How to Talk About Engagement Rings Like You Know What You’re Talking About
QUICK LINKS: Engagement Ring Anatomy | Engagement Ring Metals | Engagement Ring Styles | Prong Styles | Stone Setting Styles
Engagement Ring Glossary
Shopping for an engagement ring can be a daunting task. Not only do you have to find the perfect ring for your significant other, but you also must navigate the maze of terms and jargon that comes with it. What’s a shank? What’s the difference between channel and shared prong? And what the heck is pave?
Don’t worry, we’re here to help. In this blog post, we’ll break down some of the most used terms when talking about engagement rings so that you can shop confidently. Ready? Let’s get started.
Engagement Ring Anatomy
When you think of an engagement ring, chances are you think of a diamond. But there’s a lot more to an engagement ring than just the diamond. In fact, engagement rings have a surprisingly complex anatomy, with each part playing an important role in the overall design. Let’s take a closer look at the different parts of an engagement ring:
Head
The head is the part of the ring that holds the center stone.
Center Stone
The center stone is the largest stone in the ring
Side Stone
Side stones are smaller diamonds or gemstones that are set on either side of the center stone.
Gallery
The gallery is the portion of the ring that connects the head to the shank. In some rings, it is decorated with diamonds or other gemstones.
Sizing Area
The sizing area is the part of the ring where you can adjust the size of the ring. This is usually located at the back of the shank.
Shank
The shank is the portion of the ring that goes around your finger. It can be plain or decorated.
Accent Stone
An accent stone is a small diamond or gemstone that is used to accentuate the center stone or side stones.
Shoulder
The shoulder is the part of the ring where the shank meets the head. It can be decorated with diamonds or other gemstones.
Prong
A prong is a metal claw that is used to hold a diamond or gemstone in place.
Mounting
The mounting is the portion of the ring that holds all of the stones in place.
Engagement Ring Metals
Yellow Gold
This is the classic choice for engagement rings and has been popular for centuries. It has a warm, rich tone that goes well with any skin tone.
Rose Gold
This type of gold has a pinkish hue that gives it a unique look. It’s become increasingly popular as more people look for something different than the traditional yellow gold.
White Gold
This is a popular alternative to yellow gold with a brighter, more modern look. It’s also a good choice if you’re looking for something that will complement a diamond well.
Platinum
This is the most expensive metal for engagement rings. It’s durable and has a beautiful white luster that makes it popular among those who want something classic and timeless.
Palladium
This is another option for those looking for an alternative to platinum. It shares many of the same properties as platinum but is typically less expensive.
10 kt
10 kt gold is the lowest purity for engagement rings and is less expensive than 14 kt or 18 kt gold.
14 kt
This is a popular choice for engagement rings as it’s more affordable than 18 kt gold but still has a good amount of gold.
18 kt
This is the highest purity of the gold you’ll find for engagement rings. It’s also the most expensive option.
Engagement Ring Styles
A halo ring features a central stone surrounded by a “halo” of smaller diamonds.
Hidden Halo
As the name suggests, a hidden halo ring has a halo of diamonds hidden beneath the center stone. This gives the illusion of a bigger stone without increasing the ring’s overall size.
A cathedral ring has a tall setting that “catches” the light and makes the diamond appear more prominent.
A shank ring has a band split into two pieces, often with different metals or finishes. This is a popular choice for those who want something unique.
Bypass
A bypass ring features two bands that “bypass” the center stone, creating an elegant and timeless look.
Euro-Shank
A euro-shank ring has a band that tapers in at the bottom, giving it a sleek and modern look.
Tapered Shank
A tapered shank ring also has a band that tapers in at the bottom, but the difference is that the band is thinner at the top and gradually gets thicker as it goes down. This creates a subtle and elegant look.
Reverse Tapered Shank
As you might have guessed, a reverse tapered shank ring is the opposite of a standard tapered shank ring – the band is thicker at the top and tapers down to a thinner width at the bottom. This style is often chosen for its vintage-inspired look.
Half-Round
A half-round ring has a band that’s been rounded on top and flat on the bottom. This gives it a comfortable fit while still maintaining a classic look.
A knife-edge band has a sharp edge on the top of the band. This style is modern and unique, perfect for those who want something a little out-of-the-box.
A 3-stone ring features three stones set in a band –typically, the center stone is larger than the two side stones. This style is classic, timeless, and can be customized to fit your aesthetic.
Prong Styles
Four Prong
A four-prong ring has four metal “prongs.” that holds the diamond in place. This is a popular choice for solitaire rings, as it allows more light to reach the stone and makes it appear larger.
Six Prong
A six-prong ring is like a four-prong ring but with two additional prongs for added security. This style is often chosen for its classic look but can also be seen as more “old-fashioned” than other choices.
Double Prong
A double prong ring has two sets of prongs on each side of the stone. This helps to secure the diamond in place and creates a symmetrical look.
V Prong
A V prong ring has two prongs that come together in a V-shape at the top of the stone. This helps secure the diamond while allowing light to enter from all angles, making the stone appear more prominent.
Claw Prong
A claw prong ring has four “claws” that come together to hold the stone in place. This style is often chosen for its vintage look but can also be seen as more “old-fashioned” than other choices.
Stone Setting Styles
Channel Set
In a channel set ring, the diamonds or other gemstones are set into a groove in the metal band. This creates a sleek and
A pave set ring has small diamonds or other gemstones pave-set (or “micro-paved”) into the metal band. This creates a glittering effect that is very popular.
Bead Set
In a bead set ring, the diamonds, or other gemstones are set into small metal “beads” that hold them in place. This is a more traditional style that is often seen in antique rings.
Bezel Set
A bezel set ring has a diamond or other gemstone set into a metal “frame” or “bezel.” This is a classic style that is both elegant and secure.
Flush Set
A flush set ring has a diamond or other gemstone flush-set in the metal band. This creates a smooth and seamless look.
Bar Set
In a bar set ring, the diamonds or other gemstones are set into a horizontal groove in the metal band. This is a modern style that is both unique and stylish.
So, there you have it. Our comprehensive guide to engagement ring lingo. We hope this has armed you with enough knowledge to go out and find the perfect ring for your loved one (or, at the very least, narrowed down your search). But if you’re still feeling lost or confused, don’t worry – we’re here to help. Just give us a call and we’ll walk you through every step of the process. And remember when in doubt, always ask your jeweler! Now that you know all about engagement rings, what’s stopping you from buying one?