Anatomy of a Ring: Styles, Settings & Design
Choosing an engagement ring can feel overwhelming with the endless design options and technical terms. To make things easier, we’ve broken down the anatomy of a ring into three main components:
Basket/Setting – The part of the ring that secures the center stone.
Style
Basket/Setting
Band/Shank
At its core, every ring starts with a style, which determines how the center stone is framed.
SOLITAIRE
The most classic and minimalistic design. This style focuses entirely on the center stone, with no additional diamonds or embellishments—just the stone, basket, and band. A timeless choice.
HALO
A ring of tiny diamonds that surrounds the center stone, adding extra sparkle and making the stone appear larger. You can also opt for an Under Halo/Hidden Halo, where the diamonds sit closer to the basket for a more subtle effect.
TOI ET MOI
Meaning "you and me" in French, this style features two stones positioned side by side, symbolizing the connection between two people.
SIDE STONES
Adding matching diamonds or gemstones on either side of the center stone can enhance the overall look. Common shapes include baguettes, pears, and half-moons, each bringing a unique touch to the design.
The basket/setting holds the center stone in place and can be designed in multiple ways.
PRONG SETTING
The most common way to set a diamond. Tiny metal prongs are shaped and bent to grip the gemstone securely. Prongs can be rounded like a button or pointed for a sharper look. A round brilliant is typically set with four or six prongs, while a pear-shaped stone might use three or five.
BEZEL SETTING
Instead of prongs, a thin metal rim surrounds the stone for a sleek, modern look and added security.
HALF BEZEL SETTING
A mix of both worlds, where the stone is partially enclosed but still open enough to allow light to pass through.
DECORATIVE BASKET
Some baskets incorporate hidden diamonds on the prongs or basket for extra sparkle, while others showcase intricate metalwork or unique designs that add a decorative touch beneath the center stone.
The band/shank is the part of the ring that wraps around the finger, and it plays a major role in overall aesthetics and durability.
WIDTH & SHAPE
The band can be as thin or bold as you like, with different profiles that change its look and feel. Shape options include (but not limited to) flat, round, knife edge, and half-round. The flat band has clean, crisp lines, while the round band offers a smooth, comfortable fit. The knife-edge band brings a sleek, angular design, and the half-round band features a dome shape with a flat interior that rests against your finger, creating a soft, rounded exterior for a classic and comfortable feel.
DIAMOND-WRAPPED BANDS
Adding diamonds to the band is a great way to enhance the overall brilliance of the ring. One of the most popular styles is French Pavé, which features tiny round diamonds set closely together with minimal metal, creating a seamless sparkle. While full eternity bands (diamonds wrapping all the way around) may seem appealing, we always advise against them for longevity. Daily wear can loosen the stones at the base of the band, increasing the risk of loss. Instead, a half or three-quarter setting keeps the top sparkling while maintaining durability where it matters most.
INTRICATE BAND DESIGNS & DIAMOND ACCENTS
Bands can be beautifully detailed with engravements as well as delicate filigree work. For those who want extra sparkle, diamonds can also be incorporated in creative ways, such as subtle accents along the sides or hidden within intricate designs.
TWO TONE DESIGN
Mixing metals is a great way to add contrast and a unique touch. A yellow gold band with a white gold basket, for example, combines warmth and brightness, giving the ring a distinctive character.
