Ring Styles Guide
Rings can be grouped into four core styles: solitaire, diamond band, halo and trilogy rings. The versatility of these four different ring styles allows you to make your mark with unique customisation. Start with a staple design, work through the finer details and create an enduringly refined, personal ring.
Choosing between the main ring styles
Choosing a ring style is one of the very first steps to take when looking for an engagement ring. You will also need to consider diamond shape, ring metal, ring size and budget. For a comprehensive overview of everything you need to know before and after the design process, check out our engagement ring buying guide.
The classics work for a reason: we’ve evolved some of the most celebrated engagement ring designs to produce a collection that is refined, contemporary and easy to tweak with personal detailing.
Make a preliminary choice between the iconic four different ring styles: solitaire, halo, trilogy and diamond band, or choose something more adventurous with a toi et moi ring. You can put the finer details on the back-burner for now, and instead think about which distinctive style will strike a chord with you or your loved one.
Solitaire
A timeless classic featuring a single, stunning diamond as its centrepiece. Simple, elegant and versatile.
Diamond Band
A central stone with smaller diamonds set into the band itself, adding extra sparkle and enhancing brilliance.
Trilogy
A three-stone ring, featuring three diamonds or gems set closely together symbolising past, present and future.
Halo
A central diamond surrounded by smaller diamonds set around the edge, amplifying size and sparkle.
Toi et Moi
Translating from French to 'you and me', this ring features two centre diamonds or gemstones of a similar size.
What Are The Main Engagement Ring Styles?
Discover the main types of engagement ring styles to help make your final selection.
Solitaire
A timeless classic featuring a single, stunning diamond as its centrepiece. Simple, elegant and versatile.
Diamond Band
A central stone with smaller diamonds set into the band itself, adding extra sparkle and enhancing brilliance.
Trilogy
A three-stone ring, featuring three diamonds or gems set closely together symbolising past, present and future.
Halo
A central diamond surrounded by smaller diamonds set around the edge, amplifying size and sparkle.
Toi et Moi
Translating from French to 'you and me', this ring features two centre diamonds or gemstones of a similar size.
About Solitaire Rings
Simple, refined and effortless in charm, a solitaire engagement ring features one, single precious gemstone - typically a diamond. This is the most iconic and simplistic engagement ring style, loved my purists and minimalists.
Cost: from £895 (plus centre stone)
What is a solitaire engagement ring?
A solitaire engagement ring features one, single precious gemstone – typically a diamond. This is the most iconic, classic and simple engagement ring style, loved by minimalists and those with a taste for classic style.
Solitaire engagement rings are a popular choice due to their versatility. For example, oval solitaire engagement rings are favoured for their sleek and modern appeal, while round solitaire engagement rings are cherished by couples who prefer a timeless and elegant aesthetic. Cushion cut solitaire rings offer a vintage charm that appeals to those with a love for classic romance, or a pear shape engagement ring can appear a little edgier.
Furthermore, you can choose various setting styles to make your solitaire ring your own; whether that’s four claws, six claws, a rubover or demi-rubover. Adding a hidden halo or diamond set bridge is a further popular customisation of a solitaire ring.
Solitaire rings typically start from £895, plus the cost of the centre diamond or gemstone.
Popular solitaire ring designs
Solitaire engagement ring settings are popular for a range of styles, from sleek and modern designs to timeless and elegant aesthetics. They are versatile enough to complement everything from contemporary settings to vintage-inspired pieces, making them a favourite choice for many couples.
About Diamond Band Rings
Also referred to as a diamond band engagement ring, the ring is set with micro diamonds around the band, with one larger gemstone at the centre. The diamond band design builds on the simplicity of a solitaire ring, adding sparkle and intricacy to the design. Each tiny diamond used along the band is hand selected by our goldsmiths to match in high colour and clarity quality.
Cost: from £1395 (plus centre stone)
What is a diamond band engagement ring?
A diamond band engagement ring is set with micro diamonds around the band, with one larger diamond or gemstone at the centre. Some jewellers simply call this a ‘pavé engagement ring’, but in reality pavé indicates the style in which the small diamonds are set. The diamond band design builds on the simplicity of a solitaire ring, adding sparkle and intricacy to the design. At Queensmith, each tiny diamond used along the band is hand-selected by our goldsmiths to match in top colour and clarity quality to ensure it perfectly complements the centre diamond.
Diamond band rings typically cost between £1,395 to £1,950, plus the cost of the centre diamond or gemstone.
Choosing between scallop, pavé and channel setting
Rings with diamond accents, like a halo or diamond set shoulders, can be set in a number of styles, including scallop, pavé and channel. Scallop and pavé are the most iconic setting styles for the melee diamonds along the ring band or around the halo, whilst channel is a unique and contemporary choice.
Scallop
A scallop set diamond band sees diamonds set with scallop edged metal work, which exposes the sides of the diamonds, as well as the table, allowing for plenty of light to reach each stone. For this reason, some note a scallop set diamond band is a little sparklier than a pavé or channel set band.
Pavé
This features diamonds alternated with small ball claws, used to keep the diamonds in place, and edged with a refined strip of metal. Pavé settings can be a great way to achieve the look of vintage engagement rings, particularly when ‘milgrain’ detailing is added.
Channel
Channel set diamond bands have a similar aesthetic to pavé, however, removing the ball claws between each diamond give this style a more contemporary edge. Instead of using ball claws, diamonds are set closely together and secured by the outer metal work of either side of the band. This style looks particularly good with princess cut and emerald cut diamonds, as the straight edged diamonds can sit side by side, totally flush.
Alternative diamond band setting styles
There are further diamond band setting styles to choose from, such as shared prong, fishtail, flush set and rubover, each providing a distinct look and feel. Selecting the right setting style allows you to create a diamond band that perfectly reflects your taste and style.
Popular Diamond Band Rings
Diamond band engagement rings are popular for their versatility and ability to complement a wide range of styles. They are favoured for both modern and classic aesthetics, adding continuous sparkle and elegance to any design. Whether you prefer a sleek, contemporary look or a timeless, traditional style, diamond bands can be customised to suit your personal taste.
About Trilogy Rings
A series of three precious gemstones, a trilogy ring typically features one larger centre diamond flanked by two slightly smaller stones. The side stones are usually around half the carat weight each of the centre stone, however the size you opt for is totally up to you. Whilst every diamond is unique, the two side diamonds will be selected to perfectly compliment and match in shape, carat weight, as well as matching the colour and clarity of the centre stone.
Cost: from £975 (plus centre stone & side stones)
What is a trilogy engagement ring?
A trilogy engagement ring features three precious diamonds or gemstones, typically consisting of one larger centre diamond flanked by two slightly smaller stones. The side stones are usually around half the carat weight each of the centre stone, however, the size you opt for is totally up to you. Whilst every diamond is unique, the two side diamonds will be selected to perfectly complement and match in shape, carat weight, as well as matching the colour and clarity of the centre stone.
Trilogy rings typically start from £1375 including two small side stones, plus the additional cost of the centre diamond. Increasing the carat weight of the side stones will increase the overall price.
Trilogy side diamond shapes
The most popular shapes for a trilogy ring’s side diamonds are:
- Round
- Pear
- Tapered baguettes
When choosing a custom trilogy ring, there are many alternative diamond shapes you can play around with, such as:
- Trapezoids
- Trillion cuts
- Cadillacs
Some people choose a trilogy ring with three diamonds of the same shape, such as three oval diamonds, which can look killer.
Popular Trilogy Rings
Trilogy engagement ring settings are popular for their symbolic representation of the past, present, and future. They are favoured across a range of styles, from classic and timeless designs to more contemporary and modern aesthetics. This versatility makes trilogy settings an excellent choice for those who appreciate meaningful symbolism combined with elegant design.
About Halo Rings
Building upon the simplicity of a solitaire, a halo ring features micro diamonds set around the circumference of the centre stone. This adds detailing and enhances the size of your ring. Every little diamond used is hand selected to match in quality, enhancing and matching the colour and clarity of the centre diamond.
Cost: from £1650 (plus centre stone)
What is a halo ring?
Building upon the simplicity of a solitaire, a halo engagement ring features micro diamonds set around the circumference of the centre stone. This adds detailing and enhances the size of your ring. Every little diamond used is hand-selected to match in quality, enhancing and matching the colour and clarity of the centre diamond. Looking for something more subtle and understated? A hidden halo engagement ring could be your perfect match. This style of ring features a circle of small diamonds encircling the pavilion of the centre gemstone, visible only from side views, adding secret sparkle.
Halo engagement rings typically cost around £1,650, or closer to £2,350 for a double halo or the addition of a diamond set band. This excludes the cost of your chosen centre diamond or gemstone.
Engagement ring halo setting styles
Similarly to the band of an engagement ring, the halo can be set in a number of styles, with scallop and pavé being the two most popular choices. Scallop settings allow plenty of light to bounce around each tiny diamond due equating to intense sparkle. Pavé settings are slightly more metal-heavy, so while a little less sparkly, offer a beautiful vintage appeal.
Most people either choose a plain band for their halo ring, or the same setting style as the halo for the band, such as a scallop band and a scallop halo.
Popular Halo Rings
Halo engagement rings are popular for their ability to add extra sparkle and enhance the central gemstone's appearance. They are favoured across a range of styles, from glamorous and opulent designs to vintage-inspired pieces. Halo rings a perfect choice for those who want a ring with added brilliance and a touch of sophistication.
About Toi et Moi Rings
Featuring two diamonds or gemstones, typically of equal or similar carat weight, the toi et moi engagement ring is having a huge moment. Recently popularised by model and author Emily Ratajkowski, the style actually has historic roots, with icons such as Jackie Kennedy donning the stylish ring type.
Cost: from £975 (plus the cost of the two diamonds or gemstones)
What is a toi et moi engagement ring?
A toi et moi engagement ring features two gemstones set side by side, symbolising two individuals coming together. This distinctive design sets itself apart from other engagement ring styles by showcasing a pair of stones, often of different shapes or sizes, that can be personalised to represent the unique bond between a couple. The Toi et Moi ring's romantic and meaningful design makes it a cherished choice for those seeking something truly special.
Toi et moi engagement rings typically cost £975, plus the cost of the two diamonds or gemstones you choose.
Collet setting styles
The collet of the ring, the top part that holds the diamond, can take on a number of forms. The style you choose impacts the overall look of the ring, even if the differences are subtle. Options include claws, otherwise known as prongs, or rubovers, sometimes called bezel settings.
Four claw rings
The most popular choice for engagement ring claws is four claws. For something simple but alternative you can choose compass set claws.
Six claw rings
Six claw rings look extremely traditional, and are predominantly chosen for round diamonds over any other shape. Fairytale-like and traditional!
Rubover rings
A rubover or ‘bezel’ setting is a modern setting style. The metal is literally pushed up and over the outer edges of the diamond, meaning the diamond is edged completely by the metal.
Demi rubover rings
Similar to a rubover setting, except only part of the diamond is covered, leaving some sides of the diamond exposed. This looks ultra modern and is perfectly set when properly designed and made.
Four claw
The most popular choice for engagement ring claws.
Six claw
Traditional, fairytale vibes – paired mostly with round diamonds.
Rubover
Modern style where the diamond is edged completely by the metal.
Demi rubover
Ultra modern, with only part of the diamond covered and leaving some sides exposed.
What shapes can ring claws be?
Talon claws (and soft talon)
Talon claws are shaped like an eagle’s talons, the claws are rounded with a taper, towards the centre of the stone. The look is a little more classic but can be softened if preferred.
Ball claws
Ball claws appear as little, round balls that hold the diamond in place. The look is common of the late 20th to 21st century.
Box claws (and V claws)
Box claws encase vulnerable diamond tips and corners, for shapes like princess cut and the tip of pear shaped diamonds.
Square claws (and soft square)
As they sound, square claws are fairly boxy. Soft square claws have a rounded square shape that combines a geometric look with smooth edges, adding a touch of contemporary elegance.
Fingernail claws
Fingernail claws are flattened and curved, resembling a fingernail, providing a sleek and subtle way to secure the diamond.
Talon claws (and soft talon)
Shaped like an eagle's talons, offering a classic look.
Ball claws
Appear as little, round balls and give a modern aesthetic.
Square claws (and soft square)
Fairly boxy, combining a geometric look with smooth edges.
Fingernail claws
Flattened and curved, resembling a fingernail – hence the name!
More engagement ring design features
Whether you opt for a diamond band or not, there are many design features you can use to make the engagement ring more personal and fit the overall aesthetic you are looking for. From intricate engravings to unique metal finishes, these customisation options allow you to create a ring that truly reflects your style and personality.
Band design features
There are several band design options to choose from, allowing you to create a unique and personalised engagement ring. From elegant double bands to modern crossover designs, these options can enhance the overall aesthetic and reflect your individual style.
Single band: the most common choice is a simple band.
Double band: features two parallel bands, adding extra dimension and a contemporary look.
Split band: or a ‘split shank’, is one band that splits into two either side of the centre diamond.
Crossover band: bands that gracefully cross over each other, creating a dynamic and flowing look.
Twisted band: intertwined bands that give a romantic and intricate appearance, like twisted vines.
Shaped band: where the shape of the band is curved or contoured, and perhaps wraps around the central diamond.
Single band
By far the most popular ring band choice, this simple features one band which could be plain for dress up with diamonds.
Twisted band
Similar to the crossover, but the band appears like twisted rope, either plain or partially diamond set.
Split band
Or sometimes called a 'split shank', one band at the base splits into two as it meets the centre diamond.
Crossover band
Just as it sounds, the split band appears to cross over as it meets the centre diamond.
Double band
A little more unusual, this typically features two parallel bands that hold the centre diamond between them.
Shaped band
A shaped band, or contoured band, can feature soft 'wave' curves or sharper 'V' shapes.
Ring Band Styles
There are several band design options to choose from, allowing you to create a unique and personalised engagement ring. From elegant double bands to modern crossover designs, these options can enhance the overall aesthetic and reflect your individual style.
Single band
By far the most popular ring band choice, this simple features one band which could be plain for dress up with diamonds.
Twisted band
Similar to the crossover, but the band appears like twisted rope, either plain or partially diamond set.
Split band
Or sometimes called a 'split shank', one band at the base splits into two as it meets the centre diamond.
Crossover band
Just as it sounds, the split band appears to cross over as it meets the centre diamond.
Double band
A little more unusual, this typically features two parallel bands that hold the centre diamond between them.
Shaped band
A shaped band, or contoured band, can feature soft 'wave' curves or sharper 'V' shapes.
Band profile types
There are several band profile type options to choose from, each offering a distinct look and feel to your engagement ring. Selecting the right profile type can enhance the ring's aesthetic and ensure it suits your personal style. Here are some popular band profile types:
Rounded: Smooth and curved all around, providing a classic and comfortable fit.
Flat: Completely flat on the top and bottom, offering a sleek and modern appearance.
Knife edge: Features a sharp edge along the band, creating a unique and striking profile.
Tapered: The band gradually narrows towards the gemstone, giving a delicate and elegant look.
Rounded
Flat
Ring band width
While rings are typically designed and created with a standard band width, you do have the option to customise this if you prefer. For example, you may like the look of a skinny ring band, or something chunkier than usual. That said, it’s important the band is structurally sound and can support the size of diamond you choose - so stick with 1.7mm as the minimum and be aware that larger carat weights may need a thicker band. While some jewellers market extremely thin engagement ring bands, these rings are more like to warp and need repair as they fail to withstand everyday wear.
Our in-house gemmologist's thoughts on ring band width
‘Engagement ring bands shouldn’t be less than 1.7mm in width, generally speaking. This is because thinner metal will warp easily. For diamond set bands, this can be a little higher than 1.7mm. Larger diamonds need a wider band for support; 2ct + diamonds should have at least a 2mm band.’
Read our guide on how to find out your partner’s engagement ring size for tips on how to discover their size without them finding out!
Metal (single or mixed)
Engagement rings are typically crafted from a single metal, with popular choices including platinum, 18K yellow gold, rose gold or white gold. Each metal offers a unique aesthetic and durability. However, some people prefer mixed metal designs to enhance the ring's overall look and performance. For example, choosing a coloured metal like rose or yellow gold for the band and platinum for the claws can prevent the diamond from picking up trace colour from the claws. Diamonds set with platinum claws often appear brighter, icier and cooler, as they reflect less colour from the warmer-toned metals.
Engagement ring customisation options
Engagement ring customisation has become increasingly popular as couples seek to create unique, personalised engagement rings. Customising an engagement ring allows you to design a piece that reflects your personal style, sentiment and story. Whether it's selecting the perfect gemstone, choosing a distinctive band design or opting for specific claw styles, personalising your engagement ring ensures it will be a one-of-a-kind symbol of your love and commitment.
Diamond embellishments
Hidden diamond embellishments have become a popular way to personalise engagement rings without distracting from their refined design. Here are some popular embellishment options:
Diamond hidden halo: Small diamonds set beneath the main gemstone, giving a surprise sparkle when viewed from the side.
Diamond bezel: Like a hidden halo, small diamonds are set between each claw, underneath the main diamonds
Diamond bridge: You’ll find the bridge under the collet, connecting each side of the ring’s band. This can be set with diamonds.
Diamond finger bezel: An alternative to a bridge, a decorative bezel added to the sides of the ring offers extra detail and elegance.
Diamond claws: Claws encrusted with tiny diamonds, adding extra brilliance to the setting.
Diamond spider: A unique setting style where the claws extend outward, resembling a spider's legs, for a distinctive look.
Diamond hidden halo
Diamond bezel
Diamond bridge
Diamond finger bezel
Diamond claws
We get it, you’ve never done this before.
That’s why we have diamond and design experts on hand, who are here to guide you through every step – from understanding what carat, colour, cut and clarity mean, to designing the perfect ring.
Where to start with choosing the engagement ring style & type?
Choosing the perfect engagement ring style and type can be overwhelming, so our experts have prepared some handy tips to guide you through the initial stages of your search. Here are a few recommendations to help you get started:
Look for inspiration: Browse our Inspiration Gallery and take notes or screenshots of overall ring styles and specific features you like. This will help you have a clear idea of what you are looking for when you are ready to purchase or custom design a ring.
Understand their style: Examine your partner's existing jewellery to get an indication of the overall aesthetic they prefer. Pay attention to the metals, styles and types of stones they favour.
Ask their friends or family: they may have mentioned styles they like to their loved ones. They may have even commented on a celebrity’s ring they’d like for themselves.
Check out Queensmith’s Instagram: we post lots of inspiration alongside top tips for you to peruse.
Check Pinterest boards: If your partner has a public Pinterest board with rings they like, use it as a reference to understand their preferences.
Keep it simple. When in doubt, keep it simple. Simplicity never goes out of style! Unless your partner has stated they long for something unique or intricate, a solitaire or diamond band ring is a great shout.
By following these tips, you can feel confident in choosing an engagement ring that perfectly reflects your partner's style and your unique love story.
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Become an expert
Explore more of our engagement ring education, written and curated by the experts at Queensmith.