A solitaire diamond is a classic and timeless design that has been a staple in engagement rings for centuries. This iconic style features a single diamond as its centerpiece, often set in a simple yet elegant band, allowing the diamond to take center stage. The solitaire diamond ring is a symbol of eternal love and commitment, making it a popular choice for engagement rings.

One of the defining characteristics of a solitaire engagement ring is its versatility in diamond cuts . Whether you prefer the traditional round cut, the sophisticated oval cut, or the modern princess cut, each shape brings its unique charm and beauty to the ring. The solitaire design also offers flexibility in metal choices, with platinum, white gold , and yellow gold being popular options. These precious metals provide a luxurious and durable base for the diamond, enhancing its brilliance and longevity.

The history of diamond solitaires dates back to the 15th century, when the first recorded diamond engagement ring was given by Archduke Maximilian of Austria to his bride, Mary of Burgundy. This gesture set a precedent for diamond engagement rings, symbolizing love and commitment. The solitaire diamond engagement ring gained significant popularity in the 19th century with the introduction of the Tiffany setting. This innovative design featured a single diamond set in a six-prong setting, elevating the diamond and allowing maximum light to pass through, enhancing its sparkle.

Today, solitaire diamond engagement rings remain a beloved choice for couples. Their classic and elegant design is both timeless and versatile, making them suitable for any style or preference. Whether set in yellow gold , white gold, or platinum, a solitaire engagement ring continues to be a symbol of enduring love and commitment, cherished for generations.

A solitaire diamond refers to a single stone set into a piece of jewellery, from a ring, necklace, or even a pair of earrings. When you hear someone describe their ring as “a solitaire”, they are referring to a single-stone ring without accent diamonds such as side stones, shank accents or a halo.

Solitaires are universally popular, and have been for generations. This style is all about the diamond. A solitaire style allows the beauty of the diamond to take centre stage, without any embellishment or distractions. Solitaire engagement rings are known for their classic design, which offers a timeless appeal and elegance that makes them a staple choice for proposals.

Not all engagement rings are solitaires; rings with accent stones have soared in popularity in recent decades. However, single-diamond rings are one of the quintessential engagement styles; nothing says ‘engaged’ quite like a solitaire.

The sleek simplicity of a diamond solitaire ring makes this style so appealing. An engagement ring is a piece to wear and cherish forever, and many brides want to choose a timeless ring they know they will adore their whole life. A solitaire is a classic style that will never date.

This is also true of solitaire earrings and pendants. A simple pair of studs or an everyday necklace can be worn with almost any outfit and style. Worn as a minimalist accent or as a base for a layered look, a solitaire is a timeless investment.

Versatility of styling extends to a solitaire engagement ring , too. The clean and simple look of a solitaire lends itself to creating a personal bridal stack. Paired with a polished wedding band, you have a sleek, minimalist stack. With a diamond-set eternity ring , your ring exudes modern luxury. Flanked by a customised enhancer set, a solitaire becomes a bohemian statement. A solitaire engagement ring becomes the base on which to express your personality.

And as well as being effortless to wear, solitaire styles are easy to take care of. With no small diamonds or settings, there is less risk of damage and less to clean. Read more: caring for your diamond jewellery,

For such a simple piece, a solitaire ring carries a lot of meaning.

Diamonds are famed as a symbol of love. Durable and hard-wearing, diamonds signify the everlasting nature of true love - weathering life together through the joys and challenges of the years to come. A solitaire ring will become an heirloom, growing more precious with time.

A single diamond engagement ring also speaks of the uniqueness of your love. A solitaire represents the individuality of the couple - there is no bond, or partnership, exactly like yours.

There is even meaning in the simplicity of a single diamond on a plain band. Sleek and simple, this design emphasises that love need not be complicated to be true.

Your engagement ring should always reflect your personality and individuality, and that’s true of solitaire rings as much as more decorative styles.

A solitaire is timeless and simple - but these days, that can mean anything from classic to cutting-edge. Some brides prefer a more traditional look, while others will choose a contemporary style. The classic design of solitaire rings has an enduring popularity, making them a staple choice for proposals due to their elegance and simplicity.

Thanks to a solitaire’s simplicity, the smallest design details make the biggest impact. Pay attention to the details to find a ring with subtle points of difference, such as the triangular claws of our Burlington ring or the gentle twist of the Brompton style . Such accents add flair and personality to an otherwise simple design.

The shape of your diamond is perhaps the most important decision to make. Each shape has its own beauty and characteristics, and the perfect choice really comes down to personal preference. Our guide to diamond shapes explores the intricacies of the most popular cuts, a perfect place to start if you haven’t yet chosen your favourite!

When choosing a piece that is so centred on the diamond, it is particularly important to consider the quality of the diamond . As standard, we use only ‘colourless’ diamonds graded D to F and ‘eye clean’ diamonds of SI1 or above in clarity . This way, when you’re showing off your solitaire, all eyes are on the incomparable sparkle!

As with all fine jewellery purchases, cost will come into your purchase. A solitaire diamond ring costs less to manufacture than a piece with multiple accent stones, as there is less time required for crafting and setting the piece. There are also, of course, no additional costs for the melee diamonds themselves.

However, if you prefer a big ‘show’ – that is to say, the size and spread of your diamond are important – then you may choose a larger diamond size for a solitaire than you would a piece with accents. A smaller diamond with a halo surround will cost less than a single diamond of the same coverage.

We love solitaire engagement rings - their classic , simple design allows the brilliance and beauty of the diamond to shine. Our signature collection has a solitaire ring for all styles. Explore our range of solitaire engagement rings and see if your perfect solitaire is among them.