Choosing an engagement ring is one of the most personal (and overwhelming) shopping experiences. There are SO many styles, settings, and stones options these days that it can feel daunting! This guide walks you through the main styles of engagement rings. I pride myself on the personal but approachable service I offer so don't be scared to get in touch and if you are local come and have a look in person, it's the best way.
The Classic Claw Solitaire
There's a reason the solitaire has endured for centuries. A single diamond or gemstone, held in a simple setting, lets the stone speak for itself. It's timeless, elegant, and works beautifully with any wedding band.
Our Platinum Solitaire Diamond Engagement Ring is a classic and shown in Platinum as this really allows the stone to shine but can also be made in yellow gold for a softer look. The main feature of these rings is that the diamond is secured in place by "claws". The bigger the stone the more claws I would recommend.
The Rubover (Bezel) Setting
A modern alternative to the classic claw setting, the rubover wraps the stone in a smooth band of metal all the way around, offering a sleek, contemporary look and excellent stone protection. It's a favourite for those with an active lifestyle or a minimalist aesthetic.
Our Modern Rubover Solitaire Diamond Ring is a beautiful example — clean lines, solid gold, and a diamond that catches the light from every angle. Or this design in white metal with a slightly different delicate bezel setting.
A really simple rubover ring can also come to life when paired with a diamond eternity ring like the below.
The Trilogy Ring
Three stones, one ring — representing the past, present, and future of your relationship. The trilogy is one of the most romantic ring styles, and it's endlessly versatile depending on your choice of stones.
We have several styles and I also do many bespoke options.
- Trilogy Diamond Ring — a classic all-diamond trilogy in gold
- Teal Sapphire and Diamond Trilogy Ring — a striking combination of teal sapphire flanked by diamonds
- Salt and Pepper Diamond Trilogy Ring — for those who love character and individuality in their stones
- Bar Set Platinum and White Diamond Trilogy 1.5 carat — a statement piece with exceptional presence
The Halo or Cluster Ring
This style is characterised by large centre stone with a "halo" of smaller stones around the outside. The opportunities here are endless! A Daisy ring would also fall under this category and refers to a specific vintage-style cluster ring where the diamonds are larger and create a floral or daisy like motif. It originated in France in the 18th century and the style has endured ever since. I have created a couple of modern reworking of this style too.
The Unique - Alternative Engagement Rings
Not every engagement ring needs to follow a template. For those who want something truly one-of-a-kind, a distinctive design tells a story all its own.
Our Multistage Diamond Engagement Ring is a perfect example.
Coloured Gemstone Rings
Coloured gemstones are having a well-deserved moment. From royal blue sapphires to vivid tourmalines, a coloured stone adds personality, meaning, and often a more accessible price point than a comparable diamond.
- Teal Sapphire and Diamond Trilogy Ring — teal sapphire with diamond accents
- London Blue Topaz and Diamond Trilogy Ring — a deep, inky blue that photographs beautifully
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Green Tourmaline and Diamond Trilogy Ring — for nature lovers and those drawn to earthy tones
These styles look best adapted to fit a wedding band.
Salt and Pepper Diamonds
Salt and pepper diamonds — with their natural inclusions of black and grey — are one of the most distinctive choices for a modern engagement ring. No two are alike, making them a deeply personal symbol of a unique relationship and the perfect antithesis to a lab grown diamond world.
Our Salt and Pepper Diamond Daisy Ring and Salt and Pepper Diamond Trilogy Ring showcase these beautiful stones in handcrafted gold settings.
Bespoke: The Most Personal Choice of All
If none of the styles above feel quite right, or if you like elements of one and not the other, bespoke may be the best route for you!
At Taylor Black Jewellery, we work with clients to create bespoke pieces made by hand in England. Get in touch to start the conversation.
How to Choose Your Style
A few questions to guide you:
- Lifestyle: Do you work with your hands? A lower-profile setting like a rubover or bezel may suit you better than a high claw setting.
- Metal: Yellow gold feels warm and classic; white gold and platinum are cooler and contemporary. Rose gold sits somewhere in between. What does the person wear the most already? A combination is also a great choice i.e. a yellow gold band with a platinum setting that lets the diamond shine.
- Stone: Diamond is traditional, but coloured gemstones offer individuality and often better value. Lab grown stones are also a consideration here.
- Personality: The ring needs to reflect the wearers taste when it's going to be worn so much.
- Wedding rings: I would ALWAYS recommend thinking about this at the engagement ring stage. I often see customers who have for example a vintage engagement ring they've sourced somewhere and are disappointed when they come for a wedding ring to find it won't sit flush next to it.
All Taylor Black Jewellery engagement rings are handcrafted in England. Browse our full Engagement Rings collection or contact us to discuss a bespoke commission.