Posts Tagged ‘pave setting’

 

Choosing a Unique Setting for your Engagement Ring

Sunday, June 7th, 2009

For the bride-to-be who desires something a little different from a traditional engagement ring setting, there are many unique settings that can add an extra bit of individuality and style to your engagement ring. While traditional settings are definitely the most common, a unique setting can help personalize an otherwise traditional engagement ring to make it truly your own.

 

Pave Settings

 

Pave setting engagement rings are simply stunning, and when done properly can actually enhance a stone and make it appear larger than it actually is. Pave settings use smaller stones adjacent to a larger central stone, or simply use small diamonds or other gemstones across the surface of the band.

 

Channel Settings

 

With channel settings, a small opening (or “trench”) is cut into the band, whereby small gemstones are placed inside the trench to form a beautiful row of gemstones within the band. Channel settings can either have an open back or a closed back, both of which have their own unique characteristics. A closed back keeps the stones more secure, while an open back allows more light through to the gemstones.

 

Flush Settings

 

Flush settings are a beautiful, unique engagement ring setting that looks absolutely amazing when done properly. This setting is ideal for women who lead a very active lifestyle, because the gemstones are placed into the band of the ring so only the tops of the stones are visible. Flush settings are similar to channel settings, but instead of forming one line of gemstones, stones can be scattered throughout the width of a wider band.

 

Cluster Setting

 

Cluster settings are delicate, breathtaking and a highly unique setting for any engagement ring. A collection of stones are used, typically to form some type of pattern (similar to a figural engagement ring,) or create the illusion of one big gemstone. Oftentimes, a cluster setting uses several levels of gemstones to elevate the design rather than a single, uniform level of stones.

 

Invisible Settings

 

Invisible settings should only be created by the most experienced jewelers, as a poorly done setting can cause the stones to become loose and fall out with regular wear. These settings are exceptionally unique, and are used to create the illusion of a larger stone. To create this type of setting, a frame for the gemstones is cut into the band (below the surface), whereby the stones can fit snugly against one another. Smaller stones are used to complete the illusion that the ring is actually made up of one large stone.

 

Even though unique engagement ring settings offer a beautiful alternative to a traditional setting as well as a personalized touch, make sure whichever setting you choose suits your bride-to-be’s finger. You also want to ensure that the setting you choose shows off the gemstones in the best way possible, as this is an investment that will ideally last a lifetime.

 

No matter what type of setting you choose for an engagement ring, it is sure to be a piece of jewelry that will be loved and cherished throughout your relationship.

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Pave Setting

Friday, May 22nd, 2009

Choosing a pave setting engagement ring is a sophisticated choice for the bride-to-be with elegant taste. Even with a simple design, a pave setting offers a glamorous alternative to wear alone or designed as part of a bridal set.

 

What are They?

Pave settings are simply stunning, and take there name from the fact the band is literally paved with tiny diamonds. At first glance, the band actually looks like it’s made of diamonds. Unlike other traditional settings, a pave setting uses very small stones and tiny prongs or beads to hold the diamonds in place. Traditionally made with white gold or platinum to minimize the appearance of the metal band, yellow gold can also be used in a pave setting for a touch of classic elegance.

With a pave setting engagement ring, a larger central stone typically rests above the tiny diamonds that encircle the rest of the band. Since a pave setting already incorporates a lot of elegance, simpler central stones such as a round or princess cut are the most popular choices. For a fancier look, many couples choose a colored diamond or brilliant gemstone as the center stone to complement the brilliance of the surrounding diamonds.

 

What Kind of Designs Can I Choose From?

A pave setting offers a unique alternative to a traditional diamond wedding ring, and there are a few styles you can choose from. For an elegant yet simple design, a bride-to-be may opt for a simple band with one row of encrusted diamonds and the center stone mounted above the smaller stones. For a more elaborate look, bride-to-be’s can choose a single band without a center stone for a brilliant, shimmery look. This type of pave setting seems to be growing in popularity and make for a stunning engagement ring. Brides who opt for this type of pave setting often choose to design the band in a swirling curve or wave shape for a unique touch.

 

Cost and Care

Pave engagement rings can be expensive, but this will vary depending on the type of stones you choose as well as their quality. You can lessen the cost by using a gemstone as the center stone instead of a diamond or omitting a center stone altogether. Couples can further decrease the cost of a pave setting by using cubic zirconia for the smaller diamonds. Even if you choose real diamonds over CZ’s, since the stones are so small you can feel free to use lower-quality stones because flaws will not be as visible.

 

Pave setting engagement rings will require frequent cleaning because of their intricacy. As with all fine jewelry, you should never wear the ring during household chores or around harsh chemicals. Have a professional jeweler regularly examine your ring to ensure no stones have fallen out. Fortunately, pave settings are relatively inexpensive to repair.

 

A pave setting engagement ring can be a beautiful choice for couples who desire something a little more elegant than a traditional diamond ring. With the proper care and regular cleaning, your ring will be as stunning as when you first put it on.

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