EDUCATION

Types of Stone Settings

There are various ways in which your gemstones can be set into your jewellery.
Learn more about the most common setting types below.

Claw

A claw setting (or prong setting) is when little prongs of gold reach up and around the top edge of the diamond to securely hold it in place. Generally a claw setting consists of either four or six claws which can have an array of profiles from rounded to V-shaped. This type of setting where minimal metal is present, results in a large amount of light being able to pass through the diamond and therefore, add to its brilliance. The claw setting is the most common setting.

 

Bezel

A bezel setting refers to a thin frame of metal that encases the edge of the stone. A bezel setting can either be a full bezel or a semi bezel whereby the sides are left open. A bezel setting in white gold or platinum can quite often give the illusion of a larger diamond.

 

Tension

A tension setting is when the diamond is held in place by the pressure of the metal ‘squeezing’ into the sides of the diamond. To the eye, it appears as though the diamond is suspended in mid-air. This contemporary setting is ideal for allowing maximum light to pass through the stone.

 

Channel

A channel setting is when small diamonds are set side-by-side within the metal. This type of setting is commonly seen in the bands of rings as a way to enhance the centre stone. Due to the diamonds sitting down into the metal, a channel setting provides a smooth finish.

 

Bar

A bar setting is a variation of the channel setting whereby each diamond is separated with a column of gold that holds them securely in place.

 

Pressure

A pressure setting (also known as a flush or rubbed in setting) is when diamonds are set into the metal so the surface is flush and smooth. Generally pressure setting is used for smaller stones.

Bead

A bead setting is where small diamonds are held in place by small beads of metal. This setting type is common for wedding bands and the bands of engagement rings.

 

Pave

A pavĂ© setting (pronounced “pa-vay”) is where small diamonds are set low and very closely together with minimal metal visible in between each stone. This setting gives a diamond-encrusted look as if the ring has been ‘paved’ with diamonds.