Cathedral Diamond Ring Setting

Basic Cathedral Settings

The romance of an elegant cathedral with its arched gables and luxurious curves is captured in every basic cathedral setting, where the band of the ring splits, forming an upper and lower segment with the distinctive arch between them. The lower ring band encircles the finger, while the upper portion of the band arches up to embrace the central mounting and focal diamond or gemstone, which is frequently in a classic tiffany setting. The degree of arch can vary widely, from a subtle split with only a low arch to a wider separation with more elaborate curves reaching for the diamond.

A cathedral diamond ring setting doesn’t even necessarily need the split to be reminiscent of the spacious interior of a grand cathedral. Contemporary engagement rings often have solid cathedral settings, where the ring thickens to form the arches rather than splitting the band. Either design, however, is a graceful and elegant way to frame a diamond while embodying the romance of the nuptial setting.

Ideas for an Enhanced Cathedral Setting

Many cathedral settings are more than just a vertically split band. While all cathedral settings embrace diamond solitaire engagement rings with elegant sophistication, there are many ways to make this relatively simple setting into a more grandiose design, including:

• Tapering the arches to add delicacy to the ring.
• Adding filigree or engraving details to the split or sides of the setting.
• Choosing a pave setting to add limitless sparkle to the arches.
• Embedding channel set diamonds or gemstones into the arch.
• Adding metallic texturing to the arches with milgrain edges, indentations, or flares.
• Twisting or curving the arches so they are off center and the inner band can still be seen.

With many choices for personalization and customization, cathedral setting engagement rings are a popular choice for many brides-to-be. Many cathedral settings are also available as semi mount diamond rings, giving the couple the flexibility to pair a cathedral style ring with the center stone of their choice.

Benefits of a Cathedral Diamond Ring Setting

The simplicity of a cathedral setting is one of its many benefits – it can easily be matched with most types of wedding bands or anniversary rings. Because the central diamond is higher, it can fit easily against elaborate diamond bands without rubbing that could cause scratches or other damage. Furthermore, the raised arches present the illusion of setting the diamond deeper into the ring band while not restricting the light that can enter the stone and enhance its brilliance. Cathedral settings can help balance large carat weight stones so they do not seem disproportionate to a slim band, and the arches also add a level of protection to the more delicate prongs at their narrowest point. Because the upper band can be intricately detailed, the inner ring band can be molded for comfort without disrupting the ring’s decorative accents.

Problems with Cathedral Settings

Solid settings stay cleaner.

At the same time, there are several drawbacks to a cathedral diamond ring setting. Because the band rises up, it can be more difficult to fit with a diamond ring enhancer or diamond ring wrap, making upgrades more challenging. A narrow split can also be extremely difficult to clean because dirt, dust, and oil can easily be trapped in such a small space. Never use a pin, needle, or other sharp object to clean the crevice – it could scratch and damage the ring in a very difficult to repair area.

The simple yet sophisticated cathedral setting is an elegant variation of the basic prong setting that many engagement rings favor, yet it can be enhanced with simple touches or elaborate designs, making it versatile and suitable for many women’s distinctive tastes.