While you can’t go wrong with a classic solitaire, if you are looking to add a little more sparkle to your engagement ring, consider adding accent side stones. A three stone ring with the same shape stones is very timeless but you can also compliment your center stone with different accent shapes. There are endless possibilities and combinations of diamond shapes to create a unique look of your own.
Pear & Marquise Side Stones
Fancy diamond shapes are rising in popularity. The feminine “teardrop” shape of the pear and the oblong shape of the marquise add an organic feel set alongside a center stone. The graceful curves mimic the appearance of flowers and vines found in nature. The combination makes the entire setting resemble a feminine, elegant flower.
These elongated fancy shapes compliment other elongated shapes well. An oval center stone flanked with two pear or marquise highlights the larger stone while adding some extra sparkle. Incorporating these shapes can also reflect a vintage style. Design a setting with beading and pave diamonds for a modern meets vintage flair.
Smaller fancy shaped pear or marquise cut stones can also be incorporated into the band of the engagement ring or wedding band. Alternating diamond shapes in the band creates a chic and distinctive pattern while remaining classic.
Round, Half-Moon & Kite Side Stones
Round diamonds continue to be the most classic and popular diamond shape for center and accent side stones. Round side stones can be paired with almost any center stone shape and create a classic look that will withstand the test of time. Thanks to Meghan Markle’s engagement ring, accenting a cushion cut center stone with round side stones has been gaining popularity.
The half moon cut is a perfect example of side stones that can be used to draw attention toward the center stone, while also adding more style to the entire engagement ring. Half moon cuts feature half of the profile of either an oval cut diamond or a brilliant round cut diamond. They have a curve on one side and a straight line on the other side.
The kite shape is undoubtedly a rising star in the market of side stones. It shines into view faster than most cuts, thanks to its elongated structure made possible with four distinct lines. Other than its use as side stones for three, and five stone engagement rings, kites have been also incorporated as a way to create star-shaped diamonds by grouping several pieces together and placing them into various jewelry designs.
Baguette & Trapezoid Side Stones
Coming in close second to round side stones are the ever classic baguettes. These step cuts are sleek, geometric shaped diamonds that give a vintage, art deco feel. The facets are cut in parallel lines to one another on all four sides, which prioritizes clarity over sparkle and allows for a sleek and clean look.
Baguette cut diamonds are very similar to the emerald cut with the difference being that their corners are unrounded and sharper while emerald’s are slightly beveled. Tapered baguettes are very popular to pair with a variety of shapes including round and emerald cut because they frame the center stone.
Trapezoid, also known as trapeze, is a newer shape evolved from baguette and taper cuts and is growing in appeal for side stones thanks to its elongated bottom side and short top. Brilliant cut trapezoids produce great sparkle and light, while step cut trapezoids have more open faceting. The brilliant cut crescent trapezoid is similar in brilliance and shine to the brilliant cut, but has curved edges to suit round center stone shapes such as round, oval, cushion and marquise diamonds.
Whether you opt for the same stones or mix and match, there are endless combinations to create an engagement ring that reflects your personal style. We can walk you through everything you need to know to help you design your dream ring! Book a personal consultation at The Diamond Reserve by calling 303-385-8449 or clicking here.