Engagement Ring Settings – Types Of Engagement Ring Settings
Engagement ring settings add sparkle and shine to the gemstone. They not only hold the valuable gemstones in place, they also showcase these gemstones. Engagement ring settings express unique personalities and styles.
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.
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 gemstones in place. It showcases these gemstones and adds to the gemstones’ sparkle and shine. Therefore, it is important to know the different settings used in engagement ring and to determine what perfectly suit the recipient. Determining the best setting is a personal choice and should match the wearer’s personality.
The following are the popular types of engagement ring settings.
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 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 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
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 is often added so the gemstone can rest securely. Invisible settings allow for easy resizing but not tension settings.
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.
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.
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