Cluster Engagement Rings: A Definition

The world of diamond ring creation and commercialization has, for the past two centuries, captured the imagination of thousands of newly engaged couples the world over. At first, limited to a few options, this market has expanded over the years to the point where engaged couples nowadays can choose from a seemingly infinite array of diamond cuts and settings to make their engagement ring look as dazzling as possible.

One of the fastest-growing of these settings, in terms of popularity, is the cluster. Cluster engagement rings have the advantage of being at once original-looking, visually stunning and somewhat more affordable than other types of engagement ring settings, making them a popular choice among young couples on a budget, for example.

But what exactly does the term ‘cluster engagement rings’ refer to? Technically, this definition can apply to any setting where the diamonds are set close to each other, in a pattern resembling a hive (or, indeed, a cluster). In these types of rings, the stones are usually set in such a way that, from a distance, the ring gives the visual illusion of a single, considerably-sized stone. Within this broad definition, however, there is plenty of leeway, and therefore not all rings of this type necessarily look the same.

In terms of the diamonds, for instance, the round brilliant cut is the norm, but that does not mean that there is no space for exceptions. It is possible to find rings with this configuration that have differently shaped diamonds, even in the non-bespoke market.

The main channel for variety in these types of rings, however, comes with the setting. While the prong setting is one of the most common, as it looks particularly attractive with cluster diamonds, the versatile nature of this setting leaves designers plenty of space to experiment. It is therefore relatively easy to come across cluster engagement rings with shared prongs, with the same prong holding up several diamonds at once, or even with an entirely different types of setting. Because designers are dealing with a number of smaller stones, rather than a single larger one, they have the chance to experiment with different visual effects.

In addition to the definition above, the term ‘cluster setting’ can also refer to a configuration where the smaller stones are used to surround and complement a larger central stone. However, as in the definition given above, the diamonds should be close enough together to give the impression of a single stone otherwise the setting will not be considered a cluster, but a pave or some similar type of configuration.

Lovers shopping for cluster engagement rings should therefore have a rough idea of what they will be getting and how it will look, in order to avoid disappointment.

Frank L Orman is the founder of the F&L Designer Guides, compiled and written to help consumers choose a unique engagement ring design. From cluster engagement rings to princess cuts and engraved bands, we have ideas and opinions covering all the options. Offering advice, tips and suggestions on how to choose that perfect ring, F&L will accompany you on every stage of your search to find the right designer.

Writer and Online Marketing Manager in London.