Aquamarine rings are a popular choice with their beautiful blue hues mirroring the ocean and the stones sweet symbolism of harmony, courage, and communication. With such timeless appeal they are a great engagement ring alternative to the classic diamond ring. When it comes to selecting a ring, you need to consider the setting as this will impact the design and the durability of the ring. In this blog we will discuss a variety of ring settings when thinking specifically of aquamarines.
Understanding Ring Settings
A ring setting is how the gemstone is secured in the ring. This influences how the stone is presented, how comfortable it is to wear and the rings overall aesthetic. Various settings serve distinct purposes; some enhance the appearance of the gemstones, while others prioritise security, and certain designs contribute to a more distinctive final look. Ultimately, the ring should provide comfort during wear and embody your individual style. In the case of an aquamarine ring, the objective is to harmonise the inherent beauty of the stone with your personal style preferences.
Popular Aquamarine Ring Designs and Settings
1. Solitaire
Simple and classic, the solitaire setting holds a single feature stone usually with metal prongs/claws or in a bezel/collet setting. The understated elegance of this ring setting makes it a great choice for minimalists and is a popular engagement ring setting. They are easy for everyday wearing; you can pair a solitaire with sleek bands. For an aquamarine solitaire an oval cut will make the stone look larger with its elongated shape increasing the surface area.
2. Halo
For an aquamarine halo ring, the aquamarine is encircled by smaller diamonds or other gemstones in a “halo”. These smaller stones surrounding the aquamarine can make it seem larger than it is by increasing the surface area of the ring and by framing the central stone it draws the eye to it even more. The hidden halo is another variant of this setting. This involves the extra stones underneath the central stone. The halo setting creates an added sparkle which is great for adding a touch more glamour. Great for those wanting a romantic style with attention to detail, this design can incorporate multiple mounting types like prong/claw, basket, cathedral and trellis.
3. Vintage
Typically inspired by previous eras such as Victorian or Art Deco, vintage ring settings often feature intricate designs such as millegrain which is the use of tiny metal beads that create texture and ornate details. Some may be engraved with a name or a date or feature filigree work (this is fine threads of metal twisted, curled, or bent into intricate designs and patterns. If you love antique jewellery or historical and unique pieces, a vintage setting is a great option.
4. Modern
Modern settings are sleek and often have innovative designs that feature geometric shapes and unconventional details so are a good choice if you are aiming for a bold look. Bezel/collet settings give a very sleek effect with a custom-made thin metal rim encircling the aquamarine holding it securely in place. If you are active this is a very practical option. Tension settings also provide a modern aesthetic where it appears the stone is levitating by using metal bands to wedge the stone in place. Similarly modern in design, a channel setting features a line of stones set between two metal walls flush along the band with no metal required between them, creating a seamless line of stones. To add extra flair, try mixing with different metals or asymmetrical designs.
5. Three-Stone
Sometimes known as a trilogy or trinity setting, as suggested, this refers to three feature gemstones where the centre stone is usually the largest. You can get some versatility and sparkle with this style. The aquamarine could be flanked either side by diamonds or another gemstone, perhaps sapphires to show the contrasting shades of blue. These are a match for traditionalist who like symbolism. This style is a popular engagement ring choice as a three stone ring is said to mean “you are my past, my present and my future”.
Factors to Consider When Choosing a Setting
When choosing what setting is the best for you, firstly consider your comfort. If you are are wearing the ring everyday you want a secure setting such as a bezel/collet, similarly a good choice if you are very active. If you are only planning on wearing the ring occasionally you can look to a more intricate and delicate setting such as vintage that uses millegrain. Prong/claw settings can be prone to catch on fabrics or get hairs caught in the prongs, so keep tweezers handy if you opt for this design.
As for the metals, aquamarines generally work well with any. If you have a more blue-toned aquamarine then white gold will bring out the coolness, whereas yellow gold will balance out a more green-toned aquamarine and make it warmer.
Engraving your setting can increase the cost of your ring so consider your budget first. Some materials may need more frequent cleaning and repair which overtime will cost so choose your metal carefully; the higher the carat of your metal the more durable it is.
Choose a setting that will simply suit your personal design preferences, if you love your jewellery to stand out and sparkle you may opt for a halo setting embellished with diamonds or maybe or you prefer a simplistic and sleek look with a bezel/collet setting.
Finding the Perfect Match
Consider what effect you want from the ring. Does it need to be an understated everyday choice like a solitaire, is it to be worn on special occasions and treasured for its detail such as an ornate vintage setting, are you needing a practical sleek option like a modern bezel setting or do you want some brilliant added sparkle that you’ll find with a halo setting?
How much do you want your aquamarine to sparkle? Prong/claw settings or inviable settings with an open back will allow the light to shine through the aquamarine increasing its brilliance. Whereas closed back settings such as channel, bezel, flush or “hammered,” will block the light and reduce the sparkling appearance.
If you want to make your ring extra unique to you, then there are options to change the settings depending on the ring itself. You can look into engraving a band with a loved one’s initials or name, a significant date, a symbol such as a heart, the name of an important place, a short quote you like etc. You could add additional gemstones such as diamonds or your birthstone; aquamarines are the March birthstone.
There are so many ring settings to choose for your aquamarine ring, so consider your personal style, how much you’ll wear the ring and most importantly what feels best for you. Find the aquamarine ring that most reflects your individuality and explore our collection of aquamarine rings which are available in a variety of settings and designs.
Resources:
https://www.gemsociety.org/article/aquamarine-setting-advice
