What is Solitaire Diamond?
Among all styles in fine jewelry, few carry the clarity and timeless impact of the solitaire diamond. Simple in form yet powerful in presence, a solitaire centers the diamond as the undeniable focus—letting it speak without distraction, without embellishment, and without compromise.
At Plateau Jewelers in Sammamish, WA, solitaire designs are at the heart of many of the most meaningful pieces we create. From classic engagement rings to custom anniversary gifts, the solitaire represents a design philosophy that values purity, intention, and the beauty of one perfect stone.
Let’s take a closer look at what a solitaire diamond truly is—and why it continues to resonate with so many across generations.
The True Definition of a Solitaire Diamond
A solitaire diamond refers to a piece of jewelry—most commonly a ring, but also pendants, earrings, and more—that features a single diamond as its centerpiece, with no accompanying side stones or clusters. This does not refer to the diamond’s shape or cut, but rather to its setting style and design principle: one stone, set to stand alone.
What sets a solitaire design apart is its intention. There is no distraction, no competing detail. The entire composition is built around showcasing the diamond’s cut, clarity, and character. This minimalism is not about simplicity for simplicity’s sake—it’s about allowing the diamond to express its full brilliance in a setting that enhances rather than competes.
A Historical Foundation Rooted in Elegance
Solitaire diamond rings gained prominence over the past century as craftsmanship evolved to allow more open, secure, and light-enhancing settings. Yet the concept of honoring a single central gem is much older—found in heirloom rings, regal gifts, and traditional betrothal jewelry across cultures.
At Plateau Jewelers, we find that many of the solitaire pieces we design today are modern interpretations of this age-old idea: that a single, well-chosen diamond can speak volumes. This philosophy aligns with our founding values—creating jewelry that is intentional, personal, and refined.
Solitaire in Fine Jewelry: More Than Just Engagement Rings
While most people associate solitaires with engagement rings, this setting style is far more versatile than many realize. Across the full landscape of fine jewelry, solitaire designs are used to create pieces that are quietly bold, elegant, and deeply expressive.
Solitaire Rings
The most iconic use of the solitaire setting. Whether it’s a traditional four-prong round diamond on a gold band or a sleek custom tension setting with a marquise diamond, solitaire engagement rings remain a favorite for their understated sophistication and symbolic clarity.
Solitaire Necklaces
A single diamond set on a fine chain—centered or dropped just below the collarbone—is one of the most versatile and wearable pieces of fine jewelry. It pairs beautifully with everyday attire and special occasion wear alike.
Solitaire Earrings
Diamond stud earrings, often created with matched round or princess-cut stones, are a signature of elegance. Their symmetry and brilliance make them perfect for gifting and milestones.
Solitaire Bracelets
More rare, but equally compelling. A delicate chain or bangle with one perfectly set diamond adds quiet sparkle to a wrist stack or stands alone as a minimalist luxury statement.
Our Sammamish showroom features solitaire diamond pieces in all of these categories—and our custom team can adapt the concept to any piece you'd like to create.
Choosing the Diamond: Why the 4Cs Matter Even More in Solitaires
One of the reasons solitaire jewelry is so compelling is also why it requires more thoughtful selection: there’s nothing to hide behind. With no halo, side stones, or ornate metalwork, the diamond takes center stage—and it must perform beautifully on its own.
When selecting a solitaire diamond, we guide clients through all four aspects of diamond grading:
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Cut: Arguably the most important in solitaire settings. A well-cut diamond returns maximum light, making the piece appear brighter and more dynamic.
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Color: Especially noticeable in solitaire settings. We often recommend diamonds in the near-colorless range (G–H) for optimal balance of value and appearance.
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Clarity: While tiny inclusions are natural, they can be more visible without surrounding stones. A clarity grade that’s eye-clean ensures the diamond looks flawless to the naked eye.
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Carat Weight: Solitaires highlight the stone’s size proportionally. Choosing the right carat involves balancing presence with comfort and budget.
Our in-store diamond experts will walk you through each of these factors—along with side-by-side comparisons—so you can confidently choose a stone that fits your vision.
The Beauty of Shape and Setting
A solitaire doesn’t mean singular in style. The diamond shape and the type of setting both dramatically influence how the piece feels.
Popular Shapes for Solitaire Diamonds
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Round Brilliant – Timeless, symmetrical, and the most light-reflective.
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Oval – Soft, elongating, and graceful on the hand or neckline.
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Emerald Cut – Structured, architectural, and sophisticated.
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Cushion Cut – Romantic, vintage-leaning, and softly curved.
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Pear or Marquise – Bold, directional, and ideal for those who love unique proportions.
Solitaire Setting Styles to Consider
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Prong Setting – The classic solitaire choice. Four or six prongs secure the stone while maximizing light from every angle.
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Bezel Setting – A modern option that wraps the diamond in a sleek border of metal, offering both security and a clean silhouette.
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Tension Setting – Creates the illusion of a diamond suspended in space—contemporary and dramatic.
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Cathedral Setting – Adds height and a sculptural feel by raising the diamond on graceful metal arches.
We design and adapt solitaire settings in platinum, white gold, yellow gold, and rose gold—each influencing the mood and warmth of the finished piece.
Why Choose a Solitaire?
There’s a reason solitaires remain one of the most enduring styles in jewelry: they are deeply personal. By placing focus on a single diamond, they become a statement of clarity, of purpose, and of intention.
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They never go out of style.
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They complement every wardrobe.
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They adapt easily to stacking and layering.
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They place full attention on the diamond you chose with care.
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They’re as meaningful today as they will be 50 years from now.
Whether for an engagement, a birthday, an anniversary, or simply as a gift to yourself, a solitaire offers something few styles can: enduring elegance in its purest form.
Final Thoughts: The Power of One
A solitaire diamond isn’t about simplicity—it’s about confidence. The confidence of a well-cut diamond to stand on its own. The confidence of a design that doesn’t need ornamentation to be unforgettable. And the confidence of a story that gives it meaning.
Let us help you find—or create—the solitaire diamond piece that captures your moment with clarity, grace, and timeless elegance.
Explore Solitaire Diamond Jewelry at Plateau Jewelers
At Plateau Jewelers, we’ve been helping clients in Sammamish and across the region discover the quiet power of solitaire diamond jewelry for decades. Whether you’re drawn to a classic solitaire ring, a delicate pendant, or want to design a completely custom piece, we’re here to help you make a choice that feels as lasting as the diamond itself.
Visit us in Sammamish, WA to explore our collection