Gemstone setting options in rings

Whether you are looking for an engagement ring or gift for another special occasion, creating a unique and breathtaking piece is the perfect way to show your love. This guide will go through the biggest gemstone setting options for rings to help you begin your journey to ring perfection.

Solitaire or prong setting

This is the most common and traditional gemstone setting, in which small metal claws tightly hold the gem in place. This setting is characterised by a basic band with just one gemstone drawing all of the attention.

The prongs typically come in sets of four or six: four allows for more light to reach the gem, thus more sparkle, and six provides maximum gem protection.

Bezel setting

This second most popular ring setting has a modern and stylish look and is durable, making it idea for someone with an active lifestyle. In this setting, a thin metal rim encircles the gemstone and holds it tightly in place. The stone can be either fully or partially surrounded, depending on the look you are trying to achieve.

Tension setting

This is a unique and romantic ring style. In this setting, the band wraps over and under the gemstone without connecting, making it appear as though the gem is suspended between the two sides of the shank. In reality, tiny grooves are precisely cut into the shank to secure the gemstone. A prong or bezel set hidden on the underside of the gem can be added to take away any doubt or worry.

Channel setting

In this classic and elegant setting, ridges in the band create a channel in which small gemstones can be held securely in flush with the band (so it is snag-less!). The gemstones can either decorate just the sides of the band or encircle the entire thing. It lends more sparkle to the ring and is a beautiful enhancement.

Pavé setting

In this breathtaking setting, gemstones pave the band in a similar way to the channel setting. The gemstones here are not flush with the band, rather mounted on top using small prongs. This definitely increases the brilliance of the ring.

Halo setting

This is a very chic and modernised ring style that can easily be customised. This setting is marked by a centre gem that is encircled, like a halo, by smaller gems and makes the focal gem look larger. You can customise the ring to match your sweetheart’s eyes, birthstone, or favourite colours.

Cathedral setting

This is similar to the solitaire setting except that the gem is raised higher off the band using a mount of arches above the shank. It is a graceful way to make the gemstone appear larger.

Bar setting

The bar setting is similar to the channel setting, except that the gems are visibly enclosed on all sides by metal bars.

Flush or gypsy setting

This style is popular as a wedding band. A hole is drilled into the band into which the stone is secured flush with the band. It is especially popular among men’s wedding bands.

Three-stone setting

This setting says it all in the name. It is like a solitaire setting, but with another gem, often coloured, on either side. It is highly customisable, as coloured gems are very popular in this setting.

Antique/vintage settings

Whether actual antique or antique-inspired, this setting is perfect for an unconventional look. These unique rings mimic styles of the past and are often adorned with beautiful embellishments.

Cluster setting

This setting sometimes looks like the halo setting. It is merely a cluster of smaller gemstones to give the illusion of a large gem.