If you’re planning to surprise your girl with a diamond engagement ring, how familiar are you with the popular ring styles, and do you know which one she likes best? Choosing the perfect diamond ring for the woman you love can be nerve racking, but we’re going to help. Here is a visual list of some of the most popular styles for you to look for, and a description of each. The Solitaire Setting is a ring with one stone – be it a diamond or gemstone. The diamond solitaire is a classic, and the round brilliant diamond is the most popular solitaire stone of them all. A diamond solitaire engagement ring can be simple or ornate, in a yellow gold, white gold or platinum setting. Colored or fancy diamond solitaires are gaining popularity among many brides-to-be today, but the white brilliant diamond solitaire remains the number one choice among brides to be. The three-stone ring is just that, usually a large center diamond with two smaller diamonds, one each side. The three-stone diamond engagement ring can consist of all round brilliant diamonds, a round brilliant center stone with emerald cut side diamonds, a princess cut center stone with round brilliant side stones – there are no rules regarding the cut of stones in a three-stone diamond ring, provided they all fit the setting and complement each other. If you are designing a three-diamond engagement ring yourself, or having a jeweler design one for you, ask for advice on stones and stone placement if you are not sure. The Halo diamond engagement ring design is actually a new take on a vintage bridal ring style. Featuring a round brilliant cut center stone with smaller round brilliant cut diamond surrounding the center stone, the Halo style emphasizes the large center stone, increases the ring’s fire and sparkle, and gives the illusion of a larger center stone. Today’s Halo diamond engagement ring designs can have different cut center stones, including princess cut, Asscher cut, Oval cut and marquis cut, although the round brilliant is the most popular center stone in a Halo design. The Pave setting features a center stone, which can be any diamond cut, with small, pave cut diamonds in a half circle down the band. The pave is a major sparkler, with the small diamonds in the band adding drama and elegance, and setting off the center stone spectacularly. The Side Stone setting can incorporate almost any cut of diamond, and the results can be exquisite. The most popular is a round brilliant center stone with side stones that serve to enhance the appearance of the center stone. The combinations for a side stone diamond engagement ring are many, and the results can be an ornate vintage style or an ultra-modern look, depending on the setting and stones you choose. The Cathedral setting features a center diamond firmly perched between bands extending from each side. These bands angle up in a way that draws the eye to the stone, and protects the diamond, making it a good choice for active women. The look is dramatic, and the diamond appears larger due to its position in the setting.