The engagement ring setting is extremely important because it will hold your precious diamond in place day after day and year after year. You want to be sure to choose a ring setting that will keep your ring secure for a lifetime, as well as complete the look of beauty that you want from your ring.
There are a variety of wedding ring settings to choose from, and knowing which one is right for you basically comes down to personal preference. How do you envision your perfect engagement ring? Here are some of the most common ring settings available for brides-to-be.
The most popular setting is the prong setting, also known as the claw setting. This setting consists of between three and six prongs that grip the diamond and hold it in place. Many traditional solitaire rings have the prong setting, with most having either four or six prongs. Six-prong settings are a little more secure, but both are good choices for showing off a brilliant solitaire diamond.
Some prong settings are designed to hold the diamond up off the ring a little higher than others. This allows more light to course through all facets of the diamond, creating more sparkle. It also can make a diamond appear bigger. Be aware, though, that you will need to be vigilant in checking your ring with this type of setting. The diamond may shift in its setting, or a prong may become damaged. You just don't want to lose that diamond, so you'll have to get these problems fixed by a jeweler before you feel comfortable wearing the ring again.
The channel setting is also popular with brides today. In this setting, it is common for multiple diamonds to be placed in a line right next to each other, all within the same setting. This continuous line is a quite secure, understated look. Some engagement rings may have a larger diamond held in place by a prong setting with smaller diamonds on each side placed in a channel setting. You can also find this type of setting in wedding rings, and anniversary rings (which some women may choose to wear as wedding rings).
The bezel setting is extremely secure and is a wonderful choice for women who may worry about their diamonds becoming loose or damaged. Usually with this type of setting the band of gold or platinum completely surrounds the diamond, although the band may be just on each side and not on the top and bottom of the diamond. The diamond is flush with the ring, instead of being raised up the way it is with the prong setting.
The bar setting is often used with the "three-stone" diamond engagement rings. A thin bar of gold or platinum is set between each of the diamonds and holds them safely in place. The look here is classic and elegant.
The invisible setting is the perfect choice when using a few smaller diamonds to give the illusion of one larger diamond. The smaller diamonds are clustered together and held underneath so the setting cannot be seen. This setting also allows the diamonds to sparkle in all their glory because there is no metal setting to interrupt the surface.
Choosing the perfect ring setting is important to be certain your diamond is secure in the years to come. Sit down with your favorite jeweler and ask for examples of all of these settings. There is no substitute for up-close viewing. Don't be afraid to ask the jeweler questions about their experience in creating each setting and any problems they've had with customers. With so many different options available, and with a little homework, you are sure to find exactly the right one for you.
