The solitaire is a single stone and nothing else, and it remains the most requested engagement ring design we make. There is nowhere for a poor stone to hide, which is exactly why it is the setting that rewards spending on quality over size.This collection includes the Artemis old cut diamond platinum ring, the Brigid 8.42ct cushion cut, the Cleopatra 3.99ct diamond ring, Eugene, Jackson, Luna and Petra. Between them they run from restrained classic mounts to significant stones.What varies most in a solitaire is the claw arrangement. Four claws show more of the stone and give a squarer outline. Six claws hold more securely and read rounder, which is the safer choice for an active hand or a larger stone. Claw height matters too. A higher setting lets more light underneath and makes the stone look bigger, while a lower setting catches less on clothing and sits better under a wedding band.Because a solitaire puts everything on one stone, cut quality matters more here than in any other design. A well cut stone of modest colour and clarity will outperform a larger, better graded stone that has been cut for weight rather than beauty.Our guide to the Four Cs explains how to read a certificate, ring styles compares the settings, and the complete guide to engagement rings walks through the whole decision.