An engagement ring isn’t just a symbol of love, it is a gift of a lifetime that becomes an extension of a woman’s taste and values. Though engagement rings have long been rooted in traditional designs such as solitaire and cathedral settings, nowadays the range of designs stretch out to modern and contemporary iterations that speak volumes about a lady’s personality. If you’re having trouble navigating the myriad of options to narrow down the perfect engagement ring to profess your love with, here is a list of styles to consider for your bride-to-be.

Image: Love solitaire 1895 and Love solitaire from Cartier; Harry Winston Tryst emerald cut; Peonia Bridal cathedral setting and Joy ring; Tiffany & Co. Harmony ring in rose gold; Van Cleef & Arpels Bonheur solitaire in platinum

For a traditional lady
A classic solitaire setting that showcases a single diamond in the centre is the most popular design for an engagement ring. This comes as no surprise as its simplicity offers a timeless elegance that highlights the main attraction – the gorgeous central diamond – and is easy to wear in any occasion.

Image: Baunat ring; Enticelle de Cartier ring; Graff Flame square emerald cut and Promise heart shape diamond ring; Harry Winston Lily cluster; Peonia Bridal ring; 

For a fashionable lass
Pavé-set diamonds commonly found on wedding bands feature smaller diamonds on the sides or all around the ring. It gives the ring a dash of sparkle if she enjoys that extra dazzle of glamour. You can also consider a setting that holds her diamond higher such as a cathedral design for a classic touch. 

Image: Chopard For Love ring; Baunat Trilogy ring; Tiffany & Co. Bow Ribbon ring; Van Cleef & Arpels Socrate Flower ring

For a nature and adventure lover 
Organic elements are nothing new to modern designs and can be a reflection of the type of lady your beloved is. Carvings or designs such as leaves, vines, and floral motifs can be a style could become close to your lady’s heart if she enjoys nature or being outdoors. For adventurous women, a setting that holds the diamond lower or with a bezel setting that rings the diamond can also be a practical way to protect the ring while she partakes in sporty or outdoor activities.

Image: Baunat ring; Buccellati Isotta ring; Harry Winston diamond ring; ring from Ryder Diamonds; Tiffany & Co. Soleste pear shaped halo ring; Graff Twin Constellation oval diamond ring

For a high society dame
As the old adage goes, diamonds are a girl’s best friend, and for the fashionable socialite, there’s nothing that screams ‘I love you’ better than an over-the-top, ostentatious diamond ring. Whether it comes with a halo setting that features smaller precious stones surrounding a much larger outstanding one, or a radiant-cut diamond sitting on a bed of precious stones that layer a thick band, only a woman with the confidence of a high-society woman could carry off such a grandiose design.

Image: Tiffany Buds from Tiffany & Co.; old European cut diamond halo ring from Ashley Zhang; Baunat ring with side diamonds; Graff Promise emerald cut diamond ring and Laurence ring; Peonia Bridal ring

For a hopeless romantic
If your significant other is a hopeless romantic then there’s a high possibility of her going weak in the knees for well-thought-out details. A ring setting that feature milgrain details, filigree, scrollwork patterns or intricate galleries tells a story and reflects the time, effort and craftsmanship that goes into the design. Any woman who enjoys a romantic gesture would appreciate the effort and consideration put into selecting such a ring with a unique and exclusive design.

Image: Cartier Trinity Ruban ring; Tiffany Rope from Tiffany & Co.; Van Cleef & Arpels Couture solitaire ring; Ryder Diamonds’ Sharon ring and three stone emerald and diamond ring; Tiffany & Co. Heart halo ring

For a modern & contemporary woman
A common style that is becoming a fashion statement for modern women is having rings that eschew more traditional stylings. Here, exploring unusual options could yield huge dividends, with coloured precious stones, unique settings and sculptural rings all top choices for avant-garde designs.