Engagement Ring Settings – Types of Engagement Ring Setting
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.
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.
Setting, band and gemstone is the three basic parts of an engagement ring. The band which is often made of metals like gold, silver and platinum is the part of the ring that goes around the finger. The most important part of the ring is the gemstone usually a diamond. The part of the ring holding the gemstone is called the setting.
It is important to know the different settings used in engagement ring and to understand the recipients taste as well. Determining the perfect setting is a personal choice and should match the individual’s personality. Setting is essential not only because it holds the valuable gemstone in place. It also showcases the gemstones and adds to the gemstone’s shine, and sparkle.
The popular types of engagement rings are the following:
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 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 gemstones look larger and more stunning. Choose six prongs to make sure that the prongs are not too thin as it increases the chance of losing or damaging the gemstone. Do this for security and symmetry reasons. 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
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 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 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 like the channel setting and is a variation of the prong setting. With bar setting, metal is highlighted without obscuring the gemstone. In bar setting, there are thin, elongated bars that hold the gemstone in place instead of individual prongs.
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 is often added so the gemstone can rest securely. Invisible settings allow for easy resizing but not tension settings.
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.
Consider the activities of the wearer to lessen the risk of damaging or scratching the ring particularly the gemstone. Examine the settings for gaps and/or the security of the gemstone. Choose quality setting that will not require frequent repairs.
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 ring comes in various settings for the perfect bride-to-be. engagement-ringsettings.com offers an array of engagement rings. Also selected engagement ring in different engagement ring settings are offered with discounts on eBay and Amazon.
About the 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.