All About Cathedral Engagement Rings

Cathedrals are architectural wonders that evoke grandeur with soaring beams, pointed arches, airy designs, and intricate details. You can bring the beauty of cathedrals to meaningful jewelry with cathedral engagement rings. These rings echo many of the beloved details of cathedrals in smaller scale, giving diamonds and gemstones stunning settings to enhance the ring’s overall design.

The iconic cathedral setting differs from other classic engagement rings, with unique benefits and considerations. Learn more about cathedral settings to see if this ring design is the right choice for your engagement ring purchase. Our guide to cathedral ring settings includes details about what makes this design special, buying tips and answers to common FAQs about cathedral settings.

What is a Cathedral Engagement Ring?

A cathedral engagement ring is one that uses a raised setting to elevate the height of diamonds or gemstones. It often has arches that rise around the setting as well, emulating the features of classic cathedral ceilings.

Exact designs can vary between cathedral engagement rings. Some use solitaire settings with cathedral elements; others use pavé details, claw prongs, bezel settings, or multi-colored settings. The defining feature of a cathedral engagement ring is an elevated center stone. Cathedral setting rings can vary greatly in their exact designs, using the raised settings as their signature element.

Cathedral Setting Design

Cathedral setting engagement rings can vary greatly in their designs. They all have elevated settings, but the exact designs can differ from there. White gold, rose gold, yellow gold, and platinum are the most popular metals for cathedral ring settings with diamonds as the leading stone for these rings. There are also cathedral setting rings with gemstones available.

Arches on either side of the main cathedral setting are popular styles for these rings. The added arches create a design that resembles actual cathedrals, giving these rings elevated elegance.

Other cathedral setting designs include hidden halo cathedrals, gemstone details, pavé elements, diamond sidestones, and milgrain accents.

Benefits of Cathedral Ring Settings

There are numerous benefits to cathedral engagement ring designs. These popular rings have numerous pros:

Enhanced center diamond or gemstone appearance. The elevated cathedral setting draws more attention to the center gem, often making it look larger due to its elevation. Many cathedral settings have more open sides for the center stone, allowing greater light to enter the stone and improve its appearance.
Added security for settings. The extra arches in many cathedral rings add additional points of contact between the setting and the rest of the ring. This improves the security of the ring design, making it stronger and more stable.
Easy wedding ring pairing. Cathedral ring settings are easy to stack with many kinds of wedding rings. The elevated height of cathedral rings makes them easy to wear in ring stacks without large gaps.
Space for added details. While many cathedral settings support the classic look of solitaire engagement rings, the elevated cathedral settings also add room for extra details and surprises. Many hidden halo engagement rings use cathedral settings and there are additional bonus details that can fit in ring cathedrals.

Cathedral Engagement Ring Considerations

There are also some considerations to keep in mind when shopping for cathedral engagement rings. While there aren’t exact cons to cathedral ring settings, there are considerations:

Greater need for regular cleaning. The heightened cathedral settings and any added details can catch dirt or debris over time. It’s best to regularly clean cathedral rings to keep them looking their best.
Snagging potential. Elevated settings carry a greater risk for snagging on clothes. This is especially notable for cathedral setting rings with claw prongs rather than bezel settings. But with extra precautions, these rings can stay safe.

With a little care and regular cleaning, cathedral engagement rings can last lifetimes.

FAQs About Cathedral Settings

Does a cathedral setting make diamonds look bigger?

Some cathedral settings can make center diamonds or gemstones look a little larger. The taller settings and open sides can help center stones look more prominent.

What is the difference between cathedral settings and non-cathedral rings?

The key difference is a higher setting for cathedral rings. They also often include two additional arches along the main setting.

Are cathedral rings timeless?

Though cathedral ring settings are unique, they are often timeless choices. They incorporate classic designs with subtle touches of creativity for rings that are eye-catching yet classic.

What designs are popular for this ring style?

The most popular cathedral rings feature accent diamonds or gemstones set with a center stone in the middle. White gold, yellow gold and platinum are the most popular metals for cathedral setting rings.

How do I find the right ring size?

You can use our free ring sizers to find the perfect fit.

Why choose a cathedral ring setting?

Women’s engagement rings, men’s engagement rings and gender-neutral engagement rings are all personal choices that should reflect the wearer’s tastes. People with an appreciation for classic design, unique details or elevated center stones will appreciate the cathedral ring setting.

Cathedral Engagement Ring Buying Tips

It’s important to buy cathedral rings from trustworthy jewelers. At Blue Nile, we make it easy to find the perfect engagement ring. When shopping for cathedral setting rings, focus on designs that match the wearer’s personality and your budget.

If you’re shopping for a diamond cathedral ring, familiarize yourself with the 4Cs of diamonds. You can also visit our engagement ring buying guide for tips on purchasing any style of cathedral ring.