When you think “engagement ring,” what comes to mind? Likely not a green emerald set in a halo of diamonds. Probably not a three-stone diamond ring, either. For most, it’s all about the diamond solitaire. Though this is one of the most classic choices, you should know a few things before deciding on the best ring for you. It’s important to focus on the different components of a diamond solitaire engagement ring and how they can affect your jewelry choice.
In this article, we’ll cover the anatomy of a diamond ring from top to bottom so you can get acquainted with the most common terminology. Because a little bit of education can make the process of buying a diamond engagement ring much easier!
The Ins and Outs of a Diamond Solitaire Engagement Ring: From top to bottom and (shank) side to (shank) side, here’s what you need to know.
The Diamond
It’s the ring’s centerpiece, meaning the diamond you choose will be the first thing everyone looks at. Where the diamond sits is called the “head” of the ring. It’s the area that includes the main stone of your ring. However, the head can also include a halo of gems to maximize sparkle or side stones for extra elegance. There are so many choices of diamonds, starting with a lab diamond versus a natural diamond. From there, you must decide on the shape, cut, color, clarity, and the ever-important carat weight. If you want to have a more budget friendly option, then go for a lab grown engagement ring London.
The Setting
Another important aspect of the head is the setting. Sometimes you’ll hear people refer to whatever kind of metal the ring is made of as the setting, but truly, it is the components that hold your diamond. The setting is what your gem is mounted on. It usually consists of prongs that tightly grasp the stone while allowing light to enter it for optimum brilliance, fire, and scintillation.
Prong Design
Prongs aren’t the only type of setting you can choose from. Other setting options include bezel or tension. A bezel setting is where the metal wraps fully around the sides of your stone. It is perhaps the most secure setting but offers a very non-traditional look. Tension settings use only compression to grasp the stone from two points. It is a very modern and unique look, although not the safest for a diamond. There are other styles of settings as well, such as the cathedral setting. The cathedral setting is quite popular for a diamond engagement ring as it elevates your gorgeous diamond and allows for other architectural features, like a hidden halo.
Other choices suitable for a diamond engagement ring are a four or six-prong design, with further customization for the arrangement and crafting of the prongs. For example, button or claw-shaped endpoints or a compass four-prong instead of the traditional four-prong. Ultimately, you can make your ring as special and customized as you like!
The Shoulders
Aside from the diamond, your ring’s other most obvious areas are the shoulders and shank – the shoulders are the uppermost portion of the band. Much like your shoulders connect to your neck and head, the shoulders of a ring connect the rest of the band to the head or your stone(s). In a solitaire diamond engagement ring, the shoulders can be the ideal spot to add additional details because the center stone stands alone. For example, pavé shoulders can be an exquisite feature of an otherwise simple ring. Just as with the setting of your center stone, you have choices here too. Channel set diamonds, a split shank, or tapered shoulders are lovely features for an engagement ring.
The Shank
The shank refers to the rest of the band below the shoulders, which wraps down and around your finger. It makes up the bulk of your ring and is important as it is where any resizing will occur. The shank is also where a jewelry hallmark should reside, indicating the composition of your ring and verifying its value. Commonly made of metal, you’ll have options like yellow gold, platinum, or white gold for your shank and shoulders.
Every Detail Matters
Who knew so much went into a diamond solitaire engagement ring? Now that you’ve looked deeply into ring anatomy, you know it’s much more than just the band and the stone. You’re more prepared than ever to make an informed and confident choice regarding one of the biggest jewelry decisions you’ll ever face!
