The Bypass Engagement Ring, an Architectural Delight

Designers, architects and jewelers often draw inspiration from art and nature to craft truly unique and extraordinary creations.  Those who appreciate art in all aspects of life may gravitate towards an engagement ring that looks like a work of art and is not characterized by a strict observance of symmetry. These rings are intended for true connoisseurs of luxury as they are genuine masterpieces of jewelry. Such rings require high skill, precision and craftsmanship to produce.

What is a bypass setting?

A bypass engagement ring is considered to be both architecturally unique and sentimental.  You may have heard the term bypass used before but weren’t sure what it means in regards to engagement rings.  The term bypass specifically refers to the setting, which is the part of the ring that holds the center stone and wraps around the finger.  What makes a bypass setting distinctive, is that the line of the shank or band is not continuous, but rather connects to the center stone from both above and below, giving it a distinct asymmetrical effect.

The meaning behind a bypass setting

The symbolic meaning of a bypass can be interpreted as two distinctly different and separate people coming together to form a new family union, represented by the center stone.

Bypass Designs

From a design perspective, bypass rings tend to look very modern and almost futuristic in feel.  They first came on the scene in the early 1800’s and have gone in and out of popularity throughout the years.  They run the gamut in design and offer many options in look and price point. The bands can be set with diamonds or precious stones or they can be plain or twisted metal. They can also curve out dramatically, make wide swirling arches or hug the stone subtly.  This look can be achieved with a single row on each side or multiple rows.

Magnificent marquise diamonds layered like delicate petals curve gently around the top and bottom of the round cut center stone creating a bursting diamond look. The upper half of the bypass style shank, crafted from classic 14K white gold, is lined with pavé diamonds for added radiance.

Style number: ER15260R4W44JJ

The Demi style is a gorgeous demonstration of when three stone meets bypass.  Angled pear shaped side stones join forces with a winding white gold and diamond band to perfectly highlight your center stone in this lovely bypass engagement ring.  The gentle curve on the top and bottom creates a halo effect and elevates the center stone to new heights.

Style number: ER5331W44JJ

A swirling diamond halo caps off this awe-inspiring 14K rose gold bypass engagement ring setting. The dramatic silhouette is elevated by 0.46cts of pavé diamonds which line the upper shank, layered halo, and floral inspired gallery.

Style number: ER14397R4K44JJ

Secured in a striking bypass setting, the one carat round center stone takes on a distinctly modern appeal. This engagement ring's 14K white gold shank with millgrain trim broadens at either end where it cradles the center stone. Graduated accent diamonds add 0.39cts of sheer brilliance. 

Style number: ER15593R4W44JJ

A worthy culmination of a whirlwind romance, this bypass style engagement ring features swirling ribbons of polished 14 karat white gold 0.37ct pavé diamonds. The two sides of the shank curl in opposite directions before wrapping a round cut center stone in their delicate embrace. 

Style number: ER15359R4W44JJ

Three rows expertly curve around the brilliant one carat round center stone in this modern, bypass engagement ring. Two diamond-set 14K white gold rows run alongside a rose gold twisted rope row to create a truly artistic two tone setting showcasing 0.28ct of diamonds in all.

Style number: ER15359R4W44JJ

The Jagger two tone bypass engagement ring radiates originality and sophistication. The shank features a mixture of polished 14 karat yellow gold and diamond encrusted white gold which circumvent the center stone in a distinctive silhouette. Double claw prongs secure a round center stone above a peek-a-boo diamond halo and intricate basket that bring the setting's total to 0.49cts of sparkling diamonds. 

Style number: ER15359R4W44JJ

While bypass engagement rings may seem to cater more to the daring woman who likes to take risks with her jewelry, they have the advantage of standing out among the sea of solitaires and more traditional styles, for those who seek to do so.  No matter your personal style, there is a bypass engagement ring made for you at Gabriel & Co.