Engagement ring settings not only hold the valuable gemstones in place, but also showcase it. Engagement ring setting expresses unique styles and personalities. They also add sparkle and shine to the gemstone.
When buying an engagement ring, consider size, shape, gemstone and setting. Engagement ring settings refer to the mountings which attach the gemstone to the ring’s band. This is basically to prevent loss and damage to the gemstone 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. It 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. It is the part that brings sparkle, brilliance or luster in the total appearance of the ring.
Setting is important because it holds the valuable gemstone in place. To determine what perfectly suit the recipient, it is vital to know the different settings used in an engagement ring. Settings showcase the gemstones and add to the gemstone’s sparkle and shine. Hence, determining the best setting is a personal choice that matches the wearer’s personality.
The following are the popular types of engagement ring settings.
Prong setting
The most popular ring setting is the prong setting, which was designed in 1886. This type of setting is a popular choice for solitaire rings. The prong setting can be pointed, V-shaped, rounded or flat. It has claws or hooks that suspend the gemstone in place slightly above the band. It comes in a larger range of variety such as three-prong, six-prong, and custom made styles like Belcher, Fishtail and six-prong Tiffany.
Prong setting is not ideal for small gemstones as it will overshadow the gemstone or may cause these gemstones to appear lost in it. One drawback about this setting is that the hooks can get caught on hair and clothing. But, with larger gemstones, prong setting allows for the most light to enter and be refracted particularly on diamonds. Thus, increasing the sparkle of the diamond. Unlike other settings, the prong can hold large gemstones and allows for easy clean.
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 can be used to enhance a middle-set gemstones that sits above the band or continue around the ring completely so that the piece contains a consistent 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 a single focal point or an overall center gemstone. This type of setting is one of the most useful and most popular engagement ring settings.
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 the ring is not recommended. It will cause the ring to lose the necessary strength to protect the gemstone. So be very sure of your ring size.
Pave (Pa Vay) Setting
In a pave setting, a cluster of small diamonds is encrusted along the surface of the band and secured by beads or small prongs. This type of setting makes the gemstone appear as if it is standing freely. The gemstone literally coats the entire surface of the ring.
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
Flush settings are perfect for those who like contemporary, tailored look. It offers good protection for gemstones and provides a very sleek, smooth surface. In a flush setting, the gemstone is in a tapered hole and the surrounding metal is pressed around the rim.
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 setting includes flat-top and bead setting that has flat top setting with a hole where the gemstone is put; the gypsy setting which contains a metal at the top of the ring that is heavier than the shank; and the illusion setting which is used to make the mounted gemstone looked bigger.
Choose an engagement ring that best complements the wearer or bride to be. Be sure that both the gemstones and setting express beauty, elegance and personality of the person wearing it.
Choose a quality setting that is not damaged easily or will not require constant repair. Examine the security of the gemstone and/or the settings for gaps. To lessen the risk of scratching or damaging the ring, especially the gemstone, consider the wearers lifestyle.
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 collection of engagement ring in different settings. We will help determine that perfect engagement ring setting that matches your beauty and elegance – the perfect match for the perfect bride to be. Discounts are offered on our selected items available on eBay and Amazon.
About the Author: Fred Gagnon specializes in providing tips and information on jewelries. He owns a wide collection of beautiful, glamorous and elegant jewelries. To learn more about jewelries, accessories, precious metals and gemstones, visit Engagement Rings and Designer Engagement Rings.
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