The center stone of an engagement ring should be the focus of attention, but the ring setting is also an important design component because it impacts everything from the price to how much light reaches the sparkler. (An additional stage is determining the ring size.) The location and exact method of securing the diamond—or other center stone—in place on the ring’s band, or shank, is called the ring setting.
You may be a diamond expert, but it’s also a good idea to review the many styles of engagement ring settings. After all, these two ring elements go hand in hand. With a little bit of help from wholesale sterling silver rings supplier like Desire Gem, we’re delving into the benefits and disadvantages of the most popular styles of engagement ring settings, from prongs to pavés and everything in between, with assistance from Desire Gem, a pioneer in ethically produced bridal and fine jewelry.
Popular Styles of Settings for Engagement Rings
Solitaire or Prong Settings
The tiny arms or claws known as prongs extend up and around the diamond’s edges to secure it. The number of prongs can range from 3 to 6 (depending on shape and size) to hold the stone in place.
Advantages: A prong setting is ideal for a solitaire diamond, which is currently the most popular engagement ring style. It provides maximum light exposure in all directions, giving the central stone ultimate shine. It is a tidy and classic ring setting that complements almost all stone forms, is basic enough to fit a wedding band, and may be less expensive due to its straightforward construction.
Disadvantages: If you’re busy and concerned about bumping your ring on objects, gemstones set with prongs may not be the first option for an everyday ring (such as an engagement ring). This is because the prongs tend to elevate the stone.
Setting for Halo
This design encircles a bigger center stone by a halo of smaller accent diamonds in a 925 sterling silver jewelry ring. Brilliant Earth says, “Halo settings can come in many styles, including a single halo, two (or more halos), or a unique floral or scalloped design.”
Advantages: One of the most acceptable ways to get extra bling for your money is with a halo. This kind of setting creates the appearance of a larger center stone without adding to the cost. A solitaire stone gains additional texture and dimension from the accent stones.
Disadvantages: Finding a wedding band that fits snugly against the engagement ring can be more challenging when the halo is low-sitting. If you’re fixated on having a halo yet want to stay away from this problem, Look for a ring with a higher-set diamond and halo around it.
Pave Setting
Because a pavé ring resembles a road covered in extremely tiny diamonds, the name of this setting directly translates from the French term “paved.”
Advantages: A pavé setting turns a basic band into something truly remarkable. After an anniversary or another significant marriage milestone, many individuals enhance their engagement rings with a pavé.
Disadvantages: Because the band of a pavé ring contains diamonds, sizing it can be more challenging than sizing a simple band. Engagement rings with such tiny diamonds may need additional upkeep, and you might need to make more excursions to the jeweler for cleanings and inspections than wearing a solitaire ring.
The Setting of Three Stones (or Side Stones)
The Duchess of Sussex’s favorite setting is a central diamond surrounded by two side stones that can be diamonds or other precious gems.
Advantages: This arrangement style allows for a staggering amount of stones, giving room for greater creativity. The addition of sapphires, rubies, or emeralds to this multi-stone setting is stunning. Additionally, it’s not just for show: The past, present, and future of a relationship are thought to be represented by three-stone rings.
Disadvantages: The accent stones could overshadow the central diamond or give the impression that it is smaller. Finding three diamonds with the same color and clarity can also be challenging. If you want the center diamond to match precisely the two accent diamonds, you might need to choose one with a better hue or clarity.
Bezel Setting
A bezel setting encircles the center diamond in a metal rim that either totally or partially covers its sides instead of prongs to secure a raised diamond.
Advantages: This environment is perfect for anyone with a very dynamic profession or lifestyle, but it is also generally well-liked by people for its contemporary, minimalist design. The straightforward placement gives the gem a flawlessly smooth edge and makes it incredibly secure.
Disadvantages: Because bezels enclose more of the diamond’s girdle and sides, a larger diamond must provide the same aesthetic impact as a prong setting. Skip a bezel if you’ve always wanted to flaunt a diamond from all sides.