Buying an Engagement Ring: Settings

When buying an engagement ring, one of the considerations to be made is the setting. When choosing a setting for your engagement ring, it is important to consider lifestyle, as well as how the diamond looks in its particular setting.

Prongs

This is the old standby. Many engagement rings have prong settings that reach around and "grab" the stone to keep it in place. And prongs can, indeed, allow light to shine on the stone, making it sparkle more. However, prongs also require maintenance. You need to have them tightened so that the stone doesn't fall out of its setting. Additionally, prongs, especially if the stone is large, can catch on clothing. This can be inconvenient and further cause problems by bending back prongs and increasing the chance that the stone will fall out.

Bezel

A bezel setting for an engagement ring is one in which the band is level with the edge of the stone. This can actually make your stone look larger. A variation of this is the channel set. This is for bands that have a row of diamonds next to each other. In any case, a bezel set stone is much less likely to snag on clothing. Additionally, it can also prevent nicks and scratches around the edges. It is important to note, though, that a bezel setting can reflect in the stone. This means that if you want your diamond to retain its colorless look, you should consider white gold or platinum. Yellow gold can reflect and look as though an inferior stone has been used.

Tension

Tension settings were very much in vogue for engagement rings a few years ago. And they are still somewhat popular. Tension settings make use of pressure to hold the stone into place in the engagement ring. It makes the diamond look as though it is floating. Many find this attractive and desirable, especially since it allows more of the diamond to be exposed to light, increasing its brilliance and sparkle. However, it is important to note that tension settings have to be properly maintained. You need to have them tightened. This is especially important if you have a warranty. Many jewelers keep a record of your service, and if you have not had your tension setting regularly tightened, will not honor a warranty for a lost stone. Also, tension settings make it harder to re-size a ring.

When choosing a setting for your engagement ring, make sure it is one that will fit your lifestyle, as well as your personal style.