An engagement ring is the physical embodiment of a lifelong commitment. And while the diamond (rightfully) gets most of the attention, there are several other aspects to consider when crafting the perfect piece for your perfect person.
Throughout the design process, you'll begin to appreciate how the details give each ring its unique personality. This article covers each component of an engagement ring and provides a comprehensive overview of all the setting options available to you and your loved one.
First, Let’s Cover the Diamond Cut
Is there anywhere else we could start? Of course not! Though this article focuses on settings, the foundation is the stone itself. There are several features you can customize, including color. For now, let's focus on the cut. Five of the most popular are round brilliant, princess, oval, and emerald. Below is a brief description of each.
Round Brilliant Cut: Arguably the most popular cut, it's known for its exceptional sparkle and timeless appeal. It is a classic choice that's always in style.
Princess Cut: The princess cut is a square or rectangular-shaped diamond with pointed corners. It's beloved by many for its modern and elegant features.
Oval Cut: The oval cut is a modified brilliant cut that offers a similar sparkle to the round brilliant cut but in a more elongated shape. It is a popular choice for those seeking a unique yet classic look.
Emerald Cut: An emerald cut is recognizable by its rectangular-shaped diamond with step-like facets. It offers a sophisticated appearance and is renowned for its understated beauty.
Prong Setting
The prong setting refers to the small metal "claw" which holds the diamond in place. It's an unassuming feature, but it has a noticeable impact on how light enters the stone from multiple angles. Additionally, thinner prong settings can make a diamond appear more prominent.
The traditional prong setting is the most common, featuring four or six prongs that secure a diamond in place at its corners or edges. It allows maximum light exposure and enhances the diamond's brilliance.
For those looking to create a more unique piece, a v-prong setting offers a stylish, modern accent to the stone, while a Tiffany (or knife-edge) setting lifts the diamond higher, accentuating its sparkle.
Halo Setting
A halo setting refers to a design in which a circle of smaller diamonds or gemstones surrounds the central diamond. This "halo" effect enhances the appearance of the primary stone by adding sparkle and brilliance and making it appear larger.
Halo settings offer several opportunities to customize the features that surround the central diamond. For example, you can incorporate colored gemstones that add a unique appeal.
Bezel Setting
Individuals who want to feature more of a ring's metal must consider a bezel setting. This setting is characterized by metal rings that hold the diamond in place, overlapping its outer edges.
You can style bezel settings from traditional and classic to modern, depending on your aesthetic preference. Lastly, those with an active lifestyle may find the added security and sleek look of bezel settings beneficial.
Pave Setting
A pave setting must be considered if you want a ring that shines from every angle. This setting incorporates small diamonds or gemstones set closely together, creating a continuous sparkle. These small stones are typically held in place with tiny beads or barely visible prongs, creating a smooth, uninterrupted surface of shimmering stones.
Pave settings can vary in style and complexity. Some rings have a single row of pave-set stones along the band, while others have multiple rows or even cover the entire surface of the ring. The stones used in a pave setting are usually small, often less than 0.01 carats each, and are carefully selected for their quality and color to create a uniform and dazzling effect!
Tension Setting
Tension settings are unmatched in their ability to provide a minimalist look that's both modern and dynamic. As the name suggests, this setting holds the diamond in place with the tension of the metal band – think of it as the ring "pinching" a round, princess, or emerald-cut diamond in place. Because nothing supports the diamond below, tension settings give the appearance of the stone floating.
One of the primary advantages of this setting is its unparalleled ability to let light shine through the diamond from the bottom. Because there are few additional components to distract from the main attraction, it's an ideal setting choice if you want all the focus to be on your diamond.
Memorable Moments Deserve Mervis Diamond Importers
An engagement marks the beginning of an everlasting partnership. Each ring we design seeks to encapsulate the moment by customizing every aspect to your unique taste and personality.
For decades, Mervis Diamond Importers has provided happy couples with a show-stopping stone and a memorable shopping experience. Our vast experience sourcing the highest-quality diamonds means no matter which setting you choose, you'll have a piece that keeps you smiling day after day.
Discover the Mervis Difference and book your appointment online today.