When it comes to engagement rings, most people imagine the classic, vertical orientation of a diamond. But for those looking for something a little different — a modern twist on tradition — East-West diamond engagement rings are making waves. These rings set the diamond horizontally across the band, offering a fresh and unique take on the classic engagement ring.

In this article, we’ll explore everything you need to know about East-West diamond rings, from the best diamond shapes to why this style is becoming a favourite for brides who want a truly one-of-a-kind look.

A Fresh Spin on Traditional Engagement Ring Settings

East-West diamond rings are all about turning convention on its side — literally. Instead of setting the diamond vertically, like in most traditional engagement rings, the stone is placed horizontally across the band. This seemingly simple change makes a big difference in the overall look and feel of the ring.

The result is a striking, contemporary design that stands out from the crowd while still maintaining an elegant and timeless appeal. This setting works particularly well with elongated diamonds, such as marquise, oval, and emerald cuts. The horizontal orientation adds visual interest and a modern edge to the ring, making it perfect for brides who want something unique but still classic.

For those considering an East-West setting, make sure to check out our engagement rings collection for stunning designs that suit any style.

The Best Diamond Shapes for an East-West Setting

Not all diamond shapes lend themselves to an East-West setting, but several do so beautifully. Oval, marquise, and emerald-cut diamonds are popular choices because their elongated shapes look stunning when set horizontally. These shapes already have a natural elegance, and placing them in an East-West setting enhances their length, making the finger appear slender and elongated.

For a bold and adventurous look, a marquise diamond is ideal. With its pointed ends and unique shape, it’s perfect for those who want something a little daring. Oval diamonds, on the other hand, offer a softer, more romantic appearance. When placed horizontally, an oval diamond creates a flattering, understated elegance.

Emerald-cut diamonds, with their clean lines and step-cut facets, take on a sleek, modern look when set East-West. Pear-shaped diamonds are another interesting choice. While they are typically set with the point facing up or down, an East-West setting gives them an entirely new dimension of elegance and individuality.

Genuine Story: A couple I know fell in love with the East-West setting because of its unconventional charm. They chose a marquise diamond in this orientation for its avant-garde appeal, and it became a conversation piece that reflected their bold, modern style.

Explore more unique and large diamond styles in our large diamond rings collection for standout pieces that capture attention.

Why More Brides Are Choosing East-West Diamond Rings

East-West diamond rings are becoming increasingly popular, and it’s easy to see why. Brides love them because they offer a unique twist on the classic engagement ring, allowing for individuality without straying too far from tradition. One of the biggest appeals of this setting is that it makes the diamond appear larger.

By setting the stone horizontally, the surface area of the diamond looks more prominent, giving the ring a bold, eye-catching presence. This is a great option for those who want a ring that stands out without necessarily having to invest in a larger diamond. Another reason brides are drawn to East-West rings is their practicality.

The horizontal orientation often means a lower profile, making these rings more comfortable and easier to wear every day.

If you’re looking for an engagement ring that blends practicality with modern style, explore our lab-grown diamonds for eco-conscious, ethical choices that don’t compromise on beauty.

How to Pair East-West Diamonds with Different Band Styles

The beauty of the East-West setting is how versatile it is, allowing it to pair beautifully with a variety of band styles. For those who prefer a minimalist look, a sleek, simple band allows the horizontally-set diamond to take centre stage. A plain metal band can give the ring a modern, understated elegance that focuses all the attention on the stone.

If you’re looking for a bit more sparkle, consider a pavé band. The small diamonds set along the band will complement the East-West diamond, adding extra brilliance without overshadowing the main stone. Twisted or split-shank bands are also fantastic choices for this style.

These more intricate designs bring additional visual interest, creating a dynamic look that enhances the ring’s overall appeal.

Genuine Story: One couple opted for an East-West oval diamond with a twisted band.

The mix of the classic diamond shape and the modern setting with a playful twist made their ring both timeless and unique, perfectly reflecting their personal style. For additional sparkle and charm, explore our collection of eternity rings, perfect for pairing with an East-West diamond engagement ring.

Customising Your East-West Engagement Ring

Like any engagement ring, an East-West setting offers endless possibilities for customisation. You can personalise your ring by choosing a metal that complements your style, whether it’s timeless yellow gold, modern platinum, or romantic rose gold. Adding side stones or a halo can also elevate the design, creating extra sparkle and making the main diamond pop even more.

For a truly one-of-a-kind ring, consider using a coloured gemstone instead of a traditional diamond. Sapphires, emeralds, or even morganite can be stunning alternatives that give your East-West ring a personal and distinctive touch.

Genuine Story: A bride I worked with customised her East-West emerald-cut diamond ring with a rose gold band and diamond accents. The combination created a romantic, vintage-inspired look that was entirely her own, making the ring as unique as her love story.

For more inspiration, browse our selection of diamond pendants and necklaces for additional design ideas.

East-West Rings for Minimalist, Vintage, and Modern Styles

One of the best things about East-West engagement rings is how adaptable they are to different styles. Whether your aesthetic leans more towards minimalist, vintage, or modern, there’s an East-West ring that will suit your taste.For a minimalist bride, a simple East-West solitaire with a clean metal band offers elegance without excess.

The horizontal setting adds just enough interest to make it stand out without being overly flashy. If you love vintage-inspired designs, you can incorporate intricate details like filigree, milgrain edges, or a halo setting.

These elements add a touch of old-world charm to the modern East-West orientation. For a bold, contemporary look, consider geometric elements like baguette-cut side stones or angular bands.

These modern details complement the East-West diamond and create a truly striking, architectural piece.

Find the perfect match for your unique style by exploring our engagement rings collection.

Comparing East-West and Traditional Diamond Engagement Ring Settings

When deciding between an East-West or traditional vertical setting, it’s important to consider your personal style and how you want your ring to look and feel. Traditional engagement rings with North-South settings are timeless and classic. This vertical orientation has been the standard for centuries and offers an elegant, familiar look.

In contrast, East-West settings bring a more modern and unconventional vibe. The horizontal orientation gives the ring a unique twist that stands out while still feeling sophisticated. If you want something that feels fresh and different but still elegant, an East-West setting might be the perfect choice.

For those who love variety, check out our stunning collection of wedding bands that can complement both East-West and traditional settings.

FAQs: All You Need to Know About East-West Diamond Engagement Rings

What is an East-West diamond engagement ring?

An East-West diamond engagement ring is a ring in which the diamond is set horizontally across the band, rather than in the traditional vertical orientation. This unique setting gives the ring a modern and distinctive look.

Can any diamond shape be used in an East-West setting?

Not all diamond shapes work well in an East-West setting, but elongated shapes like oval, marquise, emerald, and pear cuts are particularly stunning. Round and square shapes don’t typically lend themselves as well to this setting.

Are East-West rings more comfortable to wear?

Yes, many East-West rings are designed with a lower profile, making them more comfortable for everyday wear. The horizontal setting often sits closer to the finger, reducing the risk of snagging on clothing or other objects.

Are East-West diamond rings more expensive than traditional rings?

The cost of an East-West ring depends more on the diamond and the overall design than the setting itself. Since the setting is unique, some custom designs may increase the price, but the overall cost is comparable to traditional engagement rings.

Why East-West Diamond Rings Are Perfect for the Bold Bride

East-West diamond engagement rings are ideal for brides who want to put their personal twist on tradition. They offer a unique, modern look while still maintaining the timeless beauty of a diamond ring. Whether you prefer minimalist elegance, vintage charm, or bold modern designs, an East-West setting can elevate your engagement ring into something truly special.

If you’re looking for a ring that feels different, creative, and distinctively yours, an East-West diamond engagement ring could be the perfect choice to symbolise your unique love story.