Making The Most Of Your Diamond: 3 Ring Settings And Their Compatibility With Specific Types Of Diamond

19 May 2015
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Getting down on one knee to propose is perhaps one of the most recognizable romantic gestures. The moment would not be complete without a beautiful, sparkly engagement ring. Americans spend an average of $4,000 on the engagement rings alone, with the majority of the cost going towards the diamond or diamonds. Depending on your budget, you may have to compromise on the carat size, clarity, color or cut of the diamond. The ring setting, which the diamond is set in, can enhance certain features and conceal certain flaws. Here's a look at 3 of the most popular ring settings.

Bring Out The Shine With A Prong or Solitaire Setting

A prong or solitaire setting is the most classic option, as it boasts elegance and simplicity. This type of ring may only be able to carry one diamond, but this setting will easily bring the most shine out of that diamond since the gemstone is usually set quite high. This allows the maximum amount of light to reflect off of the surfaces of the diamond. Engagement rings with a prong or solitaire setting will easily impress her and will generally look a lot more expensive.

Most prong settings feature four or six prongs. Engagement ring settings with four prongs will offer the most shine, as a larger surface area of the diamond is exposed to the light; however, engagement ring settings with six prongs are considered to be more secure.

Although prong settings are famous for being able to bring out the shine in the diamond, they do have two drawbacks – the prongs may snag onto clothing or other materials and may even loosen with time. To prevent the diamond from falling out, the prongs should be inspected regularly.

Secure Smaller Diamonds For A Brighter Shine With A Channel Setting

If an engagement ring with a prong or solitaire setting bores you since it can only carry one diamond and you're looking to impress, then your next option may be to opt for an engagement ring with a channel setting. This type of engagement ring doesn't feature only one diamond, but numerous smaller diamonds. The smaller diamonds are set in a row into the band of the ring for a more unique and dazzling appearance.

Keep in mind that these engagement rings are considered to be less secure since there are no prongs to hold the diamonds in place. On the other hand, you won't have to worry about whether the engagement ring will snag onto any clothing or loose materials throughout the day.

Secure The Diamond In Place With A Bezel Setting

If your significant other has a fairly active lifestyle and is constantly on the move, then opt for engagement rings with a bezel setting instead. Instead of holding the diamond in place with prongs, engagement rings with a bezel setting will encircle the diamond using a thin metal rim to hold it in place. This metal rim will prevent the diamond from slipping out and will not snag onto clothes and other materials.

There are two different styles of bezel settings to choose from: a full or partial setting. A full bezel setting will completely encircle the diamond whereas a partial bezel setting will leave the sides open. Although a full bezel setting is more secure, a partial bezel setting brings out more shine.

Conclusion

Depending on the type of look that you desire, the type of diamonds that you can afford and your future spouse's lifestyle needs, different types of ring settings are deemed more suitable than others. Don't hesitate to speak with a jeweler in order to determine what features you should look for.