A solitaire is the quietest ring there is — which is exactly why it stacks so well. Five pairings, from classic to bold.

1. The matched pair

Same metal, same width, a plain band sitting flush against the setting. Timeless, and it never competes with the stone.

2. The curved band

If your solitaire sits low, a straight band can leave a gap. A contoured band curves around the setting so the two sit together as one.

3. Add a line of light

An eternity or half-eternity band beside the solitaire turns one point of light into a line. Keep the band's diamonds smaller than the centre stone so the solitaire still leads.

4. Mix the metals

Yellow gold beside platinum, rose beside white. Mixed metals read modern and let you add pieces over the years without matching each one.

5. Leave a space

A band on the other side of the solitaire — or on the next finger — frames the stone instead of crowding it.

A note on fit

Two or three rings on one finger feel tighter than one. If you plan to stack, try the stack on together before you choose a size; some people go up a quarter size.