An image of loose diamonds.

Guide to engagement ring styles

Choosing an engagement ring design

The style of an engagement ring is one of the most important decisions you’ll make. The ring design reflects the wearer’s personal vibe, affects how comfortable it will be to wear, and can influence whether they keep it on at work or during favorite activities. Whether you’re shopping for engagement rings together or your partner wants to be surprised, our Helzberg jewelry experts can help you narrow your choices.

We’ll walk you through design options to consider, from the look to the setting. We can show you different center stones and side stones, as well as options for the band. And we’ll make sure your preferences and budget come together in a ring your partner will love.

A video of an assortment of engagement rings of all diamond shapes on display.

Choose your own aesthetic

When we’re talking about engagement rings, looks matter. Three of our most popular styles are vintage, modern and classic. They’re pretty broad categories, but can help you choose a ring that will complement the wearer’s style. For hints about your partner’s aesthetic, take a look at their home decor, note their favorite outfits or observe their taste in art. 

the ONE AND ONLY

Solitaire

For those who appreciate simple, classic styles, solitaire settings elevate a single diamond or gemstone on a band with no accent stones. Prong settings are the most common, but bezel settings are striking, too.

Close up of hand wearing solitaire engagement ring with a gold hand and round diamond paired with a wedding band.
CIRCLE OF LIGHT

Halo

Halo style engagement rings give a center stone even more impact by encircling it with more diamonds. To make it look even bigger, try a double halo. By contrast, the hidden halo engagement ring features a smaller circle of diamonds or gemstones set beneath the center stone. It’s only visible from certain angles, so it adds surprise sparkle.

GIF showcasing a variety of different engagement rings.
MADE FOR EACH OTHER

Matching bridal ring sets

If you’re looking for rings that go together by design, browse our matching bridal ring sets. Some stack simply and perfectly and others intertwine, turning two designs into one.

Image of a Bridal Ring set
your perfect proposal starts here

Create your custom engagement ring

When what you want is something completely unique and entirely you, 
try your hand at designing your own ring. Start with a diamond, a setting or a style and customize it to your heart’s content. We’ll be here to help — online or in person — when you need us. 

Close up of hand wearing a custom made engagement ring,

STRENGTH AND BEAUTY

Diamond prong setting types

Prong settings hold your diamond in place while still allowing plenty of light to bring out the sparkle. The most popular setting styles are 4- and 6-prong, but you can also find 8- and 10-prong styles. The prong shape varies according to the stone shape and ring design. For example, V-prongs protect the points of marquise, pear and heart-shaped diamonds. Along with channel and bezel settings (see below), prong settings can also hold multiple stones in place.

Image of an engagement ring with a pave style setting.

Pavé

The unmistakable twinkle of a pavé setting comes from small gemstones or diamonds held in place with tiny metal beads. The close settings make jewelry look like it’s paved with gemstones — pavé, in French.

Image of an engagement ring with channel-set gemstones.

Channel

Channel-set gemstones are secured in a recess between two parallel pieces of metal, instead of held by multiple prongs. The result is a streamlined setting that protects the gemstones and won’t snag on hair or clothing.

Image of an eternity band with round diamonds.

Eternity

The continuous circle of diamonds or other gemstones symbolizes everlasting love and commitment, and can be held in place with prong, channel or bezel settings. The bezel look surrounds each diamond in metal.

Image of an engagement ring with shared prongs.

Shared prong

Adjacent stones can be held in place by shared prongs, which are exactly what they sound like. Holding multiple stones does put more strain on the prongs, so it’s important to visit Helzberg for regular maintenance.

Frequently Asked Questions

When gems are aligned with the flat surface of the ring's precious metal, it is called a flush setting. These are the safest settings for people who work with their hands or lead active lifestyles. They are also less expensive ring settings compared to other options.

While trends come and go, the striking diamond solitaire has long been a favorite when it comes to engagement rings. Solitaire settings look fantastic with almost any diamond shape, but they look especially striking with a round brilliant diamond.

While most people prefer to purchase a setting and stone together, there are exceptions. For instance, some people already own a diamond or wish to source a stone from another existing ring. Helzberg sells semi mounts online. You can also visit us in-store for more details.

Depending on each individual it can take a few weeks to a month or two. If a ring is in stock and pre-made, it will usually be shipped out within one to two weeks.

Not sure what diamond style is best for your partner's future engagement ring? No worries! Our team of jewelry experts can help you decide on the style that best suits them. Schedule an appointment online or in person today.

Image of a Helzberg Jewelry expert.

Find your engagement ring style

Talk to an expert

It’s a great idea to try on a few engagement ring styles before deciding. Besides having a lot of fun, you’ll get the chance to see how different designs feel to wear. And if you can’t make it into a store, our experts can share their wisdom about the look and feel of different settings.