Engagement Ring Styles: What They Say About You

Kimberly Zerkel | November 03, 2022

Although engagement rings are worn the world over, each one is unique. The style, setting, choice of metal color, and small-but-impactful details — down to the one-of-a-kind VRAI created diamond at the center — make each engagement ring special. Each element is meaningful and reveals a little something about the person who is wearing it.

From subtle solitaires to bold three-stone settings, your choice of engagement ring styles says something about you. What message are you trying to convey with this cherished design? There’s no rule as to which style you should choose — just be sure to measure for your ring size to ensure the perfect fit. Or speak with a diamond expert to make sure that you find the style and lab-grown diamond that’s meant just for you.

Different Styles Of Engagement Rings And Their Meaning

Just like with clothing and accessories, there are different styles of engagement rings to fit every taste. Because you’ll be wearing it every day for the rest of your life, you’ll want to buy an engagement ring that suits your daily look. The style you choose often reflects who you are as a person — read on to see what your style says about you!

Classic Engagement Rings

Because of their timeless elegance and subtle sophistication, classic engagement rings also tend to be best-sellers. They are versatile enough to work with almost any look; because they’re not “trendy,” their beauty is appreciated for a lifetime. Classic engagement rings include the Signature Solitaire engagement ring, the Classic Solitaire engagement ring, and Three Stone engagement rings. Most often, these feature a Round Brilliant, Emerald, or Oval cut diamond.

Those who choose classic styles are often a bit more traditional. They prefer craftsmanship over trends and hype, and are looking for designs that will be future heirlooms.

Vintage Style Engagement Rings

For those who love the drama and romance of the past, a vintage style engagement ring is ideal. This style works best with those who love all things soft, billowy, or even floral. Vintage-inspired engagement rings include the Tapered Classic engagement ring, the Toi et Moi engagement ring, and the Graduated Band engagement ring. Although all diamond shapes work well with these styles, fancy shapes might be best.

Those who choose vintage-inspired styles are often romantic and sentimental. They are looking for a ring with a “story” or deep meaning behind it — a style that looks like it has been passed down for generations and will continue to be passed down as an heirloom.

Modern Engagement Rings

Modern engagement rings often stand out for their clean lines and sleek overall appearance. Those with minimalist taste or a flair for contemporary trends are often drawn to these rings because they stand apart from more traditional styles. Modern engagement ring styles include the Signature V engagement ring, the Floating Solitaire engagement ring, or the Double Band engagement ring. Square shapes, like a Princess, Emerald, or Radiant, look particularly stunning in these styles.

Art Deco Engagement Rings

For many, Art Deco engagement rings fall under the category of “vintage style.” While that’s true, Art Deco inspired styles are truly set apart! And those who look for Art Deco style engagement rings generally love big, bold, head-turning style. Some of the best examples of Art Deco engagement rings are the Five Stone Heirloom engagement ring, the Signature Bezel engagement ring, and Halo engagement rings.

Art Deco lovers are often flirtatious and whimsical. They love fine jewelry that stands out due to its intricate details, geometric patterns, and dazzling brilliance.

What Your Engagement Ring Setting Means

Choosing the right engagement ring setting is how you can ensure that this classic fine jewelry design is true to you and your personal style. There is no right or wrong answer when it comes to selecting the look that’s right for you. But there are certain settings that are more tailored to an individual’s style than others. Read on to discover the meaning behind just a few engagement ring settings.

Cathedral Style Engagement Rings

The cathedral setting is named for its architectural elements. The ring features sloping arches at the top of the band that lift the diamond, much like the arches and buttresses of a gothic cathedral. Similar to the yards-long cathedral veil worn by some brides, a cathedral engagement ring is big, bold, and make a powerful impression. There is also a traditional touch to this setting; it's perfect for those wanting something timeless, but with a slight twist.

Halo Style Engagement Rings

The name “halo” comes from the ring of small, pavé set diamonds that surround a center stone. This “angelic” style is also considered a more traditional, or vintage-inspired setting. Halo style engagement rings became prominent in the Art Deco era in the early 20th century. So for the modern couple looking for an heirloom-like design, a Halo or updated Hidden Halo (where the ring of diamonds are contained within a prong setting) are a perfect match.

Solitaire Engagement Rings

The name for a Solitaire engagement ring doesn’t come from the popular card game — but both names share the same origin! “Solitaire” is French for one single thing, or one alone. A Solitaire engagement ring therefore highlights one single diamond. Oftentimes, this symbolizes having found “the one” you’re meant to spend your life with. Solitaires are the most popular engagement ring settings of all time. Some have a simple band while others feature an array of varying silhouettes. But all feature a single center stone.

Three Stone Engagement Rings

The name of a Three Stone engagement ring is self-explanatory. This setting, sometimes called a Trio or Trinity engagement ring, highlights three diamonds instead of one. Most feature one prominent center stone with two smaller side stones. This look is often chosen for its symbolism. The three diamonds can represent your past, present, and future together. It can also represent two people coming together as one, or a growing family with children.

Toi et Moi Engagement Rings

The Toi et Moi engagement ring setting has a French name for a reason. This design — which translates to “you and me” in French — was first worn by Empress Josephine, Napoleon Bonaparte’s wife. In the twentieth century, Jaqueline Kennedy wore a Toi et Moi as her engagement ring to future President John F. Kennedy. The name alludes to the fact that it is a two-stone setting; the two diamonds represent the couple themselves.

What Your Engagement Ring Diamond Shape Means

A diamond’s shape is its personality. And which diamond shape an individual chooses says quite a bit about their personality. Once again, there is no right or wrong answer when it comes to selecting your preferred diamond shape. But read on to learn what your favorite might just say about you.

Round Diamond Shapes

Round diamond shapes include Round Brilliant cut diamonds, as well as Cushions and Ovals. These shapes in particular are considered as soft and traditional, as well as the most classically elegant. A Round is timeless and is also the most popular diamond shape of all time. A Cushion is a blend of round and square (which gives it its pillow-like name) and often pairs well with vintage-inspired designs. An Oval is a modern favorite and gives the most timeless rings a slightly more contemporary look.

Square Diamond Shapes

Square diamond shapes include Princess, Radiant, Asscher, and Emerald cut diamonds). Princess and Asscher cut diamonds are closer to a true square, while Radiant and Emeralds are more rectangular. Because of their clean lines and sharp edges, square diamond shapes exude a look of strength. A Princess and a Radiant cut diamond are thoroughly modern — both came into prominence in the late twentieth century. Emeralds and Asschers are older cuts that give any ring an heirloom-like appeal.

East-West Pear Diamond Engagement Ring

Fancy Diamond Shapes

“Fancy” is the name of any diamond that is not a traditional Round cut, including Ovals, Emeralds, and other aforementioned shapes. But some of the most popular fancy diamond shapes include Trillion, Pear, and Marquise cut diamonds. A Trillion is known for its three equilateral sides and its similarity to a shield. Pears are sometimes called Teardrop diamonds and represent tears of joy. Marquise shaped diamonds are named after Louis XIV’s mistress, and are meant to resemble a seductive smile. Fancy shapes are best for individuals with whimsical, flirtatious, or playful style.

Find Your Engagement Ring Style With Our Diamond Experts

Our diamond experts won’t give you a personality test — but they will help you find a setting that’s right for you based on your personal preferences and style! Book an appointment now and receive personalized guidance and in-depth diamond education. Then say yes to the engagement ring style that lets your individuality shine.