When it comes to engagement rings, there are numerous styles to choose from. From classic solitaire settings to glamorous halo designs, each style offers a unique and beautiful look. In this article, we will explore the top engagement ring styles of 2020, including popular diamond shapes, trending settings, and metal choices. Whether you're looking for a timeless and elegant design or a modern and unconventional ring, this guide will help you find the perfect style that suits your taste and preference.
Understanding Engagement Ring Styles
Before we dive into the specific ring styles, let's first understand why choosing the right engagement ring style is important. Your engagement ring is a symbol of your commitment and love, and it's something you'll wear every day. It's essential to select a style that reflects your personality and complements your individual style. The right ring style will not only enhance the beauty of the center diamond but also provide comfort and durability for everyday wear.
Decoding the terminology associated with ring styles can be overwhelming. With terms like solitaire, halo, and bezel, it's essential to understand what each style entails. Let's break down these terms to make it easier for you to make an informed decision about your engagement ring.
The Importance of Ring Styles
The engagement ring style you choose will have a significant impact on the overall look and feel of the ring. Each style has its own unique charm and appeal, allowing you to select a design that truly speaks to your personal taste. Whether you prefer a classic and traditional look or a more modern and contemporary design, there's a style out there that will perfectly capture your style and personality.
Additionally, ring styles can also affect the perceived size of the center diamond. Some settings, such as halo and pavé, can make the center stone appear larger and more impactful. On the other hand, a solitaire setting highlights the beauty of a single diamond without any distractions. By understanding how different styles can enhance or alter the appearance of the center diamond, you can make an informed decision about the style that suits you best.
Decoding the Terminology of Ring Styles
When it comes to engagement ring styles, it's important to familiarize yourself with the terminology. Let's take a closer look at some of the most popular ring styles in 2020.
Solitaire: The solitaire style is a timeless classic that features a single diamond set on a plain band. This minimalist design allows the diamond to take center stage, showcasing its brilliance and beauty. Solitaire rings are perfect for those who appreciate simplicity and elegance.
Halo: A halo setting features a center diamond surrounded by a circle of smaller diamonds or gemstones. This style adds extra sparkle and creates the illusion of a larger center stone. Halo rings are popular for their glamorous and eye-catching appeal.
Bezel: In a bezel setting, the center diamond is surrounded by a metal rim that holds it securely in place. This style offers excellent protection for the diamond and gives the ring a sleek and modern look. Bezel-set rings are ideal for those who lead an active lifestyle and want a ring that can withstand daily wear and tear.
Pavé: The pavé style features small diamonds set closely together, creating a "paved" appearance. These tiny diamonds are held in place by tiny prongs or beads, giving the ring a continuous sparkle. Pavé rings are perfect for those who love a touch of glamour and want their ring to shine from every angle.
Vintage: Vintage-inspired rings are designed to evoke the elegance and charm of bygone eras. These rings often feature intricate details, such as filigree, milgrain, and engraving. Vintage-style rings are perfect for those who appreciate the romance and nostalgia of the past.
Three Stone: As the name suggests, three-stone rings feature a center diamond flanked by two smaller diamonds on either side. This style symbolizes the past, present, and future of a relationship. Three-stone rings are popular for their symbolic meaning and their ability to create a stunning visual impact.
Split Shank: A split shank ring features a band that splits into two or more strands as it approaches the center stone. This style adds a unique and modern twist to a traditional design. Split shank rings are perfect for those who want a ring that stands out and makes a bold statement.
Princess Cut: The princess cut is a square-shaped diamond with brilliant faceting, which maximizes its sparkle. This style is known for its contemporary and modern look. Princess cut rings are perfect for those who want a combination of classic elegance and modern flair.
Emerald Cut: The emerald cut is a rectangular-shaped diamond with step-cut facets that create a unique and sophisticated look. This style is known for its clean lines and understated elegance. Emerald cut rings are perfect for those who appreciate a sleek and timeless design.
Now that you have a better understanding of the different engagement ring styles and their characteristics, you can confidently choose a ring that speaks to your personal style and captures the essence of your love and commitment.
Popular Diamond Shapes in 2020
Diamond shape plays a crucial role in the overall look of an engagement ring. The shape refers to the outline of the diamond when viewed from the top and can significantly impact the ring's style and aesthetics. In 2020, three diamond shapes have emerged as the popular choices: round cut, princess cut, and oval cut.
Round Cut Diamonds
The round-cut is the most popular diamond shape of all time. Known for its exceptional brilliance and timeless elegance, the round-cut diamond offers unmatched sparkle and fire. Its symmetrical shape and numerous facets maximize light reflection, making it a classic choice for engagement rings.
Whether set in a solitaire setting or surrounded by smaller diamonds in a halo design, a round-cut diamond is sure to impress. Its versatility makes it suitable for various engagement ring styles and complements any metal choice.
Princess Cut Diamonds
The princess cut is a square-shaped diamond with sharp corners and a brilliant sparkle. This modern and glamorous diamond shape offers a contemporary twist on the traditional round-cut. The princess cut provides a blend of classic elegance and unique flair, making it a popular choice among modern brides.
When set in a solitaire setting, the princess cut diamond exudes sophistication and simplicity. For a bolder look, combining the princess cut with a halo or pavé setting can enhance its brilliance and create a stunning visual impact.
Oval Cut Diamonds
The oval cut diamond is a timeless and elegant choice for engagement rings. It offers a unique blend of classic and modern aesthetics, with its elongated shape creating an illusion of lengthened fingers. The oval shape boasts a similar brilliance to the round cut but offers a more elongated appearance.
Oval cut diamonds can be set in a wide range of engagement ring styles, from solitaires to three-stone designs. Their versatility and ability to lengthen the finger make them a favorite among brides seeking a flattering and eye-catching engagement ring.
Trending Engagement Ring Settings
Once you've chosen the perfect diamond shape, the next step is to consider the setting for your engagement ring. The setting refers to the way the diamond is secured to the ring band and can greatly affect the ring's overall style and appearance. Here are three trending engagement ring settings you should consider in 2020:
Solitaire Settings
A solitaire setting is a classic choice that never goes out of style. It features a single diamond held by prongs, allowing the center stone to take center stage. The simplicity and elegance of a solitaire setting make it a timeless and versatile option.
For a modern twist, consider choosing a knife-edge or cathedral-style solitaire setting. These variations add a unique touch to the classic solitaire design and can elevate the overall look of the ring.
Halo Settings
A halo setting features a circle of smaller diamonds surrounding the center stone, creating a halo effect. This setting enhances the overall appearance of the ring, making the center diamond appear larger and more dazzling. The halo setting is a popular choice for those seeking maximum sparkle and brilliance.
Halo settings can be customized with different diamond shapes, metal colors, and diamond sizes, allowing you to create a truly personalized and unique engagement ring design.
Bezel Settings
A bezel setting is a modern and sleek option that provides excellent protection for the center diamond. In this setting, a metal rim surrounds the diamond, holding it securely in place. The bezel setting offers a contemporary look while ensuring the diamond remains well-protected.
Bezel settings can be customized with different metal choices to match your style. From yellow gold to platinum, the choice of metal can greatly impact the overall look and feel of the ring.
Metal Choices for Engagement Rings
When it comes to selecting a metal for your engagement ring, there are various options to consider. Each metal has its own unique properties and characteristics, allowing you to choose a metal that suits your style preferences and budget. Here are three popular metal choices for engagement rings:
Gold Engagement Rings
Gold is a timeless and traditional choice for engagement rings. Available in yellow, white, and rose variations, gold offers versatility in terms of color and style. Yellow gold is the most classic choice, while white gold and rose gold offer a more modern and contemporary look.
Gold engagement rings are durable and can withstand everyday wear. However, it's important to consider the purity of the gold when selecting your ring. Higher karat gold (such as 18K or 24K) is more malleable but can be prone to scratches. On the other hand, lower karat gold (such as 14K) offers a balance of durability and affordability.
Platinum Engagement Rings
Platinum is a luxurious and durable metal choice for engagement rings. It is naturally white, hypoallergenic, and extremely resistant to tarnish and corrosion. Platinum engagement rings are known for their durability and will retain their beautiful luster for a lifetime.
Platinum is rarer and denser than gold, making it more expensive. However, its durability and timeless appeal make it a popular choice for those seeking a high-quality and long-lasting engagement ring.
Rose Gold Engagement Rings
Rose gold offers a unique and romantic look for engagement rings. Its pinkish hue adds a touch of femininity and warmth, making it a popular choice among those seeking a vintage-inspired or romantic design.
Rose gold is created by combining gold with copper, which gives it its distinctive color. It is a versatile option that complements all skin tones and can be paired with various diamond shapes and settings to create a truly one-of-a-kind engagement ring.
When choosing a metal for your engagement ring, consider your personal style, skin tone, and lifestyle. Each metal offers its own unique advantages and allure, allowing you to create a ring that is truly a reflection of your love and individuality.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the top engagement ring styles of 2020 offer a wide range of options to suit every taste and preference. From classic solitaire settings to elaborate halo designs, there is a style out there that will perfectly capture your love and commitment. By understanding the importance of ring styles, decoding the terminology associated with them, and considering the popular diamond shapes, trending settings, and metal choices, you can make an informed decision about the perfect engagement ring style for you. Remember, your engagement ring is a symbol of eternal love and should be chosen with care and thoughtful consideration. Happy ring shopping!
