How the stone or stones in a ring are set determines its design. Different settings produce different effects, some that will appeal to you more than others. While appeal is a strong drawing card to selecting a setting, other factors, such as safety of the stone and the number of stones, can dictate how your ring should be designed. At Achikian Goldsmiths our experienced designers can guide you through your selection process. Before that, however, you might want to know more about the options available to you in setting your stones.

Ballerina Setting

This setting consists of placing tapered baguettes around a center stone. The result resembles a ballerina's tutu. Sometimes the surround stones are set in a wave-like pattern making the setting look like a dancer's skirt. This setting is used for a multi-stone ring, almost always a delightful, sparkling piece of jewelry.

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Beaded Setting

Beading in gold or platinum can separate larger stones, spreading them out. Often the beading can feature fine engraving, giving a uniqueness to the ring's design.

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Bezel Setting

A bezel is a collar of gold or platinum that wraps around a cut stone. Bezel settings present a traditional look. The bezel setting may be cut in half, giving a different look, as it opens up the setting. This setting is especially important to use in softer stones, such as emeralds.

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Burnish Setting

Burnish setting means the stones are set flush with the surface of the precious metal in the ring. Only the top or table of the stone shows. This setting is especially good for stones with flaws. The burnish setting produces a subtle yet solid appearance.

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Channel Setting

Setting round diamonds into channels in a channel setting produces a clean, sparkling look. Small spaces closest to the metal bars of the channel work to produce a sleek appearance.

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Cluster Setting

Cluster settings are great when you are choosing a ring with many small stones. Clusters can be circles or any number of abstract shapes. Often, cluster settings vary in height, adding dimension to a design.

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Invisible Setting

Invisible settings appear to have no metal holding them together. The stones are set tightly together with the gold or platinum hidden underneath. This setting allows plenty of light to enter the stone. One of today's most popular setting for wedding bands, invisible settings show off diamonds' brilliance.

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Pavé Setting

Pavé settings are created when tiny stones are placed in small holes that have been drilled into the ring. The stones are placed in rows so that they fill as much of the surface as possible without touching one another. A difficult setting for any goldsmith, one often pays more for a pavé setting, but many feel the result is well worth the extra cost.

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Prong Setting

Probably the most familiar of settings, the prong setting emphasizes the stone and not the gold or platinum. The prong setting can elevate the stone as desired. One can choose a four- or six-prong setting to display a solitaire stone. The more gold or platinum used in the prongs, the stronger the setting. Sometimes referred to as a Tiffany setting, the sturdy six-prong setting is usually required for larger stones.

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