Side Stones: The Subtle Detail That Can Transform a Ring

When you think of an engagement ring, it’s usually the centre diamond that comes to mind. But one of the most beautiful - and often overlooked details in fine jewellery design is the use of side stones.

Side stones, or accent stones, are smaller diamonds set on either side of the main stone. And while they may not be the star of the show, they can completely change the overall look and feel of a ring. Whether you're going for soft and romantic or crisp and contemporary, the right side stones bring balance, personality, and that all-important finishing touch.

Why Add Side Stones?

Side stones aren’t just there for decoration. They serve a purpose - both visually and emotionally.

• They draw the eye in
  The right side stones create flow and focus, guiding attention straight to the centre stone.
• They define the mood of the ring
  Angular cuts like trapezoids or baguettes create a stronger, more structured look. Rounded shapes like pears or half-moons feel softer and more romantic.
  
• They give more finger coverage
  If you're after a bigger look without increasing the size of your centre diamond, side stones are a clever way to achieve a more substantial, show-stopping feel on the hand.
  
• They help you create something truly personal
  Side stones offer a chance to do something different - to make a classic trilogy feel a little more ‘you’. You can play with contrast, symmetry, proportion… or keep it simple and timeless.

Popular Side Stone Shapes

There’s a whole world beyond the usual baguette. Here are some of our favourites:

Baguette 

Sleek, rectangular, and quietly elegant

 

Tapered Baguette

Narrower at one end, perfect for drawing the eye inward

See how tapered baguettes draw the eye in beautifully (@thediamondexpertofficial)

 

Trapezoid

Bold, angular, and full of presence

Curious about trapezoid side stones? Watch them catch the light on our Instagram.

 

Half-Moon

Rounded and curved, perfect for softening more geometric shapes

 

Pear

Feminine, flattering, and a little unexpected

Discover the feminine elegance of pear side stones here.

 

Trilliant 

Triangular and full of fire, with a modern edge

 

Heart

Romantic and distinctive, adding a symbolic touch of love to any design

Fall in love with heart side stones. See how they look on the hand over on Instagram – it might just spark an idea of your own.

 

Kite

Angular and unusual, ideal for vintage-inspired designs

 

Cadillac

Broad and tapered with a touch of Gatsby glamour

 

Bullets

Long, sharp and architectural

 

Epaulette

A stylish mix between trapezoid and kite, for something a little offbeat

 

Triplicating Centre Stone

Side stones don’t have to be unique shapes to make an impact. Classic cuts can be triplicated in the same size or graduated smaller for a striking, balanced look. Below are two examples:

 

Pairing Side Stones with Your Chosen Centre Diamond Cut

Here’s a quick guide to which combinations work best. Of course, rules can be broken, but this is where most clients find the magic happens:

Round Brilliant

Looks beautiful with:
 – Tapered baguettes
 – Pear shapes
 – Round side stones for a full trilogy look

Cushion Cut

Works well with:
 – Half-moons (to echo the soft curves)
 – Trapezoids (for balance and shape)
 – Cadillac cuts (for strong vintage flair)

Emerald Cut

Best with:
– Trapezoids or baguettes for symmetry
– Bullets for a sharp, Art Deco feel
– Pear cut side stones for a softer, more romantic contrast

Oval Cut

Try with:
 – Pear cut side stones to elongate and flatter
–  Epaulettes - tapered and elegant, echo the curve while adding definition

 

More than one way to sparkle

While a single diamond side stone on each side of your centre diamond is the classic choice, we often create engagement ring styles that go further. Adding a double or even triple row of matching side stones can transform the look, creating a continuous band of brilliance. Whether the diamonds are the same size for a bold, modern feel, or gently graduated for a tapered, elegant finish, this design offers extra sparkle and a touch of individuality. It’s a beautiful way to personalise a custom engagement ring, and a style we often recommend to clients.

Choosing the perfect diamond cut is a deeply personal decision. It’s about your style, your hand shape, your budget, and how much finger coverage you would like. It’s the shape you haven’t been able to stop thinking about - the one that’s starred, saved, and pinned a hundred times.

Whether you’re drawn to the timeless sparkle of a round, the soft romance of a cushion, or the sleek sophistication of a step cut - we’ll guide you towards the cut that feels effortlessly, unmistakably you.

Want to see these side stones come to life? Explore our Engagement Collection to find inspiration for your own perfect ring.

Book a Private Appointment or message me directly on WhatsApp for your personal jewellery guidance. 

Thanks for reading,

The Diamond Expert