If you’ve decided to take your relationship to the next level and propose, then you may already know that choosing an engagement ring is exciting but not always easy. As master jewelers with extensive experience in creating bespoke jewelry for happy couples worldwide, we have one piece of advice: If you want to find an engagement ring that your partner truly loves, focus on a design that complements their hands!
But between the band size, stone cut and shape, metals, and a seemingly infinite array of styles, selecting “the right one” can feel daunting. To ease your decision-making process, our master jewelers have compiled a comprehensive guide offering expert insights on choosing a Mokume engagement ring that fits beautifully on your or your loved one’s hand.
How to Determine the Hand Shape
Knowing your or your partner’s hand shape is as crucial as knowing the ring size. Every hand is unique, and the right ring can make all the difference. Consider these factors when determining your hand shape:
- Finger length
- Finger width
- Palm size
- Overall hand size
Additionally, nail length can also influence the appearance of your hand. Remember, there’s a perfect ring style for every hand shape. Hands vary widely in shape and size, and there’s no one-size-fits-all standard. Our tips will help you find the perfect ring style for you or your partner.
A Few Words on Diamond Shapes and Cuts
Engagement rings traditionally have at least one gemstone, so it’s natural to wonder what shape and cut to choose. However, diamond shapes (and stone shapes in general) go in and out of fashion. We’ve seen the rise of shapes like emerald, pear, and marquise cuts and heightened interest in vintage styles. Still, timeless cuts like round brilliant, princess, cushion, marquise, and oval remain consistently stylish. A classic shape like a Tiffany-style solitaire is always a safe and elegant choice. It’s also worth mentioning that natural diamonds can always be reset to match future styles.
Engagement Ring Designs for Every Type of Hand and Fingers
Consider the diamond shape and ring style to choose an engagement ring that complements your partner’s hand. Certain shapes and styles look naturally better on specific hand types. Explore the options below to find the perfect match for your partner’s hands.
Small Hands
Symmetrical, non-elongated diamond cuts like round, Asscher, princess, or cushion complement petite hands beautifully. Smaller stones can be a more flattering choice, as large stones might appear disproportionate on a tiny hand. Delicate rings with slender bands and small stones complement small hands beautifully. Consider classic cuts like round or princess-cut diamonds for a romantic yet elegant style. If your partner has wider or shorter fingers, angular diamond shapes can be more flattering for their hand. A thin band with slightly longer diamond shapes perfectly combines a small hand with slimmer fingers.
The delicate round-cut diamond (0.3ct) flanked by a channel of nine diamonds makes the Iris Mokume Gane Engagement Ring astounding without overwhelming petite hand proportions.
Square hands
Square hands have ring fingers, middle fingers, and pointer fingers of similar length, often short. Engagement rings with rounded diamond shapes like round, oval, pear, or marquise will visually soften the square look, adding contrast and balance. Square-cut diamonds mimic the square hand shape, which might not be ideal for those who prefer a more feminine style. Engagement rings with a bezel setting look bold and sleek without being visually overwhelming. A bezel surrounds the diamond with metal, creating a unique and elegant ring.
Large Hands
Large hands can handle bolder, more attention-grabbing engagement rings without being overshadowed. Instead of focusing solely on a large center stone, consider the setting to make a significant impact. Three-stone, halo, vintage, cluster, or split-shank settings can all draw attention and compliment a bigger hand.
For those who prefer a larger diamond, larger hands offer the flexibility to choose from a wider range of shapes and cuts. Focus on a diamond that appears substantial to fill your hand. This effect can be achieved with a large center stone or by using settings like a halo or double halo to create the illusion of a larger diamond. Cluster settings and stacked bands not only increase gemstone size optically but are also excellent options for those on a budget. Another option is to choose larger, more affordable diamond alternative gemstones (like spinel, citrine, or garnet) that reflect a wearer’s style while flattering their hand.
Long fingers
While most diamond shapes complement long fingers, the size and setting can significantly impact the overall look. Larger diamonds and elongated shapes like emerald, pear, or moval can look particularly luxurious. The setting is also crucial for choosing the perfect engagement ring for someone with elongated fingers. Curved rings, stacked rings, or thicker bands can create a striking look that highlights the long fingers. Round or princess-cut diamonds are classic choices for long fingers, too. Don’t hesitate to choose a bezel or halo setting to create a more substantial appearance. Additionally, people with larger palms often have long fingers that may not be slim. For these hands, a delicate ring might appear understated. Opt for more dramatic styles with larger bands or intricate designs.
Short Fingers
For short fingers, symmetrical diamond shapes like round, square, or Asscher create a balanced look. Avoid elongated shapes to prevent the ring from feeling overwhelming. Consider pear, oval, or marquise cuts set vertically to achieve a longer appearance. A narrow band can also visually elongate short fingers. For a balanced look, avoid oversized diamonds. If you are looking for an engagement ring for short, wide fingers, a narrow band with a pear-shaped diamond can be a flattering choice.
Wide Fingers
Choose a stone that fills out their width to make wider fingers appear slimmer. Oval and marquise shapes set horizontally, wider at the center, and tapering towards the ends create a lengthening illusion. A three-stone setting with a larger center stone offers a round-cut alternative while maintaining this effect. Avoid narrow stones (like marquise-cut set vertically) as they can emphasize wider fingers.
Larger, wider, square stones cover more of the finger, creating a slimmer look. Consider pear-shaped, emerald-cut, or princess-cut diamonds for their balancing shapes. For an elongated look, opt for an elliptical central stone set vertically. Smaller diamonds – running the length of the band – are also excellent for drawing the eyes outward. Cluster settings with diamonds surrounding the center stone can also cover more of the finger and draw attention away from its width. Choose a medium to thick band to emphasize the ring and minimize the focus on your fingers.
Read also: Should You Wedding Band Match Your Engagement Ring
Thin Fingers
Many people assume that thinner fingers look good in every engagement ring setting. In fact, it’s quite easy to overwhelm these proportions. Elongated shapes like oval or marquise diamonds are a great choice for thin fingers, and they provide a balanced look. Avoid engagement rings with round, square, princess, or radiant cuts, making the finger appear even slimmer. Solitaire diamonds with medium-wide bands are a classic choice that looks stunning on slender fingers.
Consider a thicker band with a smaller stone to create the illusion of wider fingers. Horizontal, wider stones can also add width. For a slimmer finger appearance, choose diamonds cut in longer styles. A narrow marquise style adds a vintage touch, while symmetrical stones maintain a slim look.
Large Knuckles
Choose wider bands or more elaborate settings to balance larger knuckles and draw attention away from them. Avoid thin bands, as they can emphasize the knuckles. Three-stone settings, cluster settings, or other styles with a wider surface area can create a balanced look and highlight the ring’s design.
Which Ring Style Works Best for All Hands?
Round-cut solitaire settings look amazing on every hand, which is why they are unquestionably the first choice for brides-to-be (accounting for around 75% of the engagement ring market).
Another excellent style is the halo engagement ring setting, which offers affordable options and a dramatic payoff. Center stones are magnified with multiple gemstone accents, especially when the prongs are indiscernible.
Easy Tips to Choose the Best Engagement Ring
Before making any purchase, give yourself enough time to review your options. If you visit a jewelry shop for inspiration, have your partner try on multiple bands in various stone settings. Rings often look entirely different in cases and on hands. Your jeweler can offer guidance.
Read also: How to Buy the Perfect Engagement Ring
Accurately measuring your future fiancée’s ring finger will ensure you purchase the correct size. A pinching engagement ring will appear painful and unflattering on her hand, no matter if she has wide or slender fingers. If it’s too loose on her hand, the ring will shift constantly and uncomfortably.
Let Us Help You Choose an Engagement Ring That Fits Beautifully
At Jaume Labro, we understand the importance of finding an engagement ring that looks stunning on your partner’s hand and reflects their style. We are dedicated to crafting bespoke engagement rings that fit beautifully and make a lasting impression. Browse our wide range of styles for inspiration, or contact our team to start designing your engagement ring today.
