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Double diamond engagement rings: twice as symbolic

Engagement rings also follow trends, and one charming new trend is the double diamond engagement ring, also known as the 'Toi et Moi' ring, which means 'you and me' in French. Twice as elegant and twice as symbolic in the romantic history of diamonds. Do you truly want to surprise your beloved one when you propose? Get advice here about an engagement ring with two precious stones, which says more than a 1000 words.

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Can two diamonds tell your love story better than one?

Looking for a unique way to propose? The double diamond engagement ring (or "Toi et Moi" ring) offers both elegance and symbolism. This trending style features two gemstones side by side, representing both partners in the relationship.

The design dates back centuries, with Napoleon Bonaparte gifting a diamond-sapphire version to his fiancée in 1776. Today, these rings symbolize the couple's past and future together, their enduring love and shared prosperity, and the balance between two individuals.

What makes these rings special is their versatility. You can customize with different diamond shapes, sizes, or even mix diamonds with other gemstones like sapphires or emeralds. They're not limited to engagements either – they make meaningful gifts for cohabitation agreements, long-distance relationships, or anniversaries.

BAUNAT offers various Toi et Moi designs in multiple precious metals to match your partner's preferences.

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Napoleon's Double-Diamond or Toi et Moi Engagement Ring To Empress Joséphine De Beauharnais

Symbolisms behind 2 stone diamond engagement rings

2 stone diamond engagement rings were popular in the late 19th and early 20th centuries. Back in 1776 the former French commander, Napoleon Bonaparte, gave his first fiancée, Joséphine de Beauharnais, a ring with both a diamond and a sapphire. In 2013, the ring went for around 730,000 Euros at auction, nearly 50x more than anticipated.

Up till today, a double diamond engagement ring carries meaningful symbolism with it: such as the ‘Toi et Moi’ symbolism and the ‘love and prosperity’ symbolism.

The meaning of the Toi et Moi ring

Imagine this: two diamonds gleaming side-by-side, each holding a story. One diamond captures the cherished memories of the past, while the other sparkles with the promise of a radiant future. This powerful "toi et moi" (you and me) design beautifully illustrates the union of two souls, like this gorgeous 1.5-carat Toi et Moi diamond ring with a white gold band.

A symbol for love and prosperity

But that's not all, these rings also symbolise love and prosperity, with one stone reflecting enduring love and the other signifying the prosperity that comes from a life built together. Some even see them as the embodiment of balance and harmony, where each diamond complements the other, creating a perfect equilibrium.

This deep symbolism adds layers of meaning to the already profound act of giving an engagement ring, transforming it from a simple gesture into an enduring promise of a shared journey.

Versatility and customisation of two stone engagement rings

One of the most appealing features of two-stone engagement rings is their incredible versatility, allowing them to be customised to perfectly suit individual tastes and preferences. While the classic design often features two round diamonds, the options are nearly limitless. You can choose from various diamond shapes, such as oval, pear, or square, to create a truly unique look. The diamonds don’t even have to match in size, adding an extra layer of personalization. Additionally, your ring doesn't need to feature only diamonds; you can mix and match with other gemstones, like sapphires or emeralds, to craft a design that reflects your love story in a way that's as distinctive as your relationship.

Practical setting choices and everyday wearability

When choosing a setting, it’s all about striking the right balance between protection and brilliance. A classic prong setting allows plenty of light into the diamond and enhances its sparkle, but offers less protection than a closed setting. A bezel setting encloses the stone and provides extra protection against bumps and everyday wear, making it a solid choice for active wearers. Channel settings are more commonly seen in rows of stones on a band; they are less common in Toi et Moi designs, but they pair well with a sleek, modern look.

For those who lead an active lifestyle, we recommend profiles with a lower-profile center, such as a low shank or a bezel-inspired edge. These profiles better absorb impacts and are less likely to snag on clothing. With subtle design choices, such as finely placed light openings or smaller prongs, you still maintain sufficient visual appeal.

How two stones work together

The distance between the stones determines how they visually interact. Stones set very close together form a cohesive surface with plenty of fire, while a small spacer or a small bridge defines the individual shapes more clearly. For a symmetrical look, choose even spacing and equal proportions; for a more playful or vintage effect, you can experiment with varying sizes or an asymmetrical placement.

Band profile and stacking

The thickness and shape of the band affect how easily the Toi et Moi ring fits next to a wedding band. A flat or slightly rounded band often pairs best with a wedding band that has a similar profile. Thicker, domed bands can stand out visually; in that case, it’s wise to consider the wedding band and engagement ring together during the design phase to ensure they fit well together.
An exquisite BAUNAT engagement ring showcasing one emerald stone and one natural diamond

Choosing diamond colours

We are talking here about an engagement ring with 2 diamonds, but nobody is saying they need to be colourless diamonds. For something unique and eye-catching on her left ring finger, choose 2 natural coloured diamonds. Same colour or 2 different colours? The choice is yours. Remember that naturally coloured diamonds are even rarer, and so more expensive than the colourless versions. So always bear your budget in mind when choosing her engagement ring.

At BAUNAT, apart from white diamond 2-stones, you’ll find two-stone emeralds and two-stone sapphires.

Pairing cuts, sizes, and colors: practical rules

Some combinations are naturally harmonious, while others create contrast and character. Below are some guidelines for achieving visual balance and style.

Cut pairings and effects

  • Pear + round: elongates the finger and creates an elegant silhouette. The round stone emphasizes fire; the pear shape adds length and a classic touch.
  • Emerald + round: Emeralds have broad facets and a subdued luster that contrasts beautifully with the sparkle of a round diamond, ideal for a vintage-inspired design.
  • Oval + marquise: Both shapes play with length and together create a striking, couture look.

Proportional guidance when mixing sizes

When working with unequal sizes, ensure the secondary stone remains visually subordinate but does not become too small. As a general visual guideline, the smaller stone can be approximately 60–80% of the linear size of the main stone. This creates balance without one stone dominating or getting lost.

Color-combination examples

  • White diamond + sapphire: a contrasting combination that looks classic and striking. The blue tone makes the white stand out even more.
  • Two natural-colored diamonds (same hue): identical shades create a harmonious and luxurious look and enhance each other’s color intensity.
  • Two-tone diamond pairing: a warm yellow diamond next to a white diamond creates a modern, dramatic look where warmth and brilliance complement each other.

By following these guidelines, you can maintain control over the final look without sacrificing originality; small adjustments in proportion or color intensity can easily change the character of the design.

Choosing precious metals

Selecting different metals such as platinum, white gold, yellow gold, or red gold to complement the diamonds and overall aesthetic.
a woman wearing a toi et moi engagement ring, combining a sapphire and a white diamond for maximum versatility

Find the perfect Toi et Moi engagement ring

Do you find the symbolism of a toi et moi engagement ring charming? Then you have a choice of several designs. Do you prefer white gold, yellow gold, red gold or platinum? Take a look at your partner's jewellery box to find out which precious metal she prefers wearing. Remember, that you will look for wedding rings soon and she might want the engagement rings and wedding rings to be similar.

Wearing it as a couple ring

Is it possible to wear a double diamond ring, not as an engagement ring, but as some sort of relationship ring? Absolutely. For example, your diamond ring is the ideal gift when you'd like to ask your partner to enter into a cohabitation agreement. As such you are binding with your partner, looking towards the future, without the wedding plans though.

Or, if one of you has to relocate for some considerable time, the relationship ring can strengthen your long-distance union and can symbolically underscore your bond. The Toi et Moi ring is also a fabulous present on other occasions too, such as on Valentine's Day or on a wedding anniversary.

Get advice

  • Kim Wouters

  • BAUNAT Antwerp

  • Kim, BAUNAT-certified is quite the Jill of all trades. After being submerged into all aspects of the brand, and being responsible for customer success, order & sales, office management, product management, she has become an expert in everything diamond and jewellery related. Apart from this product expertise, Kim’s master’s degree in communications makes her an excellent Diamond Jewellery Advisor to help you discover your personal taste and make sure all your expectations are exceeded.

Kim, BAUNAT-certified is quite the Jill of all trades. After being submerged into all aspects of the brand, and being responsible for customer success, order & sales, office management, product management, she has become an expert in everything diamond and jewellery related. Apart from this product expertise, Kim’s master’s degree in communications makes her an excellent Diamond Jewellery Advisor to help you discover your personal taste and make sure all your expectations are exceeded.