Solitaire diamond rings have been around since anyone can remember. But these engagement rings are all the rage these days thanks to several factors. The ever-growing popularity of diamonds is among the factors.
These rings have a single center stone that doesn’t have smaller stones surrounding it. So, you won’t find solitaire rings with halo settings. The simplicity of the design of these rings is among the many reasons why they’re popular.
These are the most popular types of diamond engagement rings sold around the world today. But, did you know that there are different types of solitaire engagement rings? The differences between these rings may not be very eye-catching. But, they reflect the style and preferences of the wearer.
If you’re not aware of the types of these rings available today, we’re here to help. Let’s now dive into the most popular types of solitaire engagement rings in 2022.
1. Bezel Set Rings
This is among the most popular types of solitaire engagement rings and for good reason. Rings with the bezel setting are pretty secure which makes them ideal for regular use. A bezel set ring consists of a single ring of metal enclosing an entire diamond.
Since the diamond is completely enclosed, it stays secure in the ring. This ring type appeals to those that are constantly engaged in physical activity. The chances of bezel set solitaire ring getting damaged are minimal.
The metal enclosure makes it difficult for external elements to loosen the stone. This greatly reduces your chances of losing the diamond in your ring. People also prefer a bezel set solitaire ring as they make the central diamond appear whiter.
Sure, this may be difficult to gauge for smaller rings. But, if you want to save money on the color of your diamond, this is a good ring choice. But, while the diamond appears whiter, it doesn’t appear brighter.
Since a large part of the ring is covered, not a lot of light reflects off it. So, bezel set rings don’t appear as bright as other popular settings.
2. Prong Set Rings
Prong set rings are the most popular type of solitaire engagement rings. This could be because this setting lends a classic look to your engagement ring. Popular depictions of engagement rings in art are made up of prong set rings.
In a prong setting, the diamond is held in place using small metal claws. These claws are made out of precious metals like gold which makes them more luxurious. The prongs in these rings extend from the base to the band. So, they help keep the central diamond in place no matter how big or small it is.
There are two common types of prong setting for most diamond rings. These settings are especially common among rings that have round brilliant cut diamonds. Let’s talk about these settings a little more below.
Four Prongs
This is also known as the classic setting for solitaire engagement rings. The four prong setting is popular because it lends the greatest shine to your diamond. In this setting, your diamond is held in place by four prongs extending from the base of the ring.
Since there are only four claws, there’s a larger part of your diamond exposed to the light. This makes it easier for your diamond to reflect a large amount of light and appear brighter in the process.
Four prong settings can make your diamond appear a little square even if it’s perfectly round. This lends an interesting dimension to your engagement ring’s diamond shape. Also, since the diamond appears brighter, you don’t need to spend a large fortune on your stone with this setting.
This setting can make even smaller diamonds pretty sparkly. So, you can save money on your ring. But, if you want a larger diamond on a budget, there’s a way to get one. You can opt for lab-grown diamonds for your solitaire engagement ring.
These diamonds are cheaper than mined diamonds but are the same in every material sense.
Six Prongs
This setting is also known as the Tiffany setting because it came from Tiffany Co. This setting has six prongs that elevate the diamond above the metal band. The metal claws in this ring are thin and tapered. This gives the design of your solitaire ring a more intricate appearance.
This setting is available with several ring types including round and oval. You’ll even find marquise-shaped diamonds with six prongs. This ring setting makes the central diamond in your ring appear rounded.
But, it’s not very different from four prong rings when it comes to diamond sheen. The advantage six prongs has over four prongs is that it’s more secure. So, these rings are ideal for anyone living a more active lifestyle.
3. Tension Set Rings
Tension set rings are very different from prong and bezel set diamond rings. Tension set solitaire rings appear sleeker and more sophisticated. These rings hold your diamond in place by pressure, not prongs.
You’ll find a slight opening in these rings where the diamond is supposed to be placed. Each side of the ring exerts pressure on the diamond to hold it in place. The ring keeps the diamond secure because it has tiny groves to fit the diamond.
Tension set solitaire rings are perfect for those wanting a minimalistic design. But, even though they’re minimalistic, these rings are unique in their own way. The setting of the ring is such that it makes the diamond appear as though it’s floating mid-air.
This lends a modern and interesting touch to a diamond ring regardless of the size of the diamond in it. Another interesting aspect of tension set rings is how they reflect light. Light passes through the diamonds in these rings at unusual angles.
This gives the diamond extra sparkle since it’s mostly exposed. Other settings like prong and bezel don’t allow as much light to pass through the central diamond.
Conclusion
Solitaire rings are a classic type of diamond engagement ring that are here to stay. These rings are available in jewelry stores in different styles and settings. But, it’s important to remember that their basic design is the same.
The purpose of solitaire rings is to highlight the central diamond they contain. So, the size of the diamond inside these rings often doesn’t matter. What matters is choosing a ring size that suits your style the best.
