When it comes to engagement rings, there are a multitude of style and shapes to choose from. Some affect the hand in different ways. Others have the advantage of making the rock appear to be larger than it actually is. Here is a very brief overview of several engagement ring styles, but be sure to do your research on your own to select the style that is right for you and your bride.

Browse Whiteflash.com's selection of engagement rings (like this one by Marc Vann Jr.)

Keep in mind that in addition to the shape of the cut, the depth of the cut is also important in determining the quality of the stone. Make sure that you select a ring that has very nice symmetry and balance, rather than one that is too deep or too shallow.

Round
The round cut is the most popular. Basically, the top of the diamond is drilled in a circle so that it can be round. The benefit of the round cut is that six prongs usually hold it, which decreases the probability of it falling out of the setting.

Princess
The princess cut is the square-top cut that was made popular by Tiffany’s. The major benefit of the square cut is that it is trendy, attractive and full of color. However, because it is held in place using only four prongs, it can be easily lost if any of the prongs come loose.

Oval
The Oval ring is one of the less popular options, as most brides prefer the round cut. However, the benefit of the oval ring is that the length helps to elongate the hand while the softness helps to add a degree of character.

Pear
The pear shaped engagement ring is one of the least-popular options. In fact, it is so frequently not chosen, that many jewelry stores do not even carry it in stock. If you would like a pear-shaped ring, chances are high that you will have to either go online or special order your ring.

Marquis
The marquis shape is an oval with tips. It not only helps to make the hand appear longer and slimmer, but it also makes the diamond appear larger than it actually is. Marquis are a very popular cut, but are not liked by all brides.

When determining which cut is right for your bride, it is probably important to take a good look around at available options. There are plenty of options with engagement rings even if you go the ‘I’ll design my own engagement ring’ route.

From classic round to cutting-edge cushion, rate your sparkler with our savvy diamond guide.

Heart

The look: This century-old shape, symbolizing love and devotion, should be well proportioned for optimum sparkle. Kid Rock proposed to Pamela Anderson with a yellow heart-shaped diamond.

This choice says you’re: sentimental and dreamy.

Pear cut diamond

Pear

The look: Resembling a teardrop, a pear-shaped diamond has the fire and beauty of a round shape, but with a less conventional look. This shape can also make a wide finger look slimmer.

This choice says you’re: even-tempered and adaptable.

Oval cut diamond

Oval

The look: If you love the gorgeous sparkle of a round, brilliant-cut diamond but still want something unique, consider an oval. A fresh take on a timeless style, this new shape came about in the early 1960s. Actor Jerry O’Connell recently gave his betrothed fashionista, Rebecca Romijn, an oval-shaped sparkler.

This choice says you’re: risk-taking and creative.

Asscher cut diamond

Asscher

The look: Square with angular corners, this shape dates back to the late 1800s. If you look closely, you’ll see that it’s step-cut, meaning the facets are rectangular and seem to descend into the stone.

This choice says you’re: feminine and meticulous.

Round

The look: Also known as brilliant-cut, this tried-and-true shape reflects more light than any other, and is the most popular. Avril Lavigne showed her traditional side by wearing a round diamond engagement ring.

This choice says you’re: trustworthy and easygoing.

Emerald cut diamond

Emerald

The look: Inspired by the Asscher, this glamorous choice is also a rectangular step-cut shape. It has fewer facets than some of the other shapes, so look for an emerald-cut that offers maximum brilliance.

This choice says you’re: efficient and straightforward.

Cushion cut diamond

Cushion

The look: Rectangular with curved sides, the cushion-cut first hit big in the 18th century. A recent resurgence in popularity has given it a modern-meets-vintage feel. Ben Affleck gave Jennifer Garner a cushion-cut rock.

This choice says you’re: organized and daring.

Princess cut diamond

Princess

The look: This relatively new square shape, with a modern, understated feel, combines a sparkly, brilliant effect with a geometric step-cut. You can attribute its spectacular glitter to extra faceting around the rim.

This choice says you’re: decisive and fun-loving.

Radiant

The look: The diamond’s shape has the outer lines and cut corners of the emerald’s crown while enjoying triangular faceting like the round on the pavilion. It was designed to have the best qualities of both round brilliant and emerald cut diamonds.

This choice says you’re: trend settings and fashionable

Marquise cut diamond

Marquise

The look: The marquis shape is an oval with tips. It not only helps to make the hand appear longer and slimmer, but it also makes the diamond appear larger than it actually is.

The choice says you’re: unique and adventurous