Cathedral Engagement Rings: Style & Significance
A cathedral engagement ring setting is an elegant and classic display for setting a gem into a ring. This beautifully exceptional setting is meant to symbolize the grace and elegance of a cathedral. It uses arches to frame the gem as a stunning focal point on your engagement ring.
Cathedral engagement rings are in the category of one of the two most popular types of engagement rings and band styles. When choosing an engagement ring, you’ll likely be choosing between the arching cathedral design or the floating style, unless you’ve opted to go a non-traditional route or unique custom designed ring. The cathedral engagement ring setting is very desirable to many brides-to-be and offers a unique style despite its popular trend.
What is your style? Cathedral settings are extremely elegant and classic in style. They are similar to the cathedral arches in the way that the setting uses arches made out of metal to support and hold the center diamond or gemstone. The supporting band on the ring slopes up to the same level as the girdle or edge of the center stone.
Variations in ring style
Cathedral engagement rings can have a wide variety of channel settings. Some of these are single, triple, micro pave or plain.
Often times when people think of cathedral style engagement rings, they think of a center diamond or gemstone that is set up high. Though you see many people wearing this style, it is not indicative to cathedral rings – it just refers to the specific craftsmanship and precision of the ring. In some cathedral settings, the bottom of the diamond may be at the same level of the band. So if you envisioned a cathedral setting standing too tall on your finger, you don’t have worry. There are many cathedral engagement ring styles for you to consider. The defining characteristic of cathedral engagement rings are not found in the way that the center stone is held, rather, it refers to how the mounting is built relating to the arches.
Customization
You can also customize how your diamond is set. It can be set with prongs, bezel, tension, or a basket design. It can sit low, or high above the arches. When selecting, or custom designing, a ring, its entirely up to you and what fits your personal style. Below we’re featuring the “Giselle” cathedral engagement ring which has classic design and timeless details that make it an heirloom that can be passed down from generation to generation.
Advantages
Many people choose a cathedral setting for its elegant appearance, as well as these following advantages:
- The arch provides a bit of protection to the center stone. This is particularly true if the arch extends to the stone’s table or girdle. This is especially important if your stone is relatively soft and something other than a diamond. But diamonds are a girl’s best friend…
- Arches add a certain distinction to your piece of jewelry for much less than adding multiple stones. This can portray a ring that stands out and has an impact on those that view inside a more manageable budget.
- Arches can accentuate the perceived carat size of a small ring, making it seem larger.
Braided Wedding Bands
Thinking of tried and true engagement ring styles? Braided engagement ring styles are a popular option for a few reasons. The braided rings have an ‘intertwined’ feeling that is symbolic for many couples who decide ‘tie the knot.’ Thinking of two people becoming one through marriage and commitment, it is only natural that the engagement ring and wedding band represent that union.
Featuring two intertwined ‘braided’ sections of ring, this ring can be set with any size and shape of diamond or gemstone.
This example features a round 1.50 carat round diamond in the center, flanked by .17 ct tw of genuine full cut diamonds in the braided wedding band shank. White gold is a beautiful way to set these diamonds, but yellow gold and rose gold are pretty and unique options available as well.
A unique combination of cathedral and braided engagement rings
A blend of vintage and modern trends in engagement rings, Stella engagement ring is one of the most gorgeous and unique engagement rings available right now. By incorporating a round diamond in a swirl double shank diamond halo, the Stella has a flowing effortless way about it and really shines in white gold or platinum.
Featuring roughly 1/3 carat of diamonds on the sides, the beauty is in the design of this ring, as the diamonds are set on an asymmetrical curve – clearly different from most engagement rings out there today.
Stella Engagement Ring is also available in yellow gold and rose gold for an extra touch of flair. This ring pictured shows a 1.00 carat round diamond but could easily be modified for a different shape, like an oval diamond.
Premier Engagement Ring Dealers at Your Service
Gittelson Jewelers is a Minnesota Institution for over 30 years when it comes to helping our clients select the best engagement ring and wedding bands for their lasting memories. We also offer custom designed engagement rings where your vision comes to live through 3-D design. We service the Minneapolis and St. Paul Communities as well as outlying regions including St. Cloud and Duluth. We offer national shipping and personalized service from a family-operated jeweler in the heart of Minnesota.
Contact us today to schedule an appointment in person or on the phone. You can also check out our new collection of items available or online purchase.