The short answer: match your ring to your lifestyle by thinking about what you do with your hands, as active jobs suit low, protected settings such as bezels, while office work and occasional wear allow taller, more delicate designs. This chooser links common lifestyles to settings.
The best ring looks wonderful and fits your life. Here is a simple guide to choosing a setting that will be comfortable on the days that matter and the days that are ordinary.
| Lifestyle | Settings to consider |
|---|---|
| Very active, manual work or sport | Bezel, low claw solitaire |
| Office and desk work | Solitaire, cathedral, halo |
| Healthcare or hands in water often | Smooth, low profile settings |
| Creative and hands on | Bezel or flush set |
| Occasional wear | Delicate, taller designs |
| Lots of travel | Secure, low profile settings |
If you are very active
Choose a low setting with smooth edges, and a stone that suits daily wear. A bezel protects the edge of the stone, and a low claw setting reduces the chance of a catch on clothing or equipment.
If you work at a desk
You have more freedom. A halo or a three stone ring suits, and a taller setting is easier to live with when your hands are not often knocked or wet.
If your hands are often in water or gloves
Smooth low settings catch less on gloves and are easier to dry and clean. See winter, gloves and ring fit.
If you travel often
A secure setting with a low profile is less likely to snag in bags and on clothing. Keep a travel pouch for the times you remove the ring. See travel storage for rings.
If you work with your hands creatively
Potters, chefs, gardeners, musicians and makers all put their hands through a lot. A bezel or flush set stone sits close to the finger, has no claws to catch on fabric or tools, and is easy to wash. If you play an instrument or lift weights, a smooth inside to the band and rounded edges add comfort. Tell us what you do and we will suggest a profile that suits it.
If you have young children
Small hands grab, and tall claws can catch on hair, knitwear and baby blankets. A low setting with rounded claws or a bezel is kinder to everyone, and it is easier to keep clean through bath times and mealtimes. Many parents also like a plain band they can wear on the busiest days. Our guide to the most secure settings compares the options.
If you want a ring for occasions
A ring that is worn for special days rather than every day can be more delicate. Taller settings, finer claws and intricate detail are all possible, and the stone can be one that is a little softer. It is worth telling us at the start, because it changes the design.
Stone choice
Diamond, sapphire and ruby suit daily wear. Softer stones suit occasional wear or protective settings. See the hardness chart.
Metal
Platinum and gold suit daily wear. See metals compared.
How to decide
- List what your hands do in a normal week.
- Pick a setting from the table.
- Check the stone suits it.
- Think about how it sits beside a wedding band.
Nothing is made until you approve the design in writing, and our standard making time is 5 to 6 weeks, which can vary with your location and how busy we are. Pieces start from £600.
See setting types and the style quiz. Browse diamonds.
Frequently asked questions
Can I wear a tall ring at work? Yes, with care.
Should I take it off for the gym? Many people do.
Can you design for my job? Yes, bespoke design allows it.
Can I change the setting height later? A ring can sometimes be remade, so ask us.
What suits a busy parent? A low setting with rounded claws or a bezel catches least.