Category Archives: Bridal Sets

If a diamond does indeed last forever, then you will need a ring setting that’s going to also stand the test of time. It’s important to consider your engagement ring setting — or mounting — as part of the overall design. The setting contributes to the stone’s timeless beauty, so it’s good to know what is important to know about a ring’s setting.

From a technical standpoint, a ring is made up of two parts: The shank and the head. These two parts set the diamond into place. The setting provides more than security for your diamond; it also influences the diamond’s overall look.

Here’s a guide on the basic ring settings you should consider:

Prong Setting

Prong settings are a very popular setting for engagement rings. They act like small claws that grasp the diamond. They can hold any size of gem, but are typically used to hold a larger center stone. Prong settings vary based on the shape for the diamond. Typically, you will see four prongs or six prongs that will boost a diamond upward like a pedestal. When a diamond is raised up, it can disperse light more easily and create that “brilliant” look that many desire from diamonds.

Halo Setting

You may have seen the halo setting adorned on the ring of celebrities, but this setting is for the rest of the world as well! The halo setting secures the ring’s stone underneath a rim of smaller diamonds. This creates a diamond look that is brilliant and spectacular. Halo settings can be round or squared off on the sides.  This type of setting usually makes the diamond look larger, thus getting a big value out of this setting.

Channel Setting

Like a water channel, a channel setting in a ring features a row of diamonds side-by-side, suspended by individual seats cut into each side of the channel. This setting is seen in many wedding band designs or for side stones accenting the center diamond of an engagement ring. This setting is popular for anniversary, eternity, or wedding bands as it symbolizes the continuity and endless commitment of love and marriage. The flush diamonds create a diamond sparkle that is beautiful, as well as protects the stone that it holds.

Invisible Setting

In invisible settings, there is a metal framework on which the diamonds are mounted. The stones themselves have small channels cut in their bases, and the framework’s rails fit into these grooves. This is how the diamonds are fixed on the metal lattice, which remains invisible underneath. The gemstones in an invisible setting look as if they were held by nothing. Invisible settings can be complex, but the look you get can be very beautiful and contemporary.

Pavé/Micro Pavé Setting

Pavé diamond rings showcase sophisticated elegance and Hollywood glamour. Literally “paving” a ring’s surface with tiny diamonds, a pavé ring sparkles brilliantly while avoiding large diamonds that some women see as distasteful or gaudy. Designs that use many very small diamonds (or gemstones) are known as “micro pavé.” Because the overall total weight of diamonds used in the ring is lower, the total cost goes down. This setting is unique and contemporary, but also offers a vintage look and style.

Bezel Setting

There are two options for bezel settings: a full bezel (which encompasses the entire stone) and a partial bezel (which holds two sides of the stone, but leaves openings on the other two).  Bezel settings use a type of elevated collar which wraps the rim of the diamond in a complete metal edging. This type of diamond rings setting is the most secure fastener for the stones. The bezel setting also protects the diamond better than other types of settings, such as the prong setting.

Your engagement ring is often the center of attention leading up to your big day. Surprisingly, the rest of the jewelry worn on your wedding day is generally an afterthought. However, when you walk down the aisle your bridal jewelry will have the spotlight. Bridal jewelry sets are the best accessories to complement your wedding dress, and can also be passed down to your children and other family members.  Most bridal jewelry sets are comprised of a pair of earrings and a necklace, however a bracelet can also be included.

When picking out a wedding jewelry set, make sure it works in harmony with the design of your wedding dress. It should also complement your face shape and any jewels on your wedding gown.  It should not clash with a tiara or any accessories you plan to wear in your hair. All items need to work together to make you feel confident before you say “I Do.”

Here are some tips when choosing the best bridal jewelry set for your wedding day:

Match the jewelry to your dress.

Consider the neckline of your wedding dress. A strapless dress can be most versatile, allowing many necklace styles to look just right. For sweetheart necklines, a simple pendant will look best since it will follow the neckline.  Also take into consideration if your dress has jewels or beading on it as you may want to match the style of those gems to your bridal jewelry.

Choose jewelry that you like.

Rather than wear traditional diamonds or pearls, go with jewelry combinations that reflect your personality and style. Unlike your dress, you can get more than one use out of your bridal jewelry set, so pick the kind of jewelry you could see yourself wearing time and time again.

Consider heirloom diamonds.

Looking for your “something borrowed”? If you have heirloom diamond jewelry that has either been collecting dust or just simply isn’t your personal style, consider resetting the diamonds into an elegant piece that you’ll cherish forever. Repurpose any diamonds you don’t currently wear into the perfect pair of earrings to accessorize your wedding dress.

Don’t be afraid of a pop of color.

After you’ve found the right style of pieces to wear, don’t be afraid to incorporate colored diamonds or gems. Whatever your color scheme, use matching or complementary hues.  If you’re wearing a white wedding dress and want to add some pizzazz, try colorful pieces. You can even use your jewelry as your “something blue.”

Take some time.

Don’t feel the need to rush to pick out your jewelry. Try on different pieces while wearing your wedding gown. Enlist your friends and family to help and give opinions as you consider different necklaces or earrings. Can’t find exactly what you’re looking for? Talk with your jeweler and design a beautiful custom necklace or pair of earrings for your big day!