When it comes to engagement rings, there are countless styles to choose from. One of the most popular styles in recent years is the East West engagement ring. But what exactly is an East West engagement ring?

What is an East West Engagement Ring?

An East West engagement ring is a style where the center stone is set horizontally across the finger, as opposed to the traditional vertical setting. This unique style gives the ring a modern, contemporary feel and has become increasingly popular among brides-to-be.

The History of East West Engagement Rings

The East West engagement ring has a surprisingly long history, dating back to the 1920s. During this time, the Art Deco movement was in full swing, and jewelers began experimenting with new and innovative designs. The horizontal setting of the center stone was a departure from the traditional vertical setting, and it quickly became a popular trend.

However, the popularity of East West engagement rings waned over time, and it wasn't until recently that the trend saw a resurgence. With the rise of social media and the desire for unique and personalized jewelry, East West engagement rings have once again become a popular choice for brides-to-be.

What Makes an East West Engagement Ring Unique?

The horizontal setting of the center stone is what sets East West engagement rings apart from traditional engagement rings. This unique setting gives the ring a modern and contemporary feel and allows the center stone to be showcased in a new and innovative way. Additionally, the horizontal setting elongates the finger, making it a flattering choice for those who want to create the illusion of longer, more slender fingers.

Types of East West Engagement Rings

While the basic design of an East West engagement ring is the same - a horizontally set center stone - there are a variety of styles to choose from. Here are a few of the most popular types of East West engagement rings:

Solitaire East West Engagement Ring - The most classic of the East West styles, the solitaire East West engagement ring features a single center stone set horizontally across the finger.

Three Stone East West Engagement Ring - The three stone East West engagement ring features three horizontally set stones, with the center stone being slightly larger than the two side stones.

Halo East West Engagement Ring - The halo East West engagement ring features a center stone that is surrounded by a halo of smaller diamonds, all set horizontally.

East West Pear Engagement Ring - The East West pear engagement ring features a pear-shaped center stone that is set horizontally, giving it a unique and contemporary feel.

Choosing the Right East West Engagement Ring

When it comes to choosing the right East West engagement ring, there are a few things to consider. First and foremost, it's important to choose a design that you love and that feels true to your personal style. Additionally, you'll want to consider the size and shape of the center stone, as well as the type of metal used for the band.

It's also important to choose a reputable jeweler who specializes in engagement rings. Look for a jeweler who offers a wide selection of East West engagement rings and who can guide you through the process of choosing the perfect ring.

Caring for Your East West Engagement Ring

Once you've chosen your perfect East West engagement ring, it's important to take good care of it to ensure that it lasts a lifetime. Here are a few tips for caring for your East West engagement ring:

Clean your ring regularly - Use a gentle jewelry cleaner and a soft-bristled brush to clean your ring regularly.

Store your ring safely - When you're not wearing your ring, store it in a safe and secure place, such as a jewelry box or safe.

Take your ring off when doing certain activities. 

The Pros and Cons of East West Engagement Rings

When considering an East West engagement ring, it's important to weigh the pros and cons. Here are a few to keep in mind:

Pros:

• Unique and unconventional design that sets it apart from traditional engagement rings

• Elongates the finger and creates a more dramatic look

• Can be made with a variety of gemstones and metals

• Can be more affordable than a traditional diamond solitaire ring due to the smaller size of the center stone

Cons:

• May not be as timeless or classic as traditional engagement ring designs

• May not be as versatile in terms of styling as other jewelry

• Requires a specific setting and design, which can limit options for customization or resizing

• May not suit everyone's personal style or taste

Overall, East West engagement rings can be a great option for couples looking for a unique and modern twist on traditional engagement ring designs. However, it's important to carefully consider the pros and cons and ensure that the design fits both your personal style and your lifestyle.

How to Choose an East West Engagement Ring

If you've decided that an East West engagement ring is right for you, there are a few things to consider when choosing a specific design.

First, think about the center stone. While smaller stones may be more affordable, they may not have the same impact as a larger stone in an East West setting. Consider the shape and size of the stone, as well as the quality and color.

Next, consider the setting and metal. An East West setting can be made with a variety of metals, including yellow gold, rose gold, white gold, and platinum. Think about which metal will best complement the center stone and your personal style.

Finally, consider the overall design and style of the ring. Do you want a minimalist, understated look, or something bold and more dramatic? Do you prefer a simple solitaire setting or something with additional accent stones or intricate details?

By considering these factors and working with a reputable jeweler or designer, you can create an East West engagement ring that is both unique and perfect for you.

Conclusion

An East West engagement ring is a modern and unconventional take on traditional engagement ring designs. With its horizontal orientation and elongated center stone, it creates a unique and eye-catching look that is perfect for couples looking for something different.

Whether you choose a simple solitaire design or something with additional accent stones and intricate details, an East West engagement ring can be a beautiful and meaningful symbol of your love and commitment. Just be sure to consider the pros and cons and choose a design that fits both your personal style and your lifestyle.