Diamond Setting Types and Engagement Ring Settings

An engagement ring or diamond ring consists of two parts: the band (or shank) that encircles the finger, and the main setting (or head) that holds the centre gemstone in place. The main setting can be a claw (prong) setting, a bezel setting or a tension setting.

The shank can be plain, or set with small diamonds held in hollows, grooves or channels. Small diamonds set into the band can be channel set, claw set, pavé or bead set, or gypsy set.

Below we explain each of the main diamond setting types — and where to see each one in our collections.

View our entire collection of engagement rings with natural diamonds  ·  View our engagement rings with lab-grown diamonds

The claw (prong) setting

One of the most popular settings for engagement rings is the claw setting, also known as the prong setting. Depending on the shape and style of diamond chosen, a setting like this can have anywhere from two to eight claws.

A four-claw setting is often used in contemporary designs for an up-to-date look; a princess-cut diamond is frequently set in four claws. For a more vintage or traditional style, a six-claw (or six-prong) setting is favoured. For a larger diamond, an eight-claw setting gives greater security. The prongs themselves can be crafted into various shapes, but rounded ends are often preferred, as they are less likely to damage — or be damaged.

Because the claw setting lifts the diamond up to the light, it suits a classic solitaire beautifully. See it in our solitaire engagement rings.

Four Claw Centre Setting

An Open Four Claw Setting

Calais Six Claw Setting

The bezel setting

This setting has become very popular for its contemporary appeal. The bezel — also known as the rub-over setting — completely encloses the stone within a rim of metal. The metal, whether gold or platinum, sits level with the top of the diamond, creating a smooth, clean profile. It is one of the most secure settings of all, and can be customised: for a distinctive look, small segments of the bezel can be removed to reveal more of the stone.

For a diamond cut to a high standard, the bezel does not prevent the stone from sparkling — it should not reduce its beauty in any way. For coloured gemstones, the bezel offers extra protection, guarding the girdle and pavilion against chips and scratches, and giving the wearer added confidence.

The bezel's low, protective profile makes it a favourite for everyday wear. Explore it across our engagement ring collection.

The halo setting

Designed to enhance the centre diamond — and to make it look larger — the halo setting places one or two rows of small diamonds very close to the centre stone, following its contours.

A hidden halo takes the idea a step further: the halo is set to the side of, or beneath, the main diamond, around its girdle. It is not visible from above, only from the side — a beautiful, subtle detail.

A halo is one of the most effective ways to add sparkle and presence. See the full range in our halo engagement rings.

Hidden Halo of Diamonds

The above image shows a "Hidden Halo" of diamonds. The halo is set to the side or under the main diamond, around the girdle of the diamond. This is referred to as a hidden halo as it is not visible from the top, it is only visible from the side. This is a stunning setting style.

The pavé setting

The pavé setting is one of the most glamorous ways to set a ring. Also known as the bead setting, it uses tiny beads of the chosen metal — gold or platinum — to hold a number of small diamonds in place, creating a continuous sweep of sparkle. "Pavé" means "paved", and the term is used when several rows of small diamonds run through the setting of the ring.

For that paved-with-diamonds look along the band, see our engagement rings with side diamonds.

The channel setting

This beautiful setting is a wonderful way to show diamonds at their most exquisite. It is often chosen for wedding rings set with diamonds, for the shoulders of a ring where maximum sparkle is wanted, and for eternity rings.

The diamonds within a channel setting must all be the same size. They are placed neatly, close together, in a channel of platinum or gold, creating an unbroken sweep of sparkle. For security, each stone sits in a tiny bay cut into both sides of the channel. The baguette-cut diamond is particularly effective in a channel setting.

Channel settings are at their best in wedding rings and eternity rings.

The three-stone (trilogy) ring

Another very popular style — you may remember that Meghan Markle's engagement ring is a three-stone ring. A trilogy ring typically has a larger centre stone flanked by two smaller, matching stones. The stones can be claw set or bezel set, and the three are often said to represent a couple's past, present and future.

See the style in our three-stone engagement rings.

The gypsy setting

Also known as a flush mount, this setting is often used for fancy diamond shapes. The stone is set within the metal so that it does not protrude above the surface of the ring — only the crown is visible. The metal is cut so the diamond can be placed into the recess before polishing, and patterns are sometimes worked into the metal around the stone, such as a star pattern.

Setting Style - Gypsy Setting

The tension setting

This is a very contemporary way to set a stone — generally into platinum, considered the best metal for the job. The setting is designed so that light penetration is maximised, giving the diamond a "suspended" quality. The pressure of the metal on the stone holds it securely in place.

Setting Style - Tension Setting

Not sure which setting is right? Our specialists will guide you through them at a private appointment — or browse the full engagement ring collection to compare.