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Diamond & Jewelry News, Advice and Prices for Consumers

Three-Stone Diamond Rings

May 9, 2010 | Updated Nov 14, 2010 15:07 by JoeDiamond

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What is a Three Stone Diamond Ring?

Also known as a trilogy ring or trinity ring, the three-stone diamond engagement ring is essentially a precious metal band adorned with three horizontally-set diamonds. Frequently symbolizing everlasting love and devotion, the three stone diamond ring is a beautiful and meaningful alternative to the solitaire diamond engagement ring

What Does the Three Stone Diamond Ring Symbolize?

The three stone diamond engagement ring can mean different things to different people, although most frequently it is associated with romance and love.

The most widely accepted significance of the three-stone diamond ring is that its three diamonds represent the ‘past’, ‘present’ and ‘future’ of a couple’s relationship.  Similarly, the three stones are also popularly taken to represent ‘now’, ‘forever’ & ‘always’.   The ring, then, embodies a lifetime of love and enduring commitment. These two prevalent interpretations of the three-stone setting have made the three stone diamond ring a popular gift between couples. Gifting this ring is a memorable way to honor one’s relationship, all of the memories and experiences that preceded and enabled the relationship, and the amazing journey still ahead. It is the ideal way to say “I love you now”, “I’ll love you forever, and “I’ve always loved you.”

The three stone diamond ring may also carry a religious significance.  With the three diamonds corresponding to the Father, Son, and Holy Ghost, to many Christians it may represent the Holy Trinity. 

Three Stone Diamond Ring Occasions

The three stone diamond ring was first introduced into the jewelry industry as an anniversary ring. Only later did it become a popular style of engagement ring. Today, the three stone diamond ring is quite universal.  It is a romantic way to celebrate one’s engagement, one’s wedding day or one’s anniversary.  It can also be gifted to a mother or father upon the birth of a child with the center stone representing the newborn baby and the side stones signifying the proud parents: a wonderful depiction of the new family unit.  Other special events such as Valentine’s Day, Christening or a special birthday are just as appropriate for a three-stone diamond ring.   

What Does the Three Stone Diamond Ring Look Like?

The three stone diamond ring can be set with a variety of combinations of diamond cuts and designs that allow for a wide range of options for the consumer. 

In terms of size, the most common arrangement is for all diamonds to be of equal size.  However they can also be arranged with a larger diamond set in the middle of two smaller matching diamonds or the 3 diamonds can all graduate in size with a fractionally large central diamond. 

The most commonly used diamond shapes for the three stone diamond engagement ring are the Princess Cut or Round Brilliant, as they fit together smoothly.  Other common shapes for the diamonds in the trilogy ring are Oval, Emerald, Asscher, and Marquise cut.  While it is more typical for all three stones to be the same shape it is possible to combine different shapes on the same ring.  For example, an Emerald cut can be combined with two Trapezium cut diamonds, or a Princess cut with two Trilliant diamonds set on either side. However it’s not likely to find a heart-shaped cut in a three stone ring as it does not fit well with other cuts.       

Three stone diamond rings can also be set with a diamond and other semi-precious gem stones such as sapphire, emerald, and ruby.  Placing birthstones on both sides of a diamond can be a uniquely meaningful arrangement. Some women prefer to add filigree embellishments along the edges.  Still other more elaborate rings showcase three stones with additional side or accent stones. The three stone ring can be fashioned with different metals, sometimes featuring a two-toned design.  While the stones can be set in any way, in a classic three stone diamond ring  the stones are prong set and the center stone may be slightly elevated.  Finally, some rings may be further embellished by custom engraved messages.