So you have found the one you want to spend the rest of your life with. But, before you can buy a tux, vacation somewhere tropical and settle down happily ever after, you need the engagement ring of course.
Engagement rings come in all different shapes and sizes; and much like the bride and groom, everyone has a different style and preference. It should reflect your fiancé and your relationship as it's really the centerfold and official kickoff for working the way toward the alter and wedding itself.
So, as your "all things wedding" experts, we thought having a breakdown of different types of engagement rings would not only be helpful for those of you looking to take the leap soon, but also really interesting! Because let's face it, shopping for an engagement ring is not anything like shopping for a necktie - it takes a lot of attention to detail and a heck of a lot of money!
The first thing you should know is there are different types of settings and styles that house the diamond that makes up the engagement ring. Here is a quick breakdown of the most popular engagement setting styles.
- Solitaire
- Vintage
- Sapphire Sidestones
- Diamond Sidestones
- Halo
- Three-Stone
- Pavé
Now, let's talk about the diamond itself and the cuts of diamonds. This aspect is a little more specific because there are so many different types of diamonds and so many different cuts that make up some of the most beautiful engagement rings you have ever laid eyes on. Although there are so many different styles, they are each unique in their own way, just like the couple themselves.
Here is a little breakdown of each type of cut to help give you a better idea of what your special someone might like.
Princess Cut
A traditional engagement ring style, the Princess Cut is a beautiful square shaped diamond with pointed corners. This style is usually enhanced with a sparkling diamond band for extra pizazz.
Cushion Cut
Cushion Cut is a really bold way to show off that diamond ring. It's an excellent choice for those who prefer a more vintage look with a splash of bling.
Round Brilliant Cut
Probably one of the most popular, traditional and classic cuts is the Round Brilliant Cut. It is typically a cone-shaped diamond that rounds out at the top making it the perfect diamond for those who like a little flash and shine.
Emerald Cut
The Emerald Cut, also known as a step-cut, is a rectangular shaped diamond that is the most popular choice when a diamond with high clarity is chosen. Due to this cut being very bold, a geometric style type of setting will compliment it best.
Oval Cut
Classic and elegant are two perfect words that describe an Oval Cut diamond. Since and oval cut has soft, round edges, it is definitely more of a bold cut. It helps to elongate the hand and looks amazing with a halo of smaller diamonds surrounding it.
Pear Cut
Like a pear, but better! The Pear Cut diamond is what most people consider a happy medium between an Oval Cut and a Marquise Cut. It has a rounded end that follows down to a single point. Pear-cut diamonds are a great way to make a smaller diamond appear bigger.
Marquise Cut
A thin diamond with sharp edges that could "cut," the Marquise Cut is a traditional cut that was originally modeled after a women's smile. It's an extremely flattering cut that perfectly houses a band of small diamonds.
Heart Cut
A slight modification from the traditional round brilliant, the Heart Cut diamond is, well, shaped like a heart. It's a sweet and charming twist on a beautifully elegant diamond that screams loves.
Radiant Cut
The radiance of the Radiant Cut is undeniable! It is usually a square or rectangular shaped diamond that has a touch of round brilliance making it a diamond that sparkles like you have never seen before.
And there you have it! A simple, helpful and easy breakdown of the different types of diamonds, settings and styles that make up the engagement rings that you have not only seen for thousands of years, but one you just might be searching for in the future.