14 Popular Engagement-Ring Settings and What They All Mean

There’s a lot to think about when you’re getting engaged, but the first thing that comes to mind for many people is the engagement-ring style and setting. You want your ring to be truly reflective of your personality, and you’ll need to consider the gemstone, the cut, the metal, and the band setting — all that for just one ring. Because everything works together — a band can complement a gemstone, and vice versa — it’s helpful to explore all your options so you can create a beautiful, cohesive ring that’s perfect for you. As exciting as they are, engagement rings can be a little overwhelming, which is why we’ve compiled all of the setting options and styles ahead. If you haven’t decided on a gemstone yet, choosing your favorite setting can be a great place to start.

Ahead, you can learn about the resurgence of the toi et moi (or multi-stone) ring, which many couples utilize to incorporate both of their birthstones as a way to symbolize their union. You’ll also be able to distinguish a pavé band from a channel ring, the latter of which is actually beneficial in that it is less likely to snag on your clothing but still features all the sparkle and shine. Finally, you can admire some really unique aesthetics you might not have considered, such as the tension setting, which can help you achieve a floating center stone, or the burnish setting, which nestles stones within the metal, thereby protecting them sufficiently.

Scroll to brush up on the engagement-ring setting and style basics, then check out some of the most iconic celebrity engagement rings to date, from Hailey Bieber to Beyoncé.