Discover the Timeless Elegance of the Three-Stone Engagement Ring
Before we dive into the history and where it was discovered, I would like to share what I learned about the wording. Here in Spain, we call this beautiful ring I am describing Tresillo, because it comes from the number “tres” which is three in Spanish. They call it a Three Stone Ring in the US and other international markets. Trilogy Ring tends to be more commonly used in the UK and parts of Europe.
When it comes to engagement rings, there is one design that has stood the test of time… You are guessing correctly – the tresillo or three-stone ring.
Whether you’re looking for a piece that symbolizes your past, present, and future, or simply drawn to its undeniable beauty and elegance, this classic design offers something special.
But what exactly makes the tresillo engagement ring so beloved? Let’s dive into its history, symbolism, and modern appeal to uncover why this iconic design has captivated jewellery lovers for generations.
The Story Behind the Stones
A brief history: The three-stone ring design, while timeless, first gained significant popularity in the 20th century. Its rise to prominence began when major jewellery houses began marketing it as a symbol of a couple’s journey together. Each stone in the setting tells a story: the past, the present, and the future of the relationship.
This romantic sentiment quickly resonated with couples looking for rings that went beyond mere aesthetics to offer deep, personal meaning.
Historically, however, multi-stone rings weren’t a new concept. Even in ancient cultures, multiple gemstones were often featured in jewellery as a way of showcasing wealth and status. The three-stone ring as we know it today took this tradition and imbued it with a modern, emotional touch, perfect for celebrating love.
In more recent times, the design finds popularity thanks to celebrities. A notable moment was when Meghan Markle, the Duchess of Sussex, received a three-stone diamond engagement ring designed by Prince Harry. As you can imagine, this ring sparked renewed interest in the tresillo style, particularly its ability to allow couples to customize their ring with different gemstones and metals to represent their unique love story.
Here you will find a photo of a similar trilogy ring, hers has a cushion-cut diamond and 2 side diamonds from Princess Diana
Why the Tresillo? The Deep Symbolism of Three
Why three stones? Well, the number three has always carried special significance across cultures and eras. Did you know that the concept of “three” represents balance, unity, and harmony ?.
The past, present, and future trio has become the most common interpretation for engagement rings, where the first stone represents the foundation of your relationship, the center stone symbolizes the current moment, and the third stone points toward a bright future together.
But this is just one of the many ways people interpret the design. Some say the three stones represent friendship, love, and fidelity—pillars of a strong relationship.
Others see it as a tribute to the couple’s life journey, with each stone standing for key milestones in their story, such as the day they met, their first kiss, and their engagement.
For those who want a ring that speaks not just of love, but of life’s most meaningful moments, the tresillo is a perfect choice. It’s a wearable reminder of the beauty of your shared experiences and hopes for the future.
Modern Three-Stone Ring Trends
One of the most exciting aspects of the three-stone ring is its versatility. Let us go from classic to creative. While diamonds are the most traditional choice for the three stones, many couples are embracing more colorful and unique options. Birthstones, sapphires, emeralds, or even a mix of colored diamonds can bring a personalized touch to the ring.
In fact, this is where the tresillo design really shines—its ability to be customised. The center stone can be larger, symbolizing the importance of the present moment, while the side stones can be complementary or contrasting in color. Popular combinations include a diamond center stone flanked by sapphires, or the romantic pairing of rubies with diamonds.
Celebrities and royalty often opt for three-stone designs not only for their meaning but also for the opportunity to showcase extravagant gemstones. Yet, even if you prefer a more understated look, the trilogy can be refined and subtle, with smaller stones creating a delicate and sophisticated effect.
For those with a love of vintage styles, the tresillo also fits into retro settings. Edwardian and Victorian designs often included multiple gemstones, and the revival of these settings has led to a renewed appreciation for the detailed metalwork and elaborated settings that the three-stone style can offer.
Fun Fact - A “Lucky” Number in Jewellery
While the three-stone ring is often considered a meaningful and romantic choice, it also has a curious side: the number three is often associated with luck. From ancient times, three has been considered a magical number, representing the perfect balance and the idea of completeness. Think of the “rule of three” in storytelling, or how many cultures see three as a symbol of good fortune.
You see, it’s no wonder that some believe wearing a three-stone ring may bring not only love but luck into your life!
Choosing the Perfect Trilogy Ring for Your Love Story
The beauty of a tresillo ring lies in its versatility. From its rich history and deep symbolism to its endless customization options, this is a design that can be tailored to tell your personal love story. Here are a few tips to consider when selecting the perfect three-stone engagement ring:
- Pick Your Stones with Care – Diamonds are classic, adding colored stones can make the ring truly unique. You can consider birthstones or stones that have special meaning to you and your partner. Sapphire and diamonds is a lovely combination and has special meaning too.
- Balance Is Key – The size and proportion of the three stones should complement each other. Some people prefer a large center stone with two smaller side stones, while others like a more equal balance between the three.
- Consider the Setting – The design of the ring’s band and setting can dramatically change the overall look. From modern to vintage, there are endless possibilities for how the stones are displayed.
- Personalize with Metal – White gold and platinum are timeless choices, but yellow gold, rose gold, or even a mix of metals can add a fresh twist to a classic design.
We can assist you in choosing the best combination between the stone, setting and metal so you feel comfortable and have the best balance with regard to size and proportion. Sometimes less is more, but always opting for quality and durability.
The tresillo, three-stone, trilogy engagement ring is much more than just a piece of jewellery. It is a celebration of a couple’s past, present, and future together. Whether you are drawn to its symbolic meaning, its timeless elegance, or its endless customization possibilities, in our opinion this design has earned its place as a favourite among couples worldwide.
So, if you’re searching for a ring that tells your story in a truly unique way, but you are unsure whether the tresillo may just be the perfect match, we are happy to help, either online or in our shop in Estepona.
