Engagement ring stone settings run the gamut. A variety of types and designs exist when it comes to engagement rings, from a single diamond or gemstone in a solitaire setting, to those featuring an array of stones with a gemstone-studded shank. When it comes to what type of stone is used for an engagement ring, there is a multitude of shapes, cuts, colors and more to choose from. This blog is designed to make it easier for you to understand the range of choices between classic and innovative ring styles, so you don’t become overwhelmed.
Continue reading to gain clarity on exactly what you would like (and don’t want) for the ideal engagement ring!
The classic and reliable option is the prong setting. Metal claws are employed to secure the gemstone(s) atop the metal band of the ring. There are a number of different forms and looks for prongs, from straightforward peg mountings holding a single gem to intricate, multi-jewel settings incorporating accent stones!
What is a Solitaire Engagement Ring?
In other words, when speaking of jewelry, the term “solitaire” is used to denote an item with only one diamond or precious stone. The classic prong-set diamond solitaire engagement ring is extremely well-known and remains desired.
4 PRONG SOLITAIRE SETTING
A four prong setting is an excellent selection because it nearly eliminates any hindrance from the featured gem on the ring. This item has multiple possibilities and can be matched with commonplace gemstone shapes, counting round, emerald, and princess cut.
The following is how this sentence could be paraphrased: The standard four claw style of a setting holds the claw at a 45 degree angle in relation to the shank of the ring.
The four prongs of the setting are aligned to correspond to North, South, East, and West on a compass.
6 PRONG SOLITAIRE SETTING
A six prong mount, usually used in conjunction with bigger, round and marquise stones, provides extra protection for the gemstone. The disadvantage of this is that more metal pieces are obscuring a larger portion of the gem.
The 6 prong arrangement resembles the 4 prong arrangement, but with two more prongs situated above and below the gemstone.
The 6 prong setting has been turned approximately 45 degrees, so that two prongs now align with the band of the ring.
PRONG STYLES & TERMINOLOGY
Once you have picked the number of tines you desire, you can select from an array of designs and trends! Below are some essential terms relating to jewelry that can help you detail the form and design of the prong setting that you like.
In many instances, multiple words will be employed to express the type of atmosphere portrayed.
The peg setting stands out due to its elevated design and refined style, allowing a considerable amount of light to filter through the bottom of the gemstone.
This is a solitaire engagement ring with four prongs, set in a peg style, and featuring a twist shank with decorative accents.
A basket-style mounting has a sleeker appearance and the prongs lie flat. The extra security provided creates a visual style that is reminiscent of a small basket.
This item is a 4-prong basket set topaz with a criss-cross shank decorated with meteorite.
The design of a trellis prong looks like a garden trellis, with its curved and intersecting elements. It can be used in single and multi-stone rings.
This gorgeous three-stone ring has a unique flower-inspired pattern on it and its slender band is decorated with Meteorite.
A bridge accent is when extra stones are added to the sides of the setting at its base, also known as the bridge of the ring.
This engagement ring featuring a blue sapphire has a setting with four individual claws and a shank that has a twist design.
When observed straight-on, the button prong lives up to its moniker with its smooth, rounded contours and edges.
The shape with four points, or prongs, is commonly referred to as a tab prong. When seen from the front, the corners are more sharply cut than a rounded prong.
The “claw prong” setting securely holds a gemstone, as if it were being clutched by the claws of a beast. This form is suitable for both coarse and cut gemstones.
It is called a “V prong” due to its V-shaped design. It is sometimes referred to as a corner prong. It’s mostly utilized for diamond cuts that have defined edges, such as princess and marquise, since it gives additional security.
This exclusive 6-prong lotus fixture is coupled with any round shaped gemstone to evoke a gorgeous, blossoming lotus flower. Consider choosing smaller, accent stones to decorate the petals.
Leaf prongs come in either a four or six prong arrangement, both of which are inspired by the natural world. It appears to resemble a peg style when seen from the front. When seen from the side, the design looks like a multitude of leaves with a gem in the center, giving the impression of a blossoming flower.
When two smaller forks are placed side by side, a double prong is formed. It covers up some more of the rock, but boosts sturdiness and gives a distinctive aesthetic touch. This ring features a double prong, basket setting.
The split prong is a type of double prong. Rather than having the two components crafted closely together, they are slightly separated at an angle. The prong technique is usually used to hold a cushion cut gem, as it can keep all its curved edges stabilized.
Giving your nature-loving bride antler prongs can be a subtle acknowledgment of your love. When viewed from the front, it seems that the stone has been placed in a forked prong setting. However, looking at it from the side one can see that the prongs look delicate, with a shape resembling antlers.
What is A Halo Engagement Ring?
Halo engagement rings may typically be categorized as a type of prong setting, yet they are typically thought of in their own separate setting style, and for good reason. Specifically, they are characterized by one substantial middle gem which is arranged symmetrically around by smaller stones that look like a ring of light. Rings with a halo setting may be fashioned using almost any cut of gem. Add extra sparkle by opting for a double halo.
What Is A Tension Set Engagement Ring?
The stone appears to be suspended and secure in a tension setting due to the pressure created by the shape of the ring. This type of ring setting displays more of the diamond than any other.
A unique design exhibiting the principles of physics, the tension setting stands alone. Any material with a hardness of 8 or higher on the Mohs measure can be tension-set, such as diamonds, moissanites, sapphires, and rubies.
The term “bypass tension setting” is derived from the design of the ring shank, which wraps around the stone on the top and bottom. A bypass setting is usually coupled with a tension setting.
For softer stones (like the moonstone pictured), you can choose a fake tension style. Rather than using excessive force that might cause the softer stone to be cracked, the ring has been set with a metal backing which helps to keep it positioned correctly.
The cathedral setting gets its moniker from the form that reminds one of the arches seen in cathedrals. In this instance, the stone is positioned with force at the peak of the arch.
The faux cathedral tension setting has a complementary section of metal that holds up the stone rather than the band of the ring applying pressure.
What Is A Bezel Set Engagement Ring?
A thin metal rim encircles the gemstone in a bezel setting and fixes it securely. The bezels can either be even with the outside of the ring or elevated. This design of engagement ring is highly sought-after for its modern, neat appearance and its advantage of being less likely to catch on articles of clothing like a prong setting would. A bezel can encompass the entire stone or just a part of it.
A bezel setting provides a secure option for not only the traditional solitaire engagement ring, but also a multi-stone setting, like the one pictured here.
This meteorite ring displays a bezel which has been skillfully designed into a triangle shape, with different sizes and forms available.
Rims are utilized to fasten cut gemstones, yet additionally look stunning with flat, equal cabochons like this vivid opal.
What’s Your Favorite Engagement Ring Setting Style?
Now you understand the various alternatives accessible to you, so you can make sure to accurately express your preferences to any jeweller. Next, comes the fun part! Once you have chosen the style that you like, the next step is to decide what type of stone and metal you would like to use.
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