Our reviewers evaluate products and services based on unbiased research. Top Consumer Reviews may earn money when you click on a link. Learn more about our process.

What are the most popular kinds of engagement rings?

Sunday, February 9th

What Are the Most Popular Kinds of Engagement Rings?

A diamond engagement ring is a token of eternal affection and devotion. More than that, because it will be worn daily, it will become a staple in the bride's wardrobe and will accentuate her sense of style. With these important factors in mind, you understandably want to make an excellent selection that brings joy to the wearer each time she looks at it.

There is a seemingly endless range of styles to consider, so how can you find the perfect diamond engagement ring for your upcoming purchase? A smart starting point is to look at some of the most popular stone cuts and ring styles. By narrowing down your preference to a few cuts and styles that speak to you, you can simplify your search when you start shopping.

Stone Cuts

The diamond is the focal point of an engagement ring. At first glance, you may simply assume that you would choose a diamond by its shape and size. The diamond should appeal to you visually, but it is important to note that the cut impacts light refraction inside the diamond. Essentially, diamonds shine differently depending on the cut that you select. The four Cs of diamonds, which impact the overall value of the stone and describe its quality, are cut, clarity, carat and color. With this in mind, you may be wondering what some of the most popular diamond cuts are.

Round Brilliant Cut

Perhaps the most brilliant type of diamond cut is the round brilliant. It has 58 facets, which are precisely angled to optimize the light performance in the diamond. These facets are cut according to the diamond's circumference and depth. The result is a round diamond that has a timeless look and that shimmers impressively under a light.

Princess Cut

The technical name for a princess cut is square modified brilliant. When you look at the diamond from above, the princess cut has a rectangular shape with beveled sides. However, a side view reveals that the princess cut has a pyramid shape. Because of this, you may notice a subtle, X-like shape in the diamond when you look at it from above. Usually, a princess cut has fewer cuts than round diamonds. These diamonds also have sharp corners, so care must be taken when wearing them.

Cushion Cut

If you are looking for a diamond that has ample fire, the cushion cut deserves your attention. Fire, which describes rainbow-colored reflections of light, may also be referred to as brilliance. A cushion-cut diamond has more fire than any other cut. It is designed with a rectangular shape, rounded corners and large facets. The cut is aptly named because it resembles a pillow or cushion. This is one of the most classic of all cuts because it has been popular for more than two centuries. With this in mind, you will find cushion-cut diamonds used in vintage jewelry and in vintage-inspired new rings.

Emerald Cut

An emerald-cut diamond has a unique look that creates a distinctive personality. The facets are cut in a step-down fashion. When you view the diamond from above, an emerald cut has long, distinctive lines that give the impression of looking at a hall of mirrors. The corners of an emerald cut are often cropped geometrically. Compared to other cuts, an emerald cut may appear to be more sophisticated and elegant. The depth or shallowness of an emerald cut may impact its weight and cost without playing a significant role in its sheen. With this in mind, care should be taken when selecting an emerald-cut diamond.

Best Engagement Rings

Ring Setting Styles

While it is undeniably important to select a quality diamond that has a cut and shape that appeals to you, the ring's setting is equally critical. This impacts the ring's overall style. At the same time, the setting plays a role in how protected or secure the diamond is and how well the light refracts in the stone. While there are many types of ring settings to consider, it is worthwhile to look at some of the most popular types of ring settings that brides are often drawn to.

Classic Engagement Rings

A classic setting shows off a simple band that grades inward slightly as it approaches the gemstone. This grading emphasizes the size and shape of the stone, and it can give the illusion that the stone is larger. Usually, a classic setting holds the stone with four prongs, but this may vary depending on the stone cut selected. Notably, a classic setting may look beautiful holding all diamond cuts. In fact, it allows the diamond to receive the undivided attention that it deserves.

Solitaire Engagement Rings

A solitaire setting is similar to a classic setting in many ways. It has a simple band that allows the stone to take center stage. Unlike a classic setting that grades inward, a solitaire setting maintains the same width throughout the length of the band. Like the classic setting, the solitaire setting often holds the diamond using four prongs. Because of the uniquely simple design of this setting, it has a timeless look that will undoubtedly still appeal to the bride many years after the vows are exchanged.

Halo Engagement Rings

A halo setting is a stunning option to consider as well. It features a central diamond that is completely surrounded by smaller accent diamonds. Often, the band is simplistic so that the sparkle of the diamond and its halo of accent stones can stand out. The many accent diamonds that are placed on a halo setting create an extra layer of sparkle that you will not find in many other settings. A halo engagement ring notably is found with round or oval diamonds. It is also commonly selected for marquise and cushion cuts.

Luxe Engagement Rings

A luxe engagement ring is a variation of the halo setting. It boasts the halo of accent diamonds around a central gemstone, and the band is adorned with accent stones as well. This may be a single band or a more decorative double band. This setting style is appropriately named because of its luxurious sparkle throughout the entire length of the band.

Three-Stone Engagement Rings

Another option that many brides are drawn to is a three-stone setting. This setting flanks the primary gemstone with an accent stone on either side. Notably, the two accent stones used on a three-stone setting are usually larger than the accent rings used with a halo setting. Usually, the two accent stones have the same cut as the central stone. This setting has a special meaning that signifies the couple's past, present and future together. From an aesthetic standpoint, the accent stones draw special attention to the larger primary stone as well as an extra element of sparkle.

Vintage Settings

There are numerous vintage settings that continue to be popular today. Some of these may be inspired by the Art Deco or Victorian eras. Generally, these vintage styles have a stunningly timeless look that many brides are drawn to. The settings may feature a single stone, but they often have accent stones that set off the primary stone beautifully.

Keep in mind that these are only some of the diamond cuts and ring settings that you may find when you start shopping for an engagement ring. There is also a possibility of purchasing a loose diamond and customizing your ring with your own setting. You understandably want convenient access to a wide range of options before finalizing your selection. Shopping online gives you the opportunity to peruse the possibilities from the comfort of your home and at your own pace. When you shop online, you can also have access to far more styles than you may find when shopping in a local store. Are you ready to start searching for your diamond engagement ring?

The Best Engagement Rings Compare Engagement Rings Compare Engagement Ring Reviews What are the best Engagement Rings Best Engagement Ring Reviews

Engagement Ring FAQ

...because you want the world's best selection and pricing, not just the limited options at your local brick-and-mortar jewelry store! Whether you buy a ring that's ready-to-ship or you design the ring of your (or your fiancée's) dreams, you won't find more possibilities than what's offered online.
That varies widely by retailer and by ring. If you choose an engagement ring that's in stock and pay for expedited shipping, some online jewelers can have it to you the next day! On the other hand, if your perfect proposal involves a one-of-a-kind, customized ring that costs tens of thousands of dollars, it could take a month or more before it's ready. The best jewelers provide an estimated shipping timeframe right on each ring's description page.
Most jewelers ship engagement rings with ample insurance, making it risk-free even for the most high-end items. However, if you're concerned about "porch pirates” taking your ring from your doorstep or mailbox, you've got options: either opt for "signature required” delivery during checkout, or choose a jeweler that also has a retail location near you and have your order shipped to the store for in-person pickup.
Fear not. Engagement ring retailers usually include at least one free resizing, plus exchanges are almost always accepted within 30-60 days of purchase.
If you're considering a custom-designed engagement ring, you'll want to read the retailer's return policy very carefully before making your purchase. Some may allow for returns and exchanges while others may not. On the other hand, in-stock rings usually have a return policy ranging from 30-60 days from the date of purchase, and some online jewelers extend that timeframe during the winter holiday season.
More often than not, yes. Many jewelers automatically cover the diamond(s)or other gemstones, but you may need to add on a protection plan if you want coverage for loose prongs, resizing, or damage due to wear and tear (as opposed to manufacturer defects).
Usually, the financing options will be displayed near the price in the engagement ring's description or through a link at the bottom of the site. You may be offered a store credit card, an installment loan, or financing through a third-party partner.
That's a wise question to ask, because when it comes to engagement rings and online jewelers, "not all that glitters is gold”. Customer feedback is essential to determining where to buy this piece of jewelry that could very well become a family heirloom: look for a retailer with plenty of positive reviews, where shoppers say that the engagement rings were exactly as advertised (or better!) and that the customer service team handled any issues with professionalism and prompt attention. This is - hopefully! - a once-in-a-lifetime purchase, so choose a jeweler that will give you an unparalleled shopping experience.

Compare Engagement Rings

Select any 2 Engagement Rings to compare them head to head

best-engagement-rings
  • James Allen
  • Reeds Jewelers
  • Blue Nile
  • Super Jeweler
  • Jewlr
  • Ross-Simons
  • Helzberg
  • Gabriel & Co
  • Szul
  • Zales
  • Kay
  • Jared
James Allen vs Reeds Jewelers James Allen vs Blue Nile James Allen vs Super Jeweler James Allen vs Jewlr James Allen vs Ross-Simons James Allen vs Helzberg James Allen vs Gabriel & Co James Allen vs Szul James Allen vs Zales James Allen vs Kay James Allen vs Jared Reeds Jewelers vs Blue Nile Reeds Jewelers vs Super Jeweler Reeds Jewelers vs Jewlr Reeds Jewelers vs Ross-Simons Reeds Jewelers vs Helzberg Reeds Jewelers vs Gabriel & Co Reeds Jewelers vs Szul Reeds Jewelers vs Zales Reeds Jewelers vs Kay Reeds Jewelers vs Jared Blue Nile vs Super Jeweler Blue Nile vs Jewlr Blue Nile vs Ross-Simons Blue Nile vs Helzberg Blue Nile vs Gabriel & Co Blue Nile vs Szul Blue Nile vs Zales Blue Nile vs Kay Blue Nile vs Jared Super Jeweler vs Jewlr Super Jeweler vs Ross-Simons Super Jeweler vs Helzberg Super Jeweler vs Gabriel & Co Super Jeweler vs Szul Super Jeweler vs Zales Super Jeweler vs Kay Super Jeweler vs Jared Jewlr vs Ross-Simons Jewlr vs Helzberg Jewlr vs Gabriel & Co Jewlr vs Szul Jewlr vs Zales Jewlr vs Kay Jewlr vs Jared Ross-Simons vs Helzberg Ross-Simons vs Gabriel & Co Ross-Simons vs Szul Ross-Simons vs Zales Ross-Simons vs Kay Ross-Simons vs Jared Helzberg vs Gabriel & Co Helzberg vs Szul Helzberg vs Zales Helzberg vs Kay Helzberg vs Jared Gabriel & Co vs Szul Gabriel & Co vs Zales Gabriel & Co vs Kay Gabriel & Co vs Jared Szul vs Zales Szul vs Kay Szul vs Jared Zales vs Kay Zales vs Jared Kay vs Jared
Compare the Best Engagement Rings
- VS -
Review the Best Engagement Rings
The Best Reviews of Engagement Rings