Finding the perfect engagement ring might be just as or even more important than the actual engagement itself. Unfortunately, it’s not as simple as going to the jeweler and getting a “one cut fits all” ring. There are several different ring styles and settings to choose from, and it can leave a person feeling lost or even overwhelmed.
However, with a little guidance, it’s possible to find the perfect ring for that special someone. Below is a guide that will help ring seekers navigate the world of jewelry and provide an understanding of the differences between each style and setting. Those looking cannot go wrong with any of these top 10 trending engagement rings styles.
Prong
The Prong setting is the most common type of engagement ring setting. A prong is a metal claw, usually three to six “claws” that holds the stone in place. [1] To make your choice even more difficult, there are different style of prongs such as pointed, rounded, flat, or V-shaped. If you want to show more of the diamond, a three or four prong is the best; however, a six-prong is more secure, but can hide the stone if it’s a smaller cut.
James Worrell / Getty ImagesAdvantages
- This setting allows the light to pass through the diamond in all angles, this will add to the stone’s elegance
- Supports a variety of stone shapes and sizes
- Setting is easy to clean and maintain
- Timeless design
- Focuses more on the unique shape of the diamond
Disadvantages
- This type of setting can snag on clothing and other materials
- Stone may loosen with wear
- Can chip easier since the diamond is more exposed
BEZEL
This setting is the second most popular because of its stylish look, but also because it holds the stone securely and it’s comfortable to wear. The stone is not held with prongs, but an elegant metal rim fully or partially encircles the stone. [2] This ring is a great choice for people living an active or busy lifestyle as it will not snag on materials like other settings do.
MichaelSvoboda / Getty ImagesAdvantages
- The metal rim protects the stone from being chipped
- Secures stone tightly, great for active lifestyles or careers
- Metal can be molded to support of a variety of stone shapes and sizes
- Sleek and modern
Disadvantages
- Stone is more hidden than a Prong setting
- Light is not reflected from this style as much as it would be with the Prong setting
Tension Setting
If you’re looking for a ring that showcase the gemstone in a brilliant and elegant way, then the Tension Setting may be one to consider. This type of setting doesn’t use prongs or a metal rim to hold the stone in place. The stone is held by the pressure of the metal band pushing into the sides of the stone, this gives the appearance that the stone is suspended in the air. [3]
Mats Silvan / Getty ImagesAdvantages
- Stone is held securely in place
- Unique style and modern look
- Suspended look enhances light reflection
- Easier to maintain than Prong or BEZEL
Disadvantages
- Expensive to resize
- Stone can appear to look smaller
- It’s possible for diamond to be lost or fall out over time
Channel
This elegant style incorporates a set of smaller stones in a row into the band of the ring, giving the ring an extra sparkle to it. [4] This style is often used for wedding bands (without the diamond in the middle).
ProArtWork / Getty ImagesAdvantages
- Prong-less setting so it will not snag on clothing or other materials
- Sharp design, and row of smaller stones enhances sparkle
Disadvantages
- More difficult to clean and maintain
- The stones surrounding the band can make it difficult to repair or resize.
- Not recommended for gems such as emeralds, opals or tourmalines.
Pavé setting
This setting is literally “paved” with small gemstones, often diamonds, which are set closely together. This gives the effect of continuous sparkle, as you cannot see the metal beads or prongs holding the stones in place. [5]
ProArtWork / Getty ImagesAdvantages
- The center stone stands out
- The continuous stones on the side give the band an extra sparkle
- Design can be vintage or modern
Disadvantages
- Sizing and resizing can be difficult due to stones around the side
- It’s possible for stones on side to become loose or fall out
Bar
This setting is very similar to the Channel setting, however, instead of having the diamond enclosed on all sides, the Bar setting leaves the stones exposed on the two sides. [6] The stones are secured by thin vertical bars of metal.
Crystal Cartier Photography / Getty ImagesAdvantages
- Less metals allows for better visibility of stones than the Channel setting
- Can function as a stackable ring, simple band, or can showcase a center stone.
- Contemporary look
Disadvantages
- Stones are less secure than a Channel setting
- Resizing can be costly
- Since stones are more exposed, there’s a higher risk of chipping
Cathedral Setting
This is one of the most elegant and timeless ring settings on the market. The ring uses arches of metal to securely hold the gemstone, think of the arches you would see in a cathedral. This setting may be set with prongs, BEZEL, or tension. [7] The arches allow for extra-height which can make the stone appear larger.
Aleksa Torri / Getty ImagesAdvantages
- Highlights the center stone
- Arches can make the stone appear larger and more prominent
Disadvantages
- The setting can easily snag on clothing or other material
- Curbed features of the band can distract from center stone if poorly designed
- More difficult to clean and maintain than other settings
Halo
This setting encircles a center gemstone in a collection of Pavé stones. This setting makes the center stone appear larger and can increase the overall sparkle of the ring. [8] This is a great option if a smaller-carat stone is your only option, financially-wise. The sparkle of this design will boost the appearance of the stone. This setting can consist of different colors gemstones to create contrast.
xelf / Getty ImagesAdvantages
- Boost the appearance of a smaller gemstone
- Center stone is securely held
- Supports a variety of stone shapes
- Colored gemstones surround center stone can create contrast
Disadvantages
- Stones surrounding center gemstone may become loose
- Resizing can be difficult and expensive
Cluster
If you want the effect of one large stone, without the cost, you may want to consider the Cluster setting. This setting tightly “clusters” the stones together in order to give the appearance of one large stone. [9]
Photographer:Phasut Waraphisit / Getty ImagesAdvantages
- Cluster of gemstones give the appearance of one large stone
- Lower cost option
- Can be crafted in a variety of shapes
- Perfect for those who have smaller hands
Disadvantage
- Difficult to clean and maintain
- Smaller stones have the possibility of becoming loose or falling out
Flush Setting
This is also known as the “gypsy setting.” It’s a very popular setting for men’s bands. This setting sets the diamond into a drilled hole, so the stone does not protrude at all. [10] The metal surrounding the stone is then pressed and hammered to hold the stone in place. Therefore, it’s not recommended for fragile stones.
Alan Graf / Getty ImagesAdvantages
- Great style for active lifestyle
- Sleek, polished look
- Stone is highly unlikely to become loose
Disadvantages
- Visibility of stone is limited
- Not as elegant as other settings
Now that we’ve narrowed down your search, you can head to your jewelers with confidence, knowing exactly what setting to pick.
Sources
- “Engagement Ring Prong Guide.” Four Mine, www.fourmine.com/education/engagement-ring-education/engagement-rings-101/engagement-ring-prong-guide-or-engagement-ring-education.
- “Should You Consider a Bezel Setting?” Lauren B. Jewelry, 14 Feb. 2018, www.laurenbjewelry.com/blog/bezel-settings/.
- “Tension Settings.” Steven Kretchmer, stevenkretchmer.com/blogs/discover/about-tension-settings.
- “What Is A Channel Setting?” Estate Diamond Jewelry, 19 Mar. 2018, www.estatediamondjewelry.com/what-is-a-channel-setting/.
- “Before Buying! Your Guide to Pavé Engagement Ring Settings.” Zoara, www.zoara.ca/buying-guides/pave-ring-settings.
- “Bar-Set Round Brilliant Diamond Wedding Band.” Harry Winston, www.harrywinston.com/en/bar-set-round-brilliant-diamond-wedding-band.
- “Styles & Significance of Cathedral Engagement Rings.” Four Mine, www.fourmine.com/education/engagement-ring-education/ring-collections/styles-and-significance-of-cathedral-engagement-rings-or-engagement-ring-education.
- “Halo Engagement Rings & Halo Rings.” Gabriel & Co Jewelry, www.gabrielny.com/engagement-rings/halo-engagement-rings.
- “What Is a Cluster Ring?” Estate Diamond Jewelry, 17 Jan. 2017, www.estatediamondjewelry.com/cluster-ring/.
- Johnson, Mark. “Flush Ring Settings – A Quick Guide.” Serendipity Diamonds Blog, 16 May 2013, www.serendipitydiamonds.com/blog/flush-settings-a-quick-guide/.