The three most common engagement ring styles to choose from are solitaire, those with sidestones or those with matching bands. 

 

Solitaire Engagement Rings - Solitaires are the ring type we sell the most of.  (It is estimated over two thirds of the engagement rings sold in North America are solitaire).
View our selection of solitaires.     

Engagement Rings with Sidestones - In rings with sidestones, one center stone is generally surrounded by two or more complementary stones. 
View our selection of engagement rings with sidestones. 

Engagement Rings with Matching Bands - The metals of the rings & the bands are generally the same.  What is different is the number and design of the stones in each.
View our selection of engagement rings with matching bands.

With each of these ring styles you'll also want to select how you want the diamonds set. And there are several different options for you to choose from here as well.

The most common setting styles for diamond engagement rings and the pros and cons of each are:

Bar - Metal bars hold the loose diamonds in a channel-like setting across a ring with the diamonds on each end of the channel being exposed.

Advantages: delivers a streamlined look. The center diamonds' girdles are protected
Disadvantages: the outer diamonds are not as well protected

Bezel (or Tube) - The Metal is formed to fit completely or partially around the diamonds, cupping it into place. Arguably the second most common setting.

Advantages:diamond is well protected; holds diamonds very securely; highlights the diamond's circumference, making it appear larger
Disadvantages: usually takes more time and is more expensive than prong or pave settings

Channel - Often used for bands or to provide an accent to center stones, the diamonds are suspended in a grooved channel of vertical walls. Unlike the bar setting, there is no metal separating the stones.

Advantages: the diamond's girdle is protected; creates a streamlined look
Disadvantages: typically more expensive than a prong setting

Invisible - The diamond is set in a groove without visible prongs.

Advantages: maximizes the diamond's brilliance because no metal blocks light from going into it; profiles the most diamond out of all the styles
Disadvantages: is the most expensive setting type due to the expertise required to do it; is difficult to find someone with the skills to carry out repairs the diamond, if not set well, is less secure

Pave (or Bead) - Tiny stones are embedded to look like the piece is paved with loose diamonds.

Advantages:typically offers better protection for the diamonds than prong settings; provides a good amount of design freedom, can make stone appear larger
Disadvantages: may not be as secure as some other settings; is a bit risky in terms of damage to the stones

Prong - Several prongs (usually 4 or 6) hold the diamonds to let light pass through without interference. Prong is the most common type of setting.

Advantages: relatively quick to do, therefore, less expensive; more of the diamond is visible; easy to clean; sturdy & secure
Disadvantages: can get caught in clothing & hair if too high; with most of the girdle open, protection of the diamond is less

Remember, we're here to assist you. Please do not hesitate to contact one of our Diamond Sales Specialists via email us. We're more than happy to help!