When choosing a ring one of the first decisions you will have to make is whether you want a single solitaire diamond or a coloured stone or a combination. You can also add various smaller or graduated stones on either side of the centre stone or on the ring band itself. When done correctly, the main advantage of adding side stones is that overall the ring will appear bigger and bolder in appearance without the feature diamond looking out of proportion to the finger.
Side stones tend to be small, but combined they can add up to a make a sensational ring! They can be diamonds or coloured gemstones and come in a variety of shapes and sizes. They can adorn a band in a straight line or form intricate patterns, based on their shapes and the angles set.
Side stones should not be an afterthought when it comes to ring design. On the contrary, they are strategically important in the way that they are incorporated into the ring. Done correctly, they will deliver the greatest impact. These smaller diamonds or gemstones can greatly influence the overall look and feel of a ring.
The majority of rings with side stones follow the same sort of layout – one big diamond in the middle, with two smaller diamonds on either side. Sometimes people opt to have smaller accent stones on the band of the ring as well. In most cases the three diamonds will all be of the same shape. Popular choices include round, square, emerald, oval, pear and marquise shapes.
However, there are multiple combinations and styles available, with no limits to creativity. Whether you are seeking a classic ring with pear-shaped diamond side stones, vintage settings with baguettes and emerald shaped diamonds, or the modern look of round cut or trilliant diamonds, the side stone ring is perfect for any era. Side stone choices include diamonds, emeralds, blue or pink sapphires, and may be set in white gold, yellow gold, rose gold or platinum. Combinations can be mixed up with different stones and metal types.
Some stones are specifically used only as side stones. For example, baguettes, tapered baguettes, trapezoids, bullets and half moons, will rarely be seen as stand alone in solitaire rings. These types of stones are popular choices because they enhance the centre stone and add much character to an otherwise plain ring. Again you can add more flare by adding more stones to the band.
See some examples bellow.
