The solitaire ring is arguably the most iconic piece of jewellery in the world. Its sheer simplicity—a single, stunning gem set on a band—is precisely what gives it such powerful, enduring appeal. More than just a ring, the solitaire is a universal symbol of commitment and endless love, a perfect circle broken only by the brilliance of its stone.
But where did this tradition begin, and what exactly defines a true solitaire in the modern age?
A Timeless Tradition: The Origins of the Solitaire
The concept of a single-stone ring dates back centuries, but the solitaire we know and love today truly came into prominence with the advent of the diamond engagement ring.
The tradition was cemented in 1886 when Tiffany & Co. introduced the Tiffany Setting. This revolutionary design featured six prongs lifting a brilliant-cut diamond up and away from the band. This simple, yet ingenious, structure allowed light to hit the stone from all angles, maximising its fire and brilliance. Suddenly, the focus was entirely on the magnificent diamond itself.
This design became the gold standard, catapulting the solitaire into the must-have design for engagement rings around the globe. The single, central stone was interpreted as representing the one true love between a couple, making it the perfect emblem for a lifetime promise.
Beyond the Brilliant: Other Diamond Solitaire Shapes
For decades, the image of a solitaire was synonymous with a single, round brilliant-cut diamond. However, the beauty of the solitaire is its focus on the individual stone, and this single gem can take many forms.
Modern jewellery design celebrates a whole array of fancy diamond shapes set in the classic solitaire style. These options allow for incredible personalisation while still honouring the single-stone tradition:
- Oval-Cut Solitaires: Offering an elongated, elegant silhouette that can make the wearer’s finger appear longer and slimmer.
- Princess-Cut Solitaires: A modern, square shape known for its exceptional fire and clean, geometric lines.
- Emerald-Cut Solitaires: A rectangular step-cut that offers a sophisticated, Art Deco-inspired mirror-like effect, showcasing the clarity of the diamond.
- Cushion-Cut Solitaires: A romantic shape with rounded corners, offering a vintage feel and magnificent sparkle.
- Pear-Cut Solitaires: A distinctive tear-drop shape that is both unique and highly flattering.
When shopping for an ethical diamond solitaire ring today, the world of shapes is truly open to your personal style.
Modern Settings: Beyond the Traditional Claw
While the iconic claw setting (or prong setting) often defines the traditional solitaire, modern jewellery design embraces a variety of stunning settings that still beautifully highlight a single, magnificent stone. A solitaire isn't just about the prongs; it's about the singular focus on the diamond.
These contemporary settings offer different aesthetics and levels of protection for your precious gemstone, proving that a solitaire can be both classic and distinctly modern:
- Bezel Set Solitaires: In a bezel setting, a thin rim of metal fully encircles the diamond, holding it securely in place. This creates a sleek, contemporary look and offers excellent protection for the stone, making it ideal for active lifestyles.
- Tension Set Solitaires: A truly striking and modern choice, tension settings create the illusion that the diamond is suspended between the two ends of the metal band. The metal is precisely grooved to exert pressure on the diamond, holding it securely without visible prongs or bezels. This minimalist style maximises light entry and the diamond's brilliance.
- Flush Set Solitaires: Here, the diamond is set directly into the band, lying flush with the metal surface. The flush set offers maximum protection and a very subtle, modern aesthetic, often seen in wedding bands or rings for those who prefer an understated look.
Each setting style allows the solitaire diamond to take centre stage, simply presenting it with a different character and appeal.
Solitaire or Not? Understanding Diamond Set Bands
One of the most common questions when discussing this style is: If the band also features small diamonds, is it still considered a solitaire?'
The answer, in contemporary jewellery terms, is generally yes, as long as the design adheres to the primary principle of the solitaire: having one dominant, central stone.
When a central diamond is set on a band that features smaller, inset diamonds (often called pavé or micro-pavé), it is referred to as a diamond-set solitaire or a pavé solitaire. These smaller accent diamonds do not detract from the main stone; rather, they serve to enhance its brilliance by adding a delicate, continuous sparkle to the ring's shoulders.
The main stone remains the focal point, the symbol of your primary, individual love. The supporting diamonds simply add an extra layer of luxury and shimmer to the overall design. Whether you choose a completely plain band or a shimmering diamond-set band, the ring remains firmly within the timeless tradition of the solitaire.
Why Choose a Solitaire?
For those searching for the perfect diamond engagement ring, the solitaire remains an unrivalled choice.
- Versatility: The simplicity of the design means it pairs beautifully with wedding rings and eternity rings of almost any style.
- Focus: It puts the entire emphasis on the quality and beauty of your chosen central gemstone, letting your diamond truly shine.
- Timelessness: While fashions come and go, the solitaire never dates. It is a piece of fine jewellery you will treasure forever.
A solitaire is a celebration of singular, perfect love, making it a powerful and profoundly moving gift for a proposal or any major life milestone.
Ultimately, the beauty of the solitaire lies in its simplicity and versatility. It offers a blank canvas for your individual story, allowing you to choose the perfect diamond shape and setting style that truly speaks to your heart. Ready to find the singular, perfect ring that will mark your lifetime promise?
You don't need to compromise on quality or style. Explore our stunning collection of solitaire engagement rings today at CompareTheDiamond.com and start your own legacy of love with a piece as unique and enduring as your commitment.