Engagement rings (and jewellery in general) come with their own set of language, so today we’re taking a closer look at the different terms you might see used in your search - and what they mean - to help you find and communicate your ring design preferences.
What are the different parts of an engagement ring called?
Centre Stone
The centre stone of an engagement ring is exactly what it sounds like: the largest focal gemstone that sits at the front of the ring. This stone can come in many different shapes and cuts - or may not be present at all, if you go with a ring that includes multiple similar-sized stones instead.
Often people will think of the centre stone as a diamond, but it can also be another type of gemstone that feels right for the couple. A diamond is of course beautiful in this position (lab-grown, always!), but we also love sapphires as an engagement ring centre stone.
Side stones
The side stones of an engagement ring are smaller gemstones that are set on one or both sides of the centre stone, often seen in something like a three stone ring. They are usually intended to complement and enhance the centre stone as well as the overall ring appearance. They also allow for those who struggle to make a choice on gemstones for their ring to include more than one type!
Not all engagement rings will have side stones; they are an optional design choice.
Accent stones
Accent stones in an engagement ring are smaller diamonds or gemstones that are used to add further embellishment and detail to the ring. Sometimes, the phrase is used interchangeably with side stones, but in other cases it may refer to something different, depending on the design. Where the terms are used to mean different things, accent stones more often refer to the small stones that may feature around the centre stone, along the band, or within the setting itself - such as small diamonds set into the shoulders of the ring.
We love working with both accent stones and side stones because they offer so much variety and opportunity for personalisation, especially when designing bespoke engagement rings.
Setting
An engagement ring setting is the way that any gemstones are placed and held in the ring. This includes the various elements and structures that secure the stones in place, with different types of setting creating different designs.
Sometimes you may hear the word ‘head’ and ‘setting’ used interchangeably, but in other contexts they may refer to slightly different components; typically the setting is a slightly broader area, with the head being part of this.
Head
The head of an engagement ring is the top section; essentially, it’s the support for the focal section of the ring. The head is part of the setting, and there are several varieties of head shape; for example, you may have heard of low or high set heads which reflect how high or low the profile of the stone’s mounting is.
Gallery
The gallery of an engagement ring is the section underneath the centre stone. In some cases it is purely functional; for example, often it will include a gallery rail which sits between the stone and the bridge and helps to keep everything secure.
However, because it can be seen from the side profile of the ring, it is also an opportunity to add hidden details or special design features, so some like to incorporate additional stones here.
Prongs
The prongs of an engagement ring are the metal claws that hold the centre stone, and often any side or accent stones, in place. Part of the head of the ring, prongs can come in various styles depending on the look you want; you might see examples of claw prongs (where the shape of the metal forms a point), round prongs (where it looks more like a dot at the stone’s edge) or even more squared-off tab prongs.
An engagement ring might have no prongs at all, depending on the head shape and setting, or it may have many, depending on the shape and cut of the stones. Prongs allow for light to pass through the stone, enhancing its sparkle, but also need to be substantial enough to secure the stone.
Bridge
The bridge of an engagement ring is the area underneath the head and gallery of the ring. This section of the ring anatomy is the part that would rest on the top of the wearer’s finger. This might be entirely plan, but it is also possible for it to have small stones, patterns or engravings incorporated into it.
Shank
The shank of an engagement ring is the part of the band that wraps around the wearer’s finger. The type, thickness and width of the shank can vary. The type you choose will contribute to the overall appearance of the ring, but sometimes also how it feels on your finger. For instance, some rings will be flat on both the inner and outer surfaces, whereas other may be curved on one or both edges.
Shoulder
The shoulders of an engagement ring are the sections that join the setting to the shank. They can come in a few different forms and shapes that give different looks. For example, straight shoulders often give a contemporary, modern feel. Tapered shoulders, where the engagement ring band width narrows gradually as it meets the setting, helps to make the centre stone look larger and more brilliant in comparison to the delicate precious metal either side.
The shoulders can also be twisted, split, or with more bespoke design features - and it's also possible to incorporate diamonds or other gemstones into them.
Sizing Area
The sizing area of an engagement ring, sometimes called the base, is essentially the section on the opposite side to the head. Because it is further away from the ring details and gemstones, and sits on the inside of the hand, this area is usually left fairly plain in order to allow for the possibility of the ring being resized in future without needing to alter the design in any way.
Not all engagement rings will have a plain area for sizing purposes - it all depends on your priorities and whether you feel you are likely to need a different size in the future.
Find your perfect engagement ring
Now that you know the typical engagement ring terms, remember that the ring you end up with should be exactly what you and your partner want it to be. This might mean having something with the traditional elements listed here in a popular setting, or it might mean something completely different. There’s no rule that says you have to have a diamond centre stone, halo or a three stone ring…your options for engagement ring styles are as varied as you want them to be.
If you’re looking for the perfect engagement ring for you or your partner, take a look at our range of ethical engagement rings, or get in touch if we can help you with a bespoke engagement ring. A custom made ring allows you to make sure that each and every part is just right - and we love discussing your preferences for the different sections with you.
