Choosing an Engagement Ring Setting
Diamond stores offer many different styles of engagement ring setting, but there are three main styles.
Solitaire
This is the most popular style of engagement ring. The prongs position the single diamond to catch the light most effectively. When choosing a solitaire setting, the look of the ring depends mainly on the diamond itself. The main purpose of the setting is to showcase the diamond and hold it securely. Choose a 4-prong setting to show more diamond, or a 6-prong setting for a more secure hold.
The tradeoff between showing the diamond and security means that platinum is often the metal of choice for solitaires. Because platinum is stronger and denser than gold, it takes less of it to get the same hold, and the diamond can be raised up higher, to allow it to reflect more light.
Sidestones
This setting has diamonds or colored gems set in a channel to add extra color or sparkle. The channel protects the gems while allowing light in so that they sparkle. When choosing a setting for a multi-stone ring, the setting will determine the shape and style of the ring.
Matching Bands with Sidestones
If you want to wear your wedding band on the same finger as the engagement ring, you can order a wedding band made to match.
Three-Stone Rings
This setting has diamonds or colored gems set beside the center diamond. The three-stone ring has three diamonds, one for the past, one for the present, and one for the future.
How to Choose a Setting
The best setting depends on her personal tastes and preference.
Ask her best friend or mother.
Look at the jewelry she normally wears. Does she prefer silver or gold? Large jewelry or small?
How active is she. If she's not used to wearing jewelry and she has a very active lifestyle, look for a ring that won't catch easily.
Prongs should have rounded ends instead of sharp so that they don't snag on clothing.
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