Are you considering prong settings as the perfect setting for your engagement ring? If so, you’ve come to the right place.
This guide will provide you with an overview of your options and offer buying tips specific to prong settings. You can expect to find answers to frequently asked questions such as:
- Which one between 4 and 6 prong settings is better?
- What varieties of prongs exist?
- Do prong settings have a tendency to catch on clothing?
What You Need to Know About Prong Engagement Ring Settings
Prong engagement ring settings are popular styles that use metal prongs to hold a center gemstone or diamond securely in place. Here’s what you should know about prong settings before making your purchase.
Platinum Prong Settings vs Gold Prong Settings
When it comes to prong settings, you can choose between gold or platinum metal prongs. A platinum prong is generally stronger as compared to traditional gold prongs, which can become damaged if you strike it hard enough. Gold is a soft metal and this is why it breaks easily than platinum.
While both 14K and 18K gold are best suited for everyday wear, 18K gold may be more prone to damage on relatively hard impacts. Platinum prongs are denser, making platinum prong rings heavier than their gold counterparts.
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Different Types of Prong Setting Engagement Rings
Prong setting engagement rings cover a wide range of other different styles and settings since the prong setting is determined by how the center stone is held to the ring shank, not by how the metal band looks. And neither is it determined by the position of the accent diamonds.
Four-Prong Setting vs Six-Prong Setting
Most of these rings have either four or six prong settings, with four-prong settings being the most popular.
Six-Prong vs Four-Prong Settings: Which is Better?
When it comes to prong settings for engagement rings, the number of prongs can be a crucial factor in deciding which one to choose. The six-prongs are often preferred due to the belief that majority of the prongs help keep center stones securely in place. However, it’s essential to note that all prongs, whether four or six, are considered secure.
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Four-Prong vs Six-Prong: The Debate
There’s no denying that the number of prongs can affect the overall look of the ring. Some people believe that four-prong settings leave more of the diamond exposed, which results in an amazing sparkle. On the other hand, six prongs usually create the illusion of bigger loose diamonds. Ultimately, the choice between a four-prong or six-prong setting comes down to personal style and preference.
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Different Types of Prong Settings
Rounded Prongs
The prong setting commonly used for diamond rings other than solitaire engagement rings is the round prong. In contrast, solitaire rings typically use claw prongs to keep the diamond secure.
For other different diamond ring settings like three-stone, halo, and cathedral engagement rings, short prongs are often used.
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Rounded prongs are beneficial for loose diamonds since they allow more light to reflect from the stone. Even six prong rings with rounded prongs allow more light to pass through compared to six-prong settings with a claw prong. Besides, the size of round prongs works to their advantage.
Claw Prongs
Prong settings are also known as claw prongs in the United Kingdom, leading to confusion. However, it’s quite different in the United States since claw prongs are a type of prong setting style that features pointed claws instead of round prongs. We’ve previously written about the difference between claw prongs and round prongs.
These claws extend beyond the diamond’s edges for a more fashionable and stylish appearance and provide ultimate protection for the center stone due to their length. However, they tend to cover a significant part of the surface of the diamond, making the center stone appear smaller. This is a more of a perspective and personal preference.
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When considering claw prong settings, it’s important to be mindful of its potential to snag on fabrics. While any prongs can cause snags, the pointed claws of the claw prong setting increase this risk. Nonetheless, this should not discourage you from choosing this setting if you like its aesthetic.
If you are choosing a white gold ring, go for those that are rhodium plated. The plating protects and ensures the ring keeps its shine.
Double Claw Prongs
The double claw prong settings share the same characteristics and considerations as the claw prong settings. However, there are two prongs on each side or corner instead of single pointed prongs.
These double prongs retain a pointed appearance. Plus, they’re normally set close to each other to give it a unique appearance.
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Double claw prong settings, which incorporates eight different prongs, may not be considered as a minimalistic option. This means that it’s also not ideal for smaller carat sizes or diamond shapes with small face-up views.
Instead, diamond shapes with larger surface areas like radiant cut and emerald cut diamonds are better suited for this type of prong setting.
Flat Tab Prongs
A flat tab prong is wider than a rounded prong. However, they are both smaller metal strips used in a range of four prong rings. These tabs are positioned a little bit over the edge of the diamond to ensure its secure.
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V Prong Settings
V prong settings are usually designed to protect the points of a few fancy diamond shapes. For the most part, a V-shaped prong is normally used for pear cut, princess cut, and marquise cut diamonds, providing better protection for these delicate areas.
Shared Prong Settings
Shared prong settings hold melee diamonds adjacent to each other using a set of prongs or a single one. Despite having only a single prong, this setting is generally secure.
However, it’s crucial to purchase high-quality ring settings from a reputable and reliable retailer, as poor craftsmanship can put your diamonds at risk.
When you choose your engagement ring from a reputable retailer, a shared prong setting allows more light to pass through the side diamonds, enhancing the center stone’s brilliance. If you have concerns about durability, you may consider selecting platinum ring settings instead of white gold, as platinum is stronger.
Basket Prong Settings
If you prefer a more subtle prong setting for the center diamond, then basket prongs engagement ring would be a better option. Some people may not prefer the enclosed appearance of traditional prong diamond rings.
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A basket prong setting provides a unique touch to the prong setting. What’s more, your center stone is held in the basket and secured by shorter prongs.
Pros and Cons of Prong Setting Diamond Engagement Rings
When searching for an engagement or wedding ring setting, it’s important to consider the advantages and disadvantages of a prong setting. With so many styles available, it can be overwhelming to remember all the details. However, here’s some general insight into prong settings.
Advantages
- Provides a secure hold for the center diamond
- Classic design for solitaire rings
- Various options for a range of prong styles to suit personal preferences
Disadvantages
- Prongs can easily catch on delicate fabrics
- Six or more prongs can reduce the amount of light entering the diamond
- A long prong setting can potentially cause the whole ring head to break off
Choosing Prong Settings
There are a multitude of prong settings available, each with its own unique characteristics. For the most part, prong settings are usually considered secure, they do come with their own set of drawbacks.
Before deciding on a prong mounting, it’s important to put your lifestyle into consideration. For example, individuals with active lifestyles may prefer bezel settings for added protection.
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Prong Orientation
When looking to buy a gemstone online with prong settings from a jewelry retailer, you may not have many options for prong orientation. Four-prong setting rings are typically aligned in a square formation, as shown:
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However, if you shop for ring settings and loose diamonds online, you’re more probable to find alternative prong orientations, such as a “compass” orientation.
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How to Take Care of Prong Settings
Taking care of prong settings is important to ensure the longevity and safety of your diamond. It is recommended to purchase from diamond retailers who offer service warranties to cover routine maintenance of the prong ring.
This is especially important as the band of your ring is not indestructible, and even though a platinum ring is stronger, it’s still prone to scratching.
Prongs are particularly vulnerable to catching on fabrics and wearing down over time. If prongs catch many times, they tend to pull them off the diamond, making it susceptible to damage.
As a result, prongs may need to be re-tipped over time. It is therefore essential to choose a retailer that offers a service warranty for ring settings, as it can save you money in the long run.
There are different types of service warranties available, ranging from temporary warranties that require a premium to lifetime warranties that are free of charge. It is advisable to choose an unlimited warranty at no extra cost like what James Allen offers, as it gives you peace of mind that your diamond is protected.
Without a warranty, repairs can be costly, and if the center stone falls out owing to worn out prongs, the cost could be substantial.
Taking care of prong settings is vital to ensure the safety and longevity of your diamond. Opting for a retailer that offers a service warranty is a smart choice, as it covers routine maintenance of your prong ring, and can save you money in the long run.
Remember, prevention is always better than cure, and by taking care of your prong setting, you can enjoy your diamond for many years to come.
How to Clean Prong Settings
The process of maintaining a prong setting engagement ring is similar to that of maintaining rings with different styles. However, prong settings require extra attention to keep them free of dirt and debris, which can accumulate within the prongs, making the diamond ring appear unattractive and dull.
My suggestion would be to avoid using jewelry solutions that are commercially available, but they do not pose any issues when it comes to diamonds. Instead, use a simple solution of dish soap and water.
You can also use jewelry steam cleaners to clean diamonds.
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You can effectively clean your prong setting engagement ring using a soft-bristled toothbrush to clean in between the prongs and also underneath the ring head. It is recommended to clean the ring daily if you wear it regularly.
Once you have cleaned your ring, dry it with an incredibly soft piece of cloth and put it back in its box. It is advisable to keep your engagement ring separate from other jewelry to prevent it from being damaged or scratched. A small jewelry box is ideal for storing your ring During times when it is not being worn.
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Cleaning a prong setting engagement ring requires extra attention to keep it free of debris and dirt that can make it look dull and unattractive. A simple solution of mild soap and water and a soft toothbrush can effectively clean your ring. After cleaning, dry it with a soft cloth and store it in its own box to protect it from damage.
Conclusion
A prong setting is the most commonly found setting in jewelry stores, and there are several reasons for their popularity. Prong settings come in different styles and orientations, offering versatility and aesthetic appeal.
One of the main advantages of prong settings is that they allow for maximum light exposure to your diamond, making it sparkle from all angles. However, prongs can be vulnerable to catching on soft fabrics, so care should be taken when wearing your ring.
It is advisable to consider purchasing a repair and maintenance warranty from a reputable retailer, or choose a retailer that provides a warranty for free, to ensure that your ring is protected in case of any damage or repair needs.
Overall, there are different types of prong settings available, and all of them are reliable and secure. When choosing a prong setting for your engagement ring, choose the one that you genuinely adore, as they all offer both security and aesthetic appeal.
