back to Engagement Ring Trends

How to Choose a Two Stone Engagement Ring

by Molly Jones
Last updated on August 13, 2023
two stone engagement ring_toi et moi ring

A timeless classic with a modern twist, a two stone engagement ring places your love on full sparkling display. Two stone engagement rings are an elegant way to show your and your partner’s particular quirks and sparks. Plus, they make the perfect gift for someone who’s not afraid to be bold.

There are certain factors to consider when you purchase a two-stone engagement ring. So, if you want to surprise your partner with a two stone engagement ring, we’re here to help.

Below, we’ve listed various tips to help you pick the perfect two-stone engagement ring. But before we get into it, let’s go over the history of two stone engagement rings.

What is the History of Two-Stone Engagement Rings

The Noemie Ring

Although it seems like the two-stone diamond ring is a new jewelry trend in the engagement ring world, this is not the case. In fact, some historians argue that the two-stone engagement ring setting originates in 1796. Back then, Napoléon Bonaparte proposed to Josephine de Beauharnais with a two-stone (also called Toi et Moi) engagement ring. The ring featured a pear-shaped blue sapphire and diamond.

Toi et Moi rings fell in and out of fashion for the next hundred years. However, it came back with a vengeance in 1953 when John F. Kennedy got down on one knee and popped the question to Jackie Bouvier. Jackie said yes, and the two picked out a 2.84 carat emerald and 2.88 carat emerald-cut diamond ring.

Since then, the popularity of these gorgeous pieces has grown over time. It continues to grow today, particularly as more and more celebrities choose two-stone diamond rings as their engagement ring of choice.

And it’s easy to see why! Two-stone diamond rings are perfect for any bride who wants a unique piece that stands out from traditional designs. And although it stands, it will still be timeless and classic enough for everyday wear.

What Should You Consider When Buying a Two-Stone Diamond Ring?

As two-stone engagement rings experience a surge in popularity, you may find yourself confused about how to find and purchase the perfect diamond ring.

Not to fear! Many of the same decisions you face when purchasing a one-stone engagement ring also apply to a two-stone ring. Below, we’ve listed a few questions to ask yourself when browsing for the perfect diamond engagement ring.

What Combination of Gemstones Do You Want?

The Rosalie two stone engagement ring.

While there is nothing as luxurious as a two-diamond ring, the sky is the limit when deciding on the second gemstone. Why not pair the sparkle of a diamond with a sentimental heirloom? Dalton Gomez did this when he proposed to Ariana Grande with a diamond and pearl ring. Or, consider the classic emerald-cut emerald and emerald-cut diamond combination ala Jackie Kennedy.

We love the glint of two diamonds placed next to one another as in our stunning Rosalie ring pictured above. Here, the 0.5ct oval-cut diamond is perfectly complemented by a diamond with a pear shape. The pear shape accentuates the soft edges and inherent gleam of both diamonds’ sparkling nature.

Have Fun with Diamond Shape

Two-stone engagement rings are a great choice for creating a custom design around your chosen diamond shapes. The first diamond in a two-stone engagement ring will typically be round or oval; the second diamond can be any shape you like. This means you can customize your ring’s look according to your preferences and tastes.

Pair round brilliant diamonds with emerald or Asscher-cut diamonds. The strong lines of the square-cut diamond will go beautifully with the soft curves of the round brilliant. Meanwhile, the step and the brilliant-cut combo will draw the eye to the ring. Or, go for an obscure heart-shaped diamond and classic princess-cut diamond. This pairing creates a unique design destined to become a family heirloom.

Regardless of what you choose, your two stones will serve as reminders of the love and compassion you and your partner share.

Don’t Forget the 4Cs

The Amelie Toi et Moi two stone engagement ring.

Sure, choosing a diamond shape is fun. But it is just as vital to prioritize the 4cs. And the 4cs are particularly vital with Toi et Moi rings.

Mix and Match Diamond CARATs

Traditionally, two-stone rings featured stones of different sizes. This created visual interest in addition to the diamond shape. Since various diamond shapes carry weight differently, it may be helpful to consider the millimeter measurement instead of the carat weight when pairing your diamonds.

This is useful as millimeters will measure the surface area of your diamond. Which, when viewed from the top down, will give you an idea of how much space each stone takes up and how they will appear set together on your hand.

And if you prefer to get two diamonds in the same carat weight – go for it! Your engagement ring is uniquely you and whether you want two diamonds in the exact same size or two stones in different styles is not as important as how you feel about the engagement ring yourself.

Consider Cut

A diamond’s cut is an important aspect of any engagement ring, and it only becomes more important when you’re looking to purchase more than one diamond. Unlike a solitaire engagement ring, a two-stone engagement ring needs each diamond to complement and not overshadow the other.

The way your ring will look is determined by the combination of both diamonds’ shapes and symmetry. The shape of each stone should complement the other so they look balanced on your finger. Symmetry refers to how well-aligned each gemstone is with its partner; this allows them to sparkle without creating glares or “starbursts” from light reflecting off their edges.

Compare Diamond Color and Clarity

The Noemie two stone engagement ring.

When two diamonds are going to be set right next to each other in your engagement ring it is important to ensure they appear similar in color and clarity. And while you can purchase diamonds with the exact same ratings, that can get quite expensive.

Instead, we suggest purchasing diamonds within the G-H-I color range. As diamond color can be affected by diamond shape and cut, purchasing within this range allows your diamonds to complement one another.

Similarly, you may find that you have to prioritize clarity if you are looking to purchase a step-cut diamond. This is because the step-cut provides a clearer view into the diamond. But if you’re pairing the step-cut with a brilliant cut you can most likely mix and match clarity grades.

Remember to Stay True to You

You can never go wrong when you shop at Clean Origin. Whether you prefer a rose gold two-stone engagement ring with a princess-cut and pear- shaped diamond or a round-cut diamond and marquise-cut diamond platinum ring – we have it all.

Plus, because all of our gems are lab created, you can expect to pay 20-40% less for your ring. With free shipping, complimentary ring resizing, and a 100 day return policy, there’s no denying it – Clean Origin takes the cake when it comes to two-stone engagement rings.