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Styles and settings of engagement rings

There is nothing more iconic than an engagement ring (to be more precise, in 1886 Tiffany set the standard for an engagement ring as we know it today). Discover classic and contemporary styles and stone settings, from traditional solitaire engagement rings to contemporary pavé and halo designs, all crafted to the highest standards with unparalleled craftsmanship.

Classic engagement ring

What is an engagement ring setting?

Setting refers to how gemstones are set or secured to metal. The setting of the ring is designed to enhance the beauty of the diamond. Style refers to the overall design aesthetic that the setting of the ring, whether it be a solitaire, a halo, or three stones, helps create.

Tiffany® frame

What is a Tiffany® ring setting?

The Tiffany® setting, introduced in 1886, set the standard for the engagement ring as we know it today. This iconic design features a six-prong round diamond-cut diamond that lifts the diamond to light above the band of metal, maximizing the brilliance of the stone. All Tiffany®-set diamonds are triple brilliant cut, the highest grade in the industry.

Solitaire engagement ring

What is a solitaire engagement ring?

The solitaire setting, named after a type of solitaire, features a single stunning diamond. Popular around the world since the debut of the setting, solitaire engagement rings enhance the beauty of the diamond. While the round diamond is the most popular stone for this type of ring, any shape of diamond can be used as the centerpiece in this classic setting.

Halo engagement rings

What is a halo engagement ring?

The halo setting features a dazzling center stone surrounded by a glowing circle of small diamonds. This is a popular style because the diamond halo maximizes the visual impact of the center stone. The halo engagement ring has different shapes of diamonds surrounded by a single or double halo of white or pink diamonds.

Engagement ring with three stones

What is a three stone engagement ring?

The three-stone engagement ring setting features a dazzling trio of stones balanced in perfect harmony. Round and whimsical center stones are paired with additional side stones to create a vision of superior beauty. Tiffany’s three-stone engagement rings feature a shimmering center stone flanked by sparkling diamonds or sapphires.

Tiffany engagement ring setting

Tiffany’s diamond setting standards are the most stringent in the industry. All Tiffany diamonds are set in special settings that match the specific size and shape of the diamond. The setting jewelers work meticulously to ensure that the proportions and surface quality of each stone are stunning from every angle.

Prong setting

Prong setting

The most common type of engagement ring setting is the prong setting, with thin metal handles that securely hold the diamond to the metal strip. Each prong is carefully sharpened and angled to the facets of the diamond’s rim. Popularized by the iconic Tiffany® engagement ring, this jagged setting lifts the stone high above the band of metal, allowing light to enter and exit the diamond from all directions for maximum brilliance, fire and sparkle.

Corner bartack

Corner bartack

In this setting, small round pieces of metal are lifted from the surface and used as prongs to hold each gemstone. These frames often feature accent stones. Since the metal beads reflect light, diamond engagement rings on the finger radiate an extraordinary brilliance.

Pavé bartack

Pavé bartack

Pave (meaning “pavement” in French) is a type of corner setting in which adjacent gemstones have a common prong. In a pavé setting, the surface appears to be paved with diamonds close together. Pavé diamond band engagement rings feature 3-6 prongs to secure each gemstone. This popular frame is the perfect choice for the wearer who desires a little extra sparkle.

channel bartack

channel bartack

In this setting, the diamonds are located inside two parallel metal walls inside the band. The distance between the stones with grooves can be no wider than a sheet of paper. Durable and stylish, channel-set engagement and wedding rings are prized for their flowing light.

Spring bartack

Spring bartack

A spring setting uses opposite directions of pressure to hold the stone so that it appears to be suspended. This pressure creates the illusion of a diamond floating in the air. With the stone set high and the sides open, light enters and exits the gemstone, creating exceptional brilliance.

Headband

Headband

A popular setting for diamond engagement rings has a metal rim that protects the edges of the gemstone. Ring-set engagement rings are defined by a flat surface where only the crown or top of the diamond is visible. This makes the setting suitable for those looking for a low-cut ring.

V prong setting

V prong setting

The V-prong setting adds height and elegance to the engagement ring. The shank of the ring curves upward, reminiscent of the tall graceful arches of a cathedral, raising the central stone above the strip of metal. This setting is ideal for those who prefer a traditional style with a high-set stone.

Flush bartack

Flush bartack

The stones are placed in recesses within the ring and are held in place by polishing or pressing the metal to cover the girdle of each gem. This setting protects each gemstone by placing it on or under the surface of the metal.

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