Solitaire Rings: Types, Best Gemstones, and How to Style

A solitaire ring is made up of a single large stone at its center that remains the sole focal point in the band. This design emphasizes the natural beauty and quality of the stone. The single stone rings have a long history, yet they became popular in the 19th century. A single stone ring is commonly used as an engagement ring to show the intent of marriage. It symbolizes eternal love, unity, and everlasting commitment. The classic and unique design of the ring never goes out and suits all fashion sensibilities. It can be paired with vintage and modern jewelry easily. Solitaire rings do not require special maintenance as it designed to be clean and smooth. These rings can be given as a statement piece, on an engagement, or on an anniversary. 

What Are the Popular Types of Solitaire Rings?

Here are the five types of solitaire rings:

1. Classic Solitaire: It is also known as prong-set solitaire, in which the stone is held in place with a metal prong. Four or six prongs lift the stone high to the band to allow maximum light to enter, maximizing the brilliance and sparkle of the stone. A four-prong setting offers less security compared to a six-prong setting. 
2. Cathedral Solitaire: The cathedral solitaire is named due to the arches that support the stone to a dramatic height. These types of rings symbolize eternal commitment while offering added security.
3. Bezel-Set Solitaire: In this type, the metal rim surrounds the stones' girdle while creating a clean and sleek look. Bezel setting protects the stone from scratches and chips. It is the most durable setting for an active lifestyle.
4. Tiffany-Style Solitaire: The diamond is held to its place with six prongs, maximizing the light passing for maximum brilliance. It is named after Tiffany & Co., the brand that first introduced this iconic design. The minimalist design makes it a symbol of romance and sophistication. 
5. Twist or Tension Solitaire: The gem is placed in the band with the help of tiny grooves in the metal. These grooves apply mechanical tension to the stone to keep it in place. This technique works best for sapphires or diamonds as they can withstand the tension without chipping. In twisted rings, the metal is interwound so that it separates slightly near the center stone. 

Which Metal Best Complements a Solitaire Ring?

Here are the five metals that are commonly used for a solitaire ring:

1. Platinum: Platinum is naturally white in color and pairs best with diamonds. Unlike white gold, it doesn’t require rhodium plating to maintain its color and shine. The durability and dense structure of platinum make it a popular choice for an active lifestyle. It develops patina over time, which can be polished away, or some people appreciate it for its vintage appeal. The purity of platinum makes it hypoallergenic. 
2. White Gold: Gold is mixed with nickel or palladium to make white gold. It requires rhodium plating for the silvery-white finish and is more resistant to bending than platinum. The presence of nickel can cause an allergy in some people. 
3. Yellow Gold: Copper or silver is mixed with pure gold to form a warm, classic, and traditional yellow gold. 14k or 18k gold is used to balance the durability and purity. 
4. Rose Gold: It is more durable than other metals due to the presence of copper. It is known for its soft pinkish color, symbolizing warmth and romance.  Copper oxidizes over time, resulting in patina formation. 
5. Mixed Metals: Different metals can be mixed to create a custom, symbolic ring. For example, white metal is used at the head (the part that secures the center stone) with a yellow or rose gold band to make the diamond appear larger in size. 

What Are the Best Gemstones for Solitaire Rings?

Here are the five best gemstones for solitaire rings:

1. Diamond: These are chosen for their durability and brilliance. Diamond score of 10 on the Mohs hardness scale. They symbolize eternal love, resilience, purity, and clarity. 
2. Sapphire: It is known for loyalty, trust, and royalty. Sapphires are blue in color, yet also available in pink, yellow, or green. "These gemstones have a hardness rating of 9 on the Mohs scale. 
3. Emerald: The emerald is green in color, which symbolizes renewal, harmony, and growth. Fractures and inclusions are present in these stones, which are called jardin, making them more vulnerable to chipping. A protective setting is necessary to make them secure in a place. 
4. Ruby: The presence of minerals corundum relates these gemstones to the sapphires. The presence of chromium makes them red in color. It is known for its red hue and durability, which make it usable in everyday wear.  
5. Moissanite: It is a lab-grown stone that is known for its exceptional brilliance, generally exceeds the diamond. It ranks among the most durable gemstones with a 9.25 score on the Mohs scale.

What Are the Popular Setting Styles for Solitaire Rings?

Here are the five popular setting styles for solitaire rings:`

1. Prong Setting: These are small metal claws that hold the stones from the edges to hold them in place.
2. Bezel Setting: The metal rim secures the stone in place in this setting, offering a clean, smooth final finish. 
3. Tension Setting: In this setting, small grooves are made in the metal to place them in place. These grooves are used to put tension on the stone.
4. Cathedral Setting: Arches are used to place the stones at a dramatic height. The stone appears larger and more sophisticated. 
5. Flush Setting: It is also known as gypsy and hammered setting, in which the stone is embedded in the band to create a clean look.

How to Choose the Perfect Solitaire Ring for You?

Here are the five tips to choose the perfect solitaire ring:

1. Determine Your Stone Shape: Choose the shape of stone, like princess, round, cushion, oval, or emerald cut, that reflects your personality.
2. Set a Budget: Keep the quality of the ring as the first preference to maintain the brilliance, even if the size is small. 
3. Pick the Right Metal Tone: Match the metal tone with the old jewelry and skin tone. For example, yellow gold, white gold, and rose gold offer a warm tone that matches greenish veins.
4. Consider the Band Style: Choose a suitable band style, whether plain, split-shank, or knife-edge style. Each design can dramatically change the ring’s overall look and feel."
5. Evaluate Lifestyle Needs: Opt for the ring and its materials according to the lifestyle. An active lifestyle requires durable stone rings and a secure setting.

How to Style Solitaire Rings for Every Look?

Here are the five styles to use for every type of look:

1. Minimalist Elegance: A plain and clean wedding band can be paired with a solitaire ring to create a timeless and legendary pairing. 
2. Layered Glamour: Stack the solitaire rings with plain and thinner rings to enhance their brilliance and sparkle from every angle. 
3. Vintage Charm: Make the solitaire ring antique with intricate detail or pave it with milgrain or filigree metalwork to add a historical touch. 
4. Modern Edge: Mix different metals, shapes, or styles to create a modern look, moving away from the traditional one. 
5. Statement Simplicity: Wearing a single ring with a bold stone can create a minimalist look. This design suits anyone who values simplicity and a touch of refined elegance.

Are Solitaire Rings Suitable Beyond Engagements?

Yes! Solitaire rings can also be used for the following four events:

1.  Anniversary Gifts: A large, meaningful stone like a diamond, sapphire, or ruby can be given on anniversaries to show loyalty and everlasting love. 
2. Graduation Rings: Solitaire rings are also popular for graduation ceremonies or other milestone celebrations. 
3. Right-Hand Rings: These rings are worn to express independence and self-love. A single stone ring enhances confidence and acts as a conversation starter. 
4. Heirloom Jewelry: A simple and elegant solitaire ring always remains in style, which can be passed down through generations.

How Can You Protect and Preserve the Beauty of Your Solitaire Ring?

 Clean the ring with warm water and mild soap every week to preserve brilliance. Avoid contact with harsh chemicals like cleaners or perfumes while wearing the ring, as they can fade its shine. Store them in a separate place to avoid scratches and schedule professional maintenance twice a year.