So, you’ve found your forever person, and now you’re ready to take the plunge and make a commitment. In doing so, every detail is articulately thought out, and of course, you’ll want a ring to represent that. All engagement rings are special, but it’s hard to find one that packs as much meaning as the three stone ring settings. The three stone ring setting, also known as a trio or trilogy ring is one of the most popular ring designs today. Offering both personality and additional glitter, the three stone ring setting is a beautiful and timeless choice. The general design is fairly self-explanatory – a center stone flanked by two side stones on either side.
Symbolism Behind Three-Stone Rings
Though the solitaire setting is the traditional & most popular choice, many couples are opting three-stone ring settings. The reason is not just that it looks remarkable but also something that it stands for. The three-stone ring style represents three stages in the life journey of the couple – past, present and future. It’s a representation of all the memories shared, the love and bond you currently have and the joyous future that you’ll have together.
With such a deep symbolism that the three stone ring setting has, there’s no doubt that it’s overshadowing all other ring setting options and becoming the preferred one amongst modern brides. In Christianity, the three stones represent the Holy Trinity. Overtime, others have also associated their own meaning to what the three stones represent to them. One thing remains though, it is not lacking in symbolism.
The three stone ring settings are versatile and can appear in different forms depending on the wearer’s personal style and preference. When we look at three stone ring settings it is important to keep in mind a few things. The proportions of all three stones as well as their color, type and cut are all significant. If you have clarity on these aspects, you can certainly have a brilliant dream engagement ring.
1. Size Of The Stones
The three stone ring settings typically has two variations in design. The most common has one larger center stone flanked by two equally sized smaller side stones. Whereas in the other design all three stones are of the same size. If you’re opting for a design with two smaller side stones, the general rule is to keep them between ½ and ⅓ of the center stone’s size. Asymmetrical designs are rare, though there are still people who choose such designs.
If you’re going with the second option where all three stones are of the same size, then you need to pay more attention to their appearance. Sometimes the color combination or the setting gives the impression of center stone being smaller. Such a ring would not be a variation but rather an oddity.

Regardless of the design chosen, it is important to keep in mind the size of the center stone, especially when that is usually the first step in designing a ring. The side stones are either slightly smaller or equal to the size of the center stone. A three stone setting with bigger gemstones may take up too much space on the ring and might be uncomfortable to the wearer.
2. Cut & Shape Of the Stones
While the style of the gemstones is ultimately up to the wearer’s personal preference, there are certain types of gemstones that are ideal for the three stone ring setting. Round, Cushion, Radiant, and Emerald cuts are most ideal for three stone settings. Many have used baguette and trillion cuts for their side stones which add a subtle compliment to the center stone.
3. Type Of Gemstones
Diamonds remain one of the most known choices for gemstones in the three stone settings. However, increasingly more people are opting for color gemstones to create a truly unique and vivid look. Some of the most popular gemstones in use are sapphires (in any color), rubies, alexandrites, and emeralds. These stones have a variety of colors and rich hues, making them a great choice for the center stone, side stones, or all three.
You would have seen the combination of sapphire & diamonds or emerald & diamonds or rubies & diamonds. Likewise, you might have also come across three stone ring settings featuring only sapphires or rubies. A rare combination would be an emerald center stone and two yellow sapphires as side stones. You can create your own three stone ring with desired color stones.


While creating an asymmetrical look with two smaller side stones, it may be best to search for pairs of colored gemstones as they will equally match in both size and color. Many opt to use two or three different types of gemstones for their ring and usually will group together similarly colored gemstones.
Ultimately, it’s all a matter of personal style and what your ring will mean to you and your SO. At GemsNY, you can easily create your own unique style for a ring that truly speaks to your heart. Explore over fifty thousand color gemstones and hundreds of thousands of diamonds to make your perfect ring. Also, you save a lot by shopping at GemsNY. So why wait, shop today!