Bezel Set Engagement Ring

About Bezel Settings

A bezel setting is a type of diamond setting that wraps the diamond completely in a ring of metal around its girth instead of using thin prongs to hold the ring. This provides a protective cushion of metal completely around the widest part of the gem, and also creates a “frame” to highlight the stone. Bezel settings are particularly popular in older, retro ring designs as well as more subtle styles.

Pros

There are many benefits to bezel set engagement rings. Because the diamond is thoroughly protected, these rings are generally better able to withstand rougher activities, though they should still be removed to avoid accidental damage. The metal surrounding the stone can help conceal diamond flaws and inclusions, thereby enhancing the ring’s beauty.

Cons

At the same time, a bezel setting can distort a diamond’s true color by adding a tint to the gem because it completely surrounds it and less light is able to penetrate the stone. This effect can be lessened, however, by choosing a platinum or silver bezel that may even help brighten a ring.

While bezel settings may initially help protect a gem, if they are allowed to get dirty they can trap dust and dirt closer to the stone than open settings. This makes them challenging to clean, and more frequent professional cleanings may be necessary to keep a bezel set ring looking its best.

Who Enjoys Bezel Settings

Bezel settings are popular for many brides-to-be, including women interested in a classic, vintage style without the predictable prongs. Women who need rings that have a lower profile – doctors or nurses, for example – can wear a bezel setting without undue risk, and women who frequently wear gloves or who participate in hands-on activities may prefer the subtlety of a bezel setting. Bezels are also excellent contemporary styles and can be brilliantly enhanced to make a powerful statement about a woman’s jewelry tastes and fashion preferences.

Bezel Set Engagement Ring Styles

There are many different types of styles for bezel settings. Popular variations include:

Elaborate Marquise Bezel

• Bezel solitaires set flush with the ring’s band or raised slightly above it.
• Three stone engagement rings with proportionally matching bezel settings.
• Pave settings that enhance the bezel and the ring band with small accent diamonds.
• Wrapped settings where the central diamond is bezel set and then surrounded by a circle of accent stones to enhance its size and brilliance.
• Textured settings where the bezel itself seems to flow from the ring’s band instead of being set as a separate piece.
• Eternity rings with a line of matched bezel settings circling the finger.
• Right hand rings in a “bubble” or “journey” style with coordinated bezels forming a more detailed pattern.

Most jewelers offer a variety of bezel settings for couples to choose from, and online merchants also offer a range of different styles to meet different couples’ expectations. As with any engagement ring, prices vary based on the diamond quality, type of metal, and craftsmanship of the ring.

Caring for a Bezel Set Ring

Despite the fact that bezel settings are naturally more protective, they still require regular care to look their finest. Gentle cleaning should be done regularly to keep dirt, dust, and oil from building up along the rim of the bezel where the metal meets the stone, and no sharp objects should ever be used to remove debris – this could scratch and warp the metal. The ring’s setting should be inspected periodically to ensure it is still snug against the stone and well balanced to provide optimal protection. If the setting is damaged, it needs to be professionally repaired and not subjected to taps or blows in an attempt to flatten the ring – misplaced blows can fracture the diamond and further warp the metal, requiring expensive repairs.

A bezel set engagement ring can be a sleek, simple design or an intricate piece of jewelry artwork. The unique nature of this setting ensures that no matter what style adorns a bride’s finger, it will be a creative focal point and a treasured possession for years to come.