At first glance, a solitaire seems like a simple engagement ring and it is, stylistically. But when you dive into the technical components of designing a solitaire engagement ring, many elements differentiate solitaire rings. Look beyond simply the stone shape to the design components that can affect a ring's comfort, durability, and character. Here’s what you need to know to be savvy about solitaires.
What Makes a Solitaire Ring Unique?
Solitaire engagement rings are known for their simplicity and elegance. The defining feature of a solitaire ring is a single, prominent gemstone set on a plain metal band. This classic design allows the focus to be on the center stone, making it the star of the show.
Design Components to Consider
When choosing a solitaire engagement ring, there are several design components to consider that can impact the overall look and feel of the ring:
Setting Style
The setting style of a solitaire ring can vary, with popular options including prong, bezel, and tension settings. Each setting style offers a different level of security for the center stone and can affect the overall aesthetic of the ring.
PEG HEADS SETTING:
This is the most common solitaire engagement ring setting style. The band (or ‘shank’) and the prongs holding the stone are two separate pieces soldered together. The advantage of a peg head is that the prongs can be a different metal type than the shank; for example, the prongs can be white gold while the shank is rose or yellow gold. It’s important to note that peg heads are typically a higher-profile setting, and can therefore be prone to damage if you are very rough with them or hard on your hands.
PEG HEADS SETTING
CATHEDRAL SETTING:
Have you ever heard of a cathedral-style solitaire ring? This style of solitaire is a unique variation of the classic peg head design, with the prongs and shank as two separate pieces. The defining feature of a cathedral-style solitaire is the upward sloping shoulders that lead towards the center stone.
CATHEDRAL SETTING
TRELLIS SETTING:
The trellis setting is a pattern of lattice-like metalwork that supports the stone. The woven setting is integrated with the shank as one piece, making it stronger and more durable. This style of solitaire is slightly more decorative, especially when viewed from the side. It has a modern quality, while still maintaining the allure of the classic solitaire, so it is perfect for those who love a classic look but need a more durable ring.
TRELLIS SETTING
BASKET SETTING:
This clean and simple setting is a type of prong setting. The stone sits within a basket of metalwork with open sides, which allows light to hit the stone from all angles. A basket setting can have straight sides, which is a more contemporary look, or curved sides to create a more elegant and romantic look.
BASKET SETTING
TULIP SETTING:
As its name suggests, the tulip-style solitaire has a floral inspiration. The prongs look like flower petals when viewed from the side, while the top view looks like a four-prong solitaire. The effect adds a subtle feminine flair to a classic design. It is typically a style of peg head, with more decorative prongs.
TULIP SETTING
BEZEL SETTING:
Bezel set solitaires are the most modern and unique style of solitaire. This style has no prongs; instead, the stone is set within a smooth circle of metal. It is a very durable, strong setting, which makes it ideal for women who are working with their hands. A bezel-set solitaire will make a gorgeous statement that will last through everything you can put your hands on.
BEZEL SETTING
EAST-WEST SETTING:
If you’re set on an oblong stone cut like Radiant, Oval, Marquise or Emerald, you may love an East-West style solitaire. Instead of setting the stone vertically, it is turned on its side and sits horizontally. This style of engagement ring has been growing in popularity because of its simple yet unique style.
EAST-WEST SETTING
When it comes to jewelry design, the prongs play a crucial role both visually and structurally. The number of prongs and their style can greatly impact the overall look of a piece. Let's explore the different prong options and their unique characteristics.
