Ring Styles - Three stone
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Education CenterEverything You Need to Know About Three Stone Engagement Rings
3-stone engagement ring
The three-stone engagement ring is a scintillating design that has remained popular since its introduction over 20 years ago. In this concise guide, we explain what a three-stone diamond is and explore its enduring appeal.
What is a three-stone engagement ring?
A three-stone engagement ring is a ring that is composed of a large center diamond that is flanked by two smaller diamonds.
A three-stone engagement ring is a ring that is composed of a large center diamond that is flanked by two smaller diamonds.
This style of engagement ring may also be called a:
- Trinity ring
- Trilogy ring
- Trio ring
- Past, Present, and Future ring
Designers usually set the three stones on an understated yellow gold, white gold, or platinum band, but you can choose any alternate style or setting.
History of the three stone engagement ring
3-stone engagement ring
Despite its classic aesthetic, the three-stone engagement ring is a modern design that is just over 20 years old.
In the early 2000s, a highly popular marketing campaign for the then-new three-stone ring captured the public imagination with the phrase “Past, Present, and Future”.
The popularity of the three-stone ring has continued to the present day because of the simplicity of the design and its ability to convey multiple meanings.
This means that the ring can convey a wonderful, lasting sentiment for couples who want to communicate their friendship, love, and fidelity.
Prince Harry’s selection of a custom three-stone engagement ring for his wife, Meghan Markle in 2017 further increased interest and demand for this refined design.
What to look for in a three-stone engagement ring
3-stone engagement ring
Three-stone rings do not have to do much to attract admirers. This iconic design endures, in part, because of these three features:
Proportions
The proportional relationship between the three individual stones is key to the beauty of a three-stone ring.
These rings either have a large center stone and smaller side stones or three stones of equivalent size and weight.
Desirable size ratios between the center stone and accent stones are entirely the prerogative of the wearer but accent stones that are a third or half the size of the center stone are most pleasing.
Quality
Like a solitaire, the quality of the diamonds imparts the elegance and exclusivity of a three-stone engagement ring. Select the very best stones your money can buy according to color, cut, clarity, and carat weight. The cut is especially important for bringing out the fire and brilliance that makes the three-stone ring so captivating.
An understated setting
3-stone engagement ring
A simple band adds to the refinement of the three-stone ring. A band with a width of under 2 mm allows the stones to speak for themselves and wears elegantly alongside a wedding band or eternity ring.
Diamond combinations in three-stone engagement rings
Make this engagement ring your own by choosing from a variety of center and accent stones. Asscher, marquise, oval, or cushion-cut diamonds are equally stunning alternatives to the classic prong-set round brilliant diamond.
Options for the paired accent stones that are set either side of the center stones include:
Round brilliant
3-stone engagement ring
These diamonds are of equal or smaller size than the center stones are a classic choice. The side stones should have the same number of facets as the center stone and excellent clarity.
Pear
3-stone engagement ring
Pear-shaped diamond beautifully flank a center stone without detracting from its brilliance. Perfectly proportioned pear stones with a length-to-width ratio of no more than 1.7 keep the ring well balanced.
Tapered baguette
3-stone engagement ring
Tapered baguettes provide a flattering accent to a variety of center diamonds in a three-stone engagement ring.
This modified baguette has one end that is wide than the other and adapts well to the curve and overall shape of the ring.
Trillion
Trillion diamonds are triangular side stones. This unusual cut has a large table width that makes these diamonds appear larger than their carat size. Trillion diamonds make a distinctive choice and enhance any center stone, following the natural curve of the engagement ring.
Pros of the three-stone engagement ring
3-stone engagement ring
Here are some great reasons for making this contemporary classic a part of your union:
Enjoy the brilliance of three large stones
The arrangement of three substantial stones creates an arresting display that can exceed the brilliance and scintillation of a solitaire. By having three diamonds you are multiplying the facets or windows through which light can enter and move through the diamonds creating an unmissable sparkle.
Greater diamond coverage
Nothing flatters the hand more than a well-cut diamond, and the three-stone engagement ring has a greater surface area of beautifully cut diamonds to adorn your finger.
Beautiful enhancement of the center stone
Expert jewelers select side stones that enhance the beauty of the center stone. This nuanced grouping is carefully balanced for cut, color, clarity, and carats so that the accent stones do not overwhelm the center stone.
3-stone engagement ring
You can make this design your own
The many combinations of stones in a three-stone ring provide a variety of options for customizing your engagement ring. It is one of the few engagement ring designs that is sympathetic to the inclusion of an heirloom stone in a contemporary setting that is to the taste of the new wearer.
Cons of the three-stone engagement ring
3-stone engagement ring
For some, owning a three-stone ring may have its drawbacks:
The three-stone ring is not a traditional engagement ring
Did you know that the three-stone ring design was not originally an engagement ring? The strong symbolism and popularity of this ring meant that it became widely adopted as one. Depending on your personal taste, you may prefer a classic solitaire.
Three stone rings require more maintenance
Like any diamond ring, your three-stone engagement ring will retain its beauty in the years to come if you actively maintain it. With three stones, this engagement ring requires more cleaning and maintenance than a single-stone design. Having your three-stone ring serviced annually by a trusted jeweler also reduces the risk of losing precious stones.
Conclusion
Three-stone engagement rings beautifully convey enduring affection. The simplicity of this design means that you can make it your own by compose your engagement ring with a wide range of stones.
