Tension Engagement Rings

Tension engagement rings, tension mount engagement rings and tension set engagement rings are one and the same and a very dramatic way of setting a diamond.

Ring courtesy of JamesAllen

Although you might think that the diamond would be less secure in this type of setting, that isn't the case. A tension set ring is often more secure than a traditional setting and in addition, helps protect the stone from chipping.
 

Tension settings squeeze the stone into place at the girdle (the edge between the top and bottom of the stone). The girdle is then set within a groove in the band keeping it securely in place. Although somewhat of a heated debate between professional jewelers many believe that because more metal (and stronger metal) is holding the stone in place that this setting is more secure than traditional prongs.

One of the main benefits of tension rings and one of the reasons why they're becoming more and more popular today, is that the setting allows more light to pass through and reflect off the diamond. This leads to more brilliance and fire.

There are however a few things you need to keep in mind when buying a tension set engagement ring.
 

	They are built to fit the finger securely so resizing is a little more difficult with these types of rings than more traditional settings.
	Hard stones are required for this type of setting so nothing softer than a ' 9 ' on the Mohs scale should be used. Diamonds are fine since they are the hardest of all stones with a rating of 10. Sapphires and Rubies which are rated a 9 are also acceptable.
	Any engraving of the inner band needs to be done only after the ring is perfectly sized.

Tension engagement rings aren't for the meek or shy. They are dramatic, bold and modern just like the women who wear them.

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