Side Stone Engagement Rings

What defines a side stone engagement ring?

A side stone engagement ring features accent stones set directly on the band shoulders, flanking the centre stone on both sides. Unlike a plain solitaire, the shoulders carry additional diamonds or gemstones that visually anchor and frame whatever sits at the centre.

The accent stones are typically matched in shape and grading to complement — not compete with — the centre stone. Common configurations include a pair of tapered baguettes, a row of round brilliants in channel or pavé settings, or matched trillion cuts for a more angular profile. The result is a ring with greater perceived surface coverage than a solitaire of the same centre-stone carat weight, which is one reason the style is frequently chosen when a broader, more substantial look is preferred without significantly increasing the cost of the centre stone.

Which centre stone shapes suit a side stone setting?

Round brilliants, oval cuts, and cushion cuts are the most frequently paired shapes in side stone engagement rings, because their curved outlines sit harmoniously against tapered or curved accent stones on the shoulders.

Emerald and Asscher cuts — with their linear, step-cut facets — pair distinctively well with straight baguette side stones, creating a geometric, architectural composition. Pear and marquise shapes can also work effectively, provided the shoulder stones taper toward the point of the centre stone rather than running parallel to it. Shapes to approach with more care are very narrow elongated cuts, where oversized shoulder stones can visually crowd the centre. The side stone style is genuinely versatile across shapes; the key decision is whether the accent profile echoes or deliberately contrasts the centre-stone outline.

What does a side stone engagement ring cost in the UK?

The cost of a side stone engagement ring is driven by the carat weight and grade of the centre stone, the total carat weight of the accent stones, the metal chosen, and the complexity of the shoulder setting.

A channel-set or pavé side stone ring in 9ct or 14ct gold with a 0.5ct centre diamond will sit at a materially different price point than an 18ct or platinum ring carrying matched 0.25ct baguettes alongside a 1.0ct centre stone. The accent stones add to the total diamond cost, but they are typically small enough that the combined premium over an equivalent solitaire is modest. Bridebook's 2026 UK average engagement ring spend of £2,247 provides a useful benchmark, though side stone rings span a wide range above and below that figure depending on centre-stone specification and metal.

How long does a made-to-order side stone ring take?

Side stone engagement rings at President Jewellers are made to order, typically ready within 7 to 14 working days from order confirmation.

The process begins with a design consultation and CAD drawing, followed by a silver or wax sample produced for a try-on appointment at our Hatton Garden showroom. The sample stage is particularly useful for side stone rings, because it allows the proportion of the shoulder stones relative to the centre stone to be assessed before casting. Once the sample is approved, the ring is cast in the chosen metal, the centre stone and side stones are set by hand, the ring is finished, polished, and hallmarked at the London Assay Office. Simpler side stone configurations — such as a plain tapered shoulder with two round accent stones — sit toward the shorter end of that window. More intricate pavé shoulders land closer to 14 working days.

Caring for a side stone engagement ring day to day

Side stone engagement rings require the same general care as any diamond-set ring, with one specific consideration: the multiple stone settings on the shoulders mean there are more individual claws or channel walls to monitor over time.

A gentle clean with warm water and a soft brush removes everyday build-up from beneath and between the accent stones, where debris tends to accumulate in pavé and channel settings. Periodic professional checks — every 12 to 18 months — allow any loosened claws or shifted channel walls to be tightened before stones are at risk of movement. Platinum and 18ct gold are the most durable metal choices for side stone rings worn daily, given the density of setting work on the shoulders. Every President Jewellers ring carries a lifetime warranty, and resizing is complimentary for life.