposed diamond surface maximizes fire and brilliance.
Less need for caution compared to prong settings.

Disadvantages of the Classic Tension Setting

Resizing is difficult and can be costly.
The diamond may appear smaller, especially with a thicker band.
In rare cases, the diamond could loosen with a heavy impact.

4. Tension-Style Bezel Setting

A tension-style bezel setting curves to fit the diamond’s shape, offering more protection than a classic tension setting. This setting is popular for those who love the tension style but want extra security.

Advantages of the Tension-Style Bezel Setting

Provides better diamond security.
Classic look that’s more refined than the traditional tension setting.
Offers a balance of style and protection.

Disadvantages of the Tension-Style Bezel Setting

Resizing is challenging and expensive.
Can make the diamond appear smaller.

5. Channel Setting

The channel setting secures smaller diamonds in a row, creating a seamless curve of diamonds around the finger. With no prongs to worry about, this setting is perfect for an active lifestyle.

Advantages of the Channel Setting

Secure setting for smaller diamonds.
Enhances brilliance when paired with a centerpiece diamond.
Offers a sleek, safe design.
Won’t snag on clothing or other items.

Disadvantages of the Channel Setting

Cleaning requires extra effort as dust can accumulate.
Resizing is tricky, potentially altering the ring’s proportions.

6. Pavé Setting

pave setting
The term “Pavé” is derived from the French word for paving, as this setting “paves” the ring with diamonds. Smaller diamonds are set close together with minimal metal, maximizing brilliance, especially in white gold rings.

Advantages of the Pavé Setting

Enhances the center diamond’s brilliance.
Adds extra sparkle when used as side accents.
Can be adapted for vintage or modern ring designs.

Disadvantages of the Pavé Setting

Resizing is difficult, especially for rings with diamonds around the entire band.
There’s a slight chance that smaller diamonds could loosen.

We recommend selecting the correct ring size before custom ordering to avoid resizing challenges.

7. Halo Setting

A halo setting surrounds a center diamond with smaller stones, making the central gem appear larger and enhancing its sparkle. This setting is perfect for making a bold statement and can save money by using smaller diamonds while maintaining an elegant appearance.

Halo settings often incorporate pavé accents for added brilliance, but even without them, this style provides a clean, sophisticated look.

Advantages of the Halo Setting

Amplifies the size and appearance of the center diamond.
Adds extra sparkle with surrounding diamonds.
Provides excellent protection for the center diamond.
Versatile and can be adapted to any diamond shape or color.

Disadvantages of the Halo Setting

If poorly executed, smaller diamonds could loosen.
Resizing can be difficult if diamonds are set around the band.

8. Cathedral Setting

The Cathedral setting raises the center diamond like an elegant arch, reminiscent of a grand cathedral. The design draws attention to the diamond, making it appear larger without adding significant cost.

Advantages of the Cathedral Setting

Makes the center diamond appear grander.
Unique design that stands out.
Provides a secure setting for the diamond.

Disadvantages of the Cathedral Setting

May snag on objects if raised too high.
More challenging to clean due to intricate design.

9. Bar Setting

The bar setting, similar to the channel setting, uses metal bars to hold diamonds in place, leaving space between them for a distinctive look. It’s a popular choice for wedding bands and stackable rings.

Advantages of the Bar Setting

More diamond surface is exposed compared to the channel setting.
Great for stackable or minimalistic designs.
Metal bars securely hold the diamonds.

Disadvantages of the Bar Setting

Resizing can be challenging.

10. Flush Setting

The Flush Setting, while similar in appearance to the bezel setting, involves drilling a hole into the ring and placing the diamond inside, making it “flush” with the ring’s surface. The ring is then adjusted to grip the diamond securely.

This setting is not ideal for more fragile gemstones as they might break during the setting process. However, it’s a favorite for men’s engagement rings due to the secure nature of the setting, reducing the risk of the diamond falling out.

Advantages of the Flush Setting

The most durable setting, great for those who work with their hands.
Gives a sleek, minimalist appearance.
Almost no risk of the diamond falling out or loosening.
Protects the diamond well, almost like a suit of armor.
Practical and ideal for everyday wear.
Less conspicuous, reducing the risk of theft.

Disadvantages of the Flush Setting

The diamond is less exposed, reducing brilliance and fire.

11. Three – Seven Stone Setting

three to seven stone setting
Diamond-row engagement rings—whether 3, 4, 5, 6, or 7 stones—are versatile, used for engagement rings, wedding rings, anniversaries, or other special occasions.

The number of stones may have personal significance. For example, three stones represent the past, present, and future, while five stones are popular in China as symbols of success.

A seven-stone setting, with its association with “Lucky Seven,” represents luck and is favored in Western cultures.

Advantages of Diamond-Row Rings

Enhances the brilliance of the diamonds.
Allows multiple large stones to be featured.
Showcases the center diamond beautifully when smaller diamonds are appropriately selected.
Can be customized in various styles.
Easier to resize compared to other settings due to its flat band.
The diamonds or gemstones are highly noticeable.

Disadvantages of Diamond-Row Rings

Requires more frequent cleaning compared to solitaire rings.
If side diamonds aren’t chosen carefully, they could distract from the center stone.

12. Antique/Vintage Setting

antique/vintage setting
Vintage engagement rings come in a variety of styles, inspired by historical eras such as Art Deco, Edwardian, or Victorian. The emphasis is on intricate details and patterns, rather than solely on the diamond.

In Thailand, vintage rings like Pikul Flower Rings and the “Noppakao Ring” (Nine Gems Ring) are deeply rooted in cultural significance.

Advantages of the Vintage Setting

Offers a distinctive, character-filled appearance.
Features delicate, flowing details.
If designed well, enhances the brilliance of the center diamond.
Evokes nostalgia, adding sentimental value.
Can be adapted to reflect the wearer’s style.

Disadvantages of the Vintage Setting

Requires extra care due to intricate details.
If poorly designed, the center stone might not stand out.
The diamond must be securely set to avoid falling out.

13. Cluster Setting

The Cluster Setting refers to grouping smaller diamonds to make them appear as one larger stone. This setting can either feature a large center diamond or consist entirely of smaller diamonds.

It’s a fantastic option for those who want the appearance of a large diamond but have a smaller budget. Grouping smaller diamonds offers a cost-effective alternative to a single large stone.

Advantages of the Cluster Setting

Gives the illusion of a large diamond using smaller stones.
Unique and eye-catching design with added dimension.
More budget-friendly than purchasing a single large diamond.
Can be customized to fit personal taste and style.
Great for those with slender fingers.

Disadvantages of the Cluster Setting

Requires frequent cleaning due to multiple grooves and diamonds.
Improper settings could result in smaller diamonds falling out.

14. Eternity Band

Eternity Bands are a popular engagement ring choice for women, or for occasions like anniversaries, birthdays, or Valentine’s Day.

These rings feature diamonds set in a continuous circle, symbolizing eternal love. Their beauty lies in their simplicity, with diamonds visible from every angle.

Advantages of the Eternity Band

Sparkles beautifully from all angles with diamonds encircling the band.
Provides a unique, standout look.
Pairs well with engagement rings or wedding bands.
Can incorporate different settings like bezel or channel.

Disadvantages of the Eternity Band

Resizing is difficult and often not possible.
Requires frequent cleaning as dust can accumulate between diamonds.

15. Shank/Split Setting

Shank setting rings feature a split band that converges towards the diamond, often decorated with smaller stones. This design helps emphasize the center diamond and adds a distinctive style.

This style is ideal for those with slender fingers as it adds fullness and balance.

Advantages of the Shank Setting

Instantly catches the eye, highlighting the wearer’s hand.
Offers space for additional smaller diamonds or accents.
Draws attention to the center diamond, enhancing its prominence.
Versatile design that can be made modern or classic.

Disadvantages of the Shank Setting

Requires regular cleaning due to intricate detailing.
May not suit an active lifestyle due to its larger design.

For accurate ring size measurements, we recommend using a ring size measurer made from anodized zinc silver alloy for precision and comfort, avoiding irritation.

Conclusion: Select an Engagement Ring Style That Best Fits Your Lifestyle

Selecting the right engagement ring style is crucial as it sets the tone for your ring design and diamond selection. The style you choose should reflect your personal taste and lifestyle. Some styles are better suited for those who work with their hands, while others may fit a more formal, social lifestyle.

Regardless of the style you choose, proper care and cleaning will ensure your ring continues to sparkle just like it did the day you received it. Some styles require more maintenance than others, but all engagement rings need some level of care.

Once you’ve chosen your favorite engagement ring style, the next step is to find a brilliant diamond to match. If you need assistance hand-picking the perfect diamond, contact our expert team, and we’ll help you find the one.