Qualities of a Pave Ring

Solitary diamonds, emeralds, and rubies all make stunning rings, but the brilliance of pave rings stands out as exceptional. These unique rings are literally paved with many small stones, inset closely together on the surface of platinum or gold settings. Pave diamond rings contain row after row of tiny diamonds, creating a cobblestone look that shimmers with an amazing sparkle. Precious gemstones of any color can be made into beautiful pave rings, as well as diamonds. Pave diamond rings and pave engagement rings are the most popular styles and tend to cost less than solitary diamond rings, with the same total carat weight..

Pave Rings

Pave settings are very distinctive and intricately designed, compared to other types of jewelry. Diamonds, topaz, rubies and emeralds can all be set in pave settings. Pave diamond rings have tiny diamonds set so close together that there is rarely any band visible. Most settings are made of small, equally sized diamonds, which are seated into gold or platinum bands. The diamonds are set into rows, often running the full length of the band or half the length. Each stone contains 58 facets that create a fabulous sparkle and weigh only a few points.

Styles

There are several popular designs and styles used in pave rings. Styles include the bezel pave setting, diamond cathedral, antique and channel pave settings. Other designs include halo, pave set diamonds, stardust and tiffany pave settings. Pave diamond rings also come in the traditional full pave or the half pave. Prices may very greatly, based on the type of diamonds, the grades, and the amounts of platinum or gold used in the band.

How Pave Rings Are Made

Jewelers make several tiny impressions in the metal band, which the stones will be seated. Small prongs or beads of metal are put into place to pin the stones into the band. The best ring designs have the least amount of metal showing between the stones, so the gemstones have a brilliant sparking appearance.

Quality Rings

Upon careful scrutiny of a quality ring, you should see that the small diamonds are all set as closely together as possible, with the least bit of metal showing. Sub-standard work is apparent when diamonds are spaced too far apart. Quality rings with evenly spaced stones will create a continuous, harmonious flow, which produces a beautiful glow with shimmering effects.

Care and Cleaning

A pave ring needs to be cleaned very carefully and gently. Scrubbing these types of rings is not advisable, because of the risk of loosening the stones. It's best to soak them in a solution of mild soap and water and then rinse. Or, if you prefer take it to a jeweler for a professional cleaning and have the stone settings checked at the same time.

Never try to clean a ring with harsh chemicals and don't wear this type of jewelry while doing any activities that may damage the setting or loosen the stones.

Risks

Pave rings need to be sized at the time of purchase. Resizing this type of design after the diamonds or stones are already in place is very difficult and not recommended. The stones or diamonds used in a pave ring are not held in place as tightly and sturdily as other pronged ring designs. It's advisable to have the setting checked by a jeweler periodically to make sure the stones are still well seated.