Setting Styles

Claw or Prong

The claw or prong setting style is the most popular engagement ring setting, largely for its minimal presence of metal, highlighting the diamond. The claws secure the diamond in place with usually four or six claws and sits in what is called a ‘head’ or ‘basket’. The top of the claws can be rounded, pointed, flat or V-shaped (great for the corners of square-shape diamonds).

Six claws are popular as it is the more secure option however four claws showcase the diamond better and allows more light in, thus maximising brilliance.

Bezel

Metal surrounds the girdle and encases the diamond, both protecting the diamond and giving the ring a modern and contemporary appearance. The bezel setting is easy to wear and perfect for those with an active and busy lifestyle, without compromising the beauty of the diamond.

The bezel setting can be full or half bezel. Full bezel completely encases the diamond whereas the half bezel leaves the sides open.

 

Tension

The tension setting is where a compression-spring pressure of metal secures the diamond in place. It creates the appearance of a ‘floating’ diamond between two sides of the band and allows light in to maximise diamond sparkle.

 

Channel

Popular for wedding bands and engagement ring accent diamonds, the channel setting is where the diamonds are set flush and suspended between two rows or walls of metal (creating a ‘channel’) but with no metal between the diamonds.  This setting protects the girdle of the diamonds and gives peace of mind with extra security and a smooth surface. 

 

PavE´

Pave´ (pronounced pah-vay) is where the small accent diamonds are set closely together and secured by small metal ‘bead claws’. This is a glamorous setting style as the beads create an uninterrupted appearance and enhance the sparkle of the diamonds.  

 

Flush

The flush setting style is where the diamond is ‘shot set’ into the ring and the diamond sits flush with the metal. No claws or beads are used to secure the diamond but the ring metal is pressed around the diamond to secure it in place. This type of setting is popular for men’s diamond wedding rings (usually one diamond is set into the upper corner of the ring).

Bar

The bar setting is where the diamonds are held in place by a vertical bar of metal between the diamonds and is a variation on the channel setting. This type of setting can be used to secure tapered baguette and other fancy shape accent or shoulder diamonds.