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Courtesy of Dana Rebecca Designs
There are so many different engagement ring options that, when looking for the right piece of jewelry, it can be hard to know where to start. A great rule of thumb is to think about the style that really works for you, and if you want a ring that is contemporary and sleek (without being too far from a classic) then a knife edge engagement ring could be a perfect choice. A beautiful and unique option that stands out but still manages to feel traditional, knife edge engagement rings are an excellent way to make a statement.
What Is a Knife Edge Engagement Ring?
As the name suggests, a knife edge ring features a sharp edge protruding out from the center of the band, creating an angled shape on each side.
The raised center of a knife edge band gives it a very distinct look that you won't get with a wider band. This can make it appear more modern and fresh, although the style has been around for quite a long time. "Tiffany & Co. created the first knife edge engagement ring, and the design has been around since the late 1800s," says Easter Ahn-Lee, founder of Easter Ahn Design.
Interested in learning more? We've put together some pros and cons of knife edge engagement rings, along with everything you need to know about this gorgeous style before purchasing one.
Pros and Cons of Knife Edge Engagement Rings
One of the advantages of a knife edge engagement ring is that they're extremely versatile. They look both contemporary and classic, and work with basically any kind of center stone and other embellishments. Additionally, this style of band helps enhance any center stone. "A knife edge engagement ring creates an illusion to make the band appear thinner and for the center stone to look bigger," Ahn-Lee says. "It makes the ring look more unique, yet still classic."
Ahn-Lee also notes that because this style of ring is thinner than other bands, it's great for stacking. This makes it a pretty great choice for pairing with wedding bands and any other non-wedding rings.
Luckily, there aren't too many negatives when it comes to knife edge engagement rings. "With the sharper edge in the middle of the band, it may not feel as comfortable for those who are not used to wearing rings," shares Ahn-Lee regarding one con to consider.
Meet the Expert
Easter Ahn-Lee is a fine jewelry and engagement ring designer, and founder of the jewelry brand Easter Ahn Design. She became a graduate gemologist at the Gemological Institute of America (GIA) and has been in the jewelry industry since 2007.
What to Look for in a Knife Edge Engagement Ring
Thinking about buying a knife edge engagement ring? Here's everything you should know.
- What stone cut works best with knife edge engagement rings? One of the best things about these rings is how versatile they are. "They can pair well with all stone shapes and cuts, and are usually best set in a 4 or 6 prong setting," Ahn-Lee advises.
- What metals pair best with knife edge engagement rings? Ahn-Lee suggests platinum and gold since these metals are so durable and strong.
- How much do knife edge engagement rings cost? You'll find that knife edge rings are similar in cost to other solitaire styles. Ahn-Lee notes that the price depends on the thickness of the band, the stone setting, and how much metal is being used.
- Are knife edge engagement rings high maintenance? "Knife edge rings are pretty low maintenance as long as there aren't any pavé set stones on them," Ahn-Lee shares. They have great wearability and you can feel comfortable having them on all day long.
How to Care for a Knife Edge Engagement Ring
Knife edge rings require the same care as most other engagement rings. "You can reduce the risk of damage by avoiding impact on hard surfaces, gripping items with force, or applying strong pressure to the jewelry or to your hands when jewelry is worn," Ahn-Lee says. Use a little warm water and dish soap to clean them, or bring your ring to your local jeweler to get it cleaned professionally.
Check out some of the beautiful knife edge engagement rings you can purchase now, from bold and modern pieces to delicate classic designs.
Vrai The Knife-Edge Round Brilliant Engagement Ring
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Courtesy of Vrai
Perfectly simple, this minimalist solitaire ring really allows for a spotlight on the knife edge band. It's also customizable with the option to pick the stone shape, type of metal, and a plain or pavé set band.
Price at time of publish: $1,300
Shahla Karimi 3-Stone Baguette Ring
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Courtesy of Shahla Karimi
This knife edge ring features a three-stone design that is Art Deco-inspired but updated for the 2020s. The thin band really brings attention to the stones.
Price at time of publish: $7,390
Tiffany & Co. The Tiffany Setting Engagement Ring
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Courtesy of Tiffany & Co.
The six-prong setting of this ring allows the center diamond to rise up over the band in a really beautiful way. The rose gold color is also a nice change to platinum or white gold options.
Price at time of publish: Starting from $17,000
Bario Neal Ray Diamond Emerald Cut Ring
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Courtesy of Bario Neal
The emerald-cut center stone makes this ring look elegant and sleek, and the pointed prong set and knife edge shank further elevates the size and look.
Price at time of publish: Starting from $3,580
Ken and Dana Design Dierdra Ring
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Courtesy of Ken & Dana Design
This is a true classic knife edge ring, with a thin band, four-prong setting, and solitaire diamond. The knife edge looks really beautiful in gold.
Price at time of publish: $2,750
Tiffany & Co. Pave Tiffany® Setting Engagement Ring
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Courtesy of Tiffany & Co
For added sparkle, opt for this Tiffany & Co. ring. The band is studded with an array of pavé diamonds on either side for a dazzling look.
Price at time of publish: $24,600
Dana Rebecca Designs Knife Edge Solitaire Engagement Ring
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Courtesy of Dana Rebecca Designs
This cushion-cut diamond looks beautiful with its knife edge band, and the rose gold makes this style feel a bit more feminine.
Price at time of publish: $13,000
Charles & Colvard Oval Forever One Moissanite Knife Edge Ring
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Courtesy of Charles & Colvard
Not every engagement ring has to feature a diamond. Get the look of a diamond with a lower price tag by going with moissanite. This ring features a beautiful moissanite center stone and a pavé accented knife edge band that sparkles.
Price at time of publish: Starting from $1,919
Anna Sheffield Oval Bea Ring
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Courtesy of Anna Sheffield
The oval, rose-cut center stone makes this ring stand out all on its own, with a one-of-a-kind touch you just can't replicate. We also love the triangular stones on either side and the sleek knife edge.
Price at time of publish: Available upon request
James Allen 14K Yellow Gold Diamond Chevron Knife Edge Engagement Ring
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Courtesy of James Allen
Pavé diamonds in a chevron shape adorn each side of a round center stone in this pretty and sparkling ring. The knife edge shank keeps the rest of the ring simple and sleek.
Price at time of publish: $1,190
Hearts On Fire Camilla Pave Knife Edge Engagement Ring
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Courtesy of Hearts On Fire
A dazzling take on the knife edge band, this one features rows of pavé diamonds accenting a round center stone. The pronounced raised edge really sets this ring apart.
Price at time of publish: Available upon request
Shahla Karimi 3-Stone Emerald + Cut-Corner Triangle Ring
Courtesy of Shahla Karimi
This minimalist three-stone ring is a nod to Art Deco jewelry. Plus, the soft knife edge gives the band a delicate feel.
Price at time of publish: $2,990
Ashley Zhang Jewelry Evelyn Brilliant Cut Engagement Ring
Courtesy of Ashley Zhang Jewelry
Another Art Deco-inspired ring, this one features a four-prong solitaire setting accented by baguette diamonds on either side. The slim and subtle knife edge band adds just the right touch.
Price at time of publish: Available upon request
Clean Origin Classic Knife Edge Engagement Ring
Courtesy of Clean Origin
Sometimes all you need is something simple and classic, and this solitaire ring is exactly that. You can also feel good about this eco-friendly purchase, as Clean Origin sells sustainable lab-created diamonds.
Price at time of publish: Starting from $1,565
Jade Trau Sadie Three Stone Ring
Courtesy of Jade Trau
Go for a decidedly more modern look with this option, which features a double knife edge band along with three diamonds. Unexpected and chic, this one earns all of the cool points.
Price at time of publish: Starting from $4,500
Tiffany & Co. Tiffany Three Stone Engagement Ring
Courtesy of Tiffany & Co.
Timeless and classic, this Tiffany ring has just enough sparkle and charm. The baguette diamonds on the side of the center stone are the perfect accent.
Price at time of publish: $10,000 for 0.51 carats
With Clarity Knife Edge Diamond Solitaire Engagement Ring
Courtesy of With Clarity
This ring features a very sharp knife edge band that you absolutely won't miss. Otherwise, it's a classic option that isn't likely to go out of style.
Price at time of publish: Starting from $710
