When choosing an engagement ring, some couples keep away from the traditional one to find unique or unusual settings. Traditional settings feature a round diamond mounted in four or six prongs on solid bands of gold or platinum. There are many unusual settings to choose from, however, that can create an individualized engagement ring.
Invisible SettingThe purpose of an invisible setting is to create the look of a larger stone using smaller ones,or we call magnifying. The stones are set closely together and often tiered so they actually appear to be one large stone, with all of the brilliance and shine that comes from a magnificent solitaire. Invisible settings were first introduced over two hundred years ago in France. In order to create an invisible setting, a frame for the stones is cut below the surface of the band. The stone's girdle is cut so that it fits into this frame. The delicate fitting of the stones allows them to sit snugly beside each other. This design should be handled by a master jeweler. Ill-fitting stones may eventually loosen and fall out.
Channel SettingChannel settings are an unusual setting formed when a trench has been channeled into the band of the ring. Small stones can then be set into the channel creating a lovely band of gemstones which sparkle and shine. Some channel settings have closed backs, while others have open backs. Closed back channel settings provides the most secure home for the stones, whereas an open back setting allows more light to reflect through the stones, increasing the sparkle. If you do purchase an open back setting, be sure that supports have been placed behind the stones to prevent them from falling out. Channel settings are an excellent choice for men's engagement rings or for women who do a lot of physical activity that might endanger a more open setting.
Pave SettingPave Setting Engagement Rings use small, brilliant cut stones along the surface of the band or adorning the sides of a larger stone. They enhance the look of a larger stone and create the look of an expensive and luxurious engagement ring. They may also simply cover the ring's surface, flashing their brilliance in any light.
Ballerina SettingThe ballerina setting literally takes its name from the tutu, or ballerina skirt. Beautiful baguettes surround a larger center stone, and the baguettes are cut in a tapered shape to form a skirt around the larger stone. The surrounding stones may be round, trillium, emerald, or princess shapes.
Flush SettingIf your beloved leads an active lifestyle or rarely removes her jewelry, or if she doesn't like the dazzle of large solitaires, you may want to consider buying a ring that features a flush setting. A flush setting means that the stones are placed within the band so that only the tops of the gems are visible. Although the sparkle and shine is more subtle than a solitaire, these settings can be breathtakingly beautiful. Unlike the channel setting, flush-set stones do not have to form a single line and may be sprinkled across the surface of a wider band.
Cluster SettingA cluster setting features a collection of stones designed to form a pattern, such as a flower or other object, or perhaps just the illusion of a single large stone. Many of these actually feature multiple levels of stones. Because significant height is often added to the ring through these levels, this ring should not be worn during periods of activity, such as playing sports or cleaning house.
Tiffany SettingTiffany is another term for the traditional prong setting typically used for solitaire diamonds. Depending on the stone’s shape and size, between three and six prongs may be used. The prongs may also be attached to arches or bridges rather than simply set into the sides of the ring.
No matter what setting you choose for an engagement ring, always be certain that it not only displays the diamonds or other gems in the best light, but that it suits the wearer’s finger. Slim, petite fingers are best matched with understated settings such as the channel or the tiffany, while larger fingers look fine with the stronger cluster and ballerina settings. The most important consideration is to choose a ring you are happy with that will be a treasured piece of jewelry for many years to come.
