Nearly 80 percent of people confessed to dropping hints about the type of engagement ring they desire. When it comes to ring aesthetics, there are a few changes taking place.
While round-cut diamonds remain the most popular option, rectangular diamond engagement rings are growing in popularity. If you’re looking for something unique and trendy, you may want to consider a rectangular diamond ring. These rings offer a contemporary twist on the classic diamond ring design.
Below is an in-depth guide that explores the rectangular diamond engagement ring trend you’re sure to love.
What are Rectangular Diamond Engagement Rings?
Rectangular diamond engagement rings feature a rectangular-shaped diamond as the centerpiece. These rings have a unique and elegant shape, setting them apart from more traditional diamond shapes.
Rectangular diamonds come in various ring styles. This allows you to choose a design that suits your personality and preferences. The most popular engagement rings in this category are the emerald cut and the radiant cut.
Emerald Cut Diamond Engagement Rings
Emerald-cut diamond engagement rings are exceptional. They offer a distinct and striking appearance that sets them apart from traditional brilliant cuts. If you’re looking for an engagement ring that stands out, an emerald-cut diamond may be the ideal choice.
Here’s why:
Impressive Appearance
An emerald-cut diamond usually consists of 57 facets, showcasing its elongated rectangular shape with cut-off corners. This unique aesthetic exudes sophistication and elegance.
The Hall of Mirrors Effect
The emerald-cut diamonds’ linear, straight facets create a captivating “Hall of Mirrors” effect. This allows you to see flashes of light when worn. The unique play of light adds a touch of mystique to the ring.
Flattering Elongated Shape
The elongated shape of an emerald-cut diamond gracefully follows the natural lines and curves of your finger, making it flattering to wear. When you wear it, the ring enhances your hand. This creates a stunning and eye-catching effect.
Ideal Length-to-Width Ratios
Most emerald-cut diamonds have length-to-width ratios ranging from 1.30 to 1.50. The ratio of 1.40 is usually considered the ideal.
However, the choice of ratios depends on your personal preference. If you want a more elongated, more rectangular shape, opt for a higher ratio. For a more square shape, choose a lower ratio.
Versatile Color Possibilities
There are a lot of color choices for emerald-cut diamonds. You can opt for the warm tones of color grades G-H or the cool tones of D-F. Due to the large, open facet structure of emerald cuts, any color present in the diamond becomes more visible.
Types of Emerald-Cut Diamond Ring Settings
While the diamond shape matters in emerald-cut rings, the choice of setting also influences its appearance. Here are various types of ring settings for emerald cuts you can choose from:
Solitaire
If you want the diamond to be the star of the show, a solitaire setting may be ideal. This classic setting places the emerald-cut diamond at the center stage without any distractions. As a result, it creates a minimalist and elegant look.
East-West
For a contemporary touch, try the east-west setting. It turns the emerald-cut diamond horizontally along the band, offering a modern twist.
Halo
The halo ring setting surrounds the emerald-cut diamond with a border of smaller, brilliant diamonds. This boosts its sparkle and presence. You can get it if you prefer to accentuate the subtlety of the emerald cut.
Side Stones
Side stones are often smaller diamonds. They complement the center emerald-cut diamond, adding a touch of flourish. This helps create a more intricate and detailed appearance.
Three-Stone Setting
If you are looking for a bold and balanced design with a timeless appeal, consider the three-stone setting. It features a trio of emerald-cut diamonds, creating a stunning and symmetrical look with a huge visual impact.
Split-Shank
For a unique and eye-catching design, you can never go wrong with the split-shank setting. The band splits into two strands that frame the center emerald-cut diamond, creating a striking, light, and airy style.
Radiant Cut Diamond Engagement Rings
Radiant-cut diamond engagement rings combine the timeless sparkle of round brilliant cuts with the sleek, elegant lines of emerald cuts. Some of the notable features of radiant cuts include:
Dazzling Facets
Radiant cut diamonds feature a remarkable 70 facets in both the crown and pavilion. This extensive facet arrangement produces incredible brilliance and sparkle.
Flattering Visual Effect
With its elongated form, the radiant-cut diamond ring creates a flattering visual effect on the finger. When you wear it, your fingers will appear slender and graceful.
Resilience and Durable
Radiant cuts include beveled corners, adding a layer of durability to the diamond. These corners protect the stone from chips and breakage. If you have an active lifestyle, this cut is a suitable choice.
Optical Illusion of Size
Radiant cut rings have a long diagonal measurement. This creates an optical illusion of appearing larger than other diamond shapes of the same carat weight. As a result, this diamond ring offers exceptional value for money.
Ideal for Colored Diamonds
If you prefer colored diamonds, radiant cut rings are a suitable choice. Their faceting structure accentuates the diamond’s color tones, creating a mesmerizing depth. This also highlights the stone’s unique hues.
Types of Radiant-Cut Diamond Ring Settings
Radiant-cut diamonds are versatile and beautiful. However, the choice of setting plays an important role in enhancing their appearance. Here are different types of radiant-cut diamond ring settings you should consider:
Four-Prong Setting
With this setting, the center stone is securely held with four prongs. This allows for maximum light access to the diamond, enhancing its brilliance and fire.
Six-Prong Setting
The six-prong setting provides a more secure hold than the four-prong setting. It also allows ample light interaction for added brilliance. If you prefer extra security for their radiant-cut diamond, this ring setting is ideal.
Bezel Setting
For those who prefer a more protective setting for their radiant cut diamond, try out the bezel setting. It encircles the diamond with a metal rim, offering a more closed design. However, this may slightly affect the brilliance of the center stone.
Halo Setting
A halo setting features smaller diamonds surrounding the center radiant cut diamond. This offers extra sparkle and brilliance.
Setting With Fancy-Shaped Side Stones
This setting incorporates fancy-shaped side stones, such as trillions. They help embellish the radiant cut diamond for added sparkle.
Why Are Rectangular Diamond Engagement Rings So Popular?
Rectangular diamond engagement rings have become very popular in recent years. Here are some of the reasons why:
Unique Look
Rectangular diamond engagement rings offer a unique appearance. These rings often feature emerald cuts and radiant cuts.
Unlike round and princess-cut diamonds, emerald cuts showcase step-cut facets. This gives the ring an elegant and timeless look. For more sparkle, radiant cuts offer 70 facets.
Timeless Elegance
Rectangular diamond engagement rings exude timeless elegance. They feature a classic, enduring look that transcends trends and stands the test of time. These rings are perfect if you desire an engagement ring that remains eternally stylish and sophisticated.
Celebrity-Approved Style
The allure of emerald cut and radiant diamond engagement rings has captivated celebrities worldwide. Stars like Beyoncé, Jennifer Lopez, and Camilla, Queen Consort have proudly displayed their rectangular diamond engagement rings. Radiant cut diamonds have garnered favor among Hollywood celebrities like Hillary Duff and Megan Fox.
How to Choose the Perfect Rectangular Diamond Engagement Ring
Engagement ring shopping can be an exciting yet challenging experience. To help you, here is a guide to help you make a choice that complements your love story:
Consider the 4 Cs
Before buying a diamond engagement ring, understand the 4 Cs-cut, color, clarity, and carat weight.
- Cut: Get a well-cut diamond, with the right proportions and facets to maximize visual appeal
- Color: Diamond color varies from D (colorless) to Z (light yellow or brown)
- Clarity: Deals with inclusions and blemishes – higher clarity grades show fewer imperfections
- Carat Weight: Measures the diamond’s size
These 4 Cs determine the diamond’s quality and value. When you consider these factors together, you can choose a stunning and valuable ring for your loved one.
Select the Metal
The choice of metal for your diamond ring setting affects the aesthetics and durability of the ring. You can choose between platinum, white gold, and yellow gold.
Evaluate Certification
Quality assurance is important when selecting rectangular diamond engagement rings. Ensure the ring’s worth matches its price through the GIA Certificate and Divine Solitaires Quality Guarantee Certificate.
Consider Your Budget
Rectangular diamond engagement rings vary in price depending on the diamond’s size and quality. Ensure you establish a realistic budget before you go engagement ring shopping. It allows you to select a ring that comfortably fits within your financial limits.
Find the Right Rectangular Diamond Ring for Your Loved One
Rectangular diamond rings are gaining momentum as a unique and elegant choice. As a result, they’ve become a go-to choice for couples looking to make a statement with their engagement ring.
If you’re on the hunt for the perfect rectangular diamond engagement ring, look no further than Barkev’s. Each piece is meticulously crafted by our skilled artisans in Los Angeles. Get in touch with us today to shop for quality rings.