It’s definitely not uncommon for both men and women to take part in choosing a beautiful engagement ring. In fact, it’s completely ideal if you’re a woman who fancies herself a physically active gal. Whether it’s running, hiking or playing basketball, a large, ostentatious ring could get in the way of your daily activities. Here are some neat tips for choosing the most gorgeous yet simple ring to fit your active style:
Bezel-set diamond rings
With a typical prong setting, the solitaire diamond is fastened with four to six prongs that come slightly over the diamond’s edge. While this is a beautiful, classic look, it has a tendency to snag or scratch, making it less ideal for active women.
Bezel-set rings are a non-traditional option with a completely different look than prong settings. A bezel setting is when a single piece of metal folds down over the diamond’s entire circumference. The diamond is incredibly secure when fully framed by metal.
Half-bezel diamond ring settings
Similar to the bezel-set ring, half-bezel settings secure the diamond in place with a strip of metal, but in this case, the metal doesn’t completely encase the diamond. Instead, it’s as if the diamond is set between two hands gently cupping and securing the diamond in place. There are still no pokey prongs that can get caught on things, making a half-bezel diamond ring another fine option for active women.
Channel-set diamond rings
Another option is to forego the solitaire altogether and choose an eternity band with channel-set diamonds. The diamonds are slid into a channel that usually goes all the way around the ring. The diamonds are usually round princess cut, depending on visual preference.
A channel setting protects diamonds incredibly well, since no edges are exposed. This means the diamonds are protected from the wear and tear that other engagement rings are subject to when worn by active women.
Bar channel diamond ring settings
If you’re still wanting that that big center solitaire, you can help protect it with a bar channel setting. This looks similar to a half-bezel setting, but the metal pieces are straight instead of rounded. You get a clear view of the diamond from the two exposed sides and incredible security and protection from the two channel sides. This setting also lowers the ring’s profile to reduce the chance of scratching or snagging that can occur in sporting activities.
Split-shank setting
This eye-catching engagement ring option features a band that splits in half as it approaches the solitaire diamond. This widens the band and creates a beautiful focal point without needing to wear a separate wedding band. This is good news for active women who don’t want their ring sliding all around. The center diamond should be set in a low-profile way using the bezel or channel setting technique to further protect the ring.
Invisible-set diamonds
This elaborate setting makes a grid of diamonds look like they’re floating in place. Princess cut diamonds are used so the stones nestle up closely together with no visible surface metal between them. Wires, pins, bars or other techniques create this apparently solid gem surface. The band usually features invisible-set diamonds. Couple this stunning look with an appropriately set solitaire for active women.
The main thing to evaluate in an engagement ring is going to be how high the diamond sits and how much metal is protecting it. Be sure to buy a warranty on the setting if you’re unsure of how secure it is. Good luck to the both of you!
