Are prong settings safe?

Prong settings are a safe and secure setting as long as they're well-made and maintained. You'll want to purchase your prong set ring from a trusted jeweler and return for regular cleanings and check-ups to ensure the prongs aren't loose or damaged. For the safest, most secure, and least maitenance settings, opt for a bezel setting. See some of our favorite bezel set engagement rings in our blog.

Which is the better prong setting?

Generally, the more prongs, the more secure the diamond or gemstone will be. Having said that, four prongs is usually more than enough unless the stone is seriously sizeable. Also keep in mind, more prongs means less of the stone is showing which can reduce the sparkle factor. Prongs can also add visual interest depending on their positioning and shape, so some people will opt for more prongs in the interest of design.

CLAW PRONG SETTING

Elongated and sharply pointed, the claw prong style feels architectural and dramatic with a touch of edge. The slim lines cover slightly more stone, but also add an element of minimalistic design to an otherwise clear canvas.

What is the difference between a claw prong a regular prong?

Claw prongs are pointed whereas regular prongs are rounded - claw prongs generally hold the stone more securely, cover less of the stone with their pointed tips, but can snag on fabrics and hair more easily than round prongs.

BUTTON PRONG SETTING

Tiny, rounded, and cute as a button. These prongs feel classic, feminine, and truly let the stone take center stage. From the top view, they look like tiny dots, and from the sides, you can see their apostrophe-esque shape.

Button prongs are used most often with “fancy cuts” like hexagon, pear, and heart-shaped stones.

CLAW PRONG VS ROUND PRONG SETTING

Two of the most popular prong styles available, both claw prongs and round prongs are minimalistic, classic, and let your stone shine bright. So, where does each style win? A claw setting cover less of the diamond with their tapered ends and they're more secure as they reach farther onto the diamond.

Round prongs have a more feminine vibe, work great with fancy shaped diamonds, and are less prone to snagging than claw prongs. If you have a smaller diamond, opt for claw prongs to show more of the stone.

Both are sleek and secure options - make your choice according to the look you prefer!

BLOCK PRONG OR V-SHAPED PRONG SETTING

Also called corner prongs, v-shaped prongs are designed to protect the pointed corners on diamond shapes like pear, princess, and marquise. Though they're some of our favorite diamonds shapes, those sharp corners make them more susceptible to chipping and damage - this prong setting style brings that risk way down.

Why we love a block prong setting:

• Keeps stones with pointed corners safe from damage.

• Sleek and minimalist, v-shaped prongs cover less of the stone's table and give an obstructed topview.

What to keep in mind with a block prong setting

• Many v-prongs don’t hold the stones at the top as well as traditional prongs do.

• Block prongs cover the sides of a gemstone more than traditional prongs.

NUMBER OF PRONGS

Most solitaire engagement ring settings (like our signature Stella and Bella solitaire settings) have 4 - 6 prongs holding the center stone. However, some designers create pieces with 8-10 prongs for a unique visual effect and Fort Knox level security.

FOUR PRONG SETTING

The favorite choice overall, four-prong settings strike a blissful balance between securing your stone and showcasing its shine.  

Why we love a four prong setting:

• Four prong settings showcase more of the stone than 6 prong styles.

• Less prongs mean fewer hidden spots to clean. Dirt and grime build up under prongs which can loosen them, so a four-prong style can be less maintenance.

What to keep in mind with a four prong setting:

• Four prong settings give a squarer look to your diamond so they’re amazing to accentuate square and rectangle-shaped stones. They’re also beloved for round stones, as many people love their minimalistic look. If you’re not a fan of the square illusion, a 6 prong setting may speak to you better.

• Four prongs are of course slightly less secure than six, however 4 is still more than enough to securely hold your stone. Keep in mind: the most important factor in your stone’s security is the quality and expertise of the setter.

SIX PRONG SETTING

Super chic and a cult classic, six-prong settings are ultra-secure and timelessly fabulous.

Why we love a six prong setting:

• An extra layer of security with two added prongs – great for people who live a very active or high-impact lifestyle.

• A six-prong setting makes round gemstones look rounder. For that truly circular shape, this is the style to select!

What to keep in mind with a six prong setting:

• More metal means less of your stone shows. This isn’t usually an issue with larger stones, but in smaller settings, the extra prongs may overwhelm the delicate gem.

• More prongs mean more tiny crevices for dirt and grime to hide under. So, to keep it clean, you’ll have to be a little more thorough on your routine at-home cleans.

Q: 4 prong settings vs 6 prong settings for security with larger stones?

A: On larger stones, you can either bump up to six prongs or stick with 4 prongs and add a basket for added security. It’s kind of like building a house – you create the foundation to support the rest of the house, and many elements work together to create a sound structure.

It’s not your job to worry about this though! We’re here to ensure you have the most secure yet stunning setting without you ever having to ask. We’ll never let you walk away with anything less than setting perfection.

Single prong setting or Double Prong setting

Round diamonds are usually made with single prongs, whereas Asscher-cut and Emerald-cut diamonds are most often made with double prongs. We don’t believe in rules though!

Q: Is the choice for double-claw vs single-claw more to do with aesthetics or security? Love the look.

A: 95% of the time, it’s purely an aesthetic choice. We love a double claw prong setting on square-cornered stones like Asscher and Emerald cuts, and it can really add some sass to round and oval stones!

In terms of security, double prongs aren’t necessarily more secure than single prongs. Occasionally, a client might even choose strategically-placed double prongs to conceal a blemish or inclusion.

Double claw prong setting vs single prong setting

Q: What is the best prong setting?

A: The best prong setting is the one that holds your diamond or gemstone securely in place with the least amount of coverage. You want to maximize the light able to enter your stone while ensuring your stone is secure in the setting. Whether that's achieved with 4, 6, 8 or more prongs and button, claw, or another shape of prongs depends on the size and shape of your stone and the overall design of your setting.

ORIENTATION OF PRONGS

Both four and six prong settings come with a standard prong placement, but both can be customized for an ultra-unique aesthetic:

COMPASS 4 PRONG SETTING

The standard four prong orientation is diagonally from a bird’s eye view but you can switch things up and orientate the prongs to resemble a compass (east, west, north, and south facing prongs)! It seems like a small adjustment but it creates a super distinctive look!

ROTATED 6 PRONG SETTING

Just like with four-prongs, you can rotate the positioning of your 6 prongs so that the middle two run in line with the band. Sometimes just the slightest change can be the difference between 'not quite' and 'just right'.

ENGAGEMENT RING PRONG CARE TIPS

CONSIDER AND COMMUNICATE YOUR EXPECTATIONS AROUND WEAR AND CARE

Are you someone who loves sleeping in your ring? Are you a chef and going to wear it to work every day? Or do you work in an office and take your ring off every night?

Let your jeweler know a little about your lifestyle so we can tailor your ring design to your day-to-day life.