Engagement Ring Buying Guide

When it comes to selecting the ideal ring, it's not only about the gemstone or the metal. The setting and style of the ring play a pivotal role in its overall allure. From classic solitaires to intricate vintage designs, the world of ring settings and styles is a treasure trove of creativity and craftsmanship. In this article, we'll take you on a journey through different ring settings and styles, guiding you to find the perfect fit that will make your heart skip a beat.

Understanding Ring Settings And Styles

Ring settings and styles encompass the various ways in which gemstones are placed and secured within a ring, along with the overall design and aesthetic of the ring. The setting dictates how the gemstone is fixed on the band, while the style encapsulates the overall appearance and feel of the ring. From classic solitaires and halo settings to vintage-inspired designs and contemporary styles, ring settings and styles offer a wide array of options for individuals to express their unique tastes and preferences. These choices may involve the arrangement and number of stones, the type of metal used, and additional decorative elements such as engravings. Each setting and style possesses its own distinct charm, enabling individuals to discover the perfect ring that complements their personality and captures their desired aesthetic.

Which Engagement Ring Style Is Right for Me?

Choosing the ideal engagement ring style is a deeply personal decision that should reflect your personal style, lifestyle, budget, and gemstone preferences. Consider your individual taste and leanings towards classic or modern designs. Additionally, contemplate your lifestyle and ensure the ring is practical enough to withstand your daily activities. Set a budget for the ring and grasp how different styles may influence the overall cost. If you're selecting the ring for your partner, take their preferences into account and involve them in the decision-making process or gather subtle hints about their favoured styles.

Ultimately, the key is to choose an engagement ring style that resonates with your heart and embodies your unique love story. Take your time, explore different options, and seek guidance from reputable jewellers. By considering your personal style, lifestyle, budget, and your partner's input, you can find the perfect engagement ring that symbolises your commitment and brings joy for a lifetime.

Classic Solitaire Settings

Let's begin with the most iconic and timeless setting - the solitaire. Featuring a single centerpiece gemstone secured by a simple metal band, solitaire rings exude elegance and sophistication. Whether it's a round brilliant diamond or a coloured gemstone, solitaires accentuate the beauty of the central stone and allow it to take the spotlight. From classic prong settings to bezel or tension settings, there are various options to choose from based on your personal style and preference.

Multi-Stone Settings

Multi-stone rings offer a captivating and eye-catching alternative to traditional solitaire designs. These rings showcase multiple gemstones arranged in various configurations, creating a stunning display of brilliance and colour. Multi-stone rings carry significant symbolism, with each stone representing a unique meaning or milestone. For example, trilogy rings symbolise the past, present, and future of a relationship. The arrangement of stones can vary, with options such as a central gemstone flanked by smaller stones, a cluster of stones forming a focal point, or even intricate patterns and shapes. Multi-stone rings allow for endless customisation, where you can choose gemstones of different shapes, sizes, and colors to create a truly personalised piece. With their dazzling beauty and meaningful symbolism, multi-stone rings make a striking choice for engagements, anniversaries, or any special occasion, celebrating the journey and milestones of love.

Halo Settings

If you desire a ring that exudes sparkle and brilliance, a halo setting might be the perfect choice for you. Halo settings feature a central gemstone encircled by a circle or multiple smaller stones, creating a captivating halo effect. This setting not only amplifies the size and visual impact of the central stone but also adds a touch of glamour and vintage charm. Halo rings can be customised with different gemstone shapes, metal colours, and even mixed metal combinations, allowing you to create a truly unique piece.

Wedding Bands And Eternity Rings

Choosing your preferred style of eternity and wedding bands is as significant as selecting an engagement ring. The style of these bands can complement and influence the overall look of your engagement ring.

Eternity bands are often chosen as special occasion gifts such as wedding anniversaries, birthdays, or Valentine's Day. These rings feature a continuous presence of diamonds encircling the band, symbolising eternal love between a couple. Available in claw, channel, pave, and bezel settings, these bands securely hold the diamonds in place. Although commonly worn on top of an engagement ring or wedding band, the placement is ultimately a matter of personal preference and comfort.

Wedding bands are exchanged during the wedding ceremony, representing a couple's lifelong commitment. The beauty of a plain wedding band lies in its pure and refined elegance. Its timeless class and simplicity allow it to shine on its own, even without the presence of diamonds. Wedding bands are available in various metals such as yellow gold, rose gold, white gold, silver and platinum.

The significance of selecting the perfect eternity and wedding bands cannot be overstated, as these timeless pieces serve as enduring symbols of love and commitment. Just as the engagement ring represents the beginning of a beautiful journey, the wedding and eternity bands encapsulate the ongoing narrative, encapsulating the unbreakable bond and the promises made on the journey ahead.

Realise Your Ring Dreams with Pre-Owned Jewellery at S&R Jewellers

By choosing a pre-owned piece, you contribute to the reduction of the demand for new mining, thereby lessening the environmental impact associated with the extraction of precious metals and gemstones. Pre-loved engagement rings often boast unique and timeless designs that exude a sense of history and character. These vintage or antique pieces carry a narrative, embodying the romance and stories of previous eras, making them not just accessories, but also cherished heirlooms brimming with nostalgic charm and cultural significance.

Discover our curated collection of pre-owned and vintage engagement rings at S&R Jewellers.  Book an appointment at one of our London Showrooms today or contact us for personalised assistance.