Ring setting style
The setting style of a ring plays a key role in how it eventually turns out. These differences in style cater to a wide variety of tastes. A classic solitaire ring makes a subtle yet bold statement, while a tension ring oozes flamboyance. Read the following list to know more about rings and their setting styles.
Setting Styles
Solitaire
Solitaire styled rings have a single diamond or gemstone. There are no side or accent stones, and prong setting is the most common technique used for these rings.
Side stone rings
Complementing the exquisite centre stone, the side stones come in various ring setting techniques. However, the most common ones are channel and prong settings.
Three-stone rings
With the three stones representing the past, present and future, the three-stone rings are a popular choice for engagements and anniversaries.
Although prong setting is the most commonly used technique, these special rings also come in a variety of setting styles.
Halo rings
Small diamonds encircle the centre stone giving the impression of a halo adding to the radiance of the centre stone. One of the most popular engagement ring styles, the Halo ring can be set with various stones such as diamonds, sapphire, and ruby among others.
Matching bridal sets
Some engagement rings come paired with a wedding band to make for a matching bridal set. With designs varying from subtle to intricate, these wedding bands either complement the engagement ring or wrap around the centre stone making for a graceful piece of jewelry.
Ring Setting Techniques
Prong setting
Prong setting is one of the most commonly used techniques, especially for solitaire rings. Prongs attached to the central setting of the ring extend upward and outward holding the stone with an arch. The centre stone is usually raised above the shank of the ring giving it a prominent appearance.
Prongs may be placed at four corners of the stone or distributed evenly at five or six points around the stone. V-prong setting is a variation used to protect pointed tips of marquise and pear shaped gemstones from getting chipped.
Illusion setting
A variation of the prong setting technique, the illusion setting wraps a shiny metal plate around the edge of the gemstone adding to the brilliance of the stone while making it appear larger at the same time.
Channel setting
In channel setting, the stones are placed side by side between two metal strips without any prong between them. This secure setting technique ensures protection to the edge of the gemstone. Also, the smooth setting makes these rings less likely to get snagged on clothes or hair.
Bar setting
In bar setting technique, similar to channel setting, a thin bar of U or V-shaped metal is used to hold the stone in place from two sides. When there is more than one stone or a series of stones next to each other, one may find a narrow bar between each of them.
Pavé setting
Pavé setting technique has a band covered with dozens of tiny diamonds. These diamonds are so many that the metal band is barely visible. They are held in place using small prongs or beads. Hence, the band appears as though it is made entirely of diamonds; unlike channel setting, where bigger diamonds are set within a metal band.
Bezel setting
Depending on the design, a metal frame either completely or partially surrounds the circumference of the stone. This technique is common for diamond rings as it is ideal for protecting the thin edge of the stone while making it appear larger.
Invisible setting
The invisible setting technique is a classic way to showcase the excellence of princess cut diamonds. The metal setting hides beneath the gemstones that rest closely together. As a result, what one sees is a continual surface of gemstones; and in the absence of prongs or bezels, an even illumination across each stone.
Cluster setting
As the name suggests, in cluster setting technique, multiple stones are set close together in a group. The arrangement may be open or tight depending on the design. It may also be either abstract or resemble the form of a flower. With considerable height above the hand, these rings are usually multi-level.
Tension setting
Sleek yet stunning, this contemporary setting technique uses pressure to hold the stone between two open ends of a metal giving the impression of a floating stone. Oozing flamboyance, tension setting is the ideal choice for the modern chic woman.