Few designs capture the essence of timeless romance quite like the solitaire engagement ring. Its enduring appeal lies in its simplicity - a single, radiant stone that says everything without needing to say much at all.  

Whether you’re drawn to the classic round brilliant or a distinctive modern cut, a solitaire ring celebrates the beauty of one perfect gem - and the love it represents. 

What is a Solitaire Ring? 

A solitaire engagement ring features a single diamond or gemstone at its centre, with no additional stones adorning the band. Its minimalist design makes it a beloved choice for proposals around the world, admired for its elegance and focus on the gem itself. 

A 6 prong engagement ring with a round brilliant cut diamond in the centre. 

Whether you prefer a traditional or contemporary interpretation, the solitaire’s magic lies in its simplicity - letting the gemstone command all the attention. 

Symbolically, the solitaire ring represents enduring love, purity, and commitment. The single central stone reflects an undivided devotion - one love, one promise, one life shared. 

A Brief History: How the Solitaire Became an Icon 

The solitaire’s status as the ultimate engagement ring was cemented in 1886, when Tiffany & Co. introduced the Tiffany Setting. This six-prong design lifted the diamond above the band, allowing light to reach the stone from every angle and revealing unmatched brilliance. 

It was a revolutionary idea - and one that changed engagement rings forever. The diamond became the star of the show, and the solitaire was crowned the eternal classic. 

Over time, solitaires have evolved to suit shifting tastes: from delicate Edwardian designs to bold mid-century settings and sleek modern minimalism. Yet their essence remains the same - a celebration of simplicity and craftsmanship. 

Choosing the Perfect Solitaire: What to Consider 

Selecting a solitaire engagement ring is about finding harmony between beauty, design, and personal style. Here are the key elements to think about: 

The Cut 

The cut determines the gemstone’s sparkle and shape; the different cuts all bring different personalities to the ring.

The Setting

From the timeless six-prong to sleek bezels or cathedrals, the setting defines how your diamond is presented - elegant, sculptural, or minimal. 

The Metal

Each metal tells its own story - yellow gold exudes warmth and vintage charm, platinum and white gold offer a sleek, contemporary feel, while rose gold lends a soft, romantic glow. 

The Band 

A Diamond Poppy set in Platinum, a Ruby Rue set in Yellow Gold, and an Emerald Astra set in Rose Gold

A slender band can emphasise the size of the stone, while a thicker band gives a bolder, modern feel. Details like brushed finishes add personality without detracting from the centrepiece. 

Solitaire Styles: A Reflection of Personality 

No two love stories are alike - and neither are two solitaires. Each design tells a different story through its shape, setting, and spirit. 

Minimalist & Modern 

Marquise-Cut Solitaires 

A marquise cut is an elongated, boat-shaped gemstone with pointed ends that enhances finger length and offers a graceful, vintage-inspired elegance 

Victoria Beckham and Sir David Beckham

Victoria Beckham's engagement ring - A three-carat marquise-cut diamond set on a sleek yellow gold band. The elongated shape and minimalist setting create a refined, elegant look that perfectly captures her signature sophisticated style. 

 

Pear-Cut Solitaires

A pear cut has a distinctive teardrop silhouette that feels both modern and graceful, flattering on every hand.

 

Romantic & Vintage 

Cushion-Cut Solitaires

A cushion cut has a soft, romantic shape with rounded corners and old-world sparkle.

Taylor Swift and Travis Kelce

Taylor Swift's engagement ring - An elongated cushion-shaped old mine cut diamond, estimated between 8–10 carats, set in a chunky yellow gold band. Bezel-set accent diamonds add subtle brilliance, while the Georgian-inspired setting lends sculptural charm and timeless romance.

Zendaya

Zendaya's engagement ring - A 5-carat cushion-cut diamond set in an east-west orientation on a yellow gold band. The Georgian-inspired cut-down setting gives the ring an antique feel, blending historic craftsmanship with effortlessly modern style.

 

Oval-Cut Solitaires

Known for their elongated elegance, oval cut solitaires create the illusion of length and slimness.

Hailey Bieber

Hailey Bieber's engagement ring - An 8-carat oval diamond solitaire set on a slender yellow gold band. Effortlessly modern, the minimalist design allows the diamond’s graceful proportions and radiant sparkle to take centre stage.

 

Bold & Contemporary 

Emerald-Cut Solitaires

With their hall-of-mirrors effect, emerald cuts radiate quiet sophistication and clarity.

Sofia Richie

Sofia Richie's engagement ring - A six-carat emerald-cut diamond solitaire in platinum, the epitome of understated luxury. Her refined ring sparked the ‘Old Money’ engagement ring trend, later complemented by plain and pavé diamond wedding bands.

 

Timeless Classic 

Round Brilliant Solitaires

Forever iconic, the round cut is the most popular choice for its unmatched sparkle and balance.

Dua Lipa

Dua Lipa's engagement ring - A round diamond demi-rubover solitaire set on a thick, 5mm yellow gold band. The design’s bold, sculptural form evokes the modern “cigar ring” style, balanced by the soft brilliance of a two-carat diamond.

Britney Spears and Sam Asghari

Britney Spears' engagement ring - A four-carat round brilliant diamond set in a platinum cathedral setting. The raised design showcases the diamond’s brilliance, creating a timeless and radiant look with classic Hollywood appeal. 

 

Finding Your Perfect Solitaire 

The solitaire engagement ring is more than a style - it’s a statement of love, intention, and individuality. Whether you’re drawn to timeless simplicity or modern artistry, the perfect ring will always feel like yours. 

Ready to find the one?

Explore our collection of solitaire engagement rings or book a consultation with our gem experts to design yours.