The solitaire setting is the most popular choice so far when it comes to diamond engagement rings. Since the design of a solitaire ring is so simple, you might think that there aren’t many factors to think about when choosing the same. On the contrary, there are.
Note that one of the most overlooked factors that play a major role in the visual appeal as well as the security of your solitaire baubles is the prong setting. Ideally, the number of prongs on a solitaire ring will be four or six. Are you wondering about which amongst 4 and 6 prong setting is the right choice for you? Then, refer to the helpful details given below. You may also get more details about various prong settings, from Rockher website.
What are prongs?
Prongs are the metallic structures that secure the center stone of a solitaire ring in place. Prongs are available in different styles such as rounded, flat, bar, V-shaped, etc., and you can choose the right choice based on the shape of your center stone. For instance, while rounded prongs will be perfect to cradle a round diamond, bar-shaped prongs will be suitable to secure rectangular and square-shaped gemstones.
Choosing between 4 and 6 prong rings
First of all, either of these options is not better than one another since both options boast its own set of pros and cons. The main objective that you must consider while choosing the prong setting is its appeal and the security it offers.
When it comes to the four-prong setting, the metal visibility will be comparatively less drawing the attention of the viewer directly to the main gemstone. Plus, the minimal metal setting will cater to maximum light reflection, which, in turn, results in better sparkle. The prongs tend to blend in well if you choose white gold or platinum metal to hold a colorless diamond.
Furthermore, a four-prong setting is likely to make your diamond look rectangular or square. As a result, this is an ideal choice to hold square-shaped diamond such as princess-cut stones, cushion cut diamonds, emerald cut diamonds, etc. The issue with the four-prong setting is its lack of security. Note that a lesser number of prongs reflects a lower level of security.
So, this will not be an ideal choice to hold diamonds of decent carat weight. For instance, if you consider the four-prong setting to mount a diamond of 5ct, it is likely to fall out of the setting if struck hard by an external force. Additionally, this setting is unlikely to safeguard the girdle of the main gemstone.
While the six-prong setting is a sought-after choice to consider when you build a diamond ring of decent carat weight, it tends to overshadow smaller gemstones. Plus, the dirt and grime accumulation will be more, in this case, making it hard for the wearer to clean their rings. Besides, this setting tends to make the gemstones look rounder, unlike the four-prong setting, making it a suitable choice to hold round brilliant cut stones.
