Princess, emerald, round, oval, square, radiant , marquise...
Whether you're choosing a ring style for your soon-to-be fiancé or are looking for ring ideas to share with your partner, choosing the perfect engagement ring can be a daunting task. Not only do you have to consider the cut of the stone, but you'll also need to decide on a setting, whether you want white gold, yellow gold or platinum, and whether you want a diamond at all.
Luckily, we're here to help. Read on to learn more about five of the most popular engagement ring styles.
1. Round Brilliant Cut
Round diamonds are traditionally the first and most popular diamond that’s given as a symbol of commitment. They have a classic uniform and symmetrical shape that consists of 58 facets, which qualifies them a brilliant cut. The faceting on round cut diamonds also makes color and inclusions appear better than in other fancy shapes. In fact, these stones are so beloved that over 50% of all diamonds purchased are round cuts -- you probably can't look around without seeing a round diamond engagement ring.
They stand out beautifully in a variety of settings from traditional solitaires to modern halo mountings.
2. Emerald Cut
An emerald-cut ring is typically cut in a rectangular shape. The most common way to cut a diamond into an emerald shape is to make the length of the stone about one and a half times the width.
You can enhance the look of your emerald-cut ring with side stones or baguettes. The emerald cut is classic and not too trendy, so it will always be in style.
3. Marquise Cut
A marquise is one of the most recognizable diamond cuts, as it has a traditional "diamond" shape. The elongated shape can make your finger look longer and slimmer.
If you want a more modern look with a marquise-cut diamond, try an east-west set engagement ring, which has the diamond set horizontally, rather than vertically.
4. Princess Cut
If you want a square-shaped ring with the brilliance often found in round diamonds, a princess cut may be for you. The princess cut has a square look and it can stand alone and look stunning or can be enhanced with a setting that includes baguettes on the side, a diamond band, or even a halo setting.
5. Cushion Cut
Cushion cut rings are square or rectangular and have 58 different facets. It's more of a vintage style, so cushion-cut diamonds look best in vintage-inspired settings or rings.
It was developed before the turn of the century, so you might find that many antique pieces at estate sales are cushion cut.
Which of These Engagement Ring Styles Do You Like?
If you're shopping for your partner, be sure to find out what style of ring she likes before you head to the jeweler. Enlist the help of a friend or family member or simply ask her what type of ring she prefers. It can also be helpful to check her Pinterest! She's going to be wearing this ring for the rest of your life, so you want to make sure you get something that she loves.
If you're in the Tampa Bay-area and are ready to start shopping, come and see us at Johnston Jewelers. We are open six days a week and carry rings from all of the big-name designers, like Simon G, Le Vian, Gregg Ruth, Vanna K, and Kabana. We also carry a large selection of loose diamonds to customize something unique for you and your future bride.