Bezel Vs. Prong Setting: Which Is Better for Lab Grown Diamond Engagement Rings?
Lab-grown diamond rings are increasing in popularity for consumers and jewelers alike. These diamonds created in a lab environment are often more brilliant and catch the light better than their mined counterparts. Not only are these diamonds of higher quality, but they are also significantly lower in cost.
The setting of the precious gemstone can make all the difference in the world. When considering a bezel versus a prong setting, which is better for lab grown diamond engagement rings?
Although both bezel and prong settings for diamond rings are common, there are some key differences between the two setting options.
What Is A Bezel Setting?
The bezel setting consists of a band of metal that wraps around the gemstone holding the stone in place securely. This metal band is placed low to surround the bottom and lower sides of the gem. The metallic girdle band will cover part of the crown area of the gemstone. This metal band is then securely welded onto the metal band of the ring itself.
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Pros Regarding A Bezel Setting
One advantage of a bezel-style ring setting is the gemstone, in this case, a lab-created diamond, will be held more securely onto your engagement ring band.
Since most individuals wear their diamond engagement rings most of the time, a bezel setting can be the ideal choice. Diamond engagement rings have a higher risk of getting bumped potentially causing the stone itself to be knocked off the setting or lost.
There will be no raised prongs that can quickly snag in clothing or other materials. In addition, there is less chance of the hard diamond gemstone scratching surfaces that the ring encounters daily.
Bezel settings are more modern and are terrific options for those that use their hands a lot for work or other purposes.
Abezel setting can be used for a wider variety of gemstones. Prong settings, on the other hand, do not work with some gemstones.
Cons Regarding A Bezel Setting
Cons include the fact that the diamond itself will not shine as brilliantly and spectacularly as a diamond set into a prong setting will.
This is because the bottom and lower sides extending up towards the crown of the gemstone will be covered up. The light cannot penetrate the metal band, and the diamond will lose some of its lustrous and luminous properties.
The bezel setting can also look a bit bulky. This setting requires a higher level of skill by the jeweler to properly create the piece, raising the price.
When Was The Bezel Setting Created?
The traditional bezel setting can be traced back centuries to ancient Roman and Egyptian cultures. Today, the bezel setting remains a timeless and much sought-after jewelry designer setting for many jewelry pieces including diamond engagement rings. Bezel-styled jewelry was used in medieval times too.
In the later 1800s to early 1900s, the bezel again resurged in a less cumbersome design that reduced the width of the metal band.
How Much Do Bezel Setting Rings Cost?
The cost of rings with bezel settings varies due to differences in setting metals along with the type/size/shape of the gemstone and the skill of the jeweler. This skill level often drives the costs of bezel-setting pieces upwards.
What Is A Prong Setting?
A prong setting raises the gemstone up and holds it in place with evenly spaced prongs that are set on the top edges of the stone. Usually, there are 4 prongs present, but this can be altered to 6, 3, or other prong numbers to encompass many gemstone varieties.
Pros Of Prong Settings
Advantages of a prong setting include greater light reaching more of the exposed diamond, less expensive overall, are often considered more romantic, and perfectly accents larger and more expensive diamonds including lab-grown diamond engagement rings.
Cons Of Prong Settings
Prong settings can easily catch on sweaters, loose sleeves, and other types of fabrics. The diamond itself can scratch nearby surfaces since it is raised up higher.
The delicate prongs are also more vulnerable to bending or breaking off. This makes this setting a risky choice for those who work with their hands and/or frequently use dangerous machinery.
This setting leaves more of the diamond exposed, and this means that any imperfections in the gemstone will not be hidden.
How Much Does a Prong Setting Cost?
The prong setting is usually the more affordable option. Less skill is needed to create these settings, and this can dramatically lower the costs of the piece.
Bezel Vs Prong Setting – Which Is The Best Option?
The choice of a bezel versus a prong setting is something every customer will need to decide on their own. Consider the advantages and disadvantages of each.
If you do not wear many sweaters, rarely work with your hands, or desire your diamond to shine its brightest, the prong setting may be a good bet. However, if you do work often with your hands and/or work around machines that could catch your ring, then the bezel setting may be the best choice.
The bezel setting today is often streamlined giving a modern twist on an old-fashioned jewelry style. Bezel settings can be used for a wider variety of gemstones. Prong settings, on the other hand, do not work with some gemstones. A diamond engagement ring is typically passed down to younger generations. Your choice of a ring setting should be carefully considered using these guidelines.
About The Authors
Jaya Mckeown - Jaya moved to Boston from New York to pursue a master's degree in corporate communications at Emerson College. This experience, combined with her undergraduate degree in psychology and teaching, has equipped her with valuable skills that she employs on a daily basis in real estate negotiations, homebuyer and seller education, and successful promotion of the team's listings. Jaya's clients often characterize her as meticulous, proactive, and enjoyable to be around.
