How to Choose the Perfect Three Stone Diamond Ring for Any Budget

Find out how to choose a three stone diamond ring that fits your style and budget—without compromising on beauty or meaning.

Thinking of buying a three stone diamond ring but don’t want to blow your budget? You’re in good company. In 2023, the global market for lab-grown diamond jewellery alone crossed $12 billion (Statista)—proving that people want meaning and value.

Three stone diamond rings are loved around the world for their deep meaning.

Whether you’re planning a proposal or treating yourself (yes, you deserve it), this guide breaks down how to find a ring that fits your style, tells your love story, and doesn’t require selling your car. Let’s shop smart.

What Is a Three Stone Diamond Ring?

A three stone diamond ring has three diamonds in a row—one in the center and two on the sides. Each stone represents your past, present, and future. It’s also called a trinity ring and is popular in both engagement rings and everyday jewellery.

Many women love it because it looks meaningful and stylish. You can mix diamond cuts, gold types, or even add a ruby for a personal touch.

The Significance of Three: Why 3 Stone Rings Tell a Deeper Story

A three stone diamond ring is more than just pretty—it tells a story. Each diamond stands for something special in your life: the past, present, and future. That’s why many couples love it. It’s not just jewellery; it’s a symbol of your journey, your relationship, and your shared dreams.

• Past – The first stone shines bright, representing the past in your shared journeyThe memories you’ve made together.
• Present – The love and life you share right now.
• Future – The promises and plans for what's ahead.

This ring carries rich symbolism—more than just sparkle.

How to Match a Three Stone Ring to Your Love Story

1. Let Each Stone Represent Your Journey Together

A three stone ring is a symbol of commitment, love, and future promises. Think of it like this:

• The first stone is your past. It shows how your relationship started.
• The centre stone is your present—your love right now.
• The third stone is your future, the life you’re building together.

This idea makes the ring feel special and full of meaning. It’s perfect for engagement rings, anniversaries, or even a big moment in your journey.

"Varniya's expert team can help you explore styles that match your story."

2. Pick a Gem That Holds Meaning

You can make your ring stand out by choosing stones that tell your story.

• Add a ruby or colored gem for a bold, custom look.
• Mix diamond cuts or shapes to match your style. Start with a selection of shapes and metals before narrowing down what feels right.
• Use birthstones to represent each person in the relationship.

This makes your ring a personal and symbolic piece—something no one else has.

3. Customize with Engravings

Small words can say a lot.

• Add a date, initials, or a short promise inside the band.
• Pick a symbol or phrase that means something to both of you.

Even simple ring designs become powerful when you add your story to them. It’s a smart way to turn a three stone ring into a keepsake that lasts with precision .

4. Match Stone Cuts to Personality

The shape of each stone says something about you.

• Round cut diamonds are classic. If you love tradition, this is a perfect fit.
• Princess cut is bold and modern. Great for confident personalities.
• Emerald cut feels elegant and timeless—perfect for someone with quiet style.
• Radiant cut adds sparkle and edge. It suits someone fun and outgoing.

Try to match the centre stone to the person’s personality. That way, the ring feels more like them.

5. Choose a Setting That Echoes Your Relationship Style

The setting holds the diamonds and shows off your taste.

• A classic three-stone setting works well for traditional love stories.
• A halo setting adds brilliance and drama.
• Want something more unique? Try a mixed-metal or twisted band.

Also think about how the ring fits into your life. If it's for daily wear, pick a secure setting that’s low maintenance. For formal use, you can go more elaborate.

Popular 3 Stone Ring Designs That Never Go Out of Style

1. Round-Cut Trio: The Timeless Classic: This is the most-loved style for a reason. Round diamonds are full of brilliance and look great from every angle. This design is perfect for daily wear and never goes out of fashion. It’s ideal for couples who want a simple yet elegant diamond ring.
2. Princess Center with Baguette Side Stones: This ring design is bold and modern. A princess cut diamond in the middle brings sharp edges and sparkle. Baguette stones on the sides add clean lines. It’s great for someone who likes sleek and strong styles.
3. Oval with Pear-Shaped Accents: This one feels soft and romantic. The oval centre stone makes fingers look longer. The pear-shaped stones add gentle curves. It works well for people who want a feminine and graceful look.
4. Emerald-Cut Sophistication: This style is classy and calm. The emerald cut shows off clarity and depth, not just sparkle. It’s often picked by women who love structure and confidence. It pairs well with 18kt gold or mixed-metal bands.
5. Colored Side Stones: Add a Personal Touch: Want your three stone ring to stand out? Try adding colored stones like rubies or emeralds. It gives your ring meaning and a custom feel. Great for celebrating a special moment or memory.
6. Twisted Band or Halo Enhancements: This adds extra detail and charm. A twisted band gives your ring a handcrafted, crafted vibe. A halo around the centre diamond boosts sparkle without boosting cost. Perfect for someone who wants more shine and style.
7. East-West Settings for a Modern Look: Turn the side diamonds sideways and things change. The setting flips traditional shapes horizontally. It’s trendy, clean, and gives your three stone diamond ring a fresh look. Best for modern couples who want something unique.

Diamond Cuts and Stone Shapes: What to Know Before You Buy

1. Cut Impacts Sparkle More Than Size

The cut is how the diamond is shaped and angled.

• A good cut makes light bounce, adding more brilliance.
• A poorly cut diamond may look dull—even if it’s big.
• Focus on cut quality over carat weight to get better value.

For example, a round cut offers the most sparkle, while an emerald cut gives a calm, clear shine. That’s why diamond cuts matter more than you think.

2. Stone Shape Changes the Mood of the Ring

The shape changes how the ring feels.

• Princess cuts feel modern and sharp.
• Oval and pear shapes feel romantic.
• Radiant cuts give bold sparkle and energy.

The shape affects the entire look of your three stone ring, especially the centre stone. Pick one that matches your personality or love story.

3. Mixed Shapes Create Visual Balance in 3 Stone Rings

You can mix different shapes in one ring.

• Try a round centre with pear-shaped side stones.
• Or an emerald cut in the middle with trapezoids on each side.

Mixing shapes adds contrast, symmetry, and personality to your collections of ring designs. It also makes your three stone diamond ring more unique and visually balanced.

4. Elongated Shapes Look Bigger for the Same Carat

When buying a three stone diamond ring, the shape of each stone matters as much as the weight. Elongated cuts—like oval, emerald, or radiant—can look bigger than round ones even if they have the same carat.

• For example, an emerald cut spreads more across your finger.
• This means you get more visual size without paying more for diamonds.
• These shapes also give a sleek, elegant look—perfect for modern ring designs.

5. Side Stone Shape Should Support the Center, Not Compete

The centre stone is the hero. The side stones should support it—not steal the spotlight. A smart shape mix can make your ring feel balanced and intentional.

• Pair a round centre with tapered baguette side stones.
• Or match a princess cut with smaller round or trillion-shaped diamonds.
• Keep contrast low if your center stone is bold or unique.

Always review quality, setting, and weight before making a final decision.

How to Pick the Right Metal for Your Three Stone Ring

1. Match Metal to Skin Tone for Maximum Glow

The metal you pick should match your skin tone to make the ring shine even more.

• Warm skin tones go well with yellow gold or 18kt gold.
• Cool skin tones look best with white gold, platinum, or silver.
• Not sure? Try both tones in-store or with online previews before you buy.

Your ring is not just a jewellery piece. It’s part of your personal style and should feel like “you.”

2. Choose Durability Based on Daily Wear

Will you wear your ring every day? Then daily wear matters more than you think.

• Platinum and white gold are strong and good for long-term use.
• Yellow gold is softer but offers that classic shine.
• For active lifestyles, stick with metals that don’t scratch easily.

3. Think About Maintenance and Longevity

Some metals need more cleaning than others. For example, white gold looks shiny but may need re-coating every year. Platinum is tougher and keeps its shine longer. If you wear your ring every day, go for a metal that’s strong and easy to maintain.

Helpful tips:

• Platinum is best if you want low maintenance.
• Gold is softer and may lose shape over time.
• Always check the quality and how it's crafted. Diamonds with high purity shine brighter and last longer

4. Let the Metal Highlight the Stones

The metal you pick can change how your three stone diamond ring looks. Bright metals like white gold or platinum make the stones look whiter and brighter. Yellow gold gives a warm glow and makes diamonds with warmer tones pop.

Things to consider:

• White metals boost sparkle in clear stones.
• Yellow or rose gold adds contrast to the design.
• Go for a metal that makes your diamond setting shine.

Three Stone Rings for Every Budget

1. Under ₹50,000: Choose Lab-Grown Diamonds or Moissanite

If your budget is tight, you still have great options that reflect your love story, past the present .

• Go for lab-grown diamonds or moissanite to save money and still get that sparkle.
• Pick smaller centre stones with simple ring designs.
• Choose gold-plated settings over solid gold to cut costs.
• These three stone rings are perfect for daily wear or gifting without breaking the bank.

2. ₹50,000–₹1,50,000: Maximize Value with Smart Design

You can get great value by picking the right mix.

• Use one main diamond in the centre and two smaller stones on the side.
• Explore modern shapes like princess or round.
• Ask for crafted styles that focus on brilliance and structure. It’s about balancing size, quality, and detail. For more inspiration, check out these tips for choosing the perfect diamond necklace for your big day.

3. ₹1,50,000–₹3,00,000: Customize Without Compromise

At this level, you can add personal touches.

• Pick a custom three stone ring that matches your story.
• Choose 18kt gold, add a meaningful symbol, or engrave a message.
• Combine emerald or ruby accents with diamonds for a unique look.

4. ₹3,00,000 and Above: Go Big on Craftsmanship & Storytelling

Now you're in luxury territory.

• Choose meticulously crafted pieces with rare diamond cuts.
• Explore themes like “past, present and the future” in your design.
• Add layers of significance and celebrate your journey with every detail.

Unique Ideas for Customizing Your Three Stone Ring

1. Switch Up the Side Stones with Meaningful Gems

• Why stick to all diamonds? Use colored stones that tell your love story, adding a touch of celebration .
• Add a ruby for passion or an emerald for peace. Birthstones can honor a child or represent life milestones. You can even add a symbol from your culture.

This works well for both engagement rings and anniversary rings. It keeps the centre diamond as the focus while giving the side stones personal meaning.

2. Add a Hidden Detail Under the Centre Stone

• You can hide a tiny surprise under the main diamond. Add a tiny princess or round cut stone underneath.
• Some couples hide a word, like “promise” or a symbol of everlasting love. Others engrave a date or secret story that no one else can see.

3. Play with Asymmetry in Ring Designs

• Who says both side stones must be the same? Use different shapes—like a radiant cut with round accents.
• Mix sizes to show the journey of your relationship—past, present, and future. Add a design twist with a bold, modern setting. Every ring design takes form based on your story and values

4. Engrave Your Ring with a Shared Phrase or Symbol

• Want to make your ring one-of-a-kind? Add an exquisite secret engraving inside the band. It could be a word, a symbol, or even your wedding date.
• Some couples engrave coordinates of where they met—how cool is that? This adds hidden meaning without changing the designs or shape of the ring. It’s a simple way to honor your relationship and journey together.

5. Choose an Unconventional Setting

• Tired of seeing the same old ring designs? Change up the setting. Go for an east-west layout instead of the usual vertical style.
• Try a bezel or tension setting for a clean, modern look. Unique settings help your three stone diamond ring stand out—without adding too much weight or cost

6. Add Texture or Mixed Metals to the Band

• Plain bands are classic. But textured ones are bold. Mix gold with platinum or try a brushed finish for contrast.
• Use 18kt gold for color richness and quality. You can also add tiny diamonds or patterns for extra brilliance.

7. Incorporate Cultural or Spiritual Element

• Make it reflect your roots with timeless elegance. Add a symbol from your culture or faith.
• Some couples add a ruby or emerald to show family tradition. It adds a layer of significance to your three stone ring and makes it even more meaningful.

Simple Daily Wear Tips to Preserve Brilliance

1. Remove Your Ring During Heavy Tasks: Doing chores or lifting heavy things? Take off your ring first. This protects the stones from scratches and keeps the prongs strong.
2. Avoid Soaps and Creams Around the Ring: Soaps, lotions, and creams can leave a layer on your diamonds. This buildup hides the brilliance and makes the ring look dull.
3. Store It in a Separate Soft Pouch: Don't toss your ring in a box with other jewellery. Store it in a soft pouch or fabric-lined box. This keeps the detail safe and prevents scratching.
4. Check Prongs Around Centre and Side Stones: Every few weeks, look closely at the centre stone and the side gems. If the prongs are loose or bent, take it to a trusted store for fixing.
5. Clean Weekly with Warm Water and Dish Soap: Gently clean your diamond ring using warm water and mild dish soap. Use a soft toothbrush to remove dirt from under the setting.
6. Schedule a Professional Cleaning Twice a Year: Visit a professional jeweler every six months. They’ll deep clean and check the crafted parts and weight of your ring.

A three stone diamond ring is more than just jewellery—it’s a symbol of your past, present, and the future. Whether you're drawn to timeless elegance or want something meticulously crafted to the highest standards, there’s a perfect design for you. Explore our collection of three stone rings and choose a style that tells your love story with clarity, excellence, and purpose.