Cathedral engagement rings

A Cathedral setting is an engagement ring setting that features two metal arches on either side of the center stone. These arches gently lift and secure the solitaire diamond in place. It is named after the arches found in Gothic cathedrals around Europe.

Start by setting a budget. This will help you and our diamond experts narrow down your options as you consider what diamond to purchase, and other details, such as metal and pavé setting. 

Next, measure your fingers — usually the left ring finger — so that you purchase the right size of engagement ring. After that, decide on which diamond shape you would like to be featured in your Cathedral engagement ring, as well as if you would like a pavé setting or engraving. As always, the most important rule for how to buy an engagement ring is to find the one that is right for you. 

Speak with our diamond experts for a custom-designed engagement ring. Tell them your ideas for a custom Cathedral setting. They’ll help you understand which custom details are possible, then guide you through the white-glove design process.

When it comes to choosing the diamond shape for your Cathedral setting, take your own personal taste, not trends, into consideration. However, there are certain shapes that are sought after again and again.  

Oval Cathedral engagement rings  
This diamond shape not only adds classic elegance to the Cathedral’s overall look, but also maximizes carat weight. The arches of the Cathedral elevate the elongated form of an Oval-shaped diamond, making it appear larger on the finger.  

Princess cut Cathedral engagement rings  
The equilateral edges of a Princess-cut diamond pair with the arches of a Cathedral setting to create a solid, clean architectural look that is modern yet timeless.  

Round Brilliant Cathedral engagement rings  
For those looking for a traditional or vintage-inspired look, the Round Brilliant diamond is the perfect pair for a Cathedral setting. The raised setting elevates this classic diamond shape to perfectly catch every ray of light.

When looking down at a Cathedral ring, the featured diamond might appear larger because of its slight elevation. When looking at a Cathedral from the side, the arches are visible and the center stone is noticeably raised.

Engagement rings and wedding rings should be cleaned once a week to keep them shining bright and germ-free. This is especially true of Cathedral rings whose arches and extra crevices can attract more dirt. A simple weekly cleaning routine involves soaking your ring in a small bowl filled with warm water and a few drops of liquid dishwashing soap. After thirty to forty-five minutes, remove the ring and brush it gently with a soft-bristle toothbrush, then rinse and pat dry with a soft towel. 

In short, a Cathedral setting can be more secure than other engagement ring settings. But all of VRAI’s engagement ring designs are secure and crafted to last a lifetime. The elevated sides and setting in a Cathedral, however, provide added security.

Speak with VRAI’s design expert for a custom-designed engagement ring. Tell them your ideas for a custom Hidden Halo setting, such as combining it with a Two Tone or Signature East-West setting, for example. They’ll help you understand which custom details are possible, then guide you through the white-glove design process.