When selecting your engagement ring, comprehending the terminology helps in pinpointing and articulating the ring of your dreams. Dive into the anatomy of an engagement ring:

Center Stone: The center stone, the main diamond or gem in the middle, takes the spotlight in your engagement ring. This is the centerpiece with the most sparkle. While round shapes are the most traditional, you can also choose from any of the diamond shapes like oval, emerald, cushion, and more.

Side Stones: Side stones, which can be diamonds or gemstones, are the smaller stones that sit on the sides of the center gem. They can come in various shapes like shields to accentuate and compliment the center stone.

Setting: The setting refers to the metal that holds the stones on the ring and supports the center stone. It is how the stones are mounted on the band, and highly affects the ring's appearance, durability, and maintenance. The setting should enhance the look of the center stone. To learn more about ring settings check out our GOODSTONE ring style guide.

Popular Settings:

• Solitaire: The quintessential solitaire setting focuses solely on the center diamond, offering a timeless and undistracted display of beauty.
• Bezel: encircles the stone completely with metal, highlighting the gemstone with a modern edge and ensuring its security. Diamond rings can also have a half-bezel setting where the metal covers only half of the piece.
• Three stone: features a central gemstone flanked by two side stones, symbolically representing a couple's past, present, and future.
• Halo: encircles the center gem with smaller diamonds, amplifying its sparkle and visual impact for a truly glamorous effect.
• Pave: French for "paved," this setting involves closely set accent diamonds or gemstones on the band, creating a sparkling, encrusted look

Prongs: Prongs are the small metal supports that secure diamonds or gemstones in place. Classic prongs resemble tiny metal beads encircling the center gem, while claw prongs offer a pointed, sleek appearance. Typically, engagement rings feature four to six prongs, ensuring the gem's safety and the ring's structure.

Gallery: The gallery refers to the intricate detailing on the underside of the ring's center stone that is visible from a side profile. It offers an opportunity to incorporate additional design elements, such as a hidden halo, which enhance the ring's sparkle.

Bridge: The bridge, located beneath the head, provides the engagement ring support atop the finger. This section often incorporates decorative elements like diamond accents, adding unique character to the ring.

Shank: Also known as the band, the engagement ring shank is the metal part encircling your finger. It commences at the end of the shoulders and is typically all-metal. However, it can feature diamond accents. The shank plays a crucial role in the ring's comfort for the wearer.

Shoulder: The shoulder comprises the upper sides that mark the beginning of the shank on an engagement ring.

High Profile: A high profile (or high set) engagement ring elevates the diamond prominently above the finger. A more traditional style, an examples would be cathedral setting engagement rings.

Low Profile: A low profile (or low set) engagement ring positions the center stone in close proximity to the finger, making it less prone to getting caught on clothing and ideal for those who wear gloves for work. Check out our half bezel solitaires for an example.