Diamond ring setting guide

Prong setting

The prong setting is sometimes also referred to as a solitaire, or claw, setting. As the classic ring setting for a diamond engagement ring, this iconic setting puts the diamond at the heart of the ring. The claws, or prongs, that secure the diamond allow light to travel through the diamond, maximising its beauty and sparkle. Four-prong and six-prong settings are the most popular, each with its own particular look: Four-prong will add a geometric appearance to your ring whilst six-prong will add more floral or lace like flourish.

One consideration of prong settings is the prongs can snag on clothing or other materials, especially if they are high-set. A lower-set prong setting might be more practical if your partner has an active lifestyle.

Benefits

• Showcases the beauty of a diamond.
• Light can disperse more easily, maximising sparkle.

Considerations

• May catch or snag more easily.

Channel ring setting

A channel setting is where smaller diamonds are set into a groove, or channel, in the band of the ring so that a thin metal strip is visible either side.

Benefits

• Diamonds are secure in the setting.
• Less risk of diamonds getting caught or snagging.

Considerations

• Can be tricky to keep clean.
• Resizing can be more difficult and may risk distorting the channel

Bezel ring setting

The chic bezel setting encircles a central diamond with a thin metal rim custom-made to hold the diamond tightly in place. A bezel setting can be a full or partial setting: a full bezel completely surrounds the diamond whereas a partial bezel leaves the sides open.

Benefits

• A unique and modern style
• Ideal for those with active lifestyles as a bezel prevents the diamond snagging

Considerations

• Note that a white metal bezel setting can create the illusion that a central diamond appears larger than it actually is

Tension ring setting

The tension setting gets its name from the innovative way a metal band secures the diamond in place. As a result the diamond appears suspended between the two sides of the shank.

Benefits

• Distinctive and contemporary style.
• Showcases the diamond beautifully.

Considerations

• Can be more complicated to resize.

Halo ring setting

The halo setting refers to the placement of diamonds in a concentric circle or square around a central diamond. In some respects the halo setting makes the centre diamond appear larger so this can be a great option if you want to maximise your budget and maintain the striking appearance and sparkle of your diamond engagement ring.

The halo setting is a versatile option as the halo of diamonds can be set with a different colour metal, or with different coloured diamonds, resulting in a ring whose contrasting colours make a distinctive statement. Halos are often paired with pavé bands, which add a further touch of glamour.

Benefits

• Halo setting provides the wearer with added peace of mind that the central diamond is secure.
• Multiple diamonds can enhance a stunning statement piece.

Considerations

• Can require more careful maintenance due to the many diamonds.

Flush ring setting

A flush setting sets the diamond into a hole in the band of the ring so that the diamond sits “flush” with the band. This type of setting is a popular choice for wedding bands, especially men’s wedding bands, as the diamond sits securely in the band of the ring and is therefore highly protected.

Benefits

• Modern alternative to a traditional engagement ring.
• A popular choice for both men and women.
• Secure for those with active lifestyles.

Considerations

• Less light enters the diamond. This should not affect a well-cut diamond as the light enters and leaves through the top.