When you picture a classic engagement ring, it’s likely a solitaire comes to mind — one breathtaking diamond, set simply and beautifully on a band.
Loved for its understated elegance and lasting symbolism, the solitaire ring is a timeless choice that never goes out of style.
In this guide, we’ll walk you through everything you need to know about solitaire rings — from their history to how to choose the perfect one.
What Is a Solitaire Ring?
A solitaire ring features a single center stone — typically a diamond or moissanite — mounted on a plain or minimal band with no side stones.
It’s a design that highlights the center gem as the focal point, allowing its cut, brilliance, and quality to take center stage.
While solitaire diamonds are most commonly seen in engagement rings, they’re also popular in necklaces, earrings, and fine jewelry pieces where a single stone shines on its own.
The History of Solitaire Rings
The roots of solitaire rings date back to Ancient Rome, where gold bands set with raw diamonds were highly prized.
The concept became more romanticized in 1477, when Archduke Maximilian of Austria gave the first documented diamond engagement ring — a solitaire — to his bride-to-be.
Since then, solitaire diamond rings have become a symbol of eternal love and are now a global staple in engagement traditions.
How to Choose a Solitaire Ring
Because there’s only one stone, the center diamond becomes everything — so quality truly matters.
What to Consider:
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Cut Quality: Arguably the most important factor. A well-cut diamond will maximize sparkle and symmetry, giving your solitaire unmatched brilliance.
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Carat Weight: Choose based on your style and finger size. Solitaire settings enhance the size of the diamond, making even smaller carat weights appear prominent.
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Clarity & Color: Especially important in solitaire rings, since there are no side stones to distract the eye. A higher clarity and near-colorless grade ensure your stone looks crisp and clean.
Tang&Co Tip: Step-cut shapes like emerald and Asscher benefit from larger carat sizes and better clarity due to their open facet structure.
How Expensive Are Solitaire Rings?
Solitaire rings offer versatility in pricing, but since the center stone is the main feature, higher quality diamonds will command a higher price.
A solitaire is one of the most cost-effective ring styles in terms of setting, allowing you to allocate more of your budget to the diamond itself — which is exactly where it counts.
Best Diamond Shapes for Solitaire Rings
While any shape can be set in a solitaire, some are especially iconic:
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Round Brilliant: The most classic and sparkly choice, known for timeless appeal.
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Oval & Cushion: Elegant and slightly elongated, flattering on the finger.
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Emerald & Asscher: Refined and architectural, with a subtle, mirror-like shimmer.
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Pear & Marquise: Bold, romantic, and full of vintage-inspired charm.
Best Solitaire Settings
A solitaire setting doesn’t have to be simple — at Tang&Co, we craft solitaire styles that blend minimalism with intricate detail:
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Classic Prong: The center stone is held high and secure, allowing light to enter from all sides.
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Cathedral: Adds height and elegance with arching metal supports.
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Bezel & Half-Bezel: Sleek, modern, and great for low-profile wear.
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Hidden Halo: Adds subtle sparkle from below, visible from the side.
Conclusion: One Stone. One Promise.
Solitaire engagement rings represent a pure and powerful declaration of love. With one brilliant diamond at its center, it tells a story of commitment, clarity, and forever.
Whether you prefer sleek and modern or romantic and vintage-inspired, a solitaire ring will always remain a meaningful and timeless choice.