Ring Anatomy
Discover the Key Elements of Your Bespoke Piece
Rings are not just beautiful treasures; they are intricate pieces of art and engineering. These timeless jewels hold profound meanings and tell unique stories, making them cherished possessions across cultures and generations. Their value is rooted not only in personal significance but also in meticulous construction that ensures practicality and durability.
To truly understand the craftsmanship at Durham Rose and the intricate design process that goes into creating these beautiful pieces with our clients, it’s essential to understand the structure of a ring and its functions. Let’s explore the essential components that comprise a ring, each contributing to its overall elegance and individuality.
Engagement Rings
A ring is composed of several components, each playing a unique role in bringing your vision to life. From the band to the setting, every detail is tailored to reflect the essence of your dream ring. Understanding these elements empowers you to create a bespoke design that is as unique and special as your story—exactly as you’ve imagined it.
Wedding Bands
We design wedding bands to perfectly complement your engagement ring, ensuring a seamless fit—whether straight or contoured. With fewer components in its structure, your wedding band can still reflect your beautiful love story. Our designers are here to help you create the perfect match, capturing the unique essence of your engagement ring in your wedding band.
Design-Oriented Framework
Setting
The setting of an engagement ring or wedding band is crucial for both aesthetics and functionality, securing gemstones and influencing the design and durability. Engagement ring settings include claw settings like Talon, 6-claw, and 12-claw; bezel for a sleek, protective rim; pavé for continuous sparkle; and halo for amplifying the centre stone. Common wedding band settings include channel for a smooth, durable finish; bar for securing stones between vertical bars; flush for a sleek look; and bezel for a modern rim around each stone. The right setting enhances the beauty and longevity of the ring, reflecting your vision.
Bridge & Gallery Rail
The bridge, located beneath the center stone, connects the band sides, providing structural support and stability. Often adorned with hidden details or small stones, it adds subtle elegance. Just below the center stone, the gallery rail supports the setting, with decorative elements or openwork that enhance light flow and brilliance, showcasing the ring’s craftsmanship.
Shoulder/Shank
The shoulders or shank of the ring are the parts of the band that rise up to meet the centre stone. They can be tapered, flat, or embellished with additional stones or designs like split, twist or personal element. The shoulders play a crucial role in the ring’s aesthetic and structural integrity, influencing how the ring looks and how it balances on the finger. Some of the famous shank styles are Cathedral, Peg-head, straight, by-pass and split.
Band Profile & Sizing Area
The band profile shapes the overall feel of the ring, from straight and knife-edge to comfort-fit, defining both style and comfort. However, the sizing area, discreetly located on the lower section of the band, ensures resizing can be done without compromising the ring’s beauty or integrity.
Stone Framework
Side Stone
Side stones surround the centre stone, adding extra sparkle and enhancing the overall design. They can be smaller diamonds or coloured gemstones, arranged in various styles. Side stones not only increase the visual impact but also complement the centre stone, creating a balanced and harmonious appearance.
Centre Stone
The centre stone is the focal point of the ring, often the largest and most prominent gemstone. It can be a diamond, sapphire, emerald, or any other precious or semi-precious stone. The choice of centre stone greatly influences the ring’s overall look and significance. Its size, cut, colour, and clarity are key factors that contribute to the ring’s beauty and value.
Halo
Halo engagement rings are celebrated for amplifying the beauty of the centre stone by encircling it with a “halo” of smaller gems. Types of halo designs include the traditional Single Halo, glamorous Double Halo, subtle Hidden Halo, romantic Floral Halo, elegant Vintage Halo with intricate metalwork, contemporary Geometric Halo with angular forms, and vibrant Coloured Gemstone Halo featuring sapphires, rubies, or emeralds. Each style offers a unique blend of hues and composition, making halo rings a timeless choice for symbolising enduring love and commitment.
Accent Stones
Accent stones are smaller gems set on the side of the band or around the centre stone to add extra sparkle and detail. They come in various sizes, from tiny to slightly larger, offering versatile design options. Arranged in patterns like pavé, channel, or bezel settings, these stones enhance the ring’s beauty, adding depth and dimension while complementing the center stone.
Peak/Hidden Stone
The peak or hidden gem is a subtle yet significant feature often nestled either under the bridge section or discreetly positioned towards the end of the band, just before the resizing area. This small stone adds an extra touch of elegance, serving as a hidden and personal element known only to the wearer. It’s a unique feature that adds a layer of intimacy and personalisation to the ring, making it even more special.
Tony Rodd
Position
From start to finish, Durham Rose and our designer Melissa were fantastic. Melissa was really helpful, explaining the process, giving me an idea of budget and discussing all options with me. The design process was intuitive and the input from Melissa ensured the ring came out as I had envisaged.
Carl Fryer
Position
Durham Rose made everything about this nerve racking process a delight. The one to one nature of their ring design and build is amazing and well worth the money. Melissa in particular was super patient after changing my mind more than once so couldn't thank them enough. Couldn't recommend them more.
Amelia Parker
Position
Me and my partner got our engagement ring designed by Melissa after my parents also having 4 rings designed by durham rose and I cannot recommend them enough, they have been absolutely perfect and made the process so easy, stress free and exciting! Communication was amazing and I was updated through each and every little step.
Adam Newman
Position
Durham Rose was by far the best company I contacted when starting the process of making a custom ring. The initial stages were thorough and efficient, and the video call at the start of the process was brilliant. Where other companies would draw sketches which is a good start, it wasn’t as helpful or visually accurate...
Jack Butler
Position
Phenomenal experience from start to finish! I was fortunate enough to work with Mel at Durham Rose to build a bespoke Engagement ring for wonderful girlfriend (and soon fiancé to be!!) Mel was so lovely, so knowledgeable, patient and helpful and went out of her way to make sure the ring was perfect...
Your Personalised Consultation
Meet us Virtually
Embark on a commitment-free design session with your designer via Zoom! Whether you're near or far, share your ideas, preferences, and price points in a virtual consultation. See your vision materialise on-screen using our state-of-the-art 3D modelling software, allowing you to explore various concepts. After our initial Zoom meeting, your designer will refine the details and present conceptual renders, showcasing a range of materials and stones for you to choose from. Craft your perfect piece effortlessly and seamlessly, all from the convenience of your screen!
Meet us In-Person
You're welcome to meet us at our London, Stratford studio by appointment. Here, you can discuss your unique jewellery vision, explore design options, and receive expert advice.
Let's transform your ideas into reality.
Knowledge Hub
Discover everything about your bespoke jewellery in our knowledge hub. From gemstones to materials, costs, and the latest trends, we've got you covered. Whether you're looking for an engagement ring, wedding band, eternity band, or a special piece for any occasion, we're here to simplify your search.