Valentina Blog Posts
6 Reasons Why You Should Choose a Solitaire Engagement Ring
Jul
Iconic, beautiful, versatile, budget friendly and will always remain in style. This classic engagement ring style is not number 1 for no reason. If you’re beginning the process of finding your dream engagement ring or just giving your partner a nudge, then read on to discover 6 reasons why you should choose a solitaire.
A brief history
No other style of engagement ring has as rich of a history than the solitaire, so we thought it deserved it’s own introduction…however if you want to cut to the chase then scroll past the history lesson!
Engagement rings have been a concept for many centuries, a promise of commitment that dates back to even early Roman times. The first diamond engagement ring dates back to 1477 when Archduke Maximilian of Austria became engaged to Mary of Burgundy. The ring was set with a small singular diamond ( so pretty much a solitaire ).
Move on another 400 years and we find ourselves in 1886 and the Solitaire as we know today was born. Charles Lewis Tiffany founded Tiffany & Co., and designed the first commercial engagement ring. It featured a solitaire diamond held by 6 prongs on a platinum band. This design allowed light get in under the diamond and sparkle like it never had before. The now ultra famous ‘Tiffany Setting’ is still being sold today and is still as iconic as ever.
However diamonds were still for the ultra rich and it wasn’t until 1947 where diamonds were seen as the ‘must have’ for wider society. All thanks to De Beers – who kickstarted the a clever marketing campaign, coining the famous phrase ‘ a diamond is forever’. They convinced American consumers that to propose with a diamond engagement ring was the ultimate promise and symbol of love
1. Solitaires are iconic:
Over 100 years of this iconic style. The ‘Tiffany Setting’ solitaire engagement ring is the ultimate classic. Undoubtedly the most recognised style of engagement ring due to its long standing popularity and association with glamour and elegance. It’s what most people think of when they hear an engagement ring and to prove its emblematic impact it even got its own emoji!
2. The Solitaire is versatile:
Although the solitaire engagement ring is a simple silhouette, they can come in all different shapes and styles. From fancy shaped diamonds to raised settings to yellow gold or platinum – there are endless combinations to make your solitaire unique. If you love an extra bit of sparkle you could pair a beautiful oval shaped diamond with a diamond band, or if you like to keep it classic, a round diamond on a yellow gold band! Twist bands, pave set, and gemstone set shoulders are also great options.
3. The Solitaire suits all budgets:
Big or small, natural or lab diamond – the solitaire engagement ring is a beautiful choice no matter the bank balance. I think we all know diamonds can get pretty pricey and if you’re someone with a big budget then the world is your oyster. Anything from a 1 carat to a 3 carat natural diamond can look incredibly impressive, but it’s going to set you back anywhere from €10,000-70,000. However, if your motto is ‘the bigger the better’ but your budget isn’t quite as elastic then lab diamonds are your new best friend. Ethical, sustainable and affordable! Check out our blog dedicated to lab grow diamonds here:
4. The Solitaire will stand the test of time:
In 2012 a high end jewellery brand put out a marketing campaign highlighting how timeless their solitaire engagement ring is. It was popular in 1876 and by the start of the 21st century it is still one of the most popular ring styles. We have no doubt that by the turn of the next century the solitaire engagement ring will still have a spot at the top.
5. Solitaires pair easily with wedding bands
With halo or three stone styles, wedding bands often don’t fit flush so can become tricky to find. Often they have to be made bespoke which can cost a lot of time, energy and money! However, with almost all solitaires they sit nice and comfortably, giving you a hassle free experience. The simple combination of a solitaire engagement ring accompanied by a wedding band is a match made in heaven. You can either opt to match the style of the band on your engagement ring or you can mix it up, there are endless options to suit your style!
6. With solitaires, the diamond is the centre of attention
The great thing about solitaires is the all important diamond. It stands alone and is the ultimate star of the show, you will instantly be drawn to the allure of the glittering diamond. This is when the 4c’s really get important – cut, clarity, colour and carat! If you are purchasing a solitaire engagement ring the diamond is standing alone, so you want to make sure it’s the best you can get. If you love the idea of one special diamond but are looking for a little bit more pazazz then a diamond band is a beautiful option.