Three stone engagement rings are certainly thought of as having a very classic and timeless appeal. Be sure not to confuse this traditional style with being boring or old fashion as these rings have a very profound look to them and there are many different diamond combinations to consider and unique touches to add to make your three stone ring special and unique. Let’s review some different options here for those considering this elegant engagement ring style
Combinations: there are almost too many to list here so let’s just go over some key points. For starters it is acceptable and aesthetically pleasing to consider any three-stone combination that contains all the same shapes. For instance a round with two rounds, emerald cuts with emeralds, etc… all look great as it provides a balanced look with nice proportions. The symmetrical cuts and even sparkle on each stone lend itself to a harmonious look across the ring. Check out this three stone oval ring to the right model number LDR-4 on our website.
Other combinations that have been known to always look good together are tapered baguettes or bullets with any shape center-stone. These long side-stones with flat edges and a subtle sparkle make it the perfect accent to any shape center diamond you can think of. See RS-116 antique cushion cut center with tapered baguette side diamonds and VNR-13073 classic emerald cut three stone design with tapered baguettes
On the other hand pear shape side stones, perhaps the second most popular type of side-stone usually lends itself best to accenting main stones that have rounded edges such as round, cushion, ovals, marquise. We feel that the look will clash clash with sharp and edgy center diamonds such as princess, emerald, radiant or asscher cuts.
Other side diamond shapes to consider are trapezoids, bullets, trillions, and half moons all of which work better with certain center-stone shapes than others. Please consult a diamond advisor or see these ring to get an idea: radiant cut with trapezoid side diamonds in platinum setting and custom ring with trapezoid side stones and pave diamonds on the band
While rounds are a gorgeous cut we would avoid using round diamonds as side-stones for most any shape center (except round of course) because their great sparkle may cause them to detract from the center diamond.
Proportions and Style of Side Stones: Determining what size of center diamonds to use relative to the carat weight of the center diamond really is a matter of preference. Those who want to keep the spotlight on the center diamond may opt for smaller sides while those who are after a bolder look might select larger than average sides to enhance the center diamond shape. In our opinion, we believe keeping a proportionate look is important and aiming towards the middle will give you the most beautifully balanced finished ring. Of course there other factors to consider when selecting the size of the side diamonds such as their length to width ratio and cutting style. For instance, trapezoid side stones come in wider vs fuller shapes and brilliant or step cuts. Determining which shape to use is really dependent on the size of the center diamond while choosing the cutting style should match the center-stone’s cut. As an example, an emerald cut center diamond would call for step cut trapezoids to match the long parallel lines. Conversely, a radiant cut diamond would call for brilliant cut trapezoids. Trapezoids are not the only side stone that come in variety of cutting styles (brilliant and step) and so do half moons and bullets. Notice that the step cut asscher center stone pictured above is complimented by the step cut trapezoid side stones.
Considering the Finer Points: A three stone ring does not have to be “plain”. There are many different ways to customize it and make it something truely spectacular and even super modern. First of all consider the band: would you like something thin and delicate or wider and heavier, rounded or flat, tapered at the top or straight? Also you can consider adding a row of diamonds down the band and to really give the ring some extra pop adding a three row micro-pave band. Take a look at VNR-11400 from our website to the right. It has three rows of pave diamonds along the band as well as diamond detailing along the basket area to really give the ring some extra flair.
For those that can’t decide between a halo ring and three stone ring, you can have both! Take a look at https://www.laurenbjewelry.com/diamonds-engagement/engagement-rings/lepozzi-3-00-ct-cushion-cut-platinum-engagement-ring.html this ring features a halo around each stone and fancy pink diamonds for an extra special touch.
Perhaps vintage is your thing so adding some detailed hand etching along each side of the band would certainly give you that antique feel. Other things to consider would be the height of the setting and the type of prongs to use around the main and side-stones (single claw, split claw or button prongs to name a few).
Now that you have read about all the different options to consider for a three stone engagement ring perhaps you have gained more clarity on the subject or worse yet more confused by all the dizzying array of options at your disposal. Not to worry, consult with an engagement ring specialist at Lauren B and am sure we can guide you through the process step by step to custom creating your perfect three stone engagement ring by hand