Buying Guide for Solitaire Engagement Rings

So, you’ve got your heart set on a solitaire engagement ring? Good choice!

Defined by simplicity and elegance, solitaire rings are all about celebrating the beauty of a single diamond. Even in a world full of trends, a solitaire can hold its own, which makes it a timeless choice. So if you’re looking for a sparkler that you’ll love even 50 years from now, solitaire engagement rings are a good choice.

This guide will walk you through everything you need to know—diamond quality, setting styles, metal choices, and budget tips—so you can confidently find a solitaire ring that’s just right for you.

What Is a Solitaire Engagement Ring?

First things first, what exactly is a solitaire?

A solitaire ring features one diamond set on a band. With no side stones or additional design elements to distract the eye, this setting puts all the spotlight on the diamond itself— highlighting its beauty, brilliance, and cut.

Should You Choose A Solitaire Engagement Ring?

Solitaire rings are great for a bride who wants a ring with no frills or whose tastes lean towards understated classics. They’re also a good choice for couples who want their diamond to be the focal point of the ring, for it to tell their story.

Curious much? Allow us to explain: With a single, radiant diamond at the centre, they reflect the idea of one true love—a bond that’s unique, exclusive, and deeply personal. Unlike more intricate or embellished styles, the solitaire keeps things simple on purpose. It quietly says, “You’re the only one for me.” That lone stone represents the one person who outshines everyone else in your life. It’s a timeless yet romantic expression of a love that’s focused, unwavering, and meant to last forever.

The open setting of a solitaire ring (especially in prong styles) allows lots of light to pass through the diamond, which means extra brilliance and fire…now who doesn’t want that in their forever piece, right?! They also offer affordability and flexibility, allowing couples to invest more in the quality of a single stunning diamond rather than an elaborate ring.

And that’s not all! They’re super versatile and complement a variety of wedding band styles without being overpowering. It doesn’t matter whether you can pair them with extravagant diamond rings or simple metal ones—your bridal stack will be trendy and chic. We bet wedding band shopping sounds way less stressful now!

With so much to offer, it’s hard not to choose a solitaire engagement ring.

Solitaire Ring Buying Guide

Prioritize The Diamond

Your diamond is the focal point of your ring, and choosing a high-quality one makes all the difference.

Whether you choose a natural or a lab-grown diamond, you must pay attention to the 4Cs. Here’s everything you need to know while shopping:

Diamond Cut is the most critical factor when shopping because it affects the sparkle. A well-cut diamond will appear larger and brilliant than a poor one, so don’t skimp on this one. Choose the best cut that your budget permits.

Color refers to the overall hue of the diamond that ranges from D (icy white or colorless) to Z (hint of yellow), with each letter grade representing a subtle increase in color saturation. Of course, colorless diamonds (D, E, F) are the best, but they’re also the most expensive. This is why many couples also choose near colorless diamonds (G, H, I, J), which contain traces of color that aren’t noticeable to the naked eye, to balance quality and cost.

Clarity means the inclusions within the stones. Aim to get an “eye-clean” diamond, where flaws are not visible. Typically, a VS2 or SI1 clarity grade hits the sweet spot—clean enough to look flawless, but more affordable than higher grades like VVS or IF.

Carat refers to the weight of the diamond, not the size. Please don’t get too caught up in size, since solitaire rings naturally draw attention, they can make even modest diamonds look substantial. Instead of aiming for the biggest stone, see what feels balanced on your hand and works well with your lifestyle.

Choose The Diamond Shape

When it comes to solitaire engagement rings, choosing the diamond shape plays a huge role in defining the ring’s overall style and personality.

Classic round brilliant diamonds remain the most popular and enduring choice, prized for their exceptional sparkle and timeless appeal, making up about 75% of all diamond sales worldwide. However, other shapes have been gaining momentum as well by modern brides who want a ring that’s unique and shows off their personality.

The squarish cushion cut, with its softly rounded corners and vintage charm, has become especially trendy, offering a romantic alternative to the traditional round. Oval diamonds are also surging in popularity due to their elongated shape, which can create the illusion of longer, slender fingers while maximizing carat weight appearance. Pear-shaped diamonds, combining the best of round and marquise cuts, add a unique, graceful touch and are favored by those looking for a blend of classic and modern flair. Additionally, the emerald cut, known for its sleek, step-cut facets and sophisticated, understated sparkle, appeals to those who have a penchant for elegance.

Select A Setting Style

Once you’ve picked the diamond and shape, consider the setting.

• Prong Setting: The most popular option. This style features 4 or 6 metal claws or prongs that hold the diamond in place, allowing light to pass through the stone for maximum sparkle. Prong-set solitaire rings are perfect for brides who want a clean, elegant look and want their diamond to take the center stage.
• Bezel Setting: Sleek and modern, this setting surrounds the diamond with a thin rim of metal. Although it mutes the sparkle slightly, this low-profile design offers extra protection for your stone, making it great for daily wear. It’s great for brides who have an active lifestyle or people with an understated style.
• Cathedral Setting: Features arches that lift the diamond above the band for an elevated look. It’s a gorgeous setting that raises the center stone. If you love a ring that makes your diamond pop slightly, then this is for you!
• Tension or Minimal Settings: These hold the diamond in place with pressure or open designs that feel lightweight and modern. These settings work well for brides with a contemporary, minimal sense of style.

Popular Solitaire Ring Styles In 2025

Solitaire engagement rings consistently top engagement ring charts even in 2025—and they’ve never looked more stylish.

In 2025, solitaires are far from simple—they’re getting modern updates to reflect the wearer’s individuality whilst still retaining their classic charm. They feel fresh, personal, and right on trend.

One major trend we’re seeing more of? Experimenting with bands. Couples are opting for ultra-thin bands to make the diamond pop more and pieces with vintage-inspired detailing to create a ring that truly feels unique to their love story. Chunky bands are having a moment, too, especially after Dua Lipa debuted her stunning solitaire engagement ring: a round-cut diamond set in a wide, cigar-style yellow gold band. This style is excellent for people who want to make a bold, stylish statement with their solitaire ring.

Many are choosing to incorporate details like a hidden halo wherein a circle of tiny diamonds is tucked just beneath the center stone, giving it a hint of extra sparkle from underneath without changing the clean solitaire look. Then there are also east-west style rings, where diamonds are set horizontally on the band for a modern, chic look.

We also love wavy bands, which add a soft, sculptural twist to the ring and distinctive baskets that offer a subtle but effective way to infuse personality into an engagement ring.

So, have you found the ring you want to say “YES” to?

Pick a Metal

The metal you choose doesn’t just affect how your ring looks– it also plays a role in its durability and cost. Platinum and gold are popular options because they’re durable enough for engagement rings and look gorgeous with white diamonds.

Stumped on what to choose? We got you!

If you’re drawn to cool-toned and want a contemporary look for your ring, go with 14K white gold or platinum. Prefer something timeless? Yellow gold delivers that classic feel. And if you want something romantic and trendy you can choose rose gold. It’s warm, rosy hue flatters all skin tones.

More Buying Tips

Consider Going With A Lab-Grown Diamond

Solitaires can work with a wide range of budgets. Since you’re focusing on one diamond, you'll want to prioritize cut and clarity. If you want a larger stone without stretching your budget, lab-grown diamonds are a fantastic option for your solitaire engagement ring. They're real diamonds, just made in a lab instead of mined—and they’re usually more affordable, ethical, and sustainable.

Where to Shop: Online vs. In-Store

Online shopping makes it easy to compare styles and customize your ring. Retailers like With Clarity offer 360° views, videos, and virtual try-ons, so you can explore the design before you buy. In-store shopping lets you try things on and ask questions in person. Whether you shop online or in-store, look for trusted retailers. Read reviews, look at return policies, and inquire about customization options. You can also look for certified diamonds accompanied by detailed grading reports.

Wrapping Things Up

Solitaire engagement rings are timeless, versatile, and all about the diamond. You'll want to focus on diamond quality (especially cut and clarity), pick a setting and metal that suits your style and lifestyle, and explore both lab and natural diamond options to find the perfect fit for your budget. Whether you're drawn to minimalism or want something that pairs beautifully with everything, solitaire rings offer endless possibilities.