All this talk about unique and relatively smaller engagement rings (thank you so much to everyone who commented on this post), has me on the lookout for outstanding pieces to fit that description. It also makes me want to take up an engagement ring collection (which totally defeats the purpose of the referenced article, but whatever).

For that growing imaginary collection, this remarkable beauty from the Los Angeles–originating (with a sister store in San Marino, Calif.) Single Stone is a must.

Handcrafted in 18k yellow gold, this one-of-a-kind ring features just over  one-half carat of cushion- and old mine–cut diamonds in a domed setting that’s thicker than your traditional gold band, which gives it tons of oomph despite its modest carat weight.

For customers in the market for a smaller, high-quality, one-of-kind engagement ring, this is it. But those craving higher wattage can enjoy this piece, too—with its low-profile setting, envision this alongside a multicarat diamond on a super-thin shank, serving as the wedding band or even an anniversary addition to a stack of diamonds. And speaking of stacking, this could serve that well, too, whether or not the customer wears it as wedding jewelry.

It’s hard to choose the best part of this ring, between the shine of the voluptuous gold band and the marvelous setting, but the vintage diamonds certainly have their say. And this is where Single Stone excels, specializing in new designs that feature antique diamonds.

Founders and husband-and-wife design team Ari and Corina Madilian have amassed a collection of antique diamonds over the last 30 years and use them in the creation of Single Stone’s treasures, crafted with antique design techniques. Their pieces are the perfect fit for, well, actually, for everyone, but especially for those shoppers who are wild about vintage jewelry but afraid of the risks that come with it.

Not that antique jewelry has to be a risk. But without the proper care—or jewelers without the proper skills—delicate designs from decades past can be tricky to size, repair, and maintain. For shoppers hoping to make an antique piece their “forever” ring, that can be a scary proposition.

The Madilians are skilled in antique jewelry restoration, though, as is their team of artisans, and each new piece is handmade with the intention of honoring the history of antique styles. No way could anyone object to this piece and others like it—it’s a win for vintage and modern jewelry seekers alike. Insert 10 heart-eye emojis.

Top: One-of-a-kind Ruth ring in 18k yellow gold with 0.52 ct. t.w. cushion-and old mine–cut diamonds, $3,600

Brittany Siminitz

JCK Contributing Editor