Ring Styles and 9 Popular Settings

With so many different ring settings to choose from, it can be difficult to decide which one is best for you and your loved one. Each persons style is unique so if you’re purchasing a gift take a peek at their usual jewelry to get a sense of what their preferences are like. Here are some of the most common styles explained.

SOLITAIRE

Technically, a solitaire can be any ring style with a single stone meaning a single bezel could be considered a solitaire as well as a single prong. Usually however, we tend to associate solitaires with a single prong set gemstone. 

PRONG

There are many styles of prong settings such as a basket setting which typically consists of 4 prongs and two stacked rings to create a basket silhouette. There is also stem settings sometimes considered tepee or wine stem that can consist of any number of prongs that converge to a single point; think of a V shape. Another popular prong style is cathedral, which has a higher profile than other prong settings. 

PAVÈ

Pavè is a French setting style which can have one or multiple rows of gemstones that are set in prongs and close together to the point that they share said prongs. This style is typically seen as an accent in a wedding band for example or on the sides of a ring running down the ring band. 

CHANNEL

Like it’s name, a channel setting is when gemstones are set in a hallowed out track creating a “channel”. Unlike pavè, channel settings don’t use prongs to hold the gemstones and instead, the side walls of the channel hold the stones in place.

BEZEL

Bezel settings are most commonly used for cabochon (flat back) cut gemstones. With an open or solid back, a bezel uses a wall of metal then bent over the gemstone to secure it in place. The typical bezel has a solid back but there are also open back bezels and step bezel settings. 

TENSION

Tension settings are just as they sound, they use force  to hold the gemstone(s). Tension settings have notched seats which allows the gem to stay secured in place. 

HALO

Halo settings are commonly seen in rings and pendants. As it sounds, a “halo” of smaller gemstones surround a larger center gemstone. 

TRELLIS

A trellis setting is most commonly seen for three gemstones, but it can be created for more gems such as five. The actual setting is a prong setting but the prongs loop to create a trellis effect when viewing from the front or back. 

GYPSY

Gypsy settings can be used in all types of jewelry. They’re commonly seen in signet rings and bangles. Gypsy settings appear as though the gems are inlaid into the metal. Metal is manipulated to cover the edges and secure the gem in place. 

There are many types of settings and you’ve probably seen most of them and maybe didn’t know their official name. Settings are used based on practicality for the design as well as security, not just aesthetics. With so many styles out there to choose from, you’ll find a favorite to love in no time.