The Ultimate Guide to Styles, Materials & Choosing the Perfect Ring

Engagement rings are more than just beautiful jewelry they are symbols of love, commitment, and a promise of a shared future. Whether you’re just starting to shop or refining your search, understanding the different styles, materials, and quality factors will help you find the perfect ring. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explain popular engagement ring styles (like solitaire vs. halo designs), compare common materials (white gold vs. platinum bands, natural vs. lab-grown diamonds), and provide an in-depth guide on how to choose the right ring for your budget and partner’s taste. By the end, you’ll be equipped with expert knowledge to select an engagement ring that truly symbolizes your unique love story.

Engagement Ring Styles and Settings

18K White and Rose Gold Engagement Ring

A solitaire engagement ring is the ultimate classic. This style features a single center diamond or gemstone as the star of the show​. With a solitaire, all attention is on that one stone there are no other side diamonds distracting from its beauty. Solitaires typically have a simple band (which can be plain or adorned with small accent diamonds) and a prong setting that lifts the gemstone up. The result is elegant and timeless.

The benefit of a solitaire is its versatility: it pairs well with any diamond shape (round brilliants are most popular, but you could choose an oval, princess-cut, etc.) and it never goes out of style. If your partner appreciates classic, refined beauty, a solitaire ring is a top choice. Plus, a simple solitaire setting can be more affordable than more elaborate styles, allowing you to put more of your budget toward a quality center stone.

In a halo engagement ring, the center stone is encircled by a “halo” of smaller diamonds all around it​. This ring style has become very popular for its extra sparkle and the way it can make the center diamond look larger. The halo of tiny diamonds reflects light into the center stone, enhancing its brilliance and giving the ring a glamorous, eye-catching appearance.

Halo rings often have a romantic, vintage-inspired vibe (especially when paired with a rose gold band or intricate detailing), but they can also look modern depending on the design. There are variations like a single halo, double halo, or even unique halo shapes (e.g. floral halos). One advantage of a halo setting is that you can opt for a slightly smaller center diamond and still get a big sparkling look, since the halo adds diameter and wow-factor to the ring.

Halo engagement rings are perfect if your fiancé-to-be loves a bit of glamour or wants maximum brilliance. At Harry Glinberg Jewelers, we ensure every halo setting is expertly crafted, with each small diamond securely set for long-lasting sparkle. We also recommend occasional professional cleanings to keep your ring looking as radiant as the day you got it.

Three-stone engagement rings (also known as trilogy rings) feature a trio of gemstones: typically one larger center diamond with a slightly smaller stone on each side. The three stones are often said to represent a couple’s past, present, and future together, adding deep symbolism to this style.

In terms of look, three-stone rings offer a bit more coverage across the finger and can appear more substantial than a solitaire, while still being elegant. Commonly, the side stones are diamonds that complement the center (for example, a round brilliant center with two round side diamonds, or an oval center with pear-shaped side diamonds). However, the side stones could also be colored gemstones for a unique twist – for instance, a diamond center flanked by sapphires or emeralds.

This style is great if you like the idea of multiple stones or want to incorporate a splash of color or symbolism. A well-proportioned three-stone ring will have side diamonds that accentuate the center stone without overpowering it. Many people love this style for its romantic meaning and balanced, classy appearance.

Vintage engagement rings (or vintage-inspired new rings) draw inspiration from specific historical eras, such as the Art Deco period of the 1920s, Victorian-era designs, or Edwardian details. These rings often feature intricate details and craftsmanship reminiscent of antique pieces.​ Think of details like milgrain edging (tiny bead-like metal work along the edges), filigree (delicate metal scrollwork), engraving on the band, or unique old-style diamond cuts.

A vintage-inspired ring might have a halo or cluster of diamonds in an ornate pattern, or a distinctive geometric design from the Art Deco era. The appeal of vintage-style engagement rings is their one-of-a-kind character and romantic, heirloom feel. They are perfect for someone who loves retro glamour, artistic detail, or the idea of having a ring that feels like it has a story. Actual antique rings (passed down through generations or purchased from an antique dealer) fall in this category, but you can also buy modern rings made in vintage style to get the look with the reliability of a new ring. Vintage designs tend to be very unique and personal, so if your partner has a flair for vintage fashion or appreciates old-world elegance, this style could be ideal.

If your partner’s style is contemporary or outside-the-box, you might consider a modern engagement ring design. Modern rings often break from tradition they can feature minimalist aesthetics, innovative settings, or creative twists that set them apart.

For example, a modern ring might use a bezel setting (where the metal encircles the diamond completely for a sleek look) instead of classic prongs, or a tension setting that makes the diamond appear suspended with no visible supports. Other modern trends include asymmetric or free-form designs, two-tone metals (mixing white gold and yellow gold in one ring), or even open ring designs that don’t form a complete circle

One popular modern style is the “toi et moi” (you and me) two-stone ring, which features two gemstones (often different shapes or colors) curled together – a style famously worn by celebrities and greatly trending lately. East-west settings are another modern twist, where an oval or emerald-cut diamond is set horizontally on the band for a distinctive look. What modern rings have in common is a fresh, creative feel, perfect for someone who wants something less traditional.

They also often emphasize functionality and personalization: for instance, smooth low-profile settings for an active lifestyle, or custom-design elements that are meaningful to the wearer. The sky is the limit with modern designs. No matter how unique the design, craftsmanship is key. We make sure every ring is expertly made to securely hold the gemstone and stand the test of time. If you’re envisioning something truly one-of-a-kind, we’re happy to work with you on a custom design that brings your vision to life and perfectly reflects your love story.

Engagement Ring Materials: Metals and Diamonds

Choosing the right diamond can be difficult, do you want a natural, or lab grown diamond? The price difference may surpise you.

White Gold vs. Platinum & Other Metals

The majority of engagement rings are made from one of the precious metals: typically gold or platinum. White gold and platinum are especially popular for their elegant silvery look. While they appear similar, there are key differences between them:

Despite its name, white gold is not found in nature as a white metal – it’s actually pure yellow gold mixed with other alloy metals (such as nickel, zinc, or palladium) to give it a whitish color, and then usually plated with rhodium to achieve a bright, shiny white finish.

White gold comes in different purities like 14K or 18K (which indicate how much pure gold is in the mix). It tends to be more affordable than platinum and is slightly lighter in weight. One thing to note is that over years of wear, the rhodium plating on white gold can wear off, causing the ring to show a slight yellow tint until it’s replated.

Replating is a simple maintenance task jewelers can do (typically every few years) and is relatively inexpensive. White gold is a durable metal (especially 14K, which has more alloy content) and can hold up to daily wear, but it’s a bit less dense and heavy than platinum.

Platinum is a naturally white metal, known for its luster and exceptional durability.​ In jewelry, platinum is usually 95% pure, which makes it hypoallergenic (since it’s not mixed with nickel or other metals that could cause reactions) – an ideal choice if the wearer has sensitive skin or allergies.

Platinum is heavier to wear; you’ll feel the substance of it on your finger. It’s also rarer than gold, which contributes to it being more expensive. In fact, platinum rings typically cost ~40-50% more than equivalent white gold rings because platinum is denser (more material is needed for the same ring) and the metal itself is rarer.​ However, platinum does not require replating – its white color is true through and through.

Over time platinum can develop a patina (a soft matte finish from micro-scratches), but many people appreciate this look, and it can always be polished back to shine. In terms of strength, platinum’s density makes it very durable for holding gemstones securely. Both white gold and platinum are strong enough for everyday wear, but platinum may offer a bit more longevity since when it scratches, the metal is just displaced (not lost) and the ring can be re-polished to look new.

So which to choose – white gold or platinum?

It often comes down to budget and preference. If you want the prestige and low maintenance of a rare metal (and don’t mind the higher price and heavier feel), platinum is fantastic. If you prefer a lower cost option that still looks great (and are okay with occasional replating), white gold is a very popular choice. Visually, they are very similar – both have a bright silver-white shine when new. In fact, platinum is often seen as a luxury upgrade from white gold rather than a completely different look.

Aside from white gold and platinum, you also have yellow gold and rose gold as common options for engagement rings. Yellow gold is the classic gold color – warm and rich. It’s been beloved for centuries and gives a ring a traditional look. After years where white metals dominated, yellow gold has been regaining popularity among modern brides.​ Yellow gold in 14K or 18K is also quite durable (14K being harder due to more alloy metal content, 18K being a bit softer but more pure gold content). It’s a great choice if the person wears a lot of classic gold jewelry or you want a timeless, vintage vibe.

Rose gold (a gold-copper alloy with a pinkish hue) has been very trendy in recent years. It offers a romantic, feminine look and flatters many skin tones. Rose gold is also durable and has the advantage of being unique – not everyone has a rose gold engagement ring, so it stands out. It’s an excellent choice for vintage-inspired styles or halo designs, as the pink tone can enhance the ring’s romantic feel.

In summary, choose the metal color based on what your partner loves to wear and their style. Notice what color jewelry they typically have if they mostly wear silver or white gold, they’ll likely prefer a white metal (white gold or platinum). If they adore yellow-tone jewelry, a yellow gold ring will match their taste. And if they have a penchant for rose-gold accessories or a vintage aesthetic, rose gold could be perfect.

There’s no wrong choice as long as it suits their style and daily life. Remember that all gold (whether white, yellow, or rose) of the same karat has equal gold content – the differences are in color and hardness due to alloy metals. Also, mixing metals is an option too some rings incorporate two-tone designs, or you could have a white gold engagement ring and a yellow gold wedding band for contrast. Ultimately, pick a metal that you find beautiful and that fits your lifestyle and budget.


Natural vs. Lab-Grown Diamonds

The center stone of most engagement rings is a diamond but today, you have a choice between a natural, earth-mined diamond or a lab-grown diamond. Both are real diamonds, but there are some differences to consider. You also have alternative gemstones (like moissanite or sapphires) which some couples choose for personal or budget reasons. Let’s break down these options:

These are diamonds formed in the earth over billions of years and then mined. Each natural diamond is unique and they have long been the traditional choice for engagement rings. They are valued for their rarity – larger high-quality natural diamonds can be quite expensive due to limited supply. Natural diamonds typically hold value well over time (and can even become family heirlooms passed down).

If the idea of a diamond that came from the earth and the tradition around that appeals to you, or if you believe in long-term value retention, a natural diamond may be your preference. However, they do cost more for the same size/quality compared to lab-grown. For example, a 1 carat natural diamond of a given quality can be significantly more expensive than a 1 carat lab-created diamond of identical quality.

Lab-grown diamonds (also called lab-created, man-made, or synthetic diamonds) are produced in high-tech laboratories using advanced processes that replicate the natural formation of diamonds. The key thing to know is that lab-grown diamonds are chemically, physically, and optically identical to natural diamonds—they are real diamonds, not imitations.

A lab diamond has the same hardness, sparkle (refractive index), and crystal structure as one pulled from the earth. Even expert gemologists require specialized equipment to tell the difference between a lab-grown and a mined diamond. Because they can be made on demand, lab-grown diamonds are typically much more affordable than natural diamonds of comparable size and quality. It’s common to save 30–50% (or more), which means you could get a larger or higher-quality stone within the same budget.

Lab diamonds are also considered a more eco-friendly or ethical choice, as they bypass the environmental and social concerns associated with traditional diamond mining. However, it’s important to note that creating diamonds in a lab still requires a significant amount of energy—though some producers are turning to renewable sources to help offset this impact.

If you choose a lab-grown diamond, we always recommend selecting one that comes with certification. At Harry Glinberg Jewelers, we work with reputable grading labs like GIA and IGI, which use the same strict standards applied to natural diamonds, so you can feel confident in the quality and authenticity of your stone.

Diamonds may be traditional, but they’re not the only gem for engagement rings. Some people opt for a colored gemstone as the center stone, either for personal style or symbolic reasons. Popular alternatives include sapphires (Princess Diana’s famous engagement ring was a blue sapphire, for example), emeralds, rubies, or lesser-known gems like morganite (a peachy-pink stone) or aquamarine. Sapphires and rubies are quite hard and durable (sapphire is 9 on Mohs hardness scale, just below diamond’s 10), making them suitable for daily wear. They also come in various colors (sapphires aren’t just blue; they can be white, yellow, pink, etc.).

Choosing a birthstone or a gem with a special meaning can make the ring deeply personal. Another increasingly popular diamond alternative is moissanite – a lab-created gemstone that isn’t a diamond but has a similar colorless sparkle. Moissanite is very brilliant and costs a fraction of a diamond; however, it has a different kind of sparkle (some find it more “rainbow” or flashy) and is slightly less hard than diamond (still very hard at 9.25 Mohs). It’s a great option if you want a big, clear stone but aren’t set on it being a diamond.

So which to choose – Natural or lab-grown diamonds?

While lab-grown and natural diamonds are identical in appearance and composition, there are key differences to consider when choosing between them. Lab-grown diamonds offer a more budget-friendly option, often costing 30–50% less than natural diamonds of the same size and quality. This can allow buyers to afford a larger or more brilliant stone without increasing their budget. On the other hand, natural diamonds tend to hold their value better over time, thanks to their rarity and the historical significance attached to them.

In terms of sourcing, natural diamonds are mined from the earth—a process that can raise environmental and ethical concerns. Lab-grown diamonds avoid the mining process entirely, which makes them attractive to buyers looking for a more sustainable or socially responsible option. That said, the lab creation process still consumes a lot of energy, though some manufacturers use renewable energy sources to mitigate this.

When it comes to resale and long-term value, natural diamonds typically perform better, as they are seen as more rare and desirable in the secondary market. Lab-grown diamonds, being easier to produce, may not retain their value in the same way. If your goal is to invest in a long-term heirloom or you care about resale potential, a natural diamond might be the better fit. But if getting the biggest, highest-quality stone for your money, or minimizing environmental impact, is the priority, lab-grown is a compelling and increasingly popular choice. Many modern couples are embracing lab-grown diamonds for these very reasons, while others still prefer the timeless story and rarity of a natural stone.

Ultimately, there’s no requirement that an engagement ring must have a diamond; choose a stone that resonates with you and your partner. Many couples today are breaking traditions (some even choose rings without any center stone, like an elegant diamond eternity band, etc.). If you do go with a diamond (natural or lab), the next step is understanding diamond quality, which brings us to the famous “4 C’s” an essential tool for choosing the right diamond for your ring.

How to Choose the Right Engagement Ring

Picking out an engagement ring can feel overwhelming after all, it’s one of the most important (and expensive) pieces of jewelry you’ll buy.

Set a Budget You’re Comfortable With

Decide roughly how much you want to spend before you start shopping in earnest. Engagement rings come in a wide range of prices, from a few hundred dollars to tens of thousands. It’s important to choose a budget that makes sense for your financial situation.

You may have heard of the old “two or three months’ salary” rule. You can safely ignore that! That guideline was a marketing ploy from a bygone era and is now considered outdated​. In reality, couples today spend what they can afford and what they feel is appropriate. In the U.S., recent surveys show the average engagement ring spend is around $5,000 to $7,000,​ but remember that number is skewed by big spenders. Many people spend less; in fact, the median spend is closer to about $1,900. So don’t feel pressure to hit some magic number.

Whether your budget is $2,000 or $20,000, you can find a beautiful ring. The key is to determine your limit and then work within it. This will help narrow down choices (for example, what size or quality of diamond you can target, or what metal and design options). Our knowledgeable team is here to guide you to the best options in your price range. The bottom line: spend an amount that won’t cause you financial stress – your love is not measured by the ring’s price tag, and you can always upgrade later in life if desired.

Understand the 4 C’s of Diamond Quality

If you’re buying a diamond ring, it’s crucial to learn the 4 C’s: Cut, Color, Clarity, and Carat Weight. These are the four factors that determine a diamond’s appearance and value.​ Here’s a quick summary of each:

Arguably the most important C, cut refers to how well the diamond is shaped and faceted to reflect light. A well-cut diamond will sparkle brilliantly. Cut is graded from Excellent (or Ideal) down to Poor. Always aim for the best cut you can afford – it makes the diamond lively and full of fire (flashes of color) and brilliance. Even a smaller well-cut diamond can outshine a larger poorly cut one.

Diamond color actually refers to the absence of color. The best, most rare diamonds are “colorless” (graded D, E, F on the GIA scale) while lower grades show increasing hints of yellow or brown (down to Z grade)​. To the naked eye, many of these color differences are subtle. Near-colorless diamonds (G, H, I, J) can appear virtually white, especially once mounted, and offer good value. If you’re setting the diamond in yellow or rose gold, you can go slightly lower on the color scale since the warm metal can mask a bit of color in the stone.

Clarity measures how free a diamond is from internal inclusions or external blemishes. Grades range from Flawless (no imperfections visible under 10x magnification) down to Included (imperfections that may be seen with the eye).​ Don’t overpay for a flawless stone – the goal is to get a diamond that looks clean to the eye. Many VS2 or SI1 clarity diamonds have imperfections that are invisible without magnification and can cost far less than a VVS or Flawless. It’s about finding a balance. Pro tip: inclusions near the edges can often be hidden by prongs.

Carat is the measure of a diamond’s weight. More carats = a larger diamond. Understandably, carat has a big impact on price, since larger diamonds are rarer​. But carat is not the only factor – two diamonds of the same carat can look different in size depending on their cut proportions. Rather than fixating on a specific carat number, think about the overall look and size you want. A 0.90 carat diamond, for example, can be much cheaper than a 1.00 carat because of threshold pricing, yet only slightly smaller in appearance. Also consider your partner’s finger size: a one-carat diamond will look bigger on a small size 4 finger than on a size 8 finger.

Applying the 4 c’s

Understanding the 4 C’s lets you intelligently compare diamonds and decide where you might want to compromise. For instance, if you prioritize size, you might drop a bit in color or clarity to get a bigger stone within budget. Or if you want a perfectly colorless stone, you might choose a slightly smaller carat. Many experts recommend prioritizing Cut first (for sparkle), then consider Carat and Color next based on preference, with Clarity being somewhat flexible as long as the stone is eye-clean. It’s all about your priorities.


Along with quality, decide what shape of diamond (or other gemstone) you want as the center stone. The shape is basically the outline or form of the stone (round, square, oval, etc.). This is largely a matter of personal preference. The round brilliant is by far the most popular diamond shape for engagement rings it has the most sparkle due to its facet pattern, but it also tends to cost more per carat than fancy shapes.​ If your partner loves a classic, dazzling look, round is a safe bet. However, fancy shapes like oval, cushion, princess (square), emerald (rectangle), pear, marquise, or radiant can be equally stunning and often a bit less expensive for the same carat weight​.

Each shape has its own style: e.g., ovals and pears have a graceful elongated look (and can make the finger look longer and slender), emerald cuts have a glamorous vintage appeal with their step-cut facets (they emphasize clarity and a mirror-like “hall of mirrors” effect over sparkly brilliance), and princess cuts give a modern, sharp sparkle in a square form. Look at your partner’s existing jewelry or style for clues – do they prefer soft, rounded shapes or bold, geometric lines? If they haven’t dropped hints, you can’t go wrong with a round, but if you know they love, say, the elegance of emerald cuts or the uniqueness of a pear shape, that can personalize the ring.

At Harry Glinberg Jewelers, we make sure your ring setting is designed to perfectly complement the shape of your diamond. While most settings can be customized for any stone shape, some styles are crafted specifically to enhance certain cuts. If you’re unsure what will look best, we offer the option to view diamonds in sample settings so you can better visualize your dream ring before making a decision.

This is where you consider the styles we discussed earlier (solitaire, halo, etc.) and decide which one suits your partner best. The setting not only affects how the ring looks, but also how it pairs with wedding bands and how practical it is for daily wear. Think about your partner’s personality and lifestyle:

  • Do they adore classic and simple designs? A solitaire or simple pavé band might be perfect – something elegant that highlights the diamond.
  • Do they love sparkle and glamour? Consider a halo setting or a ring with side stones for extra brilliance.
  • Are they sentimental or into romance and history? A vintage-inspired design with intricate details or a three-stone ring with meaningful symbolism could resonate.
  • Are they modern and bold? Maybe a unique custom design, a two-stone ring, or a bezel-set contemporary style would match their taste.
  • If you’re not sure, observe the style of jewelry they wear day-to-day (modern vs. antique-looking, minimalist vs. ornate). You can also subtly ask friends or family for input, or even involve your partner in the design process if you think they’d want to choose (more couples are doing this together now).

Also consider practicality: If your partner has an active lifestyle or works with their hands a lot (e.g., healthcare, chef, etc.), a design that is lower profile with a secure setting (like a bezel or a halo protecting the center) might be better than a very high cathedral solitaire that could snag on things. For someone very active, even a sturdy solitaire with 6 prongs (instead of 4) provides extra security for the diamond. On the other hand, if they have a job where they don’t wear jewelry at work, this might not matter as much.

In the end, choose a ring style that you can picture on your partner’s finger and imagine them absolutely loving every day. If you’re torn between two styles (say, halo vs. solitaire), you could seek out designs that combine elements of both (e.g., a subtle halo or a decorative gallery on a solitaire). We specialize in customization, so if you’re torn between styles, we can help you combine elements or tweak the details to create a ring that’s uniquely yours.

Decide on the metal for the ring’s band – typically white gold, yellow gold, rose gold, or platinum (as covered in the Materials section). This is often a style preference (what color jewelry does your partner like?) and a budget/lifestyle consideration. White gold vs. platinum is a common decision point: remember, they look similar but platinum costs more​and is heavier, while white gold is more affordable but needs occasional relating.

If your partner has known metal allergies (like to nickel), platinum or certain hypoallergenic gold alloys might be the safer choice. Yellow gold gives a very classic look and can enhance the warmth of slightly off-color diamonds (which could let you save money on the diamond).​ Rose gold offers a trendy yet vintage flair and often complements halo and vintage designs beautifully.

You can’t really “surprise” someone with a metal color preference if you pay attention, most people clearly lean toward white metals or yellow in what they wear. If mixing it up, two-tone rings are also an option (for example, a ring might have a white gold setting head and a yellow gold shank). The metal choice also affects how the ring pairs with a future wedding band. Some brides like to have a matching metal set. It’s a small detail in the grand scheme, but it adds to the personalization of the ring.

This is a practical but important step you want the ring to fit! If the proposal is a surprise, you might need to figure out your partner’s ring size on the sly. There are a few ways: borrow a ring they wear on the ring finger (or any finger that’s similar in size) and have a jeweler measure it, or use a printable ring sizer or app.

You could also ask a close friend or family member to help often a mother, sister or best friend can get the size by comparison or a shopping outing. Some people have used clever tricks like pretending to buy a ring for someone else and asking the partner to try a size for reference, or marking a ring’s position on your own finger.

If you’re planning a surprise proposal and unsure of the exact ring size, it’s usually safer to go slightly larger. It’s easier to size a ring down than up. We offer a complimentary resizing after the proposal because we know it’s common not to get it perfect on the first try. The ideal fit should slide on comfortably but not be so loose that it could slip off. Don’t stress – sizing can be adjusted, and a little detective work ahead of time can make your proposal go even more smoothly.

At Harry Glinberg Jewelers, we believe that buying a diamond ring, especially an engagement ring, should be an exciting, personal, and pressure-free experience. Once you’ve narrowed down the style and specifications you’re looking for, our team is here to guide you through the rest, making sure you feel informed and confident every step of the way.

We offer certified diamonds, including GIA-graded natural diamonds and IGI-certified lab-grown options, so you can trust exactly what you’re getting. Every ring we sell is backed by our commitment to quality, transparency, and long-term care. We provide resizing, prong checks, cleanings, and expert maintenance to keep your ring looking flawless for years to come.

If you’re customizing a piece, you’re in the right place. Our jewelers have decades of experience turning your vision into something truly one-of-a-kind. Whether you’re shopping in-store or virtually, we take the time to walk you through all your options without any pressure.

When it’s time to pick up your ring, we’ll double-check everything with you: stone security, engraving details, and fit. This is a big moment in your life, and we’re honored to be a part of it. When you leave our showroom, you’ll have a ring you’re proud to propose with and a jeweler you can always count on.

Your Perfect Ring Starts Here

Choosing an engagement ring is a meaningful milestone, and at Harry Glinberg Jewelers, we’re here to make the experience as smooth and enjoyable as possible. With a solid understanding of ring styles, materials, and the 4Cs, along with your budget and your partner’s unique style, you’re well on your way to making a thoughtful, confident choice. Take your time, ask questions, and let us guide you through the process. Whether you’re drawn to a classic solitaire in platinum or a custom halo design featuring a lab-grown diamond, we’ll help you find the perfect ring that reflects your love story. When you propose, it won’t just be a ring, it’ll be a moment they’ll never forget. We’re honored to be part of that moment and excited to help you start this new chapter with confidence and joy.