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Solitaire Engagement Rings

A diamond solitaire ring is undoubtedly the most popular style of engagement ring. A classic design that best shows off the beauty of the diamond it presents, the solitaire ring works well with all precious metals, to include yellow, white and rose gold, as well as platinum. With this single stone setting, all of the visual emphasis is upon the diamond, making it the perfect way to display a stone of exceptional quality. Diamond solitaire rings also look fantastic when paired with a diamond band ring.

A diamond solitaire ring is a ring band set with a single diamond. The diamond is often set within a four or six prong setting, but can also be held in a bezel, cathedral or tension setting. The simplicity of a single stone ring showcases the beauty of the diamond it displays. Whether your dream diamond is a round brilliant cut, a princess cut, an emerald cut, or any other fancy cut diamond, this setting is timeless.

A diamond solitaire ring undeniably symbolizes engagement. The origins of this classic design can be traced to Ancient Roman times. Gold bands have been found that are set with a single diamond crystal, and were highly prized as recorded in works by Pliny.

Moving forward to the Victorian times, diamond single stone rings were gifted as symbols of everlasting love. However, the diamonds were frequently set into rings that resembled snakes. Queen Victoria was gifted a snake ring from Prince Albert upon their engagement, and so the trend for snake rings set with a single diamond in the crest of the serpent became hugely popular as engagement rings.

It wasn’t until the 20th century, however, that the diamond solitaire ring as we know it came to the fore. Developments in diamond sawing and faceting meant that the round brilliant cut diamond, and other fancy cuts, were being developed. The marketing campaign by De Beers in the mid 20th century introduced the notion that “a diamond is forever,” and so diamond rings were widely associated with a lifelong commitment of a proposal.  

In addition to this, Charles Lewis Tiffany created ‘the Tiffany setting’ in 1886. This six prong solitaire setting revolutionized the way in which diamonds were displayed in rings. The setting lifted the diamond up and off the band, allowing light to enter the stone through the pavilion, crown and table facets, maximizing the stone’s fire and brilliance.

The diamond solitaire ring is a classic and iconic design. This is because the setting is a celebration of the diamond it encases, it shows off the stone to its fullest potential, allowing light to enter it from all angles, and offering protection to the stone through its claws, bezel or tension setting. A diamond solitaire ring looks fantastic with all shape and size diamonds. It truly is a universal setting that deserves its unwavering popularity.

For more information, and assistance on finding the perfect diamond engagement ring for you contact our team of diamond experts on 01335 453 453 or email sales@britishdiamondcompany.com.