Kite-shaped diamonds offer a unique angular appearance that’s striking in any setting. It’s rare to find a kite set diamond in stores, but many designers specialize in bespoke engagement rings and can help you create your dream ring.
This alternative fancy-cut diamond is having a major moment with brides who prefer modern and sleek styles. See how to shop the look for yourself with this elongated diamond engagement ring.
1. Choose Your Diamond
When it comes to diamond rings, there are a million and one decisions to make. And while we’re all about round brilliant cuts, there are other shapes to consider — like the kite cut, which offers a distinctive angular silhouette and mesmerizing sparkle.
Kite cut diamonds are rare and offer a modern edge that’s especially flattering on the finger. They can be set in a variety of settings, but are most often seen as part of bespoke or artisanal designs, where they’re paired with other unique fancy cuts. This style works especially well with salt-and-pepper diamonds, which feature visible inclusions and add character and contrast. But don’t let that deter you from exploring other options, as these stunning gems are also a perfect match for minimalist masterpieces and geometric three-stone silhouettes.
While diamonds are known for their durability, their sharp points can make them vulnerable to damage if not properly protected. To protect your gemstone, consider a setting that shields the pointy end of the diamond. Also, keep in mind that a diamond’s weight will affect its appearance. Choosing a larger carat weight may result in a heavier, bulkier ring, so be sure to take your budget into consideration.
For a more casual look, try a kite-cut ring made with moss agate or moissanite. Both materials have been capturing hearts recently, as they’re versatile enough for contemporary and vintage-inspired styles alike. Plus, moss agate symbolizes freedom and aspirations, while moissanite’s exceptional brilliance offers a modern twist on traditional rings.
2. Decide on the Setting
When it comes to engagement ring settings, you have plenty of options. While solitaire settings with a single diamond are classic, you can also choose to add side stones or a halo around your center stone. Side stones allow you to add color and sparkle, while a halo accentuates your round diamond’s beauty.
Many designers create unique ring styles with kite-shaped diamonds. For example, Eva Fehren’s Pink Warrior ring features an elongated kite-shaped diamond set in a rose gold bezel setting. The rose gold highlights the luster of the diamond and complements its brownish-pink color. Alternatively, you can go for a pave setting, which uses small white diamonds to encircle the center stone and extend down the band.
Other popular settings include the cathedral, tension, and bezel setting. Cathedral and tension settings are more secure than bezel settings, but they have a higher profile that may snag on clothing or jewelry. A bezel setting protects the diamond from all sides and is less likely to chip or loosen over time.
The final look of your ring will depend on the setting style you choose. You should also consider the metal color you want to use. Because of the way light reflects off of diamonds, a yellow gold setting can make a D-F diamond appear one color grade lower. Conversely, a white gold or platinum setting will highlight the color of a K-Z diamond.
3. Pick Your Metal
There are a million and one decisions to make when you’re on the hunt for your dream engagement ring. From the perfect cut to the most unique diamond setting, you’ll want to consider everything that will help make your ring one-of-a-kind. One of these less-seen styles is the kite set diamond, which has a distinct, angular appearance that can look quite avant-garde or even futuristic for some brides.
The kite-shaped diamond is actually a type of princess or Asscher cut diamond, but instead of being set squarely on the ring’s band, it’s held in place by compass points (or “kite” prongs) that are arranged north, south, east, and west. It’s a rare and striking look that’s a big hit among designers who specialize in alternative bridal and bespoke jewelry, like Rachel Boston. She sources rare salt-and-pepper diamonds to craft her bespoke kite set rings, which can be more delicate and fragile than other setting styles.
Jemma Wynne, who also designs bespoke pieces, often uses kite-shaped diamonds in her open rings. Her gorgeous Toi et Moi ring features a pair of kite-shaped diamonds that are bezel-set in warm yellow gold and flying in opposite directions for a balanced and symmetrical appearance. Because kite-shaped diamonds reflect the color of their surroundings, it’s important to choose a warm metal to accentuate their natural colors and highlight clarity. Learn more about choosing a metal for your engagement ring in our guide to the best metals for your diamond carat weight.
4. Design Your Ring
When it comes to choosing your engagement ring, you have a million decisions to make. From picking the right diamond shape to finding the perfect setting, it's important to find a style that truly suits your unique taste and personality. If you're in search of something a little more unique than the average diamond, consider a kite set diamond. This type of setting is like the haute couture of diamond rings. It gives your diamond a bold, angular appearance and is sure to turn heads.
The beauty of kite set diamonds is that they can be used in a variety of ways. You can pair them with other unique fancy cuts, or use them as accent stones in a traditional diamond ring. One of our favorite ways to utilize these edgy diamonds is by pairing them with salt-and-pepper diamonds, which add more character and contrast to the design. We also love how these diamonds can be incorporated into three-stone silhouettes or even as floating open rings.
Because they're so uncommon, you might have a hard time finding a kite set diamond in your local jewelry store. However, many jewelry designers specialize in bespoke and alternative bridal pieces and can custom source these rare diamonds to create your dream ring. We recommend reaching out to a designer you love to see if they can help you find the perfect kite set diamond.