Shopping for an engagement ring can feel overwhelming when you’re faced with dozens of styles, settings, and diamond shapes. You might know you want something special, but understanding the difference between a halo and a solitaire, or why some rings feature pavé bands while others use bezel settings, isn’t always straightforward. Add in the various diamond cuts and metal choices, and the decision becomes even more complex.

This guide breaks down nine popular engagement ring styles to help you make an informed choice. You’ll discover what makes solitaires timeless, why halos create extra sparkle, and how vintage clusters differ from modern bezel settings. We’ll explore how each style pairs with different diamond shapes, from classic round brilliants to elegant emerald cuts. You’ll also learn about practical considerations like budget, durability, and how each style suits different hands and lifestyles. Whether you’re browsing for inspiration or ready to design a bespoke ring, you’ll finish this article with a clear understanding of which style captures your vision.

1. Bespoke Engagement Rings

Creating a bespoke engagement ring lets you design something completely unique to your story. You work directly with expert jewellers to craft a ring that reflects your partner’s personality, from the diamond shape to the smallest setting detail. Unlike choosing from ready-made options, bespoke design gives you complete creative control over every element.

Overview of bespoke engagement rings at A Star Diamonds

At A Star Diamonds, the bespoke process begins with understanding your vision and budget. You collaborate with skilled goldsmiths, designers, and gemmologists who guide you through selecting the perfect diamond and choosing from various types of engagement ring styles. The team sources ethically certified diamonds (both natural and lab-grown) and crafts each ring by hand in their Hatton Garden workshop.

How the design consultation and CAD process works

Your journey starts with a consultation appointment where you discuss preferences, lifestyle needs, and budget parameters. The design team then creates detailed CAD renderings that show your ring from every angle, allowing you to request adjustments before production begins. This digital preview ensures the final piece matches your exact specifications.

Working with CAD technology means you see your ring design in 3D before any metal is touched, giving you confidence in your choices.

Popular engagement ring settings we create

The workshop specialises in solitaire, halo, and three-stone settings, alongside vintage-inspired clusters and modern bezel styles. Each setting type affects how light interacts with your diamond and influences the ring’s overall profile on the hand.

Popular diamond shapes and cuts we work with

You can select from round brilliant, oval, cushion, emerald, princess, pear, and marquise cuts. Round brilliants remain the most popular choice for their exceptional sparkle, while elongated shapes like oval and emerald create a flattering effect on shorter fingers.

How metal choice changes the final style

Platinum offers superior durability and a cool white tone, while 18ct yellow gold brings warmth and vintage appeal. Rose gold has gained popularity for its romantic blush hue, and white gold provides an affordable alternative to platinum with similar aesthetics.

Budget, value and lifetime care with A Star Diamonds

Bespoke rings offer transparent pricing based on your chosen materials and design complexity. Every A Star Diamonds ring includes lifetime benefits like free resizing, polishing, cleaning, and complimentary engraving, protecting your investment for years to come.

2. Solitaire Engagement Rings

Solitaire engagement rings feature a single centre diamond held by a simple band, creating a timeless design that’s remained popular for over a century. This classic style puts all attention on the diamond itself, making it ideal when you want the stone’s beauty to take centre stage without competing details. Among the various types of engagement ring styles, solitaires offer the purest expression of elegance and versatility.

What a solitaire engagement ring looks like

A solitaire consists of one diamond elevated above the band by prongs that secure the stone from multiple angles. The band remains smooth and unadorned, allowing the diamond to catch light from every direction. You’ll notice the clean lines and minimal profile that make this style instantly recognisable and easy to pair with any wedding band.

Common solitaire settings and profiles

The four-prong setting uses four metal claws to hold the diamond securely while maximising light exposure. Six-prong settings offer extra security for larger stones and create a rounder appearance. Cathedral settings lift the diamond higher with arched metal supports that flow from the band, adding architectural interest whilst maintaining the solitaire’s simplicity.

Best diamond shapes and cuts for solitaires

Round brilliant diamonds work exceptionally well in solitaire settings because their 58 facets deliver maximum sparkle against the plain band. Oval, cushion, and emerald cuts also shine in this setting, with each shape bringing distinct character. Princess cuts suit those wanting modern angular lines, whilst pear and marquise shapes create dramatic focal points.

Solitaire settings allow your diamond’s natural beauty to speak for itself, which is why they remain the most requested style at engagement ring consultations.

Pros and cons of solitaire engagement rings

Solitaires offer unmatched versatility when pairing with wedding bands and suit nearly every hand shape and finger size. They’re practical for daily wear since the smooth band catches less on clothing. However, the single stone means you get less overall sparkle than multi-stone designs, and the simple style may feel too understated if your partner prefers ornate jewellery.

Who solitaire rings suit in terms of style and lifestyle

This style suits partners who appreciate classic elegance over trendy details and prefer jewellery that won’t date. Solitaires work well for active lifestyles since the low profile reduces snagging, making them practical choices for healthcare workers, artists, or anyone working with their hands frequently.

How solitaires affect budget and carat size

Your budget goes further with solitaires because you’re not paying for additional accent diamonds or intricate metalwork. This means you can invest in a larger centre stone or higher quality grade compared to more elaborate settings, maximising the diamond’s impact within your price range.

3. Halo Engagement Rings

Halo engagement rings surround the centre diamond with a circle of smaller accent stones, creating extra sparkle and making the main stone appear larger. This style has become one of the most popular types of engagement ring styles because it delivers impressive visual impact whilst offering versatility in design. The halo framework adds brilliance from every angle and suits partners who love jewellery that catches attention.

What halo engagement rings look like

A halo ring features a central diamond encircled by pavé-set smaller diamonds that sit flush against the main stone. The accent stones typically measure between 0.01 and 0.03 carats each, creating a continuous ring of sparkle that frames the centrepiece. You’ll notice how the halo makes the centre diamond look up to half a carat larger than its actual size, giving you more visual presence for your budget.

Single, double and hidden halo variations

Single halos use one row of accent diamonds for classic appeal, whilst double halos add a second outer ring for extra drama and vintage flair. Hidden halos sit beneath the centre stone, visible only from the side, creating a subtle surprise element that adds sparkle without overwhelming the main diamond’s presence.

Diamond shapes and cuts that work well in halos

Round brilliant diamonds remain the most popular choice because their circular shape pairs naturally with the halo’s outline. Cushion cuts create a romantic, pillow-like appearance, whilst oval and emerald cuts elongate the finger when surrounded by halos. Pear and marquise shapes also work beautifully, with the halo following the diamond’s unique contours.

Pros and cons of halo engagement ring styles

Halos maximise your diamond’s visual size and sparkle without requiring a larger centre stone, making them excellent value. However, the intricate setting requires more maintenance and careful cleaning around the small accent stones. The style can feel less timeless than solitaires since halo popularity fluctuates with trends.

Halo settings make your centre diamond appear significantly larger, which is why they’re favoured when you want maximum impact within a set budget.

Who halo rings suit and hand types

This style suits partners who appreciate detailed, ornate jewellery and want extra sparkle beyond what a single stone provides. Halos particularly flatter smaller hands and shorter fingers because the rounded design adds presence without overwhelming proportion.

Budget and maintenance considerations for halos

Halos let you choose a smaller centre diamond whilst maintaining impressive overall appearance, stretching your budget further. Regular professional cleaning becomes important because dirt accumulates between accent stones, dulling their sparkle if neglected.

4. Three Stone Engagement Rings

Three stone engagement rings feature a central diamond flanked by two side stones, creating a balanced design that tells a meaningful story. This style ranks among the most symbolic types of engagement ring styles because each stone represents a different element of your relationship. The trilogy arrangement offers visual interest beyond a solitaire whilst maintaining an elegant, uncluttered appearance that suits everyday wear.

What three stone and trilogy rings look like

A three stone ring places the largest diamond in the centre with two smaller stones positioned on either side, all held by a shared setting or individual prongs. You’ll notice the centre stone typically appears 30-50% larger than the side stones, creating clear visual hierarchy. The band remains relatively simple to let the trio of diamonds command attention.

Symbolism of past present future settings

The three stones traditionally represent your past, present, and future together, making this design especially meaningful for couples who value symbolism. Some interpret them as friendship, love, and fidelity, whilst others see them representing yesterday’s memories, today’s commitment, and tomorrow’s promises.

Three stone rings tell the story of your relationship through three distinct diamonds, each representing a chapter of your journey together.

Popular centre and side stone combinations

Round brilliant centres paired with matching round side stones create classic symmetry, whilst oval centres flanked by pear or trapezoid shapes add modern flair. Many couples choose tapered baguettes as side stones for clean, architectural lines that complement emerald or Asscher cuts.

Pros and cons of three stone engagement rings

Three stone designs offer meaningful symbolism and impressive presence across the finger without requiring a massive centre stone. However, the multiple stones mean higher overall cost compared to solitaires, and the wider setting may feel less comfortable during activities requiring dexterity.

Who trilogy rings suit and finger shapes

This style suits partners who value symbolic meaning in their jewellery and appreciate balanced, substantial designs. Three stone rings particularly flatter longer fingers because the horizontal arrangement creates width rather than length, balancing proportions beautifully.

How three stone styles affect cost and carat spread

Your budget covers three diamonds instead of one, though the smaller side stones cost significantly less per carat than the centre. This distribution lets you achieve a 1.5-carat total weight for roughly the cost of a single 1-carat solitaire.

5. Cluster and Vintage Inspired Rings

Cluster engagement rings group multiple smaller diamonds together to create patterns that rival the visual impact of a single large stone. This style offers a distinct alternative among types of engagement ring styles, particularly appealing to those who appreciate ornate, detailed designs with vintage character. The arrangement of stones creates dimension and texture that catches light from multiple angles.

What cluster and vintage inspired rings look like

Cluster rings arrange five to nine diamonds in floral, geometric, or abstract patterns that sit above the band. You’ll notice how the stones nestle together to create a cohesive central feature that appears as one larger piece. Vintage inspired versions incorporate milgrain beading, filigree work, and detailed metalwork reminiscent of Art Deco or Victorian eras.

Typical settings and detailing in vintage styles

Vintage designs feature engraved bands, scalloped edges, and intricate gallery work beneath the setting that adds beauty from every angle. Milgrain detailing creates tiny beaded edges that frame the cluster, whilst filigree adds delicate metal lacework between the stones.

Best diamond and gemstone cuts for clusters

Round brilliant diamonds work exceptionally well because their uniform shape creates symmetrical patterns. Cushion cuts add vintage charm, whilst mixing diamond shapes like marquise petals around a round centre creates floral designs. Coloured gemstones like sapphires or rubies add unique personality to cluster arrangements.

Pros and cons of cluster engagement rings

Clusters deliver impressive coverage across the finger without requiring a large centre stone, offering excellent value. However, the intricate setting needs regular maintenance to keep all stones secure, and the detailed design may feel too elaborate for minimalist preferences.

Who vintage inspired styles suit

This style suits partners who love antique jewellery and romantic details, particularly those drawn to historical design periods. Clusters flatter all hand sizes because you can scale the design to suit finger proportions.

Budget and value considerations for clusters

Multiple smaller diamonds cost less per carat than a single large stone, stretching your budget further whilst creating substantial presence.

6. Diamond Band Engagement Rings

Diamond band engagement rings feature a centre stone complemented by smaller diamonds set into the band itself, creating continuous sparkle around the finger. This style bridges classic solitaires and more elaborate types of engagement ring styles by adding subtle glamour without overwhelming the main diamond. The accent stones enhance brilliance whilst maintaining focus on your central gem.

What diamond band engagement rings look like

A diamond band places the centre stone in a traditional setting whilst the band incorporates smaller accent diamonds that extend partway or completely around the finger. You’ll notice how the additional sparkle frames the main diamond beautifully, creating a cohesive, luxurious appearance that catches light from multiple angles.

Pavé, micro pavé, bead and channel settings

Pavé settings use tiny metal beads to secure diamonds closely together, creating the appearance of a continuous diamond surface. Micro pavé employs even smaller stones for delicate detailing, whilst channel settings nestle diamonds between two metal walls for a smooth, protected finish.

Choosing side stones to frame the centre diamond

Round brilliant accent stones complement any centre diamond shape because their uniform sparkle creates balanced symmetry. Matching your accent stone shape to the centre diamond enhances cohesion.

Diamond bands let you increase overall sparkle without requiring a larger centre stone, maximising brilliance across your budget.

Pros and cons of diamond band engagement rings

These rings deliver exceptional sparkle and visual richness that surpasses plain bands. However, the accent stones require regular professional cleaning and make resizing more complex.

Who diamond band styles suit and lifestyle notes

This style suits partners who want extra sparkle in their everyday ring but should be worn carefully during activities that might damage the accent stones.

Budget, durability and resizing considerations

Diamond bands cost more than plain solitaire settings but less than full halos, whilst resizing may disturb accent stones.

7. Bezel and Tension Style Rings

Bezel and tension engagement rings represent modern minimalist design that breaks from traditional prong settings, offering sleek profiles that protect your diamond within smooth metal frames. These contemporary types of engagement ring styles appeal to partners who prefer clean lines and understated elegance over ornate detailing. The streamlined appearance suits active lifestyles whilst delivering a sophisticated, architectural aesthetic.

What bezel and tension style rings look like

Bezel settings encase the diamond’s perimeter with a metal rim that holds the stone flush against the band, creating a smooth, continuous surface. Tension settings use compressed metal tension to grip the diamond between two ends of the band, making the stone appear suspended. Both styles eliminate prongs entirely for a sleek, modern appearance.

Full bezel, half bezel and rub over settings

Full bezels surround the entire diamond circumference with metal for maximum protection, whilst half bezels leave the top and bottom exposed for increased light entry. Rub over settings describe the technique of gently pressing metal over the diamond’s edges to secure it permanently.

Pros and cons of modern minimalist engagement rings

These settings offer exceptional durability because the metal protects the diamond’s edges from chips and snags during daily wear. However, the metal frame reduces light entry compared to prong settings, slightly diminishing sparkle, and resizing becomes more complex with bezel designs.

Bezel settings provide unmatched protection for your diamond, making them ideal choices for active lifestyles and hands-on professions.

Best diamond shapes and cuts for bezel settings

Round brilliant diamonds work beautifully because their circular outline pairs naturally with bezel frames. Oval, cushion, and emerald cuts also suit bezels, though angular shapes like princess cuts require custom metalwork to follow their geometric edges properly.

Who these contemporary styles suit

This style suits partners who appreciate minimalist aesthetics and modern design, particularly those in professions like healthcare, sports, or manual work where snag-free profiles prove essential.

Budget, care and long term practicality

Bezel settings typically cost slightly more than prong settings due to increased metalwork, though they require less maintenance since no prongs need checking or retightening over time.

8. Bridal Set Engagement Rings

Bridal sets package your engagement ring and wedding band together as a matched pair designed to sit flush without gaps. This coordinated approach eliminates the challenge of finding a complementary wedding band later, offering practical convenience and aesthetic cohesion from the start among various types of engagement ring styles.

What a bridal set includes

A bridal set contains two rings designed as complementary pieces: the engagement ring with its centre stone, plus a wedding band shaped to fit snugly alongside it. The wedding band often features curved or contoured edges that mirror the engagement ring’s profile, creating seamless flow when worn together.

Popular ways to match engagement rings and bands

Matching sets share identical metal types and design elements like pavé accents or milgrain detailing. Some pairs feature nesting bands that curve around the setting, whilst others use straight bands with design motifs echoing the engagement ring’s style.

Pros and cons of buying a bridal set

Bridal sets guarantee perfect fit and visual harmony whilst often costing less than purchasing separately. However, buying both together limits flexibility if your wedding band preferences change during your engagement period.

Bridal sets eliminate the guesswork of finding a wedding band that fits perfectly against your engagement ring, saving you time and potential frustration.

How metal colour and profile affect the set

Consistent metal choice creates unified appearance across platinum, yellow gold, or rose gold options. The band’s profile height should match the engagement ring’s to prevent uneven wear patterns and ensure comfortable daily wear.

Who bridal sets suit and timing of purchase

Sets suit couples who prefer coordinated planning and value guaranteed compatibility between rings. Purchasing together works particularly well if you have short engagement timelines or already know your exact style preferences.

Budget planning for engagement ring and wedding band

Buying sets together often provides cost savings through bundled pricing, letting you allocate your total budget efficiently across both pieces from the beginning.

9. Diamond Shape and Cut Guide

Understanding diamond shapes helps you select the perfect centrepiece for any of the types of engagement ring styles mentioned above. The shape refers to the outline of the diamond when viewed from above, whilst cut quality determines how brilliantly that shape reflects light. Each diamond shape carries distinct visual characteristics and suits different aesthetic preferences.

Round brilliant cut diamonds

Round brilliant diamonds feature 58 precisely angled facets that maximise light return, creating unmatched sparkle. This shape remains the most popular choice because its symmetrical design suits any setting style and delivers exceptional brilliance that flatters every hand.

Oval and elongated cushion cuts

Oval diamonds create a flattering elongated appearance that makes fingers look slender whilst offering brilliant sparkle similar to round cuts. Elongated cushion cuts combine rounded corners with rectangular proportions, delivering vintage charm with a modern stretched silhouette.

Emerald and Asscher cut diamonds

Emerald cuts showcase step-cut facets that create a hall of mirrors effect, emphasising clarity over sparkle for sophisticated elegance. Asscher cuts offer a square version with cropped corners, bringing Art Deco geometry and depth to your ring.

Princess, radiant and square cuts

Princess cuts deliver sharp corners and brilliant faceting for modern angular appeal with maximum fire. Radiant cuts blend emerald shape with brilliant sparkle, whilst square cushions offer soft edges and vintage character.

Pear, marquise and heart shaped diamonds

Pear shapes combine round and marquise elements for unique teardrop elegance that elongates fingers beautifully. Marquise cuts create dramatic elongation with pointed ends, maximising carat weight visually, whilst heart shapes offer romantic symbolism.

Your diamond shape choice should reflect your partner’s personal style, hand proportions, and the setting design you’ve selected.

How to choose a diamond shape for your partner

Consider your partner’s existing jewellery preferences and hand proportions when selecting a shape. Elongated cuts like oval, emerald, and marquise flatter shorter fingers, whilst round, cushion, and princess shapes suit any hand beautifully.

Final thoughts

Understanding the various types of engagement ring styles empowers you to choose a ring that perfectly matches your partner’s personality and lifestyle. From timeless solitaires to sparkling halos, vintage clusters to modern bezels, each style offers distinct benefits that suit different preferences and budgets. Your choice of diamond shape further personalizes the design, whether you select a brilliant round cut for maximum sparkle or an elegant emerald cut for sophisticated simplicity.

Consider your partner’s daily activities, aesthetic preferences, and the symbolic meaning you want your ring to convey when making your final decision. Remember that the perfect engagement ring balances beauty with practicality, creating something your partner will treasure for a lifetime.

Ready to design your dream engagement ring? Book a consultation with A Star Diamonds to work with expert jewellers who’ll guide you through creating a bespoke ring that captures your unique love story.