Choosing an engagement ring is an incredibly personal experience, and the design style of the ring plays a significant role in its overall impact. From timeless classics to modern interpretations, understanding the different styles and settings available will help you find a ring that perfectly reflects your story. Here, we explore the major design styles, setting options, and band styles to guide you in your journey.
Make sure to have a try of our Ring Design Builder, to understand the different engagement ring styles.
Design Styles
Solitaire
The solitaire is the epitome of classic elegance. Featuring a single gemstone, typically a diamond, this design focuses on simplicity and allows the centre stone to shine. It’s a timeless choice for those who value understated sophistication.
Toi Et Moi (Two Stone)
“Toi et Moi,” French for “you and me,” symbolises two souls intertwined. This design features two stones set side by side, often contrasting in shape or size, representing the unique bond between partners. It’s a romantic choice steeped in symbolism.
Trilogy
A very classic and traditional style. The enduring nature of this design grants a seat in any signature collection.
The approach to perfecting these designs is the pairing of the trio. It's a sourcing play. It is one of the designs in the collection in which all three stones will need to have a unison of colouring, size & shape convention - in order to work.
This design is a classic in popularity for good reason, however the pairing of the trio as well as the setting choice, is where the individualistic characteristics shine.
Three Stone
Our three-stone design primarily emphasises a stunning centre stone. It serves as a bold and beautiful focal point, with paired accent stones elegantly framing it. We'll set the side stones slightly lower to enhance its prominence.
These pieces require a delicate balance. We must resist the temptation to over-design and instead let the natural elements shine. These minerals have rattled around in the earth for millions of years, resulting in remarkable tones, patterns, and unique colour zoning. They simply needed a window, skilfully crafted by our gem cutter, to showcase their beauty.
Now, we just let them sing. A simple setting, complemented by white accent diamonds. It's an unbeatable combination.
Five Stone
Our five-stone design is undeniably bold and purposeful, as evident from the abundance of brilliance on the finger. However, the emphasis on volume doesn't compromise its substance. We carefully select accent stones with suitable contours that lead the eye towards the central focus diamonds. A five stone design, will have a structural taper through the entire gemstone or diamond set and can even extends to the shank, incorporating a subtle knife edge for added sophistication.
Seven Stone
The seven-stone design amplifies the brilliance even further, creating a dazzling spread of sparkle. Typically paired with tapering baguettes, trapezoids or tapered baguettes.
Irregular Cluster w/ Freeform Cut Gemstone
The irregular cluster is our most renowned and defining design style. It exhibits unique structural characteristics while remaining perfectly, Laher.
The approach involves pairing an irregularly cut or off-angle stone with a cluster of small white fancy-cut diamonds that fill out a similar size and shape on the opposing side. This arrangement creates an intriguing sense of symmetry within a pool of irregularity.
The spread of luster is captivating from a distance, but the intricacy can only be truly appreciated up close. Freeform Parti Sapphires are an excellent choice for this design, as well as trillion-cut diamonds that are set at an off-angle.
Symmetrical Cluster
None of these descriptions should take away from the hero, the centre stone. However, certain designs serve the purpose of working together as a whole piece, rather than solely relying on the singular stone to hold court. For instance, this design truly shines as a combination of both centre and accent stones.
Again, despite its extravagant appearance, this design can also be very price-efficient. By opting for a lighter centre stone, you can allocate more of your budget towards the accent stones, resulting in a visually striking piece when spread across the finger.
Asymmetrical Cluster
This style typically features a centre stone that shares the focal point with a unique arrangement of accent stones.
Unlike other design styles, the entire orientation of this design contributes to its overall flair, rather than relying solely on the center stone for impact.
The asymmetry effectively draws attention to the central feature, while the side stones are equally captivating. Interestingly, the asymmetry creates a sense of "symmetry" as it is offset by one finger on the hand. This means that the stones extending more to one side than the other actually provides balance to the entire hand.
It's a bold cluster design, yet it can be cost-effective due to its reduced reliance on the centre stone.
Setting Styles
High Peg Setting
A high peg setting elevates the centre stone above the band, creating a striking profile. This design allows for a straight wedding band to sit flush against the engagement ring, making it a practical choice for those planning to stack their rings.
Basket Setting
The basket setting encases the centre stone in a delicate frame, creating a secure and elegant design. However, this setting often requires a crown-shaped wedding band to sit comfortably beneath the engagement ring due to the lower positioning of the stone.
Band and Shank Styles
Round Shank
The round shank is the most traditional band style, offering a smooth, uniform shape that feels comfortable on the finger. It’s a timeless choice that complements any design.
Half Round
A half-round shank features a rounded exterior with a flat interior, providing a classic look with added comfort. This style is popular for its balance of aesthetics and wearability.
Tapered
Tapered bands narrow as they approach the centre stone, drawing the eye toward the gemstone. This design enhances the prominence of the centre stone while maintaining a delicate profile.
Square Shank
For a modern and distinctive look, the square shank offers clean lines and a contemporary feel. It’s also favoured for its stability, preventing the ring from spinning on the finger.
Pavé
Pavé bands feature small diamonds or gemstones set closely together along the band, creating a glittering effect that enhances the overall sparkle of the ring. It’s a luxurious choice that pairs beautifully with various design styles.
Choosing Your Style
Every detail of an engagement ring, from the design style to the setting and band, tells a story. Whether you’re drawn to the timeless elegance of a solitaire, the symbolism of a Toi et Moi, or the intricate beauty of a cluster, there’s a design that will perfectly capture your vision. At Laher Design, we’re here to guide you through every step of the process, ensuring your ring is a reflection of your unique love story.