A Guide To Engagement Ring Styles

Discover the most popular engagement ring styles—from solitaire to halo to vintage-inspired designs.

Choosing the perfect engagement ring is one of the most meaningful decisions you’ll ever make. It marks a moment of deep commitment and love—and it should reflect the personality, lifestyle, and style of the person who’ll wear it every day.

We know that navigating the world of engagement rings can be overwhelming. That’s why we’ve created this comprehensive guide to the most popular engagement ring styles, so you can make a confident, informed choice with a ring that will be treasured for a lifetime.

What Are The Most Popular Engagement Ring Styles?

  • Solitaire 

  • Halo 

  • Three-Stone (Trilogy)

  • Toi et Moi

  • Vintage inspired 

  • Diamond band

Why Engagement Ring Style Matters

When it comes to choosing an engagement ring, many people start by thinking about the diamond or carat weight. But it’s the ring style—from the setting and design to the overall aesthetic—that truly brings the piece to life and captures the essence of the person who’ll wear it.

The right engagement ring should:

  • Reflect the wearer’s unique style and personality

  • Suit their everyday lifestyle with comfort and ease

  • Feel timeless while still being distinctly personal

Whether you're just beginning your journey or already have a vision in mind, exploring different engagement ring styles is an exciting and essential step toward finding the one.

Engagement Ring Styles Explained

Solitaire Engagement Rings

A solitaire ring is perfect for those who appreciate classic, timeless design. 

Few styles are as iconic as the solitaire. Featuring a single, central diamond on a plain or delicately detailed band, solitaire engagement rings are celebrated for their simplicity and elegance. The beauty of this design lies in its ability to showcase the diamond itself—its brilliance, cut, and character—with no distractions.

Its versatility means it pairs beautifully with almost any wedding band, and the understated elegance ensures it never goes out of style. Whether set in platinum, yellow gold, white gold, or rose gold, the solitaire remains a top choice for its clean, confident look.

Halo Engagement Rings

For those who love sparkle and glamour, a halo engagement ring offers undeniable impact. 

This style features a central diamond surrounded by a circle—or “halo”—of smaller diamonds, creating a frame that enhances the size and brilliance of the main stone. The result is a ring that feels luxurious, radiant, and eye-catching from every angle.

Halo settings can be paired with almost any diamond shape, from round and cushion to oval or pear, and they can even include double halos for added brilliance. This style is ideal for someone who wants their ring to stand out and catch the light with every movement.

Three-Stone (Trilogy) Engagement Rings

This style suits romantics who value tradition but want a touch of uniqueness.

Also known as trilogy rings, the three-stone engagement ring has deep symbolic meaning. The trio of stones is often said to represent the past, present, and future of a couple’s relationship. This sentiment, combined with the balanced elegance of the design, makes it a popular and meaningful choice.

A three-stone ring typically features a larger central diamond flanked by two slightly smaller stones. However, modern versions may incorporate coloured gemstones, different shapes, or asymmetric designs for a fresh take on the classic.

Vintage-Inspired Engagement Rings

This style is perfect for someone who loves romantic touches and appreciates fine craftsmanship.

Vintage-style engagement rings draw inspiration from historical periods such as the Victorian, Edwardian, or Art Deco eras. These designs are full of intricate detail—think milgrain edging, filigree work, and hand-engraved patterns. A vintage-inspired ring captures the elegance of a bygone time while remaining timeless in its appeal.

Often paired with soft diamond cuts like cushion or oval, vintage rings are full of character and feel like instant heirlooms. 

Diamond Band Engagement Rings

While the centre stone is often the focal point of an engagement ring, the style of the band plays a powerful role in shaping the ring’s overall beauty and character. A diamond-accented band can add brilliance, texture, and dimension—complementing the centre stone and transforming a beautiful ring into something truly extraordinary. From pavé and channel-set to shared-prong bands, each style offers its own unique expression of sparkle.

Pavé Band

This style is ideal for those who appreciate timeless beauty and refined sparkle.

A pavé band offers delicate elegance with a continuous line of small diamonds set closely together along the band’s surface. The term "pavé" comes from the French word for "paved," and that’s exactly how it looks—like a path of shimmering diamonds. Because the stones are held in place with minimal metal, the pavé setting allows for a soft, romantic glow that enhances the brilliance of the centre stone without overpowering it. 

Channel-Set Band

It’s a popular choice for those who want both durability and sophistication.

The channel-set band is known for its sleek, modern aesthetic and secure design. Diamonds are set into a smooth metal channel, creating a clean, streamlined look with no exposed prongs. This style protects the stones while offering a seamless flow of sparkle along the band. It’s a popular choice for those who want both durability and sophistication, making it a smart option for everyday wear and a favourite among active individuals who don’t want to compromise on style.

Shared-Prong Band

It’s perfect for anyone who wants their ring to shine from every angle.

Shared-prong bands are designed to maximise light exposure and enhance the brilliance of each diamond. In this setting, adjacent diamonds share a single set of prongs, allowing more light to pass through the stones and creating a bold, uninterrupted display of sparkle across the finger. The shared-prong style brings a luxurious, high-impact look that beautifully complements both classic and contemporary engagement ring designs.

Each diamond band style adds a different touch to the overall look of your engagement ring—whether it’s the delicate shimmer of pavé, the modern polish of a channel-set, or the radiant brilliance of shared-prong. At Paul James Jewellers in Oxted, Surrey, we’ll help you explore each option and find the setting that reflects your love story with style and meaning.

Bespoke and Custom Engagement Rings

Sometimes, the perfect engagement ring hasn’t been created yet—and that’s where custom design comes in. A bespoke engagement ring allows you to collaborate with a jeweller to craft something truly personal, from selecting the perfect stone to designing the setting, metal, and finishing touches.

Custom engagement rings are ideal for those who want their ring to tell a story. You can incorporate family gemstones, hidden engravings, birthstones, or any design element that holds personal meaning. For couples looking for something unique and intentional, bespoke is the ultimate expression of love and our experienced designers in Oxted, Surrey are ready to help bring your vision to life.

How to Choose the Right Engagement Ring Style

With so many beautiful engagement ring styles to explore, finding the perfect one can feel overwhelming—but that’s where our expertise comes in. Choosing an engagement ring isn’t just about appearance; it’s about matching the design to the wearer’s personality, lifestyle, and everyday needs. Whether you’re shopping for yourself or your partner, we start by considering what suits your way of life. 

For someone who’s always on the go or prefers understated elegance, a solitaire engagement ring or pavé band offers timeless beauty with a refined touch. If they love bold jewellery and eye-catching sparkle, a halo setting or three-stone design adds drama and brilliance.

The metal you choose for your engagement ring also plays a key role in its overall style. Platinum is a top choice for those seeking a sleek, modern look with long-lasting durability. Yellow gold and rose gold add warmth and romantic charm, while white gold remains a classic, versatile favourite. More recently, we’ve seen a growing trend in mixed-metal engagement rings, perfect for creating a look that feels both unique and personal.

Of course, the shape of the diamond significantly impacts the final design. A round brilliant cut is the most popular diamond shape, known for its exceptional sparkle and versatility across ring styles. Oval diamonds offer an elegant, elongating effect on the finger, while cushion cuts bring vintage charm. For those drawn to bold geometry and vintage glamour, emerald and Asscher cut diamonds deliver striking, Art Deco-inspired appeal. 

At Paul James Jewellers, located in the heart of Oxted, Surrey, just a short trip away from London, we guide you through every step—helping you compare styles, try on different settings, and discover the engagement ring that truly feels like the one. Whether you lean classic or modern, minimalist or statement-making, we’ll help you find a ring that tells your love story beautifully.

You can visit us in-store or easily get in touch with us through our website to book a consultation, ask questions, or start your bespoke journey online.

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Frequently Asked Questions About Engagement Ring Styles

What’s the most timeless engagement ring style?

A solitaire ring with a round diamond is considered the most timeless and universally loved.

Are halo engagement rings still in style in 2025?

Absolutely. Halo rings continue to be a top choice for sparkle lovers—especially with oval or cushion cuts.

What is the difference between solitaire and halo engagement rings?

A solitaire ring features a single centre diamond and a clean, timeless look. A halo ring surrounds the centre stone with smaller diamonds, creating the illusion of a larger stone and adding extra sparkle.

Are vintage-style engagement rings still in fashion?

Yes, vintage and antique-inspired styles—like those with milgrain detailing, filigree, or hand engraving—remain popular for their character, charm, and heirloom feel.

What style of engagement ring looks the biggest?

Halo settings and elongated diamond shapes like oval, marquise, and pear tend to make the centre stone appear larger than it is.

What engagement ring style is best for everyday wear?

Low-profile settings, like bezel or flush settings, are ideal for active lifestyles. These secure styles reduce the chance of the diamond catching or getting damaged during daily wear.

Can I mix different styles in one ring?

Yes! Many custom designs combine elements from multiple styles—like a vintage-inspired band with a modern solitaire setting—to create a unique and personal look.

How do I choose the best engagement ring style for my partner?

Think about their personal style and lifestyle. Do they wear minimal or bold jewellery? Are they practical or fashion-forward? Our team can help guide you to a style that suits their taste and everyday needs.