What is a Solitaire Ring?

What is a solitaire ring setting?

The word “solitaire” comes from the Latin word “Solus,” meaning alone or sole; a solitaire ring is a ring with a single gemstone. For example, a diamond solitaire ring is a band with a single diamond gem. Solitaire settings aren’t limited to rings however - they can also be on other pieces of jewelry, such as necklaces, earrings, including some pieces for men.
Because the gemstone is set by itself, it’s important to choose a shape that matches the piece of jewelry. Round brilliant cuts have become the most popular shape as they form several facets, creating high brilliants and light return to the top of the diamond. Cushion, princess, and pear cuts have also been popular in the past.
The Rosados Box Skinny Rhea 7x5mm 14kt White Gold Oval F1 is a great example of a beautiful engagement ring with a solitaire setting. The thin band and large oval cut help bring attention to the gemstone’s unique sparkle.

 

Solitaire ring meaning

Solitaire rings have come to symbolize life’s most precious moments, from engagements to special anniversaries. In fact, most engagement rings tend to be solitaire settings. Ring buyers typically favor solitaire rings for these occasions because of the ring’s unique look: elegant, timeless, yet understated all at once. For precious gemstones such as diamonds, a solitaire setting can really bring out its brilliance and craftsmanship.
 

What is the difference between solitaire and diamond?

Jewelers often throw the terms solitaire and diamond in similar contexts, but the two have distinct meanings. Solitaire refers to the gemstone setting, i.e. a single piece mounted on a piece of jewelry, while diamond is a type of gemstone. Putting the two together, a solitaire diamond is a single diamond gemstone set into a ring or necklace and is typically heavier in carat weight than diamonds set in different fashions on other rings. A solitaire setting can include a diamond, but not every diamond is a solitaire.
 

Other solitaire rings

As mentioned above, the solitaire setting is not limited to just diamonds; other precious gemstones that can be found in solitaire settings as well, such as moissanite and sapphire.
Like the solitaire diamond ring, the solitaire moissanite ring also features a single larger gemstone. However, the way in which moissanite is measured and sold slightly differs from its diamond counterpart. Instead of being measured by the carat weight, precious moissanite stones are measured and sold by industry set calibrated sizes, expressed in specific millimeter measurements of the gem. The reason behind this is that moissanite typically weighs between 10~18% less than diamond stones of the same size; thus, to express moissanite size in carat weights would be misleading. It is important to understand this distinction while choosing a size for your perfect solitaire moissanite ring!
 

Cost of a solitaire ring

When comparing two gemstones with the same cut, clarity, and color, solitaire diamonds tend to have more weight and are more expensive. Generally, solitaire diamonds have a minimum weight of 0.30 carat, while other rings may have more gemstones but lighter carat weights. Even if all the individual gemstones result in an equal carat weight (in other words, thirty gemstones that add up to 0.30 carats), solitaire diamonds have a heavier individual carat weight, which means the price of the solitaire diamond is much higher.
Solitaire rings create a unique dynamic between the gemstone and the band while offering several creative opportunities. Some rings may have a prong setting, others with a bezel. Shape and color also play a huge role. As seen in the Rosados Box Donna 14kt Rose Gold Round Black Onyx Leaf Solitaire Necklace, a solitaire setting can look just as stunning on a necklace.
Whichever shape, gemstone, or setting type you choose, a solitaire ring can create an engagement or anniversary ring worth treasuring for decades.
For a practical yet elegant look, check out some classic engagement rings, like the Rosados Box Delia 10x8mm 14kt Rose Gold Oval Morganite Extra Low Thin Skinny Engagement Ring. With a pink morganite gemstone in a perfectly round cut, this ring is sure to please any bride-to-be.
Looking for something with more of a twist- literally? Our twist-band engagement ring collection has several solitaire rings with ornate designs, such as the Rosados Box 6 Prong Cassidy 6mm 14kt Yellow Gold Round F1- Moissanite Celtic Love Knot Engagement Ring. We’re sure you’ll find a ring that matches your taste and preferences in our extensive ring selection.