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 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 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 popular types of engagement rings:
Prong setting
Prong setting has been 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. It comes in a larger range of variety. There are six-prong, three-prong and custom styles prong such as Fishtail, Belcher and six-prong Tiffany. The prongs can be rounded, flat, pointed or V-shaped. This setting is probably the most popular ring setting.
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.
For symmetry and security reasons, choose six prongs and make sure the prongs are not too thin as it increases the chance of damaging or losing the gemstone. Also, thin prongs may be twisted or bent easily. Prong setting is very ideal for an engagement ring because it makes the gemstone look more stunning and larger.
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 useful engagement ring settings. Channel setting provide better protection and less chance of damage or loss. This can be used to enhance a middle age gemstones that sits upon the band or continue completely around the ring so the piece has continuous row of gemstones. The channel setting is ideal for simple rings like eternity rings that lack an overall center gemstone or a single focal point. It is also one of the most popular settings.
Bezel Setting
Bezel setting keeps the gemstone well protected while covering minor flaws and accentuating it. Bezel often has scalloped edges, straight edges or any shape and mold that complement the diamond. It is perfect for people with active lifestyles because it is very durable. Bezel setting contains a metal band that wraps around a circular gemstone to secure it in place.
Tension Setting
It is a setting that uses the band of the ring to hold the gemstone in place, prefers to use an ultra strong metal for this purpose. Tension setting makes the gemstone looks suspended in mid air which is so amazing. For added security, the edge of the band that intersects with the gemstone is carved with small grooves.
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
This type of setting makes the gemstone look as if it is standing freely. In a pave setting, a cluster of small diamonds is encrusted along the surface of the band and is secured by small prongs or beads.
Bar Setting
Bar setting is a variation on the prong setting which is very similar to the channel setting. With bar setting metal is highlighted without obscuring the gemstone. Thin elongated bars hold the gemstone in place.
Flush setting
In a flush setting, the gemstone is in a tapered hole and the surrounding metal is pressed around its rim. Flush settings are perfect for those who like tailored contemporary look. It offers good protection for gemstones and provides a very smooth sleek surface.
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 rings include flat top and bead setting, illusion setting and gypsy setting. The gypsy setting has a metal at the top of the ring that is much heavier than the shank. Illusion settings are used to make the mounted gemstone appear larger while flat top and bead setting has a hole where the gemstone is placed.
Choose the one that best complement the bride to be or wearer, when looking for an engagement ring setting. It should express the beauty, personality and elegance of the wearer as much as the gemstone 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 that does not secure the gemstone properly is stressful to wear. When looking for an engagement ring, the ring setting is one of the most important consideration as it plays a major role in the wearer’s ability to enjoy and wear the item.
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.
Author Fred Gagnon is an expert on 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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