Diamonds & Stone Settings
When deciding on a diamond ring, the setting is one of the most important factors to consider. Different setting styles cater for a wide range of tastes. The setting style refers to the metal base that holds a stone in place. Each setting style is created to enhance both the beauty of the stones and the appearance of a jewellery piece. Use our setting guide to learn more about the available options.
Diamonds and The 4C’s
Cut & Carat
The weight of a diamond is measured in carats. A carat is equivalent to 0.2 of a gram.
Colour
Diamonds are found in a wide range of colours, the rarest being colourless. Letters are assigned to a standard colour grade. ‘Fancy’ colours have their own descriptions.
Clarity
IF – Internally Flawless; VVS1 & VVS2 – Very, Very Small Inclusion; VS1 & VS2 – Very Small Inclusion; SI1, SI2 & SI3 – Small Inclusion; I1, I2 & I3 – Inclusion
Fancy Colour Diamonds
The vast majority of diamonds fall in the D to Z colour range. Occasionally nature produces diamonds with a naturally occurring blue, brown, pink, deep yellow or even green hue. Fancy colour diamonds are appraised less for brilliance and more for colour intensity. Shades that are deep and distinct are rated higher than weak or pale shades. The geological conditions required to yield these colours are rare, making diamonds with a naturally occurring colour shade scarce and highly priced.
Black diamonds also falls under the grading of fancy colours. The colour formation in black diamonds is caused by graphite inclusions. Although black diamonds are not transparent they may show white or grey inclusions that make them very unique. A black diamond actually absorbs most of the light that enters it, where white colourless diamonds reflects that light.
Stone Setting
Prong Setting
also known as claw setting. Traditionally four or six prongs are used allowing to showcase the stone most effectively. Larger stones will genereally be set with six or more prongs for additional security.
Channel Setting
is a method where stones are suspended between two bars or strips of metal. This setting is mostly used for stones of the same size to create a continuous line of stones sitting next to each other.
Bezel Setting
is a metal rim that encircles the sides of a stone, protecting the stone from all angles. This is the ideal setting for people with an active lifestyle.
Tension Setting
is a unique way to highlight a stone as it appears to be floating in the air. The stone is held in place between both sides of the band.
Pavé Setting
is many small stones set continuously in miniature prongs alongside a band or around a centre stone, creating a glamourous sparkling effect.
