There's more than just the diamond when purchasing a
diamond ring. You will also have to decide how you want the diamonds to be set
with your ring.
This, like the shape of the stone itself is purely a
matter of personal style. In addition to the style, the metal that the setting
itself is crafted from is an important consideration. Here, we present several
of the most popular setting styles, along with brief descriptions of what makes
each one special.
Rings with Sidestones
Sidestones on a diamond ring helps
complement the brilliant center diamond. Adding extra diamonds or
gemstones further enhances the beauty of the ring. The sidestones are set
evenly with the band in a channel setting.
Solitaire Setting
Very popular in bridal rings, this four-
or six-prong style is called a "Tiffany" setting, because it was
originally developed by the founder of Tiffany & Co. in 1886. A prong
setting allows the most light to enter a gemstone from all angles,
maximizing its brilliance. Six prongs also provide added security in
holding the stone.
Channel Setting
In a channel setting, two strips of metal
(gold, platinum or silver) hold the gemstone(s) in place at the sides,
with no metal between the stones. This type of setting protects the girdle
area of the gemstone, as well as securing small stones more effectively
than a prong setting. Channel-set gemstones also sit flush with the
mounting, making them less likely to get snagged on other objects, such as
hair or clothing.
Three Stone Rings
Representing the past, present and
future, a three stone diamond ring makes a strong statement.
Bar Setting
A bar setting is very similar to a
channel setting. Used in circular bands, a bar setting uses a thin bar of
metal to hold the stones in place on either side, so that each bar has a
stone on either side of it.
Invisible Setting
Invisible-set gemstones are placed very
closely together, with the metal concealed underneath the stones, giving
them the appearance of a continuous, uninterrupted surface. Since the
metal of the setting is not seen, this type of setting is an excellent way
to showcase the brilliance or color of the gemstones themselves. It also
allows an increased amount of light to enter the stone (and, thus give off
more brilliance or color), since there are no prongs or bezels impeding
the light's entry.
Bezel Setting
A bezel setting holds a gemstone in place
using a thin band of metal that surrounds the stone at its middle, or
girdle. It can completely or partially surround the stone, depending on
the style and look desired. This type of setting provides good protection
for the middle (girdle) and bottom (pavilion) portions of a stone. Bezel
settings can have straight or scalloped edges, and can be molded to
accommodate many shapes of stones.
Cluster Setting
In a cluster setting, several stones are
mounted together in a group, for a cluster effect. It is frequently seen
with several small stones surrounding a central, larger stone.
Tension Setting
This setting uses pressure to hold a
stone between two open ends of the metal mounting, making the stone appear
as if it's floating.
Pavé Setting
In pavé setting, gemstones are fit into
small holes and set almost level with the surface of the ring. They are
set in rows, with no metal between them, giving the appearance of the
gemstones having been paved (Pavé is French for paved), like a cobblestone
road.
Prong Setting
In a prong setting, the gemstone is held
in place by a number of metal prongs, which rise above the main body of
the ring and are bent over the stone to hold it in place. The number of
prongs varies according to the stone's shape, as does their height above
the main body of the ring.
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