Solitaire - A Star Diamonds

Vintage Rings London

A solitaire engagement ring is one that has been set with a single gemstone, most often a diamond. Solitaires account for the majority of the engagement rings on the market today, and given the wide range of stones, cuts and settings available, there are almost limitless options available within the context of this seemingly simple design. So why might you consider buying a solitaire ring, and what do you need to know in order to make the best choice?

Elegant, Understated And A Future Heirloom

If the recipient has a taste for elegant and understated design, then a solitaire ring could be the right option. A diamond solitaire is unlikely to clash with any of her other jewellery, or any of her favourite items of clothing, and a well-designed solitaire should be a timeless classic that could one day be a gift that your granddaughter would be delighted to receive.

Choosing The Right Stone Is Critical

With a stripped back, simple design like a solitaire, a good quality diamond or coloured gemstone is essential, so it’s well worth taking a little time to make sure you choose a stone that delights you. For guidance on how to choose a diamond, please read our guide to the Four Cs. Alternatively, you may wish to read our guidance on sapphires, rubies or emeralds.Round brilliant cut diamond solitaire engagement rings In addition to choosing whether to go with a diamond or a coloured gemstone, you will also need to decide on the shape of gem that you would like. Most solitaires are set with round brilliant cuts, however princess cuts are also very popular, followed by emerald cuts and cushion cuts.

Bigger Doesn’t Necessarily Mean Better

While the quality of the diamond or gemstone is important, so too is choosing a gem of the right size. Typically, a larger finger is flattered by a slightly wider band, but this may require a bigger stone for it to remain in proportion. In contrast, a really dainty band might suit a very slim finger, and will work well with a smaller gem. However, these are only rough guidelines, not a firm rule, and lifestyle can be just as important. Bigger doesn’t necessarily mean better — every client has to come to their own decision about the size that works well for them.

A Classic Claw Setting Is Not The Only Option

Settings

The setting is what holds the diamond in your engagement ring, however it is more than just security for your diamond – it helps to create the overall look of your ring.

Prong Setting

A prong setting acts like a claw to grasp the diamond, it raises up the diamond so that it is unhindered and on show allowing the diamond to catch the light and sparkle as a diamond should.

Halo Setting

A halo setting combines the security of a prong setting and the sparkle of multiple diamonds. A center stone is secured underneath a rim adorned with smaller diamonds.

Bezel Setting

This setting provides extra security for the diamond – metal is formed around the shape of the diamond, and the top of the stone sits flush to the perimeter of the setting which produces a clean, modern look.

Invisible Setting

A floor of diamonds set side by side to create an all diamond surface which can result in a striking and contemporary ring.

Channel Setting

A channel setting in a ring features a row of diamonds side by side, suspended by individual seats cut into each side of the channel and is often used for side stones to add more sparkle to the ring.

Pave Setting

Like paving the surface of the band with diamonds. In a classic solitaire, the diamond is held in place by claws, but this is not the only option – if you prefer a more modern style, you could opt for a tension setting, a rub-over setting, or a swirl. While a claw setting works well with a diamond or gemstone of almost any size, if you’d prefer a tension setting or a swirl, we find these tend to work best with gems up to about 0.6ct.

If you go with a classic claw setting, you might face a decision over how many claws to have – if a round brilliant cut diamond is set in four claws, this will tend to square off its appearance, whereas a six claws setting will emphasis its roundness. An eight-claw setting might be the way to go if you prefer an old-fashioned look.

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