Solitaire vs. Side Stones: Comparing Two Elegant Engagement Ring Designs

Choosing the perfect engagement ring can be a deeply personal decision, as it reflects both your taste and the unique bond you share with your partner. Among the many design options available today, two styles stand out for their timeless appeal and modern elegance: the solitaire princess-cut engagement ring and the trellis design with side stones. Both are beautiful choices, but each caters to different tastes, aesthetics, and preferences. In this article, we'll compare the two designs, celebrating their differences and exploring how each one fits modern engagement ring trends.

Common Ground: Quality, Craftsmanship, and Versatility

Before diving into the distinctive characteristics of each ring, it’s important to recognize the common elements they share. Both designs feature high-quality craftsmanship, with each ring made from your choice of white, rose, or yellow gold. Both also showcase the Encore DT Signature Diamonds, which are guaranteed to be free of inclusions visible to the unaided eye. Additionally, both rings can be customized with a 1ct lab-grown diamond or CZ and are available in resizable options, ensuring they can be tailored perfectly to your preferences.

These shared qualities reflect a commitment to superior design and durability, ensuring that both rings will remain stunning heirlooms for years to come. Yet, it’s the unique details in each ring that set them apart.

Design #1: The Timeless Solitaire Princess-Cut Engagement Ring

The solitaire princess-cut engagement ring is the epitome of understated elegance. Featuring a single princess-cut diamond in a classic four-prong trellis setting, this design is all about simplicity and sophistication. The trellis-style band adds a subtle yet intricate touch, with interwoven arches that provide both structural support and an elegant design element. The tapered band emphasizes the brilliance of the center stone, creating a sleek and modern silhouette.

What Makes It Stand Out:

1. Minimalism and Sophistication: The focus on a single stone makes this ring incredibly timeless. In an age of maximalist designs with side stones and excessive sparkle, this minimalist style celebrates the beauty of the diamond itself, making it the perfect choice for someone who values simplicity and elegance.
2. Trellis Setting for Added Depth: The cathedral trellis design isn’t just visually appealing—it also enhances the perceived size and depth of the diamond. The intersecting arches add an extra layer of sophistication, showcasing fine craftsmanship that speaks to both modern and classic aesthetics.
3. Perfect for the Understated Individual: This design is an excellent fit for someone with a quiet sense of sophistication. It’s ideal for those who appreciate simplicity and elegance over flashy designs. The solitaire is a statement of confidence, showing that sometimes less is more.

Design #2: The Sparkling Trellis Engagement Ring with Side Stones

The second design takes the classic trellis setting and elevates it with a combination of side stones. This engagement ring features a princess-cut center stone surrounded by 10 round side diamonds, pave-set along the upper half of the band. This design brings added brilliance and sparkle, creating a more luxurious feel. The sleek, tapered band and graceful under-gallery details enhance its overall charm and comfort.

What Makes It Stand Out:

1. Extra Sparkle and Brilliance: The inclusion of side stones provides additional sparkle, making this ring more eye-catching and glamorous. For those who love a bit more shine and a brilliant display of diamonds, this design provides a beautiful balance between understated sophistication and vibrant sparkle.
2. Luxury with a Timeless Edge: The side stones add both visual interest and luxury, creating a ring that feels both modern and classic at the same time. The pave-set diamonds add a sense of opulence, and the under-gallery detailing creates a sense of sophistication that elevates the entire design.
3. Perfect for the Bold and Glamorous: This design is perfect for someone who loves the idea of a classic piece with a twist. It’s ideal for a personality that wants to shine brightly, yet still enjoys the timeless beauty of a trellis setting. The side stones add sparkle without overwhelming the center diamond, making this a great choice for someone who wants their ring to stand out.

Which Design is Right for You?

Choosing between these two stunning designs boils down to personal preference and the kind of statement you want your engagement ring to make.

• The Solitaire Princess-Cut Ring: This design is ideal for those who prefer refined minimalism and appreciate the beauty of simplicity. The focus is purely on the center stone, and the design embodies a quiet confidence that celebrates elegance without excess. It’s perfect for someone who wants a ring that feels timeless and sophisticated, and values craftsmanship over embellishment.

• The Trellis Ring with Side Stones: If you’re someone who loves extra sparkle and a bit of glamour, this design is for you. The side stones provide additional brilliance and enhance the luxury of the overall look. This design suits someone with a personality that enjoys standing out, while still cherishing a classic design. The side stones add sparkle without overwhelming the central stone, making it a great choice for someone who wants their ring to shine with a little extra flair.

Conclusion: No Right or Wrong Choice

There is no definitive answer to which design is better—it all depends on your personal values, aesthetic preferences, and the kind of symbolism you want your engagement ring to carry. The solitaire is for the minimalist who values simplicity, while the side-stone trellis design appeals to those who crave extra brilliance and sparkle. Both rings represent timeless love, and both have their own unique appeal.

Whether you choose the solitaire or the side-stone design, both will undoubtedly be cherished for years to come. In the end, the choice is yours to make, and both rings have something extraordinary to offer.