Settings of a Diamond
Prong
The prong setting also known as ‘Claw setting’ is the most common & classic setting with either 4/6 prongs used for each diamond depending on the shape. This kind of setting is used for almost all kind of shapes. This is the most popular settings for diamond engagement rings as it leaves maximum area for the light to interact with the diamond hence diamond shines the most in prong setting. The prongs act like small claws, rising up to grasp the diamond. This setting puts diamonds on a base and can fit stone of any size.
V-prong
V-prong setting is a very popular setting type for princess shape and marquise shape diamonds. The pointed tip of the diamond fits comfortably inside notches carved on both sides of a prong. The two sides of a prong are squeezed from both sides to hold the stone in place and to protect from accidental damages of the tips. The top of the prongs are slightly higher than the table.
Channel
Channel setting sets the diamond without using prongs.Two metal channels hold a diamond or diamonds in this setting, giving the dramatic appearance of the stones almost floating.The metal on both sides gives exact pressure so that the diamonds can be in place. Mostly, round cut, princess cuts and baguette are used in this type of settings. This kind of setting is used to make eternity bands and also to accentuate the side bands of bigger solitaire rings.
Bar
The bar setting is one of the infamous settings. A variant of channel setting is bar setting. In this, the diamonds or gems are secured in place between two vertical metal walls either side of each diamond. The stone is exposed on both sides which increases the sparkle and the likelihood of less damage to the diamond.
Bezel
Bezel setting is known for making stones appear to be larger than they actually are. It is an old form of setting. The diamond is set deep inside the mounting, then the outer metal is pushed over the edges of the stone to create a strip which holds it in place. Any type of stone can be used for this setting. However the stone is covered from all sides, so it shines less.
Pave
Pave setting is a modified version of prong setting. The stones are placed side by side in a small opening on a flat surface. The gems are separated and held in place by little beads of the setting’s metal. It is popular for mounting small round shaped diamonds and is usually used in less budget jewellery.
Tension
Tension setting gives a floating or suspended look to the diamond. Diamond gets a laser cut groove and then compression is used to hold the diamond in place. Diamond shines the most as there is maximum interaction of light.
Halo
The halo ring setting encircles the centre gemstone in a collection of round pave or micro pave diamonds. This look is also a classic when paired with any cut center diamond. A bigger carat center diamond looks as much as a half a carat larger because of this setting. A halo ring also gives a romantic vintage-inspired look.
