How to choose the best diamond setting for you

Diamond shopping can be a lot of fun, but it can also be a bit overwhelming when you consider how many choices you’ll need to make. In addition to deciding on the type and size of diamond you want, you’ll also have to choose which type of setting you want to put your precious stone in – and there are several to consider.

Here’s a closer look at some of the different setting options, as well as the benefits and drawbacks associated with each.

Prong

This is by and large the most common diamond setting, which uses little claw-like prongs to hold the diamond in place. The prongs may be rounded, flat or pointed, and usually come in either four- or six-prong sets. One of the reasons this setting is so popular is because it allows a great deal of light to pass through the diamond, enhancing its brilliance.

One of the downsides of a prong setting, however, is the tendency for the prongs to snag on items. Prongs also should be regularly inspected to ensure their integrity.

Halo

The halo setting is another popular choice, featuring smaller stones encircling a large diamond. This gives the illusion of a large diamond and increases the sparkle of the ring overall.

A halo setting is a great option for rings containing smaller centre stones, or when you want to mix and match other gemstones with a diamond.

Pavé

A pavé setting, also known as a bead setting, consists of small diamonds set in a row. The tiny prongs holding the diamonds together are so small that they’re barely visible, giving the look of one continuous band of diamonds.

This is a good choice for someone who wants a band with more sparkle, rather than a solid band. Keep in mind, though, that pavé set rings can be more difficult to size.

Bezel

After the prong setting, the bezel is the second most popular choice for diamond ring wearers. Ideal for people with active lifestyles, bezel settings fully or partially encircle the diamond with a thin metal rim to keep it secure.

Bezel settings are highly preferred because they won’t snag and because they are known for providing maximum security for the centre stone.

Tension

Tension settings hold diamonds in place without the overt assistance of prongs or metal rims. Rather, the diamond is secured by the pressure, or tension, produced between the offset ends of the band. As a result, the stone appears to be suspended between the ends of the band.

To ensure the stone’s security, a prong or rim is usually employed in an inconspicuous place that doesn’t interfere with the ‘suspension’ look.

Channel 

At first glance, channel-set diamonds are very similar in appearance to pavé-set stones. These diamonds are set closely together within the ring band, fitting into the channel grooves the jeweller creates in the band. With no prongs, there is no worry of the ring snagging on clothes and other items.