Prong Set Engagement Rings: The Prong Setting

Prong set engagement rings are probably the most common type of setting. A prong setting, which is also referred to as a claw setting consists of a series of prongs or claws that hold a gemstone in place. When we think of the classic engagement ring almost all of us will think of a prong setting.

Ring courtesy of JamesAllen

The number of prongs used in the setting can vary.  The most common number of prongs is 4 to 6 although there are many designers who like to use 8 and even 10 prongs. The theory behind prong set engagement rings is that the  setting gives maximum exposure to the diamond because there are only prongs securing the gemstone.

Because so little metal surrounds the diamond light can easily pass through it which is thought to give more brilliance to the stone.

The prongs themselves are often platinum because of its strength and unique properties. It's important that the claws hold the stone securely and there is no stronger metal, so even with yellow gold engagement rings you will often see platinum prongs.

In terms of the number of prongs the general rule is the less prongs the more the diamond is exposed (and some say more desirable), so a 4 prong setting will show off your diamond more than a 6 prong and so on.

However, you also need to consider that the less prongs holding the diamond, the potentially less secure the setting. We personally like 6 prongs because feeling confident that our engagement ring and diamond can withstand our day to day routine is important to us. We don't want to have to think twice about our ring when we're cleaning out the garage or working out.

There are pros and cons to prong set engagement rings. Since the setting is simple and the diamond appears to be floating above your finger many think it is the best way to show off a rock and expose not only the top of the diamond but also the sides.

If you want to see the side of your diamond that's great but don't be fooled into thinking that by exposing the sides of your diamond that your engagement ring will necessarily have more bling.  Because a quality cut diamond (which is what we always recommend over size) will have the light come in and reflect out of the top while the light that goes in the back will leave out of the back—so exposing the sides will make little difference in terms of brilliance.

Finally, the diamonds in prong set engagement rings should have a medium to thick girdle (the edge or border between a diamond's upper and lower sections). Because so much of the girdle is exposed, especially in 4 prong settings, the girdle needs to be thicker in order to reduce the risk of chipping.

Also, make sure that you get engagement ring insurance since the prong setting does come with some risk for chipping and loss if a prong is twisted or broken (again this is most important for 4 prong or claw settings).

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