Contributed by Info Guru Lisa Pratto

When designing your own ring, the possibilities are virtually limitless.

In fact, whether it is an engagement ring or a happy Tuesday gift, ring design ideas run the gamut from traditional to avant garde and everything in between. Your fine jewelry should reflect you and your personal style.

10. Unusual Stones

There are no rules when it comes to stone selection. Sure, some stones may be softer (emeralds) and others may react to temperature changes (opals), but the choice is really yours. Be yourself.

9. Engraved Messages

Don’t forget to engrave a sweet or memorable message inside your ring. You may not have the chance to read it every day, but you will always know the words are there and what they mean to you.

8. Cut

There are many ways to cut a diamond to show off its beauty. Some are more traditional, like an Asscher or emerald cut, while others scream modern and on-trend, like trilliant and heart-shaped. Which represents you? Which cut will make people say, “That is so you!”?

7. Birthstone Combinations

A popular trend in ring design ideas is to combine the stones for all your children or loved ones into one birthstone ring. You can choose any combinations you like; it is your ring design ideas.

6. Engraved Shank

Did you know that snakes once represented good luck? If it works for you, have snakes or any other design engraved on the shank of your ring. Let your imagination run wild. Show off you Celtic heritage. You choose.

5. Channel Set

Some stones are channel set for a more modern look, but you can also use just one and let it slide in the channel for an ultra-modern look.

4. Metal Choices

Think beyond gold and platinum. With the rising cost, many jewelers are now offering more unusual metal options. Steel, tungsten, palladium and titanium are all unique choices that will stand the test of time.

3. Style

What was old is new again. Vintage and estate rings are incredibly popular and the trend is so classic that it will be around for a very long time.

2. Solitaire vs. Three-Stone

When designing a ring for yourself, you will need to decide of you like the look of the classic solitaire ring or the newer, three-stone. Each is beautiful in its own right, yet different.

1. Quality vs. Carats

One of the biggest decisions you need to make (other than budget) is whether to choose quality. Is it more important to you to have a flawless diamond or a large stone? When you are designing your own, you decide.