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Ever tried on a ring and noticed it doesn’t quite look right? That’s because not every ring is designed universally or made to work with every hand. And when it comes to engagement rings, the rules are no different. Short, long, small or large — everyone’s hands and fingers are different and unique. So when you choose a dream engagement ring that you will wear for a lifetime, you need it to feel and look perfect on your hand.
So just exactly what type of engagement ring is right for my hand? Below are some guidelines to help you choose the most flattering diamond cut and band style for everything from small to large hands to long, short and wide fingers.
Long Fingers
Just about any diamond shape will look elegant on long, slender fingers. However, that being said, round cut styles like round brilliant or princess cut engagement rings and cushion cut engagement rings look spectacular. Generally speaking, though, longer fingers can carry bigger, bolder cuts and styles, if you choose to do so. In addition, a thicker, heavier band is essential. Longer fingers can also accommodate split shanks and a horizontal setting without overpowering the hand.
For those individuals with slender “piano” fingers, you want to add some width. Consider a band that has smaller stones or a double row of pavé diamonds, giving the illusion of a wider band while not adding too much girth on the hand. An infinity band also looks lovely on long, slender fingers.
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Short Fingers
“Short” is somewhat relative, so what does it mean to have short fingers? Short fingers are, by definition, shorter than the length of the palm. So, for someone who has shorter fingers, you want to elongate them with an illusion
The best type of engagement ring for short fingers is one with a long-shaped diamond that runs lengthwise along the finger. A north-south positioned pear-shaped engagement ring and oval-shaped engagement ring can give your ring finger some stretch, making your fingers appear longer than they truly are. A north-south marquise or rectangular emerald-shaped diamond can lengthen, too. A wide band will do you no favors here either, so stick with a more slender, narrow band.
Wide Fingers
For those with wide fingers, the objective is to take up space on your hand. An engagement ring with a cluster setting, three-stone setting or something with a larger band is one way to do it. So skip the petite settings and thin bands if you have this type of finger. Instead, feel free to go big and bold. You can also give the illusion of length to your wide fingers by choosing a more elongated engagement ring cut.
So, when it comes to elongated ring cuts and shapes, you have a few different options. Oval engagement rings are a fantastic option for wide fingers, still offering a softer look. However, if you want to go dramatic and bold, an emerald cut is a wonderful option as well. Other cuts and shapes that match wide fingers nicely are marquise cut and radiant cut. Wide fingers also give a lot of room for play, allowing you to choose asymmetrical or angular setting designs.
Small Hands
For those with smaller, petite hands, you want to avoid wearing something that is visually overpowering. Large diamonds or halo settings that accentuate the diamond might be a bit too much. Instead, aim for a one carat diamond for a more refined balance. Another option would be to wear a diamond pavé style wedding band with no center diamond. However, if you need that classic engagement ring look, the best diamond shapes for small hands are round, princess and oval cuts.
Large Hands
Large hands need a more substantial ring or something that is big and bold. To play off hands that have larger proportions, make the center stone diamond appear bigger with a halo style setting or select a semi-mount setting with an intricately detailed band. In other words, with larger hands, you can get away with a lot of creativity and personality.
Other Considerations
Choosing the best type of engagement ring for your hand can also come down to a few extra factors.
Nail Length
What type of nail length do you often wear? If you prefer to keep them neat and trimmed, then you should follow the guidelines listed above on the finger lengths and widths. However, if you wear your nails long or shaped a specific way, this is something you should keep in mind when choosing an engagement ring cut and style. Longer nails will lengthen your fingers. So if you have shorter, petite fingers, but long fingernails, you might get away with a larger, bolder ring.
Lifestyle
Chances are you might have manicured nails that are trimmed back due to your lifestyle. If you are more active and prefer keeping your fingers clean, you probably prefer your engagement ring the same way. However, if you are always sporting the latest fashionable color on your salon-quality nails, then you won’t mind a bigger ring.
Find an Authorized Verragio Retailer
If you have your heart set on a specific style engagement ring setting or diamond cut, do what makes you happy. Your idea of a dream ring might not reflect the guidelines we listed above — and that’s perfectly suitable, too! Ultimately, the choice is yours. However, take the time to explore the countless options that Verragio offers. Want to try them on in person? We welcome you to use our authorized retailer locator where you will find showrooms across the United States, as well as Canada, Europe and beyond.