Diamond Cut

What are the different types of engagement ring settings?

With so many styles of rings out there it is really important to think about your significant others lifestyle. Here are some of the more popular styles…

Center stone mounting choices

Prong Mounting

Prong mountings are the most popular especially for solitaires. Depending on the diamond’s shape, prong settings will have between 3 to 6 prongs. Most Round Brilliants will have either 4 or 6 while certain fancy shape stones such as a Pear will have 5 and a Marquise will have 6. With a prong mounting the diamond’s girdle is fitted into the “grooves” of a metal head or basket. The head/basket can either be set high or lower to the setting.

Advantages – allows the stone to be seen from all angles, holds the diamond securely, easy cleaning due to the open head/basket.

Bezel Mountings

Bezel mountings are very popular with those that are athletic, work with children or are in the medical profession. With a bezel mounting a band of metal holds the diamond in place and can either fully or partially surround the girdle.

Advantages – provides protection to the girdle and will prevent chips, accentuates the diamond making it appear larger than a prong set stone, provides a smooth surface.

Side stone choices

Channel Setting

Diamonds are suspended in a “channel” with no metal between each stone. The advantage of this setting is it protects the girdles of the stones and provides for a smooth surface.

Pave Setting

Diamonds are fit into holes in the setting and the metal surrounding each hole is raised to form beads holding the diamonds in place. The advantage of this setting is it protects the diamonds better than prong settings and can make the diamonds appear larger than they are.

Flush Setting

Diamonds are fit into a grooved hole that securely holds the girdle. The surrounding metal is then pressed into the opening securing the diamond. The advantage of this setting is the diamond sits flush to the band offering great protection.

Bar Setting

Diamonds are set in a “channel” across the ring and the edges of the stones are exposed. This style is popular with baguettes that are set on either side of the center stone.

Find the perfect engagement ring setting using our Create Your Own Engagement Ring three-step process.

Who came up with the 2 month salary rule for engagement rings?

If you’ve heard about the two month salary rule you have probably heard about the three month salary rule as well. Both rules are a myth and not a fact. There is no set dollar amount or percentage on how much you should spend on an engagement ring. This is an individual decision that you’ll need to make. Like any large purchase, we suggest establishing a budget first before you even begin to start looking. Once you’re budget is established and you have been provided with all the options available within that budget you’ll then be able to make an informed decision on which ring is right for you and your significant other.

While we’re talking about myths there is one other to bring up here. Bigger is better – so untrue. When shopping for diamonds, size is not the first thing you should look for. The cut of a stone should be your priority followed by color, clarity, and then weight.

Talk to one of our Graduate Gemologists who will guide you through the shopping process and help you find the perfect fit. By phone 1-800-979-1910 or by email customerservice@since1910.com.