Quick question: How many times have you heard the words ‘ring setting’ in conversation and thought to yourself, “What is that?” Regardless of the answer, we bet the discussion left you with more questions than answers.
Worry not! Join us today as we dive into the world of gemstone and diamond ring settings and highlight the major types out there.
Read on…
The 5 Main Types of Ring Settings
1. Prong Setting
First up, we have the OG of gemstone ring settings — the prong setting. As indicated by its name, this type of ring setting makes use of prongs (tiny metal claws) to grip the gemstone tightly and secure it in place.
Interestingly, these little metal claws come in all shapes and sizes —rounded, pointed, flat or even V-shaped. Pretty cool, huh? Not only that, but the setting can feature anywhere between 4 to 6 of these good boys depending on the design used and the gemstone security required.
IMO, what makes this kind of ring setting the real MVP is the minimal metal interference, which allows your gemstone to soak in the light and shine like the diva it was born to be. And the fact that it’s super easy to clean…*chefs kiss*.
2. Pavé Setting
Want to buy an engagement ring for your woman that resembles the neatly aligned cobblestones of Paris? The pavé ring setting is your best bet.
Pronounced ‘pa-vay’ and derived from the French word meaning ‘pavement,’ this ring setting type is all about cramming tiny diamonds together to create a continuous path of sparkle along the ring shank that could outshine a disco ball. Here, the jewelers channel their inner architects by drilling holes into the ring and strategically placing diamonds within.
How do they keep these stones in check, you ask?
By surrounding and securing each of them with tiny metal beads, of course!
And if you thought the bigger the gemstones the better, think again! The whole point of the pave setting is to spotlight the beauty of the center stone, which is why exceptionally small stones are used. Here, diamonds as small as 0.01 to 0.02 carats are considered pavé and anything smaller falls into the micro-pavé category. It’s like the difference between a sprinkle and a dash of glitter – both equally fabulous.
Don’t know what your girl’s ring size is? Check out our ring measurement guide.
Did You Know?
This setting type for rings first rose to fame in 18th century England. During this period, it was often used to embellish intricate Georgian jewelry.
3. Cathedral Setting
Speaking of unique engagement ring settings, if your favorite person’s dream ring involves a touch of elegance and a dash of architectural charm, then this vintage ring setting might just be the perfect choice for her.
Think graceful arches of metal that cradle your gemstone like a delicate kitten in the arms of a feline-loving monarch. The defining feature in the cathedral setting is not just the method of holding the gemstone but the majestic arches that elevate it, creating a ring fit for royalty.
Need we say more?
4. Halo Setting
Want your ring to scream, “I’m the life of the party”? If yes, the halo ring setting is just what you need. This ring setting for gemstones features an array of diamonds that seamlessly encircle the center stone and spotlight its shine.
We like to think of the halo setting as the magician’s trick of the ring world— it makes your center stone appear larger than life. And at the end of the day, isn’t that all that really matters?
5. Bezel Setting
Want to buy a wedding ring but don’t know which setting to choose? The bezel setting is definitely something you should consider.
An ode to sophistication, this wedding ring setting works by wrapping your gemstone in a tight bear hug of precious metal and protecting it on all sides (or in the case of the partial bezel setting, most sides) from chips, scratches and abrasions. We can’t think of a better start to your wedded life!
And if commitment is the furthest thing from your mind, this gemstone setting for rings is just as popular an option for an everyday piece.
In conclusion, ring settings are not just about holding a gemstone; they’re about telling a story. So, the next time someone starts talking about theirs, wow them with your knowledge about different ring settings. Trust us, they’ll be impressed!
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FAQ
Absolutely! Not only does the ring setting impact the security of the gemstone but it can also play a huge role in the look and feel of the piece.
Unfortunately, you can’t change the setting of your existing ring. However, that doesn’t mean you can’t have any input in the setting of your piece the first time around. Thanks to our flagship program, Create With Angara, you now have the option to pick and choose the setting you desire for your ring, along with the gemstone, design and more.
In a nutshell, a ring setting is a metal mechanism that jewelers use to attach the gemstone to the ring shank and hold it firmly in place.
