A bezel setting is a style of setting where the stone is surrounded by a metal rim, rather than clutched by the four or six prongs you’re used to seeing in a solitaire setting. Like other ring settings, bezel settings are available in a wide range of metals and styles. Let’s learn more about this setting and if it’s the right fit for your jewelry.
What is a Bezel vs a Prong Setting?
Prongs hold diamonds and gemstones in place by clutching them with tiny talons. Unlike prong settings, which are quite delicate and expose the sides of the stone, a bezel setting completely encircles the stone and holds it securely in place. This setting offers protection for the center and even additional stones, while giving the ring a sleek, modern appearance.
While prong-set solitaires tend to catch on sweaters and sleeves, the bezel’s smooth edges make them a better fit for many. Although it requires a bit more metal than a prong setting and often requires more skill and cost to set, a bezel is the most secure of all setting types and is also an excellent choice for softer gemstones that need greater protection, like emeralds or morganite.
A full bezel completely surrounds the stone, letting in less light than other settings, so the stone may appear slightly less sparkly. A partial bezel leaves the sides open, allowing more light to enter. While the stone may not look quite as brilliant as it would in a prong setting, the difference is subtle and very difficult to perceive. Both half and full bezels will securely hold your stone in place, making them good choices if you’re looking for a safe, durable jewelry setting.
Why Choose a Bezel Engagement Ring?
The bezel is a popular setting due to its modern look, security and suitability for active or busy lifestyles. By tightly holding the stone in place, the bezel is one of the most secure settings. The metal rim of a bezel also protects the edges of the stone, which helps to protect it from chipping or breaking. This particularly benefits a princess cut, marquise cut or pear shaped stone which are the most prone to chipping.
Because of their smooth and encompassing surface, bezel settings are unlikely to catch and snag on clothing, and thanks to the relatively simple design of most bezels, maintenance is easy. There are no prongs to routinely check or clean, meaning you’ll have a significantly easier time taking care of your diamond/stones and setting.
Rarely discussed, but definitely a perk of the bezel, it also makes your diamond or stone look bigger. The metal encasing of the bezel setting adds about half a millimeter to the diameter of your diamond, which can make a 1 carat diamond look more like a 1.25 carat. It’s a subtle boost to its visual presence that you surely won’t be upset about. It’s also a very low profile setting.
If you’re curious about a bezel setting, but not quite sure if it’s the right choice for you, you’ve come to the right place. Let us help you create the perfect custom piece of jewelry. Give us a call at 303-385-8449 or click here to schedule your appointment!