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Jewelry Settings
Prong Setting
In a prong setting, the diamond is held in place by a number of metal prongs, which rise above the main body of the ring and are bent over the stone to hold it in place. The number of prongs varies according to the stone’s shape, as does their height above the main body of the ring.
Tiffany Setting
very popular in bridal rings, this four- or six-prong style is called a “Tiffany” setting, because it was originally developed by the founder of Tiffany & Co. in 1886. A prong setting allows the most light to enter the diamond from all angles, maximizing its brilliance. Six prongs also provide added security.
Common Prong Setting
In a common prong setting, the two diamonds are held in place by a number of shared metal prongs, which rise above the main body of the ring and are bent over the stone to hold it in place. The number of prongs varies according to the stone shape, and number of stones sharing same prong.
Bezel Setting
A bezel setting holds a diamond in place using a thin band of metal that surrounds the diamond at its middle, or girdle. It can completely or partially surround the stone, is
depending on the style and look desired. This type of setting provides good protection for the middle and bottom ( pavilion) portions of the diamond. Bezel settings can have straight or scalloped edges, an can be molded to accommodate many shapes of stones.
Channel Setting
In a channel setting, two strips of metal (gold, platinum, etc.) hold the diamond(s) in place at the sides, with no metal between the stones. This type of setting protects the girdle area of the diamond, as well as securing small stones more effectively than a prong setting. Channel-set diamonds also sit flush with the mounting, making them less likely to get snagged on other objects, such as hair or clothing.
Bar Setting
A bar setting is very similar to a channel setting (see below). Used in circular bands, a bar setting uses a thin bar of metal to hold the stones in place on either side, so that each bar has a stone on either side of it.
Invisible Setting
Invisible-set diamonds are placed very closely together, with the metal concealed underneath the diamonds, giving them the appearance of a continuous, uninterrupted surface. Since the metal of the setting is not seen, this type of setting is an excellent way to showcase the brilliance of the diamonds themselves. It also allows an increased amount of light to enter the stone (and, thus give off more brilliance), since there are no prongs or bezels impeding the light’s entry.
Pavé Setting
In pavé setting, diamonds are fit into small holes and set almost level with the surface of the ring. They are set in rows, with no metal between them, giving the appearance of the diamonds having been paved (Pavé is French for paved), like a cobblestone road.
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