Different types of engagement rings
The proposal is imminent and you want to be sure that your Engagement ring is perfect? But the choice is huge: What type of engagement ring suits your partner's style? Which shape suits him or her best? Here you will find a brief overview of the different types and shapes of engagement rings to help you make the right choice.
Engagement ring styles: classic, modern or unique?
The selection of engagement ring styles is large and varied: from simple to extravagant, with or without stones. There are classic models that look timeless, modern rings with personalised details that tell your personal story.
Different models are also suitable for men and women. For women, elegance and fine workmanship often take centre stage, while men's rings usually have a robust, discreet design that combines suitability for everyday wear with style.
To make it easier to choose the perfect ring, a number of designs have been established over time. Below we present the most popular engagement ring styles that can give you inspiration for your marriage proposal.
Solitaire engagement ring
The solitaire ring is probably the best-known variant. It is characterised by the single stone that takes centre stage. The solitaire style looks elegant and timeless, both with a diamond and with another gemstone. As a solitaire ring for men, this style can also impress with its simplicity and clear lines.
Halo ring
In the halo ring, the centre stone is surrounded by a ring of smaller stones. This arrangement makes the main stone appear larger and gives the ring a particularly intense radiance. This type of ring is particularly popular with women. Depending on the choice of stone and metal colour, it can have a modern or classic look.
Three-stone ring
The three-stone ring symbolises the past, present and future of a relationship, making it a particularly meaningful type of engagement ring. The three gemstones next to each other create a harmonious overall picture that adds a special touch to both elegant women's rings and masculine men's rings. The arrangement of the stones can vary - the same size, stepped or combined with different shapes.
Personalised ring
A ring can also be given a personal touch, for example with an engraving. This gives it a unique character. At our goldsmith’s, you can also have an engagement ring made and design it to your own specifications. You decide on the material, gemstones, ring shape, width and other design elements, resulting in a unique ring that perfectly matches your vision.
Different settings and cuts
The setting of a ring determines how the diamond is held and influences both appearance and wearing comfort. There are various classic and modern settings:
Crimp setting:
The diamond is held in place by small metal prongs, which secure it firmly whilst allowing plenty of light to pass through.
Pavé setting:
Small diamonds or brilliant-cut diamonds are set close together so that the surface of the ring sparkles.
Cathedral setting:
The ring’s prongs rise elegantly, supporting the diamond like tiny arches, which gives the ring a particularly elegant appearance.
Clamp mount:
The diamond appears to „float“ in the ring, as it is held in place only from both sides. This setting has a modern look and really shows off the diamond.
Frame mount:
The diamond is completely encircled by a metal bezel, which provides it with extra protection and gives it a clean, understated look.
Set diamonds:
Small brilliant-cut diamonds are set directly into the ring band, so that they appear to be „cut“ into the metal, as it were.
This creates a very smooth, elegant finish with sparkling accents.
As well as the setting, the cut is also crucial to the brilliance and overall effect of the diamond.
The classic brilliant cut, with its many facets, ensures maximum brilliance and is particularly popular for solitaire rings.
The marquise cut, on the other hand, makes the finger appear longer thanks to its elongated shape, and looks both elegant and unusual.
Engagement ring shapes: Which one fits best?
The shape of the engagement ring significantly influences the look and effect of the ring. Different shapes look elegant, modern or eye-catching - depending on which style you prefer.
Round / Round head:
A round diamond with 57 facets is always referred to as a brilliant-cut diamond. The classic of all diamond shapes captivates with its timeless elegance, reflects light perfectly and creates a harmonious overall appearance. It is particularly popular for solitaire rings.
Cushion cut:
The cushion shape combines square or rectangular lines with rounded corners. It has a soft yet modern look, lending the ring an elegant, slightly nostalgic feel.
Princess Cut:
The Princess Cut is square or rectangular in shape, with clean edges and a modern look. This shape suits contemporary designs particularly well and, thanks to its multi-faceted cut, sparkles brilliantly.
Oval:
The oval shape makes the finger appear longer and gives the ring an elegant silhouette. Oval gemstones are highly versatile and complement both classic and modern ring styles.
Heart-shaped / Teardrop / Marquise:
Unusual shapes such as hearts, teardrops (pear) or marquises give the ring a unique look. They attract attention, have a distinctive appearance and are particularly well suited to rings designed to make a statement.
In our Ringschmiede we work with experienced stone setters who realise each of these shapes precisely and according to your individual ideas - so that your engagement ring is exactly as you want it to be.
Material, stone and colour: making the right choice
When choosing a ring, the precious metal, the diamond and the colour play a crucial role.
The combination of precious metal and diamonds also determines the ring’s durability and style.
Many couples place particular importance on the gemstone setting, whilst others prefer the look of a simple metal ring.
Traditional materials include gold, platinum and silver, each of which has different properties and shades.
Personalise your rings
With us, you also have the option to forge your own engagement ring. In doing so, you’ll gain first-hand experience of the craft of goldsmithing and have complete control over the ring’s design – from the material and colour to the gemstone setting, shape and width. Many couples do this together because it’s a wonderful experience and makes the ring even more personal.
The result is a high-quality ring that meets your exact requirements and is both visually and practically appealing. The decision is entirely up to you, so you get a ring that suits your style and symbolises your shared history at the same time.
Tips for buying an engagement ring
Buying an engagement ring can be a challenge, as there are many factors to consider: from size and budget to materials. To make planning easier, our ring cost calculator provides a useful guide to help you find the perfect piece of jewellery within your budget.
It’s also important that the piece of jewellery fits perfectly in the end. We can also help you find the right ring size if you’d like us to make a ring for you. For example, with our free ring sizer or during a personal consultation.
Plan enough time, try out different designs and think about which type, shape and materials suit you best. This will help you find a piece of jewellery that is not only visually appealing, but also symbolically represents your union and will bring you joy for a long time to come.
Rings created in our workshop
FAQ: Engagement ring types
Do you have any more questions about the different types of engagement rings?
In our brief FAQ, we have compiled the answers to the most frequently asked questions:
What types of engagement ring are there?
Popular styles include solitaire engagement rings, halo rings, three-stone rings and personalised rings. Each type has its own style and different effects - from classic and elegant to modern or personalised.
What engagement ring shapes are possible?
Typical shapes are round, cushion cut, princess cut, oval, heart shape, pear and marquise. The shape influences the look of the ring and should match the shape of the hand.
Which settings are suitable for the engagement ring?
Common settings are prong setting, pavé setting, cathedral setting, tension setting and bezel setting. They determine how the diamond is held and affect the sparkle, protection and style of the ring.
Which material is the most popular for engagement rings?
Engagement rings are available in gold, platinum or silver and in different alloys. White gold, yellow gold, rose gold and platinum are most commonly used. Rose gold can lend the ring a romantic touch, while white gold is often chosen as an affordable alternative to platinum. Yellow gold looks particularly warm and traditional.