Three Stone Lab Grown Engagement Rings

The meaning and the look

A three stone ring has a center diamond with a smaller stone on each side. Many couples like the old idea behind it: past, present and future. Others just like how it looks. Three stones cover more of the finger than one, and the side stones frame the center so it looks a touch larger by comparison.

Getting the proportions right

The most important choice is how big the side stones are. A common starting point is side stones that are each about half to two thirds the width of the center. Too small and they look like an afterthought. Too large and the ring loses its focus. We size side stones by measurement, not just by carat, so the row looks balanced from above.

The total weight of a three stone ring is often written as carats total weight, or ctw. A 1.5 ctw ring might be a 1 carat center with two 0.25 carat sides. Check the center weight on its own, because that is what you will notice most.

Side stone shapes

The side stones do not have to match the center. Some pairings that work well:

• Round center, round sides: classic and full of sparkle.
• Oval center, pear sides: the pears curve around the oval for a soft, flowing row.
• Emerald center, tapered baguettes: crisp and Art Deco.
• Radiant or cushion center, trapezoid sides: a clean, architectural line.
• Princess center, princess sides: a bold, geometric look.

Every three stone setting on this page can be made with any center shape, and we choose side stones to fit it.

Matching color and clarity

With three diamonds in a row, your eye compares them. Side stones should match the center closely in color, usually within one grade, or the row can look uneven. Clarity can be a little lower on the sides, as long as all three look clean without magnification. The center stone carries a grading report. Smaller side stones may not, and we will tell you which do.

Settings and metals

Three stone rings are usually set in prongs, with shared prongs between stones in some designs to let more light in. A basket setting holds each stone in its own cage, which is secure and easy to clean. Platinum and white gold make the row look like one bright line. Yellow gold gives a warm, vintage feel that suits pear and baguette side stones.

If the ring will sit next to a wedding band, ask about setting height. A three stone ring is wider than a solitaire, and a low profile helps the band sit close.

At your viewing

We will lay out a center stone with two or three sets of side stones so you can see the balance change. Move them around on the tray before anything is set. Most people are surprised how much the side stones change the character of the ring.

Read about individual shapes in our shapes guide. Use the loose diamond request to tell us your center size and budget, or ask about a custom design. Book a viewing at 30 West 47th St, Suite 805, or call (732) 581-7932.