Selecting a diamond setting style is vital for a wedding ring. There are 18 popular styles including prong, bezel, channel, pavé, and cluster settings. There are other styles such as bar, tension, flush, and invisible settings. Working with a jeweler can create a unique ring.
When it comes to choosing the perfect wedding ring, the diamond setting style can make all the difference. From bar settings to tension settings and everything in between, there is a wide variety of styles to choose from.
In this blog post, we’ll explore 18 of the most popular diamond setting styles for wedding rings, so you can find one that perfectly suits your needs, style, and preferences. Read on to learn more about each setting style and find the perfect one for you!
1. Prong Setting
This classic design features a metal claw that securely holds the diamond in place while allowing maximum light exposure for optimal brilliance. Typically, four or six prongs are used to secure the diamond, with the choice depending on personal preference and diamond size.
Prong settings also sit above the band, allowing for easy cleaning and maintenance. Plus, with prongs available in a variety of shapes and sizes, you can customize your ring to fit your unique style.
2. Bezel Setting
This type of setting offers a secure and modern look to the ring. The bezel setting is created by surrounding the diamond entirely with a metal rim, which holds the diamond in place and prevents it from falling out.
It also covers the edges of the diamond, providing protection against chips and scratches. The metal rim can be customized to complement the diamond’s color or the band’s metal type. This style is ideal for people who prefer their jewelry to be low-maintenance since it doesn’t require prongs or regular maintenance.
3. Channel Setting
This technique involves embedding a row of stones into a metal channel, creating a smooth and secure band of diamonds that glisten together. The channel itself can be made from various metals such as gold, platinum, and sterling silver, allowing for versatility in design.
Channel-set wedding rings are perfect for those who want a clean and modern look with a touch of elegance. This style offers both durability and comfort, as the diamonds sit flush with the band, avoiding any snagging or catching.
4. Pavé Setting
Known for its glimmering sparkle and high level of craftsmanship, the pavé setting involves carefully placing numerous tiny diamonds, sometimes up to hundreds, closely together on the surface of the ring.
This creates the illusion of a continuous diamond surface, seamlessly glistening from every angle. The technique requires a skilled jeweler and a significant amount of time to complete, but the end result is a breathtakingly beautiful ring that will shine as bright as the love shared between the happy couple.
5. Cluster Setting
This style involves a group of small diamonds set closely together to create the illusion of a larger diamond. Cluster sets can be done in various shapes and styles, making it versatile option for different tastes and preferences.
It also tends to be more affordable than single-stone settings, as smaller diamonds are used. The cluster setting provides a dazzling sparkle and can be paired with different metal bands to achieve the desired look.
6. Bar Setting
One particularly popular style is the bar setting, also known as the channel setting. This style is characterized by small metal bars or channels that hold each diamond securely in place. The result is a sleek and modern look that accentuates the diamonds and creates a secure setting for them.
Bar setting is a particularly great option for those who lead an active lifestyle or work with their hands frequently, as the diamonds are less likely to snag or catch on surfaces. Additionally, this style is highly customizable and can be used with any diamond shape to create a unique and stunning wedding ring.
7. Tension Setting
In this style, the diamond is held in place by the pressure of the ring’s metal band, giving the illusion that the diamond is suspended in mid-air. This creates an impressive and eye-catching effect that is sure to turn heads.
While tension settings are known for their modern and edgy look, they can also be customized to fit a more traditional aesthetic. The setting is secure and durable, ensuring that the diamond stays in place even with frequent wear and tear.
8. Flush Setting
This style involves the diamond being set into the band so that it sits level with the surface of the ring, giving it a sleek and modern look. A flush setting is a great option for those who lead an active lifestyle, as the diamond is less likely to catch on clothing or other objects.
Additionally, this setting style offers a secure grip on the diamond, preventing it from coming loose or getting damaged. For those looking for a wedding ring that is both timeless and functional, a flush setting is an excellent choice.
9. Gypsy Setting
This style is characterized by setting the diamond into metal, making it flush with the surface of the ring. The gypsy setting provides a sleek and contemporary look that is both modern and timeless.
This style is also perfect for those who are looking for a low-maintenance ring as it provides excellent protection to the diamond and is less likely to catch on clothing or other objects.
10. Invisible Setting
This particular setting style creates a unique look, where the diamonds appear to be floating on their own without any visible metal between them. This is achieved through a complex technique where the diamonds are cut and assembled in a way that they fit closely together, allowing no gaps between them.
Not only does the Invisible Setting provide an elegant and modern look, but it also ensures that the diamonds are securely held in place.
11. Micro Pavé Setting
Micro pavé setting, in particular, is a popular choice due to its delicate and intricate appearance. This style involves small diamonds (or “pavé” diamonds) being placed closely together to create an overall sparkling effect.
What sets micro pavé apart from regular pavé is the size of the diamonds used, with micro pavé featuring diamonds that are typically under 0.01 carats in size. This allows for a truly stunning display of brilliance on the ring, without overwhelming the wearer.
Micro pavé setting requires a skilled jeweler due to its intricate nature, but the end result is well worth it for those looking for a unique and elegant wedding ring.
12. Split Prong Setting
This style features prongs that split into two as they secure the diamond in place. Not only does it give the diamond a beautiful and prominent appearance, but it also allows for more light to enter the stone, highlighting its brilliance.
The Split Prong setting is versatile and can complement a variety of diamond shapes and sizes. Its unique design ensures that the diamond is securely held in place, making it an ideal choice for those with an active lifestyle.
13. U-Prong Setting
This setting style involves using metal prongs that curve around the diamond, creating a U-shape and securely holding the stone in place. This setting is designed to showcase the diamond and allows plenty of light to pass through, providing maximum sparkle and brilliance.
The U-Prong Setting is also great for those who lead an active lifestyle because the secure prongs ensure the diamond won’t fall out even under strenuous activity.
14. Scallop Setting
One style that has been gaining popularity in recent years is the scallop setting. This setting style involves small prongs that hold the diamond in place, creating a delicate and understated look.
The prongs are set closely together, which helps to protect the diamond and prevents it from catching on clothing or other objects. The scalloped setting also allows more light to enter the diamond, enhancing its brilliance and sparkle.
15. Fish Tail Setting
Fish Tail setting is a diamond setting style that has gained popularity in recent years as a unique and eye-catching option for wedding rings. This setting style involves a row of diamonds that are secured in place by a series of “fishtails” that hold them in place.
Not only is this setting aesthetically pleasing, but it is also a secure and durable option for those who are looking for a long-lasting wedding ring. The fishtail setting can also be customized with different diamond shapes and sizes, allowing for a personalized touch to your ring.
16. Crown Setting
This setting type is known for its unique and elegant design that allows for maximum light to shine through, giving the diamond a breathtaking sparkle. The crown setting is achieved by securing the diamond in a metal rim that holds it in place.
This metal rim is crafted to create a crown-like effect, hence the name “crown setting.” A crown setting is suitable for any diamond shape, making it a versatile option for any wedding ring design. The setting’s construction also makes it less prone to snagging, which is perfect for those with an active lifestyle.
17. Bead Setting
This technique involves placing small beads of metal around each diamond and securing it in place. The result is a stunning, shimmering effect that showcases the beauty of the diamond. What makes the bead setting unique is that it is suitable for both larger center diamonds and smaller side stones.
Furthermore, its versatility makes it popular among all kinds of wedding rings, from classic solitaires to intricate vintage designs. Bead setting requires a master jeweler, as the beads must be precisely placed to avoid damaging the diamond while ensuring a secure hold. This technique provides unparalleled beauty and security that will last a lifetime.
18. Grain Setting
This technique involves setting small diamonds closely together in a grain pattern, creating a shimmering and continuous surface of diamond sparkle. The Grain Setting technique is particularly popular for its ability to enhance the fire and brilliance of smaller diamonds.
Making them appear larger and more luxurious. This setting style also provides long wearability and great durability to your ring, as the diamonds are held securely in place.
In conclusion
There is a wide range of diamond setting styles that can help you create the perfect wedding ring to symbolize your love. Whether you prefer a classic prong setting or something more modern and unique like a fishtail setting.
There is sure to be an option to suit your taste and style. Each type of setting offers its own benefits and features, allowing you to customize your ring to reflect your unique personality. With the right setting, a wedding ring can be an exquisite symbol of love that will last through the ages.
