A Guide to Popular Engagement Ring Styles

The tradition of engagement or betrothal rings dates to ancient Egypt, when rings crafted from braided reeds or leather were given to be worn on the fourth finger of the left hand. This ‘ring finger’ was believed to have a vein that led directly to the heart, known as the ‘vena amoris’ or vein of love.

The Romans furthered this custom by using metals such as iron, which signified permanence, and later gold, which denoted social status. At this time, these rings symbolised both a legal contract between couples and a love token. But it was not until 1477, when Archduke Maximilian of Austria presented Mary of Burgundy with a diamond ring upon their betrothal, that the precedent was set for a gemstone on an engagement ring. Although this was initially confined to the aristocracy, the 19th and early 20th centuries saw the discovery of diamond mines in South Africa, which made the gemstone more widely available. In 1947, De Beers introduced its famous slogan “A Diamond is Forever,” thereby cementing the diamond’s status as the quintessential symbol of everlasting love.

^{An 8.96ct transitional-cut diamond solitaire ring}

^{Sold for £48,000}

The solitaire is the most classic and timeless engagement ring style. It features a single diamond on a simple band. This highlights the centre stone, symbolising undivided love, and its simple elegance makes it a favourite among couples seeking a traditional look. The Tiffany setting further elevates the solitaire ring. Introduced in 1886, it features a round brilliant-cut diamond in six prongs, which lifts the stone above the band and maximises its sparkle.

The halo setting encircles a central gemstone with a ring of smaller diamonds or gemstones, accentuating the centre stone and creating the illusion of greater size and prominence. This glamorous style, originating in the Georgian period, became especially popular in the 1920s and remains highly sought after, in no small part due to the 12-carat sapphire halo ring first presented to Princess Diana on her engagement to Prince Charles and later to Catherine, Princess of Wales.

^{Tiffany & Co. - a diamond solitaire ring in platinum}

^{Sold for £20,000}

Another popular engagement ring style is the trilogy, or trinity, ring, a three-stone style featuring a central gemstone flanked by two stones, which might be the same size as the central stone or smaller. Each stone is said to represent the couple’s past, present, and future together or love, friendship and fidelity.  This style is rich in symbolism and offers strong visual impact, enabling creative combinations of gemstones or diamond shapes.

^{An emerald-cut diamond trilogy ring}

^{Sold for £5,800}

Fashions come and go, not least when a celebrity showcases their new engagement ring, creating a global media storm and spawning countless imitations. Taylor Swift’s romantic, antique-inspired engagement ring, with its gold band and Old Mine-cut diamond, draws on design elements from the past.  For those who appreciate history and craftsmanship, a vintage or pre-loved ring offers both romance and individuality.

If you are considering buying or selling a pre-loved engagement ring, here at Dawsons, we offer a trusted platform that combines years’ of expert assessment and unrivalled global marketing, meaning you can be wholly confident in your sale or purchase.

Related Articles

How Much Should You Spend on an Engagement Ring?

How To Tell if a Diamond is Good Quality

How To Tell if a Diamond is Real

Buy or Sell Jewellery with Dawsons

Our team of Gemmology-qualified experts make it simple to sell your luxury jewellery online or buy fine jewellery at auction. Dawsons Auctioneers provide accurate valuations, competitive results, and trusted advice every step of the way. Get in touch today to find out what your jewellery is worth.

Call us on 0207 431 9445 or email us on info@dawsonsauctions.co.uk