There are several design elements you have to consider when buying a diamond engagement ring. You should start with the type of diamond, the type of metal for the band, the design on the ring, and finally the ring setting.
The ring setting determines how the diamond will be placed and attached to the band. It’s not as simple as attaching it wherever and letting it be. Careful thought and consideration should be taken for how the setting will look on the wearer’s hand, and what their sense of style might be.
It’s important to take great care because the setting will determine the overall look of the ring. Here’s a guide for the different ring settings from which you can choose.
Solitaire ring setting
Solitaire ring settings are probably the most popular types of settings. The reason is that a solitaire setting will draw the eye to the most important part of the ring: the centre. The centre diamonds are the focal point when it comes to this setting.
This setting type is also known as a prong or claw setting, as the diamond is attached by several “claws” that hold the diamond in place. The number of claws used will depend on the size and style of the rock, but the diamond should always be visible from all angles.
Channel setting
A channel setting is used when the wedding band and engagement ring are to complement each other. The side diamonds are small, placed side by side, and are held in place by being embedded in the band. The small diamonds do not protrude past the band, so they aren’t likely to snag on clothing.
It’s vital that the stones are all the same size and shape to keep the look consistent throughout. A channel setting provides a focus all around the ring, so there’s a shine all around. This setting can accommodate just about any cut of diamond you want.
Pave Setting
Some people get a bit confused when comparing pave settings to channel settings, as they seem quite similar. The difference is that a pave setting it looks as if the band itself is made out of diamonds. The stones are held in place by claws but are “paved” in between to make it look like a consistent diamond surface. This design setting provides the most sparkle for your buck. The effect is amazing. However the smaller diamonds can sometimes drown out the centre diamond, so keep this in mind.
Sidestone setting
Sidestone setting means that there is a centre diamond that is accompanied by smaller diamonds to each side. The smaller diamonds are usually equal size to the ones across from them. Sometimes, the smaller side stones can be different shades or colours. As well, when viewed straight on, it can look like the centre diamond is larger as the smaller ones blend into it.
This is a perfect setting for showing off the diamonds and getting an extra sparkly boost. These diamonds are not always inset like with channel and pave, and can be held in place with prongs or claws in a similar fashion to solitaire settings.
Bezel setting
Even though they are an extremely hard substance, diamonds can still get damaged. A bezel setting is perfect for preventing the nicks and scrapes that can happen going through everyday life. The diamond is indented into a metal frame, which protects it from harm. The ring can encircle the diamond completely, or, as in the case of a partial bezel setting, the sides are left uncovered. This allows for the diamond to be more easily viewed.
Cathedral setting
Cathedrals are visually stunning structures, and the setting that carries the name shares this characteristic. With this setting, the diamond is set well above the band so it looks as if it is bigger than it actually is. It is usually attached by arches that are very reminiscent of ones commonly found in cathedrals.
Tension setting
With a tension setting, the diamond is held in place by two prongs that press against it from two sides. These prongs protrude from the band so that you can see almost the entire diamond. It looks as if the diamond could slip out at any time, but the high tension and the grooves carved into the prongs help keep it very solid. Because of the unique way that the diamond is held with this setting, round cut, princess cut and emerald cut diamonds are most appropriate. Tension setting is closely related to tension style ring setting.
Tension style setting emulates the tension setting in that it protrudes and looks like similar, but in fact is held in place by a ring of metal that encircles the whole diamond, as opposed to just the sides.
A big part of creating the look you want for a diamond ring is the right setting. Make sure you choose a setting that’s perfect.
by Australian Diamond Brokers : June 29th 2016 Come visit our store or browse our website to find out more.