Stone Settings: Your Guide to Stone Setting Types for Custom Rings

“Any stone that sparkles and captures your eye is the perfect stone for you.”

How many of us have heard that advice? When it comes down to choosing thestone, the stone setting type you place that stone in should be one of the most important decisions your jeweler walks you through before beginning the work on your ring. And, unfortunately, many jewelers skip explaining this to customers.

It affects not only the beauty of your custom-made ring’s center stone but also its security, your comfort, and its longevity for daily wear.

Are you here with us today because you’re researching the best types of stone settings, exploring our unique gemstone settings, or simply deciding between classic and modern gem settings? This is your guide!

We are here to help you make a clear, informed choice. At Krikawa, every single setting, like every single ring, is custom-made from scratch. Tailored to you, your lifestyle, your stone, and your unique personal style—so your ring is as wonderfully one-of-a-kind as you and your partner are.

What Is a Stone Setting?

A stone setting is the way a diamond or gemstone is held within a piece of jewelry. In rings, settings serve two essential purposes: keeping the stone secure and showcasing its cut, quality, and beauty. The choice of your setting influences how much light reaches the stone, how well it’s protected from everyday damage, and how the ring feels when you wear it on your hand.

At Krikawa, we create stone settings for rings in a wide variety of styles, from sleek to modern to ornate and vintage-inspired, which ensures each design not only meets your exact vision but also your day-to-day practical needs.

The Stone Setting Types

Below are some of the most popular and common stone setting types we custom craft for engagement rings, wedding rings, and statement jewelry.

Four Prong

The four-prong setting uses four evenly spaced claws to hold a diamond or gemstone in place. This design allows maximum lightto pass through the stone, enhancing sparkle and brilliance. Four prongs create a clean, minimal look and make the gem the center of attention. While undeniably elegant, it offers slightly less securitythan settings with more prongs, so regular inspection is important for active wearers.

Six Prong

A six-prong setting adds two additional claws for greater stability and protection. This style is famously chosen for some of the most iconic engagement rings in history. The extra prongs strike the balance between extra security and beauty, as they slightly reduce light exposure but add much-needed peace of mind—ideal for sentimental pieces and those who wear them daily.

Multiple Prong

Multiple prong settings use numerous slender claws to cradle your stone. They create decorative, intricate looks that can be modern or vintage, depending on the design. This setting type delivers exceptional sparklebut requires careful maintenanceto ensure all prongs remain undamaged and secure over time.

Full Bezel

A full bezel surrounds the gemstone entirely with a smooth band of metal. This is one of the most secure gemstone settings available,offering excellent protection for everyday wear and for softer stones prone to scratching and chipping. While bezels canreduce light entering the stone, they provide a very sleek, modern profile and are especially perfect for those couples always on the go with a very active, hands-on lifestyle.

: Semi-Bezel

Also known as a partial bezel, this style involves wrapping metal around part of the gemstone, leaving other areas exposed. A semi-bezel offers more light return than a full bezelwhile still providing extra protection compared to prong settings.It's also an asymmetrical look that adds an undeniable, unique touch.

Flush Setting

In a flush setting, the diamond or gemstone sits level with the surface of the ring. The surrounding metal is carved precisely to hold the stone in place,creating a smooth, snag-free finish. Flush settings are exceptionally durableand perfect for people with active hands. They offer subtle sparkles and a minimalist, refined feel.

Pavée

Pavé settings use many small gemstones set closely togetherwith tiny beads of metal securing them. This result is a glittering “paved” surface that maximizes sparkle. While dazzling, pavé rings require regular cleaningto keep their brilliance and should be inspected periodically for loose stones.

Pavée with Millegrain

Adding millegrain to pavé setting introduces a row of tiny, decorative metal beads along the edges. This technique adds texture and vintage charm, making it a favorite for antique-inspired designs. Like standard pavé, it needs attentive careto maintain its intricate details.

Channel Setting

In a channel setting, gemstones are set side-by-side in a grooveor a channel within the band. The stones are protected by channel walls, creating a smooth, snag-free surface. This style is ideal for wedding bands and side accents on engagement rings, and it pairs seamlessly with custom Mokumé Gané designs.

Bead in Channel

A bead-in-channel setting combines the security of a channel with small, raised beadsthat add visual interest and detail. This hybrid approach increases sparkle while keeping your stones protected. A perfect choice for adding dimension to a custom band. Is it true that a bezel setting makes a diamond look less sparkly?

A:Not necessarily—while bezels do block somelight, a skilled jeweler can design them to maximize the brilliance of top-view.

Q: I want the safest setting for everyday wear. Which one is that?

A: Most likely, full bezels or flush settings will provide you with the most protection against knocks and snags.

Q: If I change my mind, can I change my setting later?

A:Yes. At Krikawa, our custom process allows you to make changes before we go into production to ensure that you will be satisfied with your finished ring. If you have a ring that no longer fits your style, we are happy to help you choose a setting style that fits who you are today..

Q: I have many small heirloom stones. Can I use them in any setting?

A: Unfortunately, sometimes heirloom stones can be too small, worn, possibly damaged, or have unusual properties that limit the setting styles our jewelers can work with. In some cases, additional craftsmanship, design adjustments, and time may be required to ensure a secure, beautiful result. It’s always best to consult your Krikawa ring designer early in the process so they can evaluate the stone, or stones, and recommend the safest, most practical setting for them.

Why Krikawa’s Custom Stone Settings AlwaysStand Out

Every single ring we make is designed from your idea, your vision, and from scratch. Nothing you see here on our website came from a mold, a shelf, or was mass-produced. Each ring showcased is but a fractionof what we can do and create for you.

We offer virtual consultations, can ship examples if needed, and provide realistic advice and previews before even beginning to craft your final piece of art. With expertise in Mokume Gane and an immense stone selection, we create stone settings for rings that perfectly match not only your vision but your day-to-day life.

You can even bring your own stone to be inspected for possible incorporation into your custom design.

Your Ring, Your Story: Let us Help Bring the Perfect Setting to Life

From classic prongs to modern bezels, from sparkling pavé to secure channels, gem settings shape the beauty, durability, and personality of your ring.

When you understand all the little details, like the types of stone settings available to you, you can empower yourself or your partner to choose a design and a gem or diamond that reflects both what you dream of and can withstand the rigors of your lifestyle while showcasing your unique story. At Krikawa, we’ll help you turn that choice into a handcrafted, bespoke reality—secure, breathtaking, and distinctlyyours.

Start your complimentary ring design consultation today and take the first step toward a ring that will become an heirloom tale for generations to come.