Engagement Ring Settings
Types Of Engagement Ring Settings
Engagement ring settings add sparkle and shine to the gemstone. They not only hold the valuable gemstones in place, they also showcase these gemstones. Engagement ring settings express unique personalities and styles.The factors that one has to consider when buying an engagement ring include size, shape, gemstone and setting. Engagement ring settings refer to the mountings which attach the gemstone to the ring’s band. The main purpose of a setting is to prevent loss and damage of the gemstones in the ring.
Engagement rings have three basic parts: band, gemstone and setting. The band is the part of the ring that goes around the finger and is often made of precious metals such as platinum, gold and silver. The gemstone, usually a diamond, is the most important part of the ring. The setting refers to the part of the ring holding the gemstone.
Setting is important because it holds the valuable gemstones in place. It showcases these gemstones and adds to the gemstones’ sparkle and shine. Therefore, it is important to know the different settings used in engagement ring and to determine what perfectly suit the recipient. Determining the best setting is a personal choice and should match the wearer’s personality.
The following are the popular types of engagement ring settings.
Prong Setting
Prong setting is probably the most popular ring setting and it comes in a larger range of variety such as six- prong, three- prong, and custom styles such as Fishtail, Belcher and six-prong Tiffany. Designed in 1886, this type of setting is a popular option for solitaires. Prong setting has hooks or claws that suspend the gemstone in place slightly above the band. The prongs can be rounded, flat, pointed, or V- shaped.
Prong setting is not ideal for smaller gemstones as it can overshadow them. Smaller gemstones may appear lost in prong settings. Also, the hooks can get caught on hair and clothing. However, prong setting allows for the most light to enter the diamond and be refracted. Thus, increasing the diamond’s sparkle and allows for easy clean. Unlike other settings, it can hold large gemstones.
Prong setting is very ideal for an engagement ring because it makes the gemstone look larger and more stunning. For security and symmetry, choose six prongs and make sure that the prongs are not too thin as it increases the chance of losing or damaging the gemstone. Also, thin prongs may be easily bent or twisted.
Channel Settings
A channel setting is a type of ring setting in which the gemstones are arranged in a line and is inlaid into the ring’s band that has a small metal lip on each edge. These small metal lips keep the gemstones in place. There are no prongs or bars between the gemstones. There are no visible hooks or metal pieces holding the gemstones in place.
This type of setting is one of the most popular and most useful engagement ring settings. This setting can be used to enhance a middle-set gemstone that sits above the band or to continue completely around the ring so that the piece has a continuous row of gemstones. This engagement ring setting provides better protection and less chance of damage or loss. It is ideal for simple rings, like eternity rings, that lack an overall center gemstone or single focal point.
Bezel Setting
Bezel setting has a metal band that wraps around a circular gemstone to secure it in place. It keeps the gemstone well protected while accentuating it and covering minor flaws. Bezels often have straight edges, scalloped edges, or any mold and shape that complement the diamond. It is very durable, which is perfect for people with active lifestyles.
Tension Setting
Tension setting is a type of ring setting that uses the ring’s band, preferably an ultra-strong metal, to hold the gemstone in place. The edge of the band that intersects with the gemstone is carved with small grooves for added security. This setting is so amazing because it makes the gemstone look as if it is being held in midair.
Tension rings are custom-made. Resizing tension ring is not recommended as it will cause for the ring to lose the necessary strength to protect the gemstone.
Pave (Pa Vay) Setting
In a pave setting, a cluster of small diamonds is encrusted along the surface of the band and is secured by beads or small prongs. The gemstones literally coat the entire surface of the ring. This type of setting makes the gemstone appear as if it is standing freely.
Bar Setting
Bar setting is a variation on the prong setting and is similar to the channel setting. In a bar setting, instead of individual prongs, there are thin, elongated bars that hold the gemstone in place. With bar setting, metal is highlighted without obscuring the gemstone.
Flush Setting
In a flush setting, the gemstone is in a tapered hole and the surrounding metal is pressed around its rim. It also offers good protection for the gemstones and provides a very smooth, sleek surface. Flush settings are perfect for those who like tailored, contemporary look.
Invisible Setting
In an invisible setting, the gemstone is bound to the ring without immediately visible means. A stable cup, which is attached to the band in a bypass or split design, where the gemstone can rest in is often added. Tension setting and invisible setting are quite similar, however, invisible setting allows for easy resizing.
Other engagement ring settings include illusion setting, which is used to make the mounted gemstone appear larger, flat- top and bead setting that has a flat- top setting with a hole where the gemstone is placed, and gypsy setting, which has a metal at the top of the ring that is much heavier than the shank.
When choosing a setting for an engagement ring, choose the one that best compliments the wearer or bride-to-be. Make sure that it expresses personality, beauty, and elegance just as much as the gemstone that it holds.
The activities of the wearer must also be considered to lessen the risk of damaging or scratching the ring, especially the gemstone. Choose a quality setting that will not be easily damaged or require frequent repairs. Examine the setting for gaps and or the security of the gemstone.
An engagement ring setting is one of the most important considerations when looking for an engagement ring as it will play a major role in the wearer’s ability to wear and enjoy the item. An engagement ring with a setting that does not properly secure the gemstone can be stressful to wear.
Engagement-ringsettings.com showcases a wide variety of engagement rings in different engagement ring settings. Discounts are offered on our selected items available on eBay and Amazon. engagement-ringsettings.com will help you determine that perfect engagement ring setting for the perfect bride-to-be.
Hope this helps
To your success,
Melinda Gagnon