Prong Settings for Your Engagement Ring

If you are into a classic or traditional look a prong setting might just be the perfect fit. The prong is sometimes referred to as a claw or a basket for obvious reasons and contains three or more metal claws that hold the stone in place.

The ends of the prongs can come to rounded points, ovals, or they can even come in decorative shapes. Prong settings can also be elevated or short and some people like them elevated so that they appear larger and make the diamond look like its floating. Others would rather have the diamond close to their finger for more security and less of a chance to chip or damage the stone.

The pros of prong settings

·         Because prongs are fairly tiny, you can see more of the stone in all its glory.

·         Prongs are inexpensive and easy to make

·         Prong settings are easier to clean

The cons of prong settings

·         More of the diamond is exposed so the prongs don’t offer the same protection that other secure settings do.

·         Prongs can snag clothing

1.      Make sure that your diamond is set securely so that it doesn’t wobble

2.      Make sure that the stone sits at an even height

3.      Thin prongs can break or wear away

4.      Hooked prongs can open up over time

5.      Don’t get the tall prong settings if you have small children or animals