Choosing an engagement ring for a loved one, or even for yourself is both thrilling and daunting. With countless options available online and in stunning high street jewellery stores, choosing the right ring takes time.

Understanding the difference between the most popular engagement ring styles and settings can help you decide on the ideal ring for you or your loved one.

 1. Solitaire

Incredibly popular in the past decade, this prong setting features a centre stone in the middle of a plain band. As the ring is lifted from the brand, this setting allows for the centre stone to catch the light, augmenting its brilliance.

 2. Halo

This style is chosen to highlight the beauty of the centre diamond, and as implied by the name, it features several smaller diamonds or gems spaced around the centre stone. A number of unique diamond cuts can be chosen for the centre of a Halo style ring, from square to round, marquis, oval or pear diamonds. This style can be set on a plain band, or on a pavé band, meaning a band decorated with small diamonds around it.

 3. Three Stone

A Three Stone style ring features a centre diamond flanked by two smaller stones, creating a stunning three stone row. Not only does this layout help the centre stone appear larger in comparison to the smaller stones, but it has a deeper meaning too. The row of diamonds is known to symbolise the union of the past, present and future coming together as one.

4. Tension

A Tension setting is unique in that it doesn’t involve claws or prongs. Instead, the centre diamond is suspended between two separate sections of the band. The diamond remains on the ring only through the tension applied by the two sections of band pushing against the centre stone.

5. Channel

A type of pavé style, the Channel engagement ring features a centre diamond with small diamonds decorating the rest of the band. Instead of the small diamonds being held by prongs though, they are fastened by side strips allowing the small diamonds to be at the same level as the band of the ring.

Choosing the style and setting of an engagement ring is a tricky and exciting responsibility. Understanding the differences in each of the popular, modern styles can help you choose the perfect, magical ring for your loved one, or for yourself.

What is your favourite ring style? Tell us in the comments below.

We may get commissions for purchases made using links in this post. Learn more.