Engagement Ring Styles Guide: Finding the Perfect Fit

Picture this: You're under the twinkling stars with the one you love. You've decided to take the leap into forever and are finally ready to find the tangible symbol that speaks your love. Although it sounds ethereal, we here at Zola also understand that the decision to select an engagement ring can be a scary one!

For most lovebirds, selecting the perfect engagement ring can seem overwhelming. It's a lot of pressure to put on one object to translate emotions, hopes, and promises into a single tangible accessory. How do you choose when there's an ocean of styles to explore?

Fear not, future couples. This in-depth engagement ring styles guide highlights distinct styles and settings, unraveling the mystery surrounding metals and gemstones, and will help you successfully choose a symbol that's as individual as your love story.

4 Popular types of engagement rings styles

Before you start envisioning every sparkler on ‘the finger,’ it's essential to understand the language of rings. Settings, metals, and diamond styles all speak a dialect of their own.

1. Solitaire engagement rings

Quintessential solitaire ring settings, adorned by royals and romantics, focuses on a single, dazzling diamond. It's timeless, chic, and definitely not going out of style. It's perfect for the one who adores understated elegance and a modern-minimal look that's magnetically classic.

2. Halo engagement rings

Halo rings are the semi-newcomers of the engagement ring world. They encircle a center diamond with a 'halo' of smaller stones, magnifying the look of the focal stone. It’s perfect for the one who is the life of the party, loves to be in the spotlight, and believes in a love that brightens even the darkest days.

3. Vintage engagement rings

If you're charmed by the eras gone by, antique-style engagement rings are your twine to the past. Art Deco, Edwardian, or Victorian, each has its unique era-inspired details—a perfect homage to old-world romance. Ideal for the person who resonates with nostalgia and believes that the most enchanting stories lie in history's pages.

4. Multi-stone engagement rings

The three-stone design symbolizes the pivotal points in your relationship – past, present, and future. Each stone anchors significant moments, making them powerful symbols of the enduring spirit. Perfect for the sentimental couple who treasures the emotional weight of milestones. Of course, you can also opt for a two, four, or more multi-stone ring, too.

4 Popular engagement rings settings

What's underneath the glitz is equally crucial. A ring's setting not only secures the diamond but also influences the overall look, wear, and luminosity. You should not only consider the way a setting looks but also think about your partner’s lifestyle.

Each setting has virtues and visual appeal. The key is to understand what best aligns with your lifestyle, aesthetics, and the story you want your ring to tell.

1. Prong settings

Prong settings are the best friends of the solitaire diamonds, keeping them safe and securely tucked close to the band. They also allow maximum light to enter and reflect off the diamond, creating a stunning glare. This type is for someone who adores uncomplicated beauty and values the diamond's radiance above all.

2. Bezel settings

Bezel settings encircle the diamond with metal, offering a sleek, modern appearance and one of the most protective settings. These are for the active person, so if your partner is outdoorsy, works out a lot, or has a job where they use their hands a lot, a bezel is ideal.

3. Channel settings

Channel settings embed diamonds into the band, providing a smooth and snag-free line. They appeal to the practical one who desires a look that seamlessly integrates with a daily routine without sacrificing sparkle or sophistication.

4. Tension settings

Tension settings hold the diamond in place by the pressure of the band's metal, giving the illusion of a floating stone. These are for the modernist person, drawn to innovative designs and visual tricks that challenge tradition. This style of engagement ring is also very artful and interesting to look at.

Other things to know about engagement ring styles

Engagement rings can include alternative metals and materials.

Rings are crafted in various metals and adorned with various gemstones. Gold, in its various hues, has been the ring's partner for centuries. It's malleable, so it allows for intricate designs and personalization.

Platinum, on the other hand, is the silent performer—it's rare, pure, and eternal, offering the highest resistance to tarnishing and fading.

The choice between gold and platinum is as much about symbolism as it is about practicality. Platinum is the metal for a bride who covets exclusivity and resilience. Gold is for the person who cherishes the warmth and tradition propounded by engagement rings throughout history.

Of course, there are other metals, such as palladium, titanium, sterling silver, and stainless steel, depending on your taste and budget. These all make lovely components to engagement ring styles.

Breaking from a traditional diamond is acceptable.

Who says you can't go with another stone other than a diamond? Sapphires, emeralds, and rubies all make regal engagement rings. For the bride who values individuality, color, and unique beauty, a gemstone engagement ring may be the path to a truly distinct symbol of love.

Make sure to research both the gem's properties and the ring type to understand how to care for your ring. If you do have your heart set on a diamond, just remember that they come in various sizes and qualities.

This means you can still have a traditional engagement rings stone at a different price point. Another option is to choose a stone like moissanite that looks like a diamond without the cost.

Engagement rings don’t have to break the bank.

The “three months' salary” rule may have lost its universal appeal, but it still reigns as a guide for many. Modern couples are, however, more financially savvy. They consider realistic budgets that may vary from person to person.

In essence, the cost of an engagement ring is not just about its market value. It's about the thought, the sentiment, and the ability to say 'forever' in a way that feels right. Whether you choose to splurge or save, ensure it’s a choice you're comfortable with.

Settings and engagement ring styles significantly influence costs. A simple solitaire ring with a prong setting could be less expensive than a three-stone ring with a channel setting. The key is to understand that the value of the ring is subjective. There's no right amount to spend. It's about investing in a ring that's right for you and your story.

The price of a ring isn't just in the diamonds; it's in the craft, the service, and the assurance. The search for value is about finding a jeweler who resonates with your values, offers quality, and provides service throughout the ring's lifetime.

Remember, there are no shortcuts to quality. If a price seems too good to be true, it usually is. Look for credentials, reviews, and warranty. This will not only ensure you get what you pay for but also secure your peace of mind.

Shop other places besides a retail jewelry store.

One way to save money while getting a unique ring is to skip the traditional stores and buy a secondhand ring. Many locally owned jewelers have estate sections that contain vintage and modern rings that are gorgeous and preloved.

Other locations, such as antique stores and pawn shops, should also contain quality rings while providing some sort of guarantee about the components of the ring.

You can also search in places like Facebook Marketplace or independent sellers, but always be sure to get a bill of sale and a certificate that lists the specifics of the ring, such as the quality of the stone and the metal.

Of course, there should be no doubt about the genuineness of a ring when you purchase from a jeweler or a trusted online source, which is why many couples choose a jewelry store over other avenues.

Shy away from ultra-trendy rings.

Trends come and go, but classic styles endure. They have a universal appeal that transcends time and remains eternally classy.

On the other hand, trends add a slice of the present to your forever. They speak of your 'now' and make the ring a part of the contemporary dialogue. A trendy ring can often be a personal statement, aligning with a personality that loves to stay ahead of the curve.

The choice, then, is about understanding your partner’s relationship with time and personal style. Do they treasure the quaintness of permanence, or are they the ones to craft their styles, unbound by the hour hand?

Can’t decide? Chat with your jeweler about blending the two, as it’s possible to have a ring that’s both timeless and in style.

How to measure ring size at home

The last thing you'd want is for the moment of the proposal to be dampened by a ring that doesn't fit. However, if you’re purchasing a ring online or otherwise not in person, it’s impossible to try it on. Our guide includes both obvious and covert ways to determine ring size so that you can keep your proposal a surprise.

• A simple string and ruler would do. Wrap the string around the finger you need to measure and ensure it's snug. Mark the point where the string ends meet and measure the string.
• Sometimes, knowing a close friend or relative’s ring size can be an asset. They might seem crafty, but a stealthy conversation or even a surprise visit to a jeweler may help secure the ring sizing intel you need.
• Although unorthodox, a bar of soap can leave an impression, literally. Press the ring down on the soap bar, creating a mark that can be easily measured. This method suits standard rings and doesn't work well with unorthodox shapes.
• When in doubt, it's never a bad idea to consult a professional jeweler. They have the tools and the craft to ensure precision. Plus, they might guide you on any exceptions the ring type might have regarding fits.
• When in doubt, buy a ring sizer. Although it may sound expensive, cheap plastic ones will do the trick nicely. Purchase one online to measure at home.

How to choose an engagement ring: strategy and tips

Knowing how to choose an engagement ring requires a strategy that balances emotions with practicality. Your partner may have dropped hints about what style of rings they love, or you may be completely in the dark. Never fear, as a few tips and tricks will have you in the know in no time.

Know the wearer’s style and preferences.

Before you step into the jeweler’s, reflect on the style, values, and lifestyle of your significant other. Are they the traditional sort or a lover of all things vintage? Are they more contemporary or inclined towards being classic? Make a list of what these styles mean to them, and relate the options to their preferences and personality.

Familiarize yourself with the 4Cs.

Diamond cuts (the shape), color, clarity, and carat—The 4Cs are the cornerstones of any diamond purchase. Understand what they mean and how they align with your preferences and budget. Remember, the perfect diamond engagement rings are the ones that are perfect for you. You may fall in love with a stone that has a few flaws, but if you love it, then it’s the right choice for you and your partner.

Commission a custom ring.

Custom-made rings add an unparalleled personal touch and tell a story that only you and your beloved share. If you have a specific vision and can’t find what you need, a custom ring might be in order. Plus, commissioning a ring requires a lot of extra thoughtfulness. Collaborate with a jewelry artisan to bring your engagement rings ideas to life and curate a ring you know they’ll adore.

Envision your ideal engagement ring style.

Don't just look at the ring; see it. Envision it on their finger. Does it look right? Does it feel like hers? Trust your instincts; you'll know when a ring resonates with them. Picturing the ring on your partner’s finger can help you decide if it’s the right one to say forever.

FAQs about engagement ring styles

How much should you spend on an engagement ring?

The age-old question of ring cost doesn't have a singular answer. It's not about how much you spend, but what you get for the value. A general guide is to spend within your means, aiming for a ring that ticks all boxes—quality, personal appeal, and a price that you're comfortable paying for the promise it carries.

Where can I buy an engagement ring?

From traditional brick-and-mortar stores to the vast terrains of the internet, there are multiple avenues to buy an engagement ring. The key is to ensure the jeweler or e-tailer is reputable. Read reviews, check credentials, and gauge their customer service. Remember, where you buy can be as significant as what you buy.

What engagement rings are in style?

Engagement ring styles are as volatile as fashion, and they change as often. Vintage-style engagement rings are currently in vogue as the world reacquaints itself with the magic of eras past. Other than that, minimalistic designs continue to charm with their understated elegance. Stay ahead of trends by monitoring jeweler showcases and bridal magazines.

Difference between engagement ring and wedding ring?

Because you’ll present the engagement ring at the time of the proposal, they usually feature a prominent stone. After all, your partner will want everyone to know they’re engaged! You and your SO will exchange wedding rings or bands at the wedding ceremony. These are often a simpler, more comfortable design that complements the engagement ring. Together, they complete the circle of your story.

Let Zola guide your engagement ring selection process

Selecting an engagement ring is more than a rite of passage, and Zola understands the sanctity of this experience and stands ready to assist and guide you through the wedding ring process. And hopefully, the end result will be a ring—and a love—that will be cherished and last a lifetime. Bonus: Zola also has all of the info you need on insuring your ring, so don’t skip this important step.