Engagement Ring Head Styles

Picking the right engagement ring style is as important as picking the right center gemstone or diamond. It can define the full look of the engagement ring and should match the personality of the wearer. All With Clarity styles are available in gold and platinum. Many styles can be made with 9 different center diamonds, however some are available with less shapes. Factor in things like look, budget, and her style when choosing a ring.


Head Styles

Ring heads are the top portions of engagement rings that hold the center gemstone in place. There are many varieties and it is important to choose the correct one. The head can be a big determinant in the overall look of the engagement ring.

round backet diamond setting

Basket

A basket head holds the center stone in place with 4 or 6 prongs. Is has openings underneath that allow light to pass through. This creates more sparkle and keeps the stone set low, making it comfortable to wear. The basket style is versatile and can be paired with nearly any shape of gemstone and band style.

artistic trellis style prong setting

Trellis

A trellis setting is similar to a basket style but the prong designs is woven downwards towards the shank of the ring. This creates an additional design element while maintaining the basket style which allows light to pass through and sparkle to be created. Typically round and princess shapes stones in a classic or solitaire style look best within the trellis style head.

open shank with cathedral windows on a ring

Cathedral

A cathedral style head has archways on either side of the head that are left open. This lifts the head of the ring a little higher and enables light to pass through easily. This creates a lifted look, and draws more attention to the center stone. A cathedral head can be paired with a plain shank, or a shank adorned with diamonds. The cathedral style head is a popular choice for engagement rings.

round diamond enclosed with a bezel head setting

Bezel

A bezel setting has a centerstone that is set fully flush within a metal enclosing. Metal surrounds the diameter of the center stone to create a secure hold. This creates a contemporary look with more metal than other ring styles. It can be a good option for those who want a very secure setting. Typically bezel settings look best with princess or round styles and have a plain band without any diamonds.

a half bezel enclosing part of the round diamond

Semi Bezel

A semi bezel ring style has two borders of metal that surround the gemstone on the left and right side. The metal holds the stone securely in place and the openings on the top and bottom allow light to pass through. This style also looks good with an oval or round center stone.

a halo of diamonds around the center stone

Halo

A halo head holds the center stone and has accent diamonds that encircle the full diameter of the stone uniformly. These diamond accents are smaller than the center stone and add a layer of sparkle to the ring. They also make the center stone look larger. Halo settings look beautiful with all center shapes and are among the most popular for engagement rings.

prong set accent diamonds off setting the center in a three stone style

Three Stone

A three stone ring has a central larger stone flanked by two smaller stones on either side. The side stones can be of different varieties, the same variety and slightly smaller or the same in size. A three stone setting has sentimental value as it represents the past, future and present of the couple. It is also a great ring style to commemorate an anniversary. A three stone ring can have a plain band or one that is accented with diamonds. The head can be a classic basket, bezel or trellis style. Typically, round, princess diamonds look great in this style.

Now that you've been acquainted with the head styles, check out information about With Clarity ring collections.

Engagement Ring Head Styles Based on Diamond Shape

Selecting the right head style will impact how the ring looks. Thus, spend some time before making a choice. Some head styles are more suited to specific diamond shapes. For example, a trellis style, three stone, and bezel are most suitable for round and princess shape diamonds, while a semi-bezel is most suited for an oval or round center stone. A halo and a basket look good in all settings and shapes. After all, you would want a head style that flatters the cut of the diamond and offers protection in every way.

Diamond shapes with points like princess and marquise need more protection from daily wear and tear and thus pair well with head styles like a halo, trellis, or just a plain prong setting. A bezel setting will also work well for shapes with pointed corners and offers a timeless and sophisticated design.

Engagement Ring Head Style and Metals

The value of a good head style cannot be undermined. Not only does it add to the final look of the engagement ring, but it also symbolizes the beauty of the wearer. It also adds to the beauty of the shining diamond in the center of it all. A perfect balance of the right head style and diamond shape will result in a beautiful diamond engagement ring. All our head styles are available in gold and platinum, and some head styles require more metal to craft, so keep that in mind while selecting the one that works best.

Styles like the Basket, Trellis, Cathedral, and three stone would require more metal to achieve the final look and may shoot up your budget. They are more intricate and have a lot more detail, making them stand out from other styles. If she is one to like a more detailed look, these are the styles you could choose from.

Styles like a Semi Bezel, Cathedral, and bezel will require less metal and allow for more of the diamond to be seen. If she is one to love minimalism with a good sparkle, then these head styles could be great options. It will help to study the features of each head style and your partner's preferences before you make a decision.

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FAQs

What is an engagement ring head?

An engagement ring head is the top portion of the engagement ring that holds the center gemstone in place. Choosing a style that will suit your look is recommended as the head plays a big part in determining the overall look. The engagement ring head is made in the same metal as the engagement ring, namely gold and platinum, and can come in wide varieties such as basket, trellis, cathedral, and halo, to name a few.

What holds the diamond in place on an engagement ring?

An engagement ring head holds the diamond in place on an engagement ring. Each head has advantages and offers a distinct look to the engagement ring. Choose between a halo, basket, cathedral, or a bezel, amongst others, to determine the final look of the ring.

How many prongs should a diamond ring have?

A diamond ring should have six prongs to hold it securely in place. However, this could vary with regard to the head style selected. Some styles have four, while some require eight.

What is the most popular way to set a diamond center stone?

You can set a diamond center stone with a head that suits your tastes and preferences. An engagement ring head is the top portion of the engagement ring that will hold the center gemstone in place. A halo head is among the most popular for a diamond center stone as it makes the stone look more prominent and protects it from damage.

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