Thimble: vintage marquise halo, cathedral

What this ring is made of

Marquise

Long and pointed at both ends, with one of the largest face-up spreads for its weight. The two points are vulnerable and need prongs or a protective tip, and the shape can show a bow-tie like an oval.

Prongs

Small metal claws hold the stone from above. They let in the most light and show the most of the stone, and they should be checked by a jeweler every year or so.

Halo

A ring of small diamonds right around the center stone. It makes the center read larger and adds sparkle, but it also adds width and makes the head of the ring busier.

Cathedral shoulders

Arches rise from the band to cradle the stone, lifting it and framing it from the side. They add height, so check how the ring sits against a glove or a coat sleeve.

Milgrain

A row of tiny beads along the edges. It is the detail that makes a ring look antique, and it softens the line where metal meets stone.

18k rose gold

18k rose gold gets its pink tint from copper. It is warm and flattering, and the color does not wear off because it runs through the metal.