When designing a custom solitaire engagement ring, you have to consider every detail. With simple designs, every element must be perfect to create a beautiful finished ring. Beyond the stone shape, it’s important to consider the design components and setting styles that affect the durability, comfort and style of the ring.





Peg Heads

The most common solitaire setting.

Simple, classic, and traditional. The prongs and the shank can be different metal types, so you can make a custom mixed metal look. Peg heads tend to be high-profile settings and can be prone to damage if the wearer is hard on their hands.

 
Trellis Setting

Elegant and more elaborate.

This setting cradles the stone in a lattice of metalwork. It is integrated into the band as one piece that’s created during the casting process, so it is very strong and durable. It has a more decorative, stylish look.

 
 
Cathedral Setting

A version of the peg head.

Benefits: The shoulders of the shank slope upwards toward the stone, making it feel less high-profile, and provides some protection for the stone setting.

 
Basket Setting

Super clean, simple and fresh.

In this style, the stone is set in a basket of metalwork with open sides. You can see almost the entire stone from the side, and lots of light can get in on all sides. You can choose between straight sides for a modern look, or curved sides for a more romantic style.

 
Tulip Setting

A feminine take on the peg head.

Instead of straight prongs, the tulip style uses prongs that look like flower petals from the side. The top view looks like a traditional four-prong solitaire. It has subtle feminine flair that is ideal for someone who likes a classic look with subtle character.

 
 
East-West Setting

Unexpected and trendy.

Setting oblong stone cuts horizontally changes the character of a ring. This style looks great with Radiant, Emerald, Oval, and even Pear. The style is trendy and modern, without losing the classic feel of a solitaire.

 
Bezel Setting

Modern, smooth and strong.

The bezel setting encases the stone in a circle of solid metal instead of prongs. It is smooth and very durable, making it ideal for those who are hard on their hands. The bezel solitaire makes a bolder style statement, which can be softened with elaborate nesting bands.

 
Prongs

You can also consider the style and number of prongs for a solitaire, because they are as important visually as they are structurally.

  • Four rounded prongs: Simple and traditional.
  • Six prongs: Subtle floral inspiration.
  • Claw prongs: Sleek and sophisticated.
  • Double prongs (rounded or claw): Eye-catching and modern.





    • Tell us what kind of solitaire you would design in the comments!