A marriage proposal is the ultimate declaration of love sealed with the promise of a beautiful ring – the jewel symbolic of eternity that will be adored for a lifetime. The experts at Hennings Jewellers lets us in on exactly what you need to know about the size and setting of your dream ring.
While a lot of attention is paid to the ‘rock’ and the four Cs that guide that decision, there are other aspects that make up a ring that are just as crucial.
We called on the experts at Hennings Jewellers, who have been creating exquisite wedding and engagement rings for over 100 years, to explain the basics of ring setting and size. Get ready to take notes, we’re about to drop some knowledge that you’ll want to pass on when you drop the hint!
The design possibilities of a diamond engagement ring are endless with different metals, stones and shapes to choose from. Most brides-to-be will have already given this some thought, but how these stones can be secured (and best shown off) is just as important! This is known as the setting.
CLAW
The traditional method of setting a stone is by using claws. Claws are very practical and are one of the safer ways to keep fragile stones secure. The thickness and number of claws dictates how secure the stone will be, but the trade-off is the amount of light illuminating beneath the stone to enhance its shine.
BEZEL
In a bezel setting the stone is completely surrounded by the metal making it very secure. This metal-rimmed setting guards the stone from bumps and chips and creates a smooth surface. There is also the option of a half-bezel setting where two edges of the metal are removed showing off the stone from the side and allowing more light in to show off its brilliance.
CHANNEL
In a channel setting the stones are set in a row between two horizontal sides of metal. The metal comes to the top of the stones making the surface of the ring smooth and flat. This setting is good for keeping smaller stones secure, but the stones aren’t separated by metal so this setting isn’t ideal for delicate materials.
BAR
Bar stones are held firm by slender vertical bars. The effect is one of clean lines and order. Though the stones are secure, the top of the stone is left exposed.
PAVE
Pave settings are made up of stones placed close together embedded in holes, without any metal shown. They are level with the ring’s surface which makes them appear bigger and more luminous.
GYPSY
A popular option for grooms, the gypsy setting is created by placing the stone into a hole so that it isn’t raised above the ring’s surface. This offers the stone more protection and creates a more subtle look.
Once you’ve figured out how you’d like your stones set, one of the most important things to know is your ring size! The best way to determine this is by dropping into a store and letting the experts size you exactly – but you can also use Hennings Jeweller’s printable chart to help you (or your significant other) figure it out.
Need some visual inspiration? Head into Hennings Jewellers to try on gorgeous rings or head to the Hennings Jewellers website to for a little bit of window shopping!
