Bezel Settings & Head Orientation for Modern Engagement Rings

Some of the most powerful engagement ring customizations are also the most subtle. Two of our favorite ways to modernize a classic ring design? Switching up the head orientation and opting for a bezel setting. These center stone adjustments can dramatically change the overall look and feel of your ring—bringing a refined, contemporary aesthetic while keeping the design timeless.

Our Catalina Engagement Ring has an Off-Set Princess Cut Diamond

Direction Matters: North-South, East-West & Offset Heads

The orientation of your center stone is a simple shift that makes a big statement.

Most rings feature stones set in a traditional north-south direction—vertically aligned with the finger. But for a more distinctive look, we offer both east-west orientations (horizontal across the band) and offset orientations, which rotate or shift the stone slightly for added character.

• East-west settings are especially flattering for elongated shapes like ovals, emerald cuts, radiant cuts, and marquise diamonds. Turning the stone sideways widens the silhouette and adds a sleek, modern feel.
  
  

• Offset heads—like a princess cut turned on the diagonal—offer something even more unconventional. These asymmetrical layouts play with perspective and create a strong visual point of interest without being too bold or flashy.
  
  

Custom orientations work best with settings that leave room to showcase the stone shape, so our team will always guide you toward styles that will support the shift beautifully.

Our Cherry Engagement Ring has a Marquise Cut Diamond in a Bezel Setting

Bezel Settings: Modern, Sleek & Secure

If you’re drawn to clean lines, low profiles, and a minimalist feel, a bezel setting might be your perfect match.

A bezel surrounds the center stone with a thin band of precious metal—holding it securely in place while giving the ring a smooth, modern silhouette. It’s an especially practical option for people with active lifestyles, as the stone is better protected from daily wear and snags.

Bezels can also amplify the shape of your stone. For example, they can highlight the sharp corners of a geometric cut like a radiant or emerald, or emphasize the soft curves of an oval or round diamond. The visual result is streamlined, sculptural, and quietly striking.

We offer bezel options in both full and partial styles, depending on your preferred look and the ring design you choose. We like to note that while bezels are the most secure setting style, half-bezels are considered higher risk and less secure than prong settings.

Can I Customize Both?

Yes—head orientation and bezel settings can be combined in many of our ring styles. An east-west oval in a full bezel? Gorgeous. A diagonal princess cut with a partial bezel? Sleek and unique. Our team will help you navigate which combinations are compatible with your chosen stone shape and setting base.

Our Customization Process at Laura Preshong

We make customizing your engagement ring easy, collaborative, and beautifully intentional. Here’s how it works:

1. Choose a Ring Setting - Browse our signature collection and pick the design that speaks to you.
   

2. Select Your Customizations - Choose from our list of available enhancements, including pavé bands, hidden halos, colored gemstones, or symbolic details.
   

3. Reach Out to Our Team - Contact us with your customization request. We’ll confirm if the design supports your vision, walk you through your options, and provide a quote.
   

4. Craftsmanship You Can Trust - Once approved, we handcraft your ring in Boston using sustainable practices and ethically sourced materials.

For designs with more than two changes, we’ll guide you through our full custom engagement ring process for a completely bespoke experience.

Changing your center stone’s orientation or choosing a bezel setting is a sophisticated way to add personal detail without overwhelming your ring design. Whether you're going bold with an offset diamond or keeping it sleek with a bezel, these details help tell your story in style.

Thinking about a modern twist on a classic ring? Reach out to our team to talk through your ideas and start your customization.