Everything You Need to Know About Solitaire Engagement Rings—Plus, Our Top Picks

When buying an engagement ring, it's important to understand the different styles of rings out there. A popular option amongst many couples is the solitaire engagement ring. This style is characterized by a single center diamond or gemstone as the focal point of the ring without any additional diamonds. This style is a favorite among celebrities like Sofia Richie, Anne Hathaway, Lady Gaga and Beyoncé, to name a few, so you're in good company with other stylish ladies. A timeless pick, the solitaire engagement ring will never go out of style. If you're thinking of trying the style for yourself, bookmark this page as your engagement ring inspiration.

In this article:

• What is a Solitaire Engagement Ring?
• The Best Solitaire Engagement Rings to Shop
• Solitaire Engagement Ring Shopping Tips

What is a Solitaire Engagement Ring?

Ann Grimmett, VP of merchandising at Jared Jewelers, explains that "A solitaire engagement ring is an engagement ring where the primary focus is the center diamond. They are typically a center stone set in a metal band that does not incorporate any diamonds on the shank." (P.S. The shank is another name for the band of the ring).

Solitaire engagement rings are great for to-be-weds who would prefer the center stone to be the focal point of the ring and may not like a lot of extra embellishment. However, that doesn't mean solitaire engagement rings are boring by any means. Jewelry designers often have fun with interesting settings, band details, diamond shapes and different gemstones to add their own personal flair to solitaire engagement rings. "Some solitaire rings incorporate simple 'plus' details like hidden halos under the head," Grimmett tells us.

FEATURED VIDEO FROM THE KNOT

The Best Solitaire Engagement Rings to Shop

While solitaire engagement rings are often thought of as simple and minimalistic, there are countless ways to inject color and personality into the style. From whimsical gemstones to intricate band details, these solitaire engagement rings are anything but boring.

1. Jared Y-Knot Diamond Solitaire Ring Princess 14K White Gold

Photo: Jared

This simple ring gets a stylish upgrade with the addition of a dynamic Y-knot cradle to set the center stone in place. The mixed metals are perfect for brides who like to switch up their everyday jewelry.

2. Jean Dousset Chelsea Bezel Solitaire Lab Diamond Engagement Ring

Photo: Jean Dousset

A sleek bezel setting is anything but ordinary. This simple solitaire ring is made extra glamorous with a high polish border and bezel setting. Customize the diamond shape and engagement ring metal for a ring that's unique to you.

3. Brilliant Earth Aquamarine Noemi Bezel Ring

Photo: Brilliant Earth

A soft blue aquamarine center stone acts as your "something blue" on this chic solitaire ring. Set in a raised bezel, this stunning ring is sure to turn heads.

4. Blue Nile Wide Band Solitaire Engagement Ring

Photo: Blue Nile

Wide engagement ring bands have been trending in 2024, and this ring should be at the top of your wishlist. The wide band is an edgy, yet timeless pick for an engagement ring.

5. VRAI The Petite 4-Prong Solitaire Emerald Engagement Ring

Photo: VRAI

This four-prong emerald cut solitaire engagement ring is an instant classic. Opt for a plain band or one with pavé diamonds.

6. Shane Co. Honey Bezel-Set Diamond Engagement Ring

Photo: Shane Co.

This bezel-set solitaire diamond engagement ring is sleek and timeless. Make it your own with custom personalized engraving.

7. Jared Pear-Shaped Lab-Created Diamond Solitaire Plus Engagement Ring

Photo: Jared

Pear-shaped diamonds are a romantic twist on the engagement ring. This one comes in either a yellow gold, platinum or rose gold setting.

8. Sarah O. The Maeve Marquise Solitaire

Photo: Sarah O.

This marquise solitaire engagement ring adds a touch of vintage whimsy. The marquise shape is also great for elongating the fingers. Choose either four prongs or six prongs, depending on your carat weight.

9. Berlinger Oval Paraiba Tourmaline Solitaire

Photo: Berlinger

Dreamy paraiba tourmaline dazzles on this solitaire ring. The aqua-blue stone is perfectly contrasted against a 14K yellow-gold band.

10. Brilliant Earth Noemi Bezel Engagement Ring With 1.00 Carat Round Lab Grown Diamond

Photo: Brilliant Earth

This sparkling round solitaire engagement ring is specifically designed to sit flush against your wedding band for a seamless ring stack. Customize the band in either yellow gold, white gold, rose gold or platinum, depending on your style.

11. Sarah O. The Lennox Oval Signet Solitaire

Photo: Sarah O.

For to-be-weds looking for something a bit off the beaten path, let us introduce you to this gorgeous signet-inspired ring from Sarah O. The tapered shape is a nod to the timeless signet ring shape elevated with an oval-cut diamond center stone.

12. Berlinger Elongated Hexagon Emerald Solitaire Ring

Photo: Berlinger

Prepare for others to be green with envy when they see this one-of-a-kind solitaire engagement ring. While the solitaire style is simple, this one is given a fresh update with a hexagon-shaped emerald center stone. This would be an especially fitting birthstone engagement ring for brides born in May.

13. Jared Diamond Solitaire Infinity Engagement Ring

Photo: Jared

Solitaire engagement rings are the perfect opportunity to have fun with details. This one features a round-cut center stone and an infinity design on the band to add visual interest to this otherwise simple ring.

14. Sarah O. The Bennett Marquise East-West Solitaire

Photo: Sarah O.

An east-west setting is a subtle way to make your ring stand out from the crowd. This marquise-shaped solitaire ring is classic with a twist.

15. Ring Concierge Keystone Cigar Band

Photo: Ring Concierge

A daring cigar band solitaire ring is perfect for a fashionista. Like the website description says, this nostalgic shape "exudes Sharon Stone circa 1992 energy."

Solitaire Engagement Ring Shopping Tips

Having a plan before you start the engagement ring search will help to set you up for success. Your dream ring is out there, you just have to find it!

Pay Attention to Quality

"Quality is the most important factor when selecting a solitaire ring—the stone you choose is the feature," Grimmett explains. "You want to look beyond color and clarity and consider other factors such as table and depth."

Because the center stone is the main focus of a solitaire engagement ring, you'll want to be meticulous about finding a high-quality stone. The 4Cs of diamonds are a great guideline for what you should be looking for. "There are also certain shapes that are better at hiding imperfections than others," Grimmett shares.

Go to a Jeweler You Trust

When in doubt, having a trusted jeweler who can guide you through the process is essential. The Knot Vendor Marketplace is a great resource to find local jewelers and read reviews. Grimmett recommends "Trust in your jeweler and go to a jeweler with a large selection of diamonds. Jared has access to over 300,000 loose diamonds."

Set a Budget

Understanding your budget for an engagement ring before you start shopping will largely guide your search. The last thing anyone wants is to fall in love with a ring that's way out of their comfortable price range. While you can always look at a wide range of rings as inspiration, knowing what's attainable within your budget will help to set reasonable expectations. "Be clear on your budget going in, but don't let that limit what you see," Grimmett tells us. "By looking at multiple stone options, you will be able to identify what speaks to you and what doesn't."