Manufacturing methods have advanced with the advent of technology, and so has the range of design. Jewelry is no exception. Even engagement rings have several sub-categories of design and manufacturing. One such design is the low-profile engagement ring. Continue reading to learn more about this type of ring.
What is a Low Profile Engagement Ring?
A low-profile engagement ring is an engagement ring that has a gallery of equal size to the diamond’s depth. There are no standard measurements, but in general, a low-profile ring shouldn’t sit above the finger by any more than 1mm over the depth of the diamond.
Please note that if the diamond (or alternative stone) is very big or tall, it won’t be called a “low profile ring” even if the metalwork doesn’t extend above or below the stone.
Understanding The Anatomy of a Low Profile Ring
The center stone of an engagement ring commonly sits high and proud (as shown in the diagram above), displaying the diamond to its fullest effect. However, many people have reasons to want a ring where the diamond, prongs, and shoulders are low-sitting.
They could want a ring that is less prone to snagging, or they may be thinking about the job that they do. Some people just prefer to be a little more subtle than the higher-profile rings usually allow.
Although there are exceptions, low-profile engagement rings will tend to be bezel set. This doesn’t mean all bezel-set rings are low-profile, but it would be unusual to see a low-profile engagement ring that is prong-set, as the nature of a prong setting means that the center stone sits high in the overall design.
A primary example of a high-set ring is the classic prong style setting, which was designed specifically to counter the more traditional low-set bezel of the time and to show off more of the diamond.
Feel free to learn more about the anatomy of an engagement ring here.
Advantages of Low Profile Engagement Rings
Having the center diamond set low, however, doesn’t mean that the ring is dull or uninspiring. The bezel setting allows more individual detail to be added; low settings in general can display pavé around the center stone or contrast gems can be set into the band.
Indeed, in many ways, the variety of design elements that can be incorporated into a low-profile engagement ring can make for very interesting and eye-catching creations. Because of the removal of the need to work around a high-set center diamond, designers have been able to apply much looser rules to what should and shouldn’t be included in an engagement ring.
Because of the current popularity of prong settings or Tiffany-style rings, there aren’t a lot of low-sitting engagement rings. Many of the available low-profile, bezel-set engagement rings are often vintage or antique. Antique rings were made 100 or more years ago, while other rings may replicate those styles and use antique-cut diamonds in their center. The older cuts are perfectly configured to be bezel set (or low-prong set) and are, therefore, perfect for low-profile rings.
“Low profile” itself doesn’t mean “no profile”, of course, as any stone(s) used will still be prominently displayed on the band. Low profile means that they will be seen in a lower position from a profile view than in high-profile settings.
Disadvantages of Low Profile Rings
Low Profile Rings don’t have many disadvantages on a logical or practical level. As mentioned above, having a low profile makes sense on so many levels. Aesthetics tend to be the main reason that many people avoid low-profile rings.
Low Profile Rings don’t show off the diamond as well, and if the diamond is important, the ring-wearer will want maximum visibility.
Another disadvantage is that cleaning can be more challenging. More hard-to-reach dirt tends to get caught in rings that are so compact. You may need to bring your ring to a professional ring cleaner (any local jewelry store) a little more frequently.
Final Thoughts
If you have an active lifestyle, a job that risks the ring being snagged, or just love the style, low-profile rings are a perfect choice!
Click here to view our entire collection of rare vintage engagement rings.
Examples of Low Profile Engagement Rings
To get you started on your journey to finding the best low-profile engagement rings, we’ve compiled a list of some of our favorite options
1. Boston Ring
Price: $8,000. Learn more about the Boston Ring.
The Boston Ring is a perfect low-profile engagement ring for those who love sapphires. The piece features a 0.87-carat emerald-cut center diamond, certified by the GIA as H color and SI1 clarity. A vivid halo of blue French-cut sapphires surrounds the center stone, while an additional halo of old European-cut diamonds follows.
2. Bondi Ring
Price: $8,000. Learn more about the Bondi Ring.
If colorful halo halos appeal to you, then consider the mesmerizing Bondi Ring.
The GIA-certified center diamond features an emerald cut, 0.80 carats, J color, and VS1 clarity. Most importantly, the surrounding halo of calibre natural green emeralds totals 0.54 carats and completely draws in the eyes. Finally, the details of this ring really make it sing, from the emphasis provided by the fine milgrain borders to the subtle elegance of the triple-wire shank.
3. Worcester Ring
Price: $2,500. Learn more about the Worcester Ring.
If you’re interested in vintage pieces, then consider the Worcester. Handcrafted in platinum circa 1950, this delicate French ring features a subtle design centered around a 0.50-carat round brilliant-cut diamond with I color and VS1 clarity. Finally, three small diamonds decorate each of the shoulders, serving as a perfect last touch to the design.
4. Mayflower Ring
Price: $5,000. Learn more about the Mayflower Ring.
For an antique option with a more exciting design, check out the Mayflower.
Handcrafted in platinum on 18k yellow gold circa 1900, this spectacular Edwardian-era ring features a stunning 0.77-carat rose-cut center diamond with I color and VS2 clarity. The surrounding double halo certainly adds a lot of appeal to this ring’s design; the first layer is composed of calibre-cut rubies, while single-cut diamonds comprise the outer layer.
5. Ludlow Ring
Price: $33,000. Learn more about the Ludlow Ring.
The Ludlow is a magnificent piece for sapphire lovers. The 3.05-carat emerald-cut center diamond is flanked by a baguette-cut diamond on either side, while the shoulders hold additional small diamonds. What’s more, the French-cut natural blue sapphire halo provides an excellent pop of color to contrast the white diamonds. Finally, delicate openwork patterns decorate the under-gallery.
Talk to a Diamond Expert
If you’re looking for an engagement ring, whether or not it’s low profile, consider consulting an expert for guidance. Our experienced and knowledgeable jewelry experts at Estate Diamond Jewelry are here to help! Simply complete the contact form below, and one of our experts will assist you within one business hour.
