Cluster Diamond Ring: Brilliant, Unique and Beautiful

What is a Cluster Engagement Ring Setting?

A cluster setting diamond ring features smaller diamonds set closely together to resemble a larger diamond, creating a “cluster” effect. A cluster ring can contain a large center stone or a group of stones of equal size. The diamonds in a cluster ring often form a geometric shape like a square or a unique design like a flower or starburst. Many cluster rings have an antique look.

When buying a cluster setting ring, it’s crucial to look for quality craftsmanship, ensuring that the smaller diamonds are firmly and evenly placed to create a symmetrical pattern. Budget-wise, prices will vary greatly, depending on the quality and carat size of the stones as well as the intricacy of the setting.

The image below features a cluster setting that gives the impression of a 1.5 Carat center stone. The actual center stone in this ring is much smaller than 1.5 Carat. The cluster of diamonds offers the ring more character, size and sparkle.

Why you should trust us

To help you with the diamond buying process we lean on our expertise and experience. The author of this article, our CEO, Mike Fried has over 20 years of experience in the diamond industry. Mike started from the bottom, sorting and evaluating hundreds of thousands of diamonds to learn every facet (pun intended) of diamond quality and value. Mike followed that up by spending years buying and selling diamonds on the wholesale market as well as selling tens of millions of dollars worth of diamonds to diamond retailers.

Bottom Line Recommendation:

Cluster settings offer extraordinary style: they form the appearance of a larger stone with a cluster of smaller diamonds. Cluster engagement rings often feature unique shapes, like this starburst engagement ring from Blue Nile or this floral cluster ring from James Allen.

When designing your cluster ring, we highly recommend choosing a highly reputable vendor. Ensure you receive the best quality of diamonds and jewelry by going with James Allen, Blue Nile or Brian Gavin Diamonds.

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Why Choose a Cluster Engagement Ring?

Cluster engagement rings often receive plenty of attention. The smaller stones compliment each other and offer extra sparkle. The additional character and style of cluster ring designs make them a popular choice for those seeking a unique design.

Cluster settings also tend to carry an antique or vintage feel, like this platinum blossoming halo from James Allen. In other words, cluster rings are timeless and can be passed down for generations.

As they feature several small diamonds instead of a single large one, cluster settings can also offer excellent value for money. Diamond prices increase exponentially with carat weight, meaning a 2 carat diamond costs significantly more than 10 smaller diamonds with a total carat weight of 2 carats. As the GIA explains:

“Because of their rarity, large diamonds command a premium – so much so that the difference in price isn’t geometric but exponential. In other words, a 1.00 ct diamond will cost much more per carat than a 0.50 ct diamond. A 2.00 ct diamond will have a much higher per-carat price than a 1.00 ct diamond.” Gemological Institute of America (GIA)

Cluster Diamond Rings vs. Solitaire

Cluster diamond rings feature smaller diamonds placed next to each other, whereas solitaire rings feature a large center stone. Solitaire rings are usually simple in nature, with a single stone, like this Round Cut 14K white gold ring from James Allen. Cluster diamond rings have many diamonds like in this white gold cluster engagement ring from James Allen. Solitaire rings are more popular for engagement rings than cluster rings. Some choose a cluster engagement ring for a unique look.

In most cases, cluster rings are less expensive than solitaire rings because they don’t feature as large of a diamond. As with any ring, the price depends on the diamond quality, carat weight and precious metal.

Cluster Settings for Every Style

Cluster settings usually feature round diamonds, as they’re the most common shape in the smaller carat weights. Round diamonds are also easy to group together to form other shapes.

With cluster engagement rings, the designs range from extravagant to simple and classic. Review a few styles before creating your own cluster ring.

Examples of Cluster Engagement Ring Designs:

Pros and Cons of a Cluster Setting

Review the pros and cons of a cluster set ring to help decide if it’s right for you. Consider the overall appeal of the setting along with its cleaning and maintenance requirements.

Pros

Offers a unique look full of dimension and texture
Gives the appearance of a larger center stone
Can be designed to form a festive shape, like a flower or sunburst
Provides a lower cost option to purchasing a larger diamond
May complement smaller hands and fingers

Cons

Usually requires more time and effort to clean due to multiple stones and crevices
Smaller stones may become loose and fall out if not properly maintained

Where to Buy Cluster Diamond Engagement Rings

With a cluster setting, a specific level of craftsmanship is required. The smaller diamonds need to be set securely and evenly to form a symmetrical design.

Therefore, it’s important to choose a highly reputable vendor for your cluster engagement ring. Above all, you want a dealer who will offer you excellent craftsmanship and quality at an excellent price.

Throughout our experience in the industry, we’ve closely vetted diamond sellers to determine the most reliable jewelers. The diamond dealers we recommend below are reputable and trustworthy. All diamonds come with a GIA or AGS certificate—allowing you to trust what they’re selling you.

Blue Nile

Focuses on high-quality diamonds and jewelry
Features the largest online inventory of diamonds and settings
Provides excellent prices and return policies

James Allen

Presents high-tech imagery so you can view each diamond up-close before purchase
Known for their exceptional customer service
Offers appealing prices and hassle-free returns

Leibish & Co. (Gemstone Alternative)

Maintains a wide selection of colored gemstone rings and jewelry, like this couture tanzanite cluster ring
Creates jewelry with high-quality settings

Brian Gavin Diamonds

Features some of the best cut diamonds in the world
Offers the “Brian Gavin Signature” Hearts & Arrows collection

Evaluating a Diamond Ring for Beauty and Value

At Diamond Pro, we want to help you find the best diamond at the best price. Our online library of diamond educational resources can help you select the most beautiful ring for your budget.

Diamond cut: Cut plays the biggest role in a diamond’s beauty. That’s why we recommend only considering Excellent and Ideal cut diamonds.
Diamond shape: Select a shape for your center diamond based on personal style and preference. Match your diamond with a setting style that offers beauty and stability.
Diamond clarity: Opt for a diamond that’s eye clean. Blemishes and inclusions usually can’t be seen with the naked eye at a VS1 or VS2 clarity grade. While you can pay more for higher clarity, it’s likely to go unnoticed.
Diamond color: Be sure your diamond looks white in relation to its setting. Remember: diamonds in the G to I range appear colorless to the naked eye, but cost much less than diamonds in the D to F range.

Want help in selecting the most stunning ring? Contact our diamond experts.

Excellent info and education about Diamonds. Unbiased opinions and advice. Highly recommend the content on their site before making a Diamond purchase. They even offer one on one service via email for advice and recommendation.

EV User

Feb 1, 2023

As someone who likes to do extensive research before making a decision, I found The Diamond Pro website to be a very valuable resource. In addition to the many great articles and reviews they have, the ability to email specific questions about products/companies they did not review was very helpful. I would definitely recommend to a friend.

Neighborly Neighbor

Dec 21, 2022

FAQ about Cluster Settings

Here are the most common questions about cluster settings—answered by experts.

Are diamond cluster rings cheap?

Cluster rings are usually less expensive than other ring styles, because the diamonds are of lower carat weight. That makes cluster rings a more affordable option, especially for those looking for a unique ring style. For example, this white gold blossom ring from James Allen featuring one center diamond and eight smaller diamonds costs $1,750 while this grande floral diamond cluster engagement ring from James Allen costs $2,700.

Are cluster rings tacky?

High-quality cluster rings are not tacky, as they’re designed with beautiful diamonds and precious metals such as gold or platinum. Just like with any ring setting, look for a cluster ring that’s well-crafted. Consider reputable vendors like Blue Nile and James Allen to ensure a high-quality ring.

Are cluster engagement rings popular?

Cluster engagement rings are not among the most popular styles, but they are great for couples on a smaller budget who want a unique ring. Cluster ring designs range from vintage styles and halos to 3-stone cluster diamond rings.

Here are more specific setting style topics to browse:

James Allen James Allen is the leader in online diamond sales. Their imaging technology is the same as inspecting a diamond with a jeweler's loupe. They have the largest exclusive loose diamond inventory online and fantastic prices. They also have the nicest collection of lab-created diamonds online. They currently run a 30% discount on selected lab-grown diamonds!

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What we love about them:

No questions asked returns within 30 days of shipment. James Allen will send you a paid shipping label to return the ring.
Lifetime Warranty
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Free prong tightening, repolishing, rhodium plating and cleaning every 6 months
Provide insurance appraisals
One free resizing within 60 days of purchase
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Best-in-class packaging

Blue Nile Blue Nile is the largest and most well-known internet jewelry seller. They have a very large exclusive online inventory. Their high-quality images are catching up to James Allens' and their prices are amazing. Right now, Blue Nile offers up to 40% savings on jewelry during a limited-time sale.