Why Solitaire Engagement Rings Stay Timeless

Fashions in rings come and go. The solitaire stays. A single diamond, held on a simple band, has been the most recognisable engagement ring for generations. It is worth understanding why.

What makes it a solitaire

A solitaire has one diamond as its only stone. There are no side stones and little decoration, so all the attention goes to the diamond itself. The setting is designed to disappear, leaving the stone to do the work.

Why it endures

• It is simple. Simple designs do not date. They look at home in any decade.
• It lets the diamond speak. The quality of the cut shows without distraction.
• It suits any outfit and occasion. From a work meeting to a wedding, it fits.
• It combines well with other jewellery. A plain solitaire sits comfortably next to a wedding band or stacked rings.
• It can be passed on. A classic design remains wearable for the next generation.

Choosing the diamond

Because the stone is alone, it deserves a careful choice.

1. Cut first. It determines the sparkle. See diamond cut grades explained.
2. A certificate from a recognised laboratory. See diamond certificates.
3. Colour and clarity within your eye-clean range. See diamond colour grades D to Z and diamond clarity.
4. Shape. Round is the classic, though oval, cushion and others make beautiful solitaires. See diamond shapes guide.

Choosing the setting

• Four prongs show the most stone and let in the most light.
• Six prongs hold the stone more securely and give a slightly different, rounder look.
• A bezel wraps the stone in metal for a modern, protected look. See engagement ring settings for active hands.
• A cathedral setting raises the stone with arches that sweep up from the band.
• A hidden halo or a pavé band adds a hint of sparkle while keeping the solitaire look.

Choosing the metal

Yellow gold feels warm and classic, rose gold feels soft and romantic, and white gold or platinum feels cool and bright. See rose gold, white gold and yellow gold: how to choose.

Ways to make it personal

A solitaire may look simple, but you can still make it your own:

• Engrave a short message or date inside the band.
• Choose a different shape, such as an oval or a pear.
• Add a coloured stone on the inside of the band.
• Choose a band with a subtle detail such as a knife edge or a twist.

Solitaire and budget

A solitaire puts all the budget into one stone, so each quality shows in the price. If you want a larger look for less, consider alternatives such as a halo. See halo engagement rings: pros and cons and solitaire vs cluster diamond jewellery.

Natural diamonds and the solitaire

Many people choose a natural diamond for a ring meant to last a lifetime. See why choose a natural diamond for your engagement ring.

Ready to look

Book an appointment to see solitaires in different shapes and settings, or begin with our diamond rings.