Why A Diamond Cluster Ring Is the Ultimate Thrifty Style

Discover the versatile style of a diamond cluster ring and why its so popular for brides-to-be.

By Jane Asher | April 7, 2025

Jewels by Grace | Greenwich St. Jewelers | Harry Winston

A diamond cluster ring is defined by the presence of multiple diamonds in a setting, usually framing a larger center stone. However, this style is inherently broad in its definition and can be interpreted in many ways by different designers.

Sometimes, the design will feature multiple diamonds surrounding one diamond. This one diamond is usually larger than the rest but can also be of a similar size and still be considered a cluster ring. The cluster portion of the design might evenly circle the center stone, or it can sit asymmetrically to it. There is no wrong way to design a cluster stone, which is why it can suit any style.

“Cluster rings are a brilliant way to get more visual impact for your investment because the diamonds are spread across the surface, you get a larger, more dramatic diamond look without paying for the hidden carat weight that comes with a single large stone,” says Grant Mobley, Only Natural Diamonds‘ in-house jewelry expert.

Meet the Expert

Why A Diamond Cluster Ring Is the Ultimate Thrifty Style

Grant Mobley is the Jewelry & Watch Editor of Only Natural Diamonds
He is a GIA Graduate Diamonds Graduate
He has over 17 years of jewelry industry experience, starting with growing up in his family’s retail jewelry stores

One thing each diamond cluster ring has in common, though, is an ability to make the diamond ring look larger than its actual carat size. This is a common appeal for brides-to-be who want a bigger look on a smaller budget. While a single 2-carat stone might cost upwards of $30,000, a 2-carat cluster ring might only have a price tag around $10,000. Of course, this varies by clarity and color of the diamond selected, but choosing this style will always get you more bang for your buck.

The History of the Diamond Cluster Ring

The style first materialized in the Georgian era, which spanned the years 1714 to 1837, named after Kings George I through IV, who reigned at the time. The cluster ring debuted as a new, avant-garde style and a striking contrast to the trendier, more ornate styles that were popular then.

After it first made its appearance in the Georgian era, the style of the ring changed over time, adapting its look for each era that came after, like the Victorian era and the Art Deco era. Today, cluster rings are often found in minimalist settings, though styles range widely—from maximalist to romantic and everything in between. Many stores and designers specializing in antique jewelry offer vintage cluster rings from eras like the Georgian, Victorian, and Art Deco periods, among others.

Celebrities with Diamond Cluster Rings

HGTV host Jonathan Scott proposed to actress Zooey Deschanel with a cluster ring from Van Cleef & Arpels in 2023. The Folie de Prés ring is a nature-inspired engagement ring featuring white diamonds and sapphires arranged in a floral shape.

This style of ring differs from a halo in the size of its diamonds. While a halo usually consists of pavé diamonds surrounding the center stone, a cluster ring doesn’t typically have a traditional center stone; rather, one larger stone is surrounded by other diamonds of similar or slightly smaller size.

It is also different from a three-stone ring: It typically features more than just three diamonds. A three-stone ring is most often designed to feature one large center stone with two much smaller stones framing the center stone on each side. While they can be symmetrical, there are more than two diamonds flanking the main stone of a cluster ring.

Ahead, take a look at some of the most stylish diamond cluster rings on offer, from vintage pieces to modern marvels from heritage brands, independent designers, antique stores, and more.