Plain Band vs. Diamond Band, Which is Better?

So—you’ve found The One (phew) and you’ve found an exceptional, glamourous center stone for your engagement ring. But when it comes to the ring band, you have a few more choices to make.

What are the options for my ring band?

The band decision really comes down to two choices: a plain band or a band with diamond accents. The more ‘traditional’ of the two, a plain metal band is what comes to mind for most when thinking of engagement bands. Simple and to the point. There are a variety of metals to choose from, but the most popular is gold. On the flip side (and gaining popularity lately) is a band detailed with diamonds, either partially or fully around the band.

Choosing a plain band

A plain engagement band is sometimes overlooked for its simplicity, but here at DiamondNet we know these bands are anything but boring. From a symbolic point of view, many of our clients are drawn to an unbroken band of gold as a bold and clear representation of their lasting love.

A plain band is a great way to bring more attention to the stone in the middle. The contrast of gemstone and metal will have the effect of making your center stone appear bigger than it is—boo yah.

Practicality is another concern. If your vocation or lifestyle is rough on hands, a plain band makes sense. No diamonds along the band means significantly less cleaning needed and no stones to chip or cracks.

Plain engagement rings

Choosing a diamond band

If you’ve decided you want a little more glitz, additional diamonds might be the right move. There are two main camps of diamond bands: pavé setting and channel setting. A channel setting is one that arranges small, uniform diamonds set in rows within a channel. The gemstones are identical in shape and quality and are set right just below or flush with the band. A channel setting is a great option for your engagement band if:

• You want your additional diamonds to be securely held in place with minimal risk of falling out
• You lead an active lifestyle and don’t need the stress of losing small diamonds
• You don’t want your ring to get caught on objects when wearing it

A pavé setting is when the metal band appears to have been ‘paved’ with little diamonds. These diamonds sit on the top of the band, held in place by itsy bitsy prongs or beads. Because the flow and reflection of light is light with a pavé, pavé set rings take the prize for being brilliant and dazzling. Channel settings have a more subdued (but secure) sparkle.

A final thought: pavé settings emphasize the diamonds while channel settings highlight both the chosen metal and the stones.

Both a plain and diamond-accented band can be magical—making the choice will come down to your personal preference. If you like the way the plain band shows off your center diamond, consider getting an eternity style wedding band to fulfill your bling quota.