Solitaire Engagement Rings
A solitaire diamond ring is by far the most popular engagement ring proposed with. When talking about jewelry, the word “solitaire” is used to describe one single diamond or gemstone that is set into a ring, or another piece of jewelry. The solitaire ring consists of two parts - a diamond, and a setting. There are many kinds of solitaire ring settings. Solitaire diamond rings can have hefty carat weights, or they can be more modest. No matter what the personal preference is, there’s always the perfect diamond solitaire ring out there.
The setting of the solitaire diamond ring depends on your personal style and budget. The two most common metals are white gold and yellow gold. However, platinum is also a popular choice for solitaire engagement rings due to its durability and modern shine. The second part of the solitaire diamond ring is the diamond itself. The diamond will again reflect personal taste and budget. The solitaire diamond engagement ring is known for holding the ultimate statement of elegance and tradition.
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Significance & Origin of Solitaire Rings
The solitaire diamond ring is so significant because it reflects the love between a bride and a groom. It signifies that the love is pure and endless. There’s a common saying out there diamonds are forever. Therefore, diamond solitaire rings symbolize eternal and indestructible partnership between two lovers. Just like diamonds are forever, the love between two people getting married is meant to be forever.
The first engagement ring dates to the 2nd century B.C. At this time, married woman received two rings. One was a gold ring to wear in public, and the other was an iron ring to wear at home. However, giving a diamond ring wasn't a thing until the year 1477. It started when the archduke of Maximilian of Austria, of the Habsburg Dynasty gifted a ring to his soon wife-to-be, Mary of Burgundy. During that period, diamonds were extremely rare, therefore they were so expensive and a huge investment. In the beginning, proposing with a ring was only for the extreme rich, mainly royalty.
After time, it became more widespread and democratized. This was because of the booming diamond industry in South Africa, a few centuries later in the year 1866. One specific campaign was led by a South African diamond company that was being represented in the United States. After that campaign, the practice of giving solitaire diamond engagement rings spread even more. During the 20th century, the engagement ring became more and more apparent and normalized. Now, in the 21st century, solitaire diamond engagement rings are the most popular engagement rings given. They are a classic diamond or gemstone eengagement ring that will never go out of style.
Popular Diamond Shapes in Solitaire Engagement Rings
There are many different styles for solitaire engagement rings. They vary depending on the shape of the diamond. Here’s a list of the most popular solitaire diamond shapes. We included images of each of the diamond shapes you can get in a solitaire engagement ring, all in the exact same ring setting, so you can easily compare the styles and discover which cuts you're most drawn to.
Round Solitaire Engagement Ring
A round brilliant cut diamond. This is the most popular shape for a diamond engagement ring as it has captivating brilliance and life. It'd also a timeless choice that will never go out of style or overpower any outfit.
Princess Cut Solitaire Engagment Ring
A square princess cut diamond that is the second most popular style for a diamond engagement ring due to its sophisticated cut. There's often confusion around cushion cut vs princess cut diamonds, but the sharp corners are a good visual cue to look for when shopping.
Emerald Cut Solitaire Engagement Ring
A Rectangular step cut diamond that has parallel facets creating a shining elegant look, but that doesn't mean you have to go traditional. Engagement ring shoppers have been putting a literal spin on this diamond cut with East-West rings that turn the long diamond on its side.
Oval Solitaire Engagement Ring
Similar to the round solitaire, but elongated into an oval shape, this is a romantic and vintage looking shape. Choosing a longer stone can make your hand and fingers appear longer, which is part of the appeal for many shoppers.
Marquise Solitaire Engagement Ring
This is a curving elongated shape with pointed ends and a round center. The diamond has unique appeal, but shoppers will need to pay attention to the length to width ratio of the marquise cut.
Cushion Solitaire Engagement Ring
A cushion cut is a square pillow shaped diamond that has gained popularity and appeal in the last few years. Many celebrities choose this shape for their solitaire engagement rings for its sparkle and sophisticated shape.
Asscher Cut Solitaire Engagement Ring
It's easy to think the asscher cut diamond is a variation on the cushion cut, but it's actually closely related to the emerald cut. It's essentially a variation of the emerald cut diamond with truncated sides to achieve a square shape.
Overall, a diamond solitaire ring is the perfect engagement ring. It is full of history and holds a lot of significance. It symbolizes pure and everlasting love. The ring itself is traditional and elegant. It is treasured by millions of women all over the world and is a style that will never go out of fashion.
FAQs
Which is the most popular engagement ring style?
There are several popular engagement ring styles, and the most popular one can vary depending on different factors such as cultural preferences, current trends, and personal taste. However, one of the most classic and enduring styles is the solitaire diamond engagement ring. This style features a single diamond set in a simple, elegant band and is often associated with timeless elegance and sophistication.
Other popular styles include:
- Halo engagement rings: The center diamond is surrounded by a halo of smaller diamonds or other gemstones.
- Three-stone engagement rings: The center diamond is flanked by two smaller diamonds or other gemstones.
- Vintage-inspired engagement rings: Features design elements from past eras, such as art deco or Victorian styles.
- Colored gemstone engagement rings: Features gemstones other than diamonds, such as sapphires, rubies, or emeralds.
Ultimately, the most popular engagement ring style is a matter of personal preference and can vary widely depending on individual taste and style.
Which is the best metal for a solitaire diamond ring?
When it comes to choosing the best metal for a solitaire diamond ring, there are a few factors to consider, including durability, color, and price. Here are some of the most popular options:
- Platinum: Popular choice for solitaire diamond rings due to its durability, hypoallergenic properties, and naturally white color that won't fade or tarnish over time. However, platinum is also the most expensive metal option.
- White Gold: It is an affordable alternative to platinum that has a similar look. It's a mix of yellow gold and other white metals such as nickel, palladium, or zinc, which gives it a silvery-white color. White gold is durable but may require occasional rhodium plating to maintain its bright white color.
- Yellow Gold: This is a classic metal choice for engagement rings and has been used for centuries. It's durable, easy to maintain, and offers a warm, rich color that complements many skin tones. However, it may not be the best option for those with a nickel allergy.
- Rose Gold: Rose gold has become increasingly popular in recent years due to its unique, romantic look. It's a mix of yellow gold and copper, which gives it a warm, pinkish hue. Rose gold is durable, easy to maintain, and complements many skin tones.
Ultimately, the best metal for a solitaire diamond ring depends on personal preference and budget. Each metal has its unique properties and advantages, so it's essential to consider all the factors before making a decision.
What does a solitaire diamond ring symbolize?
The solitaire diamond itself symbolizes a couple's unbreakable bond and commitment to each other. The diamond is a symbol of strength, endurance, and lasting love, and it represents the couple's promise to stay together forever.
Additionally, the solitaire setting, with its clean lines and unadorned simplicity, highlights the beauty of the diamond and draws attention to its brilliance and clarity. It represents the idea that true love needs no embellishment, and that the strength and beauty of a couple's relationship speak for themselves.
What is a solitaire diamond?
A solitaire diamond is a single diamond that is mounted in a piece of jewelry, typically a ring, without any other diamonds or gemstones around it. The term "solitaire" refers to the fact that the diamond is the only stone in the piece, and it is often used to describe engagement rings or other special occasion jewelry.
Solitaire diamonds are prized for their simplicity and elegance, and are often used to symbolize commitment, love, and eternity. The quality and size of the diamond are important factors in determining its value, and solitaire diamonds are often carefully selected for their unique characteristics and beauty.
What is the most popular shape for a solitaire diamond engagement ring?
The most popular shape for a solitaire diamond engagement ring is the round brilliant cut. This classic shape features a round diamond with 58 facets that are carefully arranged to maximize its brilliance, fire, and scintillation. The round brilliant cut has been a popular choice for over a century, and it continues to be the most sought-after shape for engagement rings around the world.
Other popular shapes for solitaire diamond engagement rings include the princess cut, which is a square shape with sharp, clean lines and a modern feel, and the cushion cut, which has a soft, rounded square or rectangular shape with large facets that give it a vintage look. Other popular shapes for solitaire diamonds include the pear, oval, emerald, and marquise cuts, each of which has its own unique beauty and appeal. Ultimately, the choice of shape for a solitaire diamond engagement ring comes down to personal preference and style.
