Hannah Longman
Hannah Longman
From fashion school in NYC to the front row, Hannah works to promote fashion and lifestyle as the communications liaison of Fashion Week Online®, responsible for timely communication of press releases and must-see photo sets.

Alternative Settings and Designs for Diamond Engagement Rings

If you thought the solitaire diamond engagement ring was your only option, think again. Today, many couples are opting for nontraditional settings and designs that reflect their personal tastes and values. If you love the look of lab diamonds or seek diamond engagement rings for women that break out of tradition, this guide will help you find the ring for the occasion.

Why Choose Alternative Settings?

Alternative settings can provide extra security for your diamond, allow more light into the stone, or create a striking or different look for your ring. Common alternative settings include:

Halo Setting

The halo setting consists of a center diamond surrounded by smaller diamonds, giving the appearance of a ‘halo’ around the main stone. Not only does this enhance the sparkle of the main stone, but it’s also a great way to make your diamond look larger than it actually is. It is an excellent option for those wanting maximum sparkle but would rather not go for a large stone.

Bezel Setting

A bezel setting frames the diamond with a thin metal rim that holds it in place from all sides around the stone. This modern, sleek look is great for active wear because it provides the best protection for your diamond. Because the setting is more straight-edged, the ring can also appear more modern and minimalist.

Three-Stone Setting

Representing past, present, and future, the three-stone setting features three diamonds of differing sizes. Not only does it increase the brilliance of the engagement ring, but it also facilitates multiple combinations of diamonds and gemstones. Furthermore, it can be customized to commemorate personal landmarks and memories.

Unique Designs for Every Style

Engagement rings convey personal taste, so it makes sense to break the herd mentality and seek out alternatives. Here are some fresh, fashion-forward designs that can easily punch above their weight.

Twist or Intertwined Bands

Twisted-banded and interwoven rings give a wedding band a playful yet sophisticated look. Adding a touch of romance, these designs symbolize the fusing of two hearts together.

Vintage-Inspired Designs

With vintage rings, the old-world details are center-stage. Think filigree patterns, milgrain edges and colored gemstones. These designs are perfect for those who appreciate attention to detail and craftsmanship.

Lab-Created Diamond Engagement Rings

For ecologically conscious couples, lab created diamond engagement rings are the way to go. These manufactured diamonds, scratch-proof just like mining-quarried diamonds, are entirely identical in appearance but come with a much smaller carbon mark. They offer better value than mined stones, as you can also get a larger carat at a more affordable rate.

Customization and Personalization

Another advantage of buying an engagement ring today is that there are more options than ever for personalization. From engraving dates, locations or monograms inside the band to designing a combination of gemstones to reflect the personality of the wearer or the couple, the possibilities are endless.

The Final Thoughts

Buying a diamond engagement ring is a deeply personal decision. Whether you choose the halo setting or the bezel setting, a three-stone diamond engagement ring, or a lab-created diamond engagement ring, what really matters is if the ring reflects the soul of your love. Explore the above alternative settings and designs to help you find the perfect diamond engagement ring that resonates with your values and style.

##

With love,

FWO

Follow Fashion Week Online® on Instagram for exclusive content

You may also enjoy ...

Dreaming Eli SS25 Mother of Pearl, Daughter of Flesh

For Spring Summer 25 Dreaming Eli returns to Sicily to delve into the rich mythology steeped in her native enchanted island, drawing inspiration from...

Runway 7 Concludes Day 5 of NYFW with Grace Chen’s Exquisite Splendid China Spring/Summer 2025 Collection – Fringe Accents Trend

The fringe accent trend made a bold statement at the Grace Chen Splendid China Spring/Summer 2025 collection showcase, which concluded Runway 7’s NYFW. The first...

Private Policy New York 2025 Collection

PRIVATE POLICY’s SS2025 collection revisits the iconic 2000s fashion office, inspired by "The Devil Wears Prada," to explore our evolving relationship with AI in...