When you picture an engagement ring, chances are you’re imagining a round diamond—and for good reason. It’s the OG of sparkle, the go-to for generations, and still the most popular choice in bridal jewelry today. With its brilliant 58 facets, the modern round cut delivers maximum shine and timeless appeal.
But just because it’s classic doesn’t mean it’s basic. From vintage vibes to bold, modern bands, round engagement rings can be as unique as the love story they represent.
What Are Round Engagement Rings?
When most people picture an engagement ring, they’re likely imagining a round diamond—and for good reason. This classic shape has stood the test of time, thanks to its unmatched sparkle and universal appeal.
The modern round brilliant cut was perfected in 1919 by Belgian mathematician Marcel Tolkowsky, who calculated the ideal proportions and angles to maximize a diamond’s brilliance and fire. His design, with 58 facets, became the gold standard in the jewelry world—and it still is today.
Round engagement rings really took off after De Beers launched its iconic “A Diamond is Forever” campaign in 1947, cementing the round diamond’s status as the go-to symbol of love and commitment.
Timeless? Absolutely. But that doesn’t mean it has to be boring. Today’s round engagement rings come in all styles—from vintage and romantic to bold and modern—making them the perfect choice for almost every kind of bride.
5 Stunning Round Engagement Rings You’ll Adore
If you’re looking for a ring that screams classy and modern, search no further! These round engagement ring styles bring serious sparkle and personality—get ready to swoon!
#1. Vintage Cut Round Engagement Rings
Is your fiancé an “old soul”? Then she’d probably love a vintage round cut for an engagement ring!
Before Tolkowsky created the modern brilliant cut, round diamonds were cut by hand. Often called old European cuts, these diamonds are made in a style developed in Europe, and were popular from 1890 to 1930. Many vintage rings with a round diamond from this period will very likely feature an old European cut, often abbreviated as “OEC.”
The biggest difference between an old European cut and the modern round brilliant is that the old cut favors dispersion or a multi-colored flash of light from within the stone, and has less facets. The modern round brilliant cut is a bit different.
The 58 planes of a modern diamond maximizes it’s sparkle, and creates the signature checkerboard pattern you see play across the stone’s surface. Fun fact, today’s lab grown diamonds are all modern cut, and are indistinguishable from mined diamonds by the naked eye.
#2. Thick Band Round Engagement Rings
Dainty looks are cool, but today’s engagement ring style is becoming bolder—and the thicker the band, the better!
Sometimes called “cigar bands,” this gorgeous ring features a beautiful round diamond on a wide, generally 14k yellow gold band.
This style of engagement ring can look very modern when the diamond is set in a bezel style of mounting, or even artsy when you add textures and finishes to the gold. Details like hammering the band, or sandblasting the gold set this ring apart from others.
#3. Bezel Set Round Engagement Rings
Speaking of bezels…
If your partner is a modern girlie, then bezel-style rings will definitely fit her vibe! A bezel is simply a band of gold, like a donut, that secures the stone instead of prongs.
And you can even use a partial bezel for a lighter look – the combinations are endless!
#4. Three-Stone Round Diamond Engagement Rings.
Three-stone, or past, present, and future, rings are becoming quite popular again. Seeped with meaning, these beautiful engagement rings sometimes combine smaller family diamonds, along with a newly purchased and larger center stone (like an ethically created, lab-grown diamond).
And the stones don’t have to be all diamonds either! Adding colored gemstones next to a brilliant, round diamond is a wonderful way to add personality and meaning to your wedding ring.
Want to pack a punch? Try stacking the three stones up and down on the ring. This look adds some cool drama and gives the ring a long, lean look.
5. Yellow Gold Round Engagement Rings
In the 2000s, everyone chose 14k white gold for their wedding rings, and that trend continued until the 2020s. But like bellbottom jeans and peplum tops, yellow gold engagement rings are back in style.
And for good reason! Yellow ‘looks’ like gold. The cool, soft sheen also complements pretty much every skin tone. While some engagement ring customers chose to set their diamond in a white gold top on a yellow gold band, more are opting for all yellow!
Round Engagement Rings: Frequently Asked Questions
What does a round engagement ring represent?
A round engagement ring represents eternity, unity, and timeless love. Its circular shape symbolizes never-ending commitment, while its classic cut reflects elegance and enduring style.
What questions to ask when buying an engagement ring?
Ask about the ring’s cut, clarity, carat, and color, as well as the metal type, return policy, warranty, customization options, and whether the diamond is lab-grown or natural.
What are the 5 C’s of engagement rings?
The 5 C’s of engagement rings are Cut, Color, Clarity, Carat, and Certification. These factors help determine a diamond’s quality, appearance, and value.
Who legally owns an engagement ring after a breakup?
Ownership laws vary by state, but in many cases, the giver can legally reclaim the ring if the engagement is broken before marriage, as it’s considered a conditional gift.
Design the Round Engagement Ring of Their Dreams at Scott’s
Ready to pop the question with a ring that’s as timeless as your love story? From vintage-inspired to modern and bold, we’ll help you design the perfect round engagement ring—custom-crafted, ethically sourced, and totally swoon-worthy.
Book your appointment with Scott’s Custom Jewelers today—online or in-store!