How to Choose the Perfect Engagement Ring Based on Her Style

THE TRADITIONALIST

If she favors the kind of classics that, like a crisp white shirt, have an appeal that has endured through the ages, she might be what we call a traditionalist. This gal appreciates tried-and-true styles more than making a bold statement. When it comes to engagement rings, that means opting for the most quintessential design: a round diamond solitaire prong-set in platinum or white gold (like our Astrid ring). Of course, even traditionalists like some unique flair—like flanking the center stone with the subtle sparkle of baguettes or studding the band with diamond pavé. Such details add a twist while still maintaining the characteristics of what most little girls first imagine their wedding ring will look like. If it ain’t broke…

THE FREE-SPIRIT

This maverick does things her own way, but we don’t need to tell you—that’s probably why you fell for her. She’s an original and her finely cultivated style is entirely her own. As such, she’s more likely to opt for a ring that bucks convention. The main thing is to color outside the lines. You can do this literally with colored stones like emeralds or sapphires, which can sub in for a traditional diamond or add an irreverent accent to classic ice. Or, you can go for a more unexpected overall design, such as a two-stone “toi et moi” ring, so named because the duo of gems symbolize you and your soon-to-be spouse (bonus points for sentimentality!) Vintage jewels of any variety are a particularly good choice for such originals: The rarity and one-of-a-kind history befit her individuality.

THE MINIMALIST

Not all women dream of bling. If your bride-to-be’s tastes skew towards simplicity, she’ll be swooned more by understated elegance than high-wattage glam. The ring should be as timeless as the rest of her wardrobe—think more Porsche 911, less Lamborghini Huracán. There are a few diamond-setting techniques especially well-suited to those less inclined to glitz. Clean-cut bezel-setting, which wraps the diamond with gold, allows less light into the stone, visually taking the sparkle down a notch. Similarly, antique-inspired collet settings, seen in Georgian-era designs and our One For You, frame the stone with patinated metal for subtle, lived-in charm. Rose-cut diamonds, and many vintage stones, also offer more discreet sparkle than modern brilliant-cuts. These designs may speak softly, but they make just enough of an impact.