Engagement Ring Styles Explained: Solitaire, Halo, Trilogy and More

Halo diamond engagement ring

The style of an engagement ring shapes how it looks every day for the rest of your life. Here are the most popular designs we make in our Hatton Garden workshop, and what to consider with each.

Solitaire

A single diamond on a plain or slim band. The solitaire engagement ring is the most classic choice: it puts all the attention on the centre stone and pairs easily with almost any wedding ring.

Halo

A halo engagement ring surrounds the centre diamond with a frame of smaller diamonds. It adds sparkle and makes the centre stone look larger. A hidden halo places that frame underneath the stone, visible from the side, for a subtler look.

Trilogy (three stone)

Three diamonds set side by side, often said to represent your past, present and future. Trilogy engagement rings have a generous presence on the finger and work beautifully with oval, round and emerald cut diamonds.

Side stone

Side stone engagement rings have smaller diamonds set along the shoulders of the band, adding sparkle without a halo.

Cluster and vintage

A cluster ring groups several diamonds together to create one larger shape, while vintage engagement rings draw on details such as milgrain edges and engraved shoulders.

Toi et Moi

Meaning you and me, a toi et moi ring sets two stones side by side, often in two different shapes.

How to choose

Think about everyday wear. Lower, bezel or hidden halo settings are practical for active hands, while higher claw settings let more light into the diamond. If you cannot decide, our bespoke service can combine elements of several styles into one design.