What Are Bezel Setting Diamond Rings?

Diamond rings are timeless pieces of jewelry, but the way a diamond is set can completely change its look and feel. One of the most popular and practical settings is the bezel setting. You are in the right place if you are curious about what makes bezel setting diamond rings unique. This blog post will explain everything you need to know about bezel settings, from how they work to who they are best suited for. So, let's dive in!

What is a Bezel Setting?

A bezel setting is a metal rim that encircles a diamond or gemstone. Imagine it as a protective color or a metal cup cradling the stone. Crafted with precision, the metal securely holds the diamond in place. The result is a smooth, often sleek, setting that lends a modern and sometimes minimalist vibe.

Types of Bezel Settings

There are two primary types of bezel settings:

Full Bezel Setting

In a full bezel setting, the metal completely wraps around the diamond. This offers the ultimate protection for the stone, like a full suit of armor. It creates a clean, unbroken line around the diamond. While it might make the diamond appear slightly smaller, it provides unmatched security.

Partial Bezel (Half Bezel) Setting

As the name suggests, a partial or half-bezel setting only partially embraces the diamond. Typically, the metal covers about half of the diamond's widest part of the diamond's girdle. This allows more light to reach the diamond, potentially boosting its brilliance. However, it offers slightly less protection than a full bezel setting.

Pros and Cons of Bezel Setting Diamond Rings

Like any setting, bezel settings come with their own set of advantages and disadvantages.

Pros

• Top-Notch Protection: Bezels are protection champions, shielding the diamond from chips and scratches. This makes them an excellent choice for those who lead active lives and aren't afraid to use their hands.

• Smooth Operator: The smooth, continuous metal rim of a bezel setting is snag-free. No more catching on clothing or other objects! This adds to its practicality and comfort.

• Modern Vibe: Bezel settings give a ring a contemporary and often minimalist feel. It's a style that says "less is more."

• Rock-Solid Security: Diamonds nestled in bezels are held incredibly securely. The chances of a stone coming loose are much lower than in other settings.

Cons

• Size Perception: The metal rim can sometimes make the diamond appear smaller than its actual size.

• Brilliance Factor: The metal might obstruct some light, potentially affecting the diamond's brilliance (sparkle). This is less of a concern with partial bezels.

• Cleaning Challenge: Dirt can sometimes sneak under the bezel, making cleaning more involved.

• Design Limitations: While bezels can be incorporated into various ring designs, they might not be as versatile as some other settings regarding intricate detailing.

Best Diamond Shapes for Bezel Settings

While bezel settings work with almost any diamond shape, some shapes shine brighter in this setting. Here are the top picks:

Round Diamonds

Round brilliant diamonds are a natural fit for bezel settings. The diamond's circular shape mirrors the bezel's continuous line, creating a harmonious and balanced look. The bezel effectively frames the round brilliantly, highlighting its sparkle and fire.

Oval Diamonds

With their elongated shape, oval cut diamonds can be beautifully showcased in bezel settings. The bezel accentuates the oval's graceful curves, making the diamond appear even larger. A partial or half-bezel setting is often used with ovals to allow more light to enter the stone and enhance its brilliance. The smooth bezel also complements the soft, rounded shape of the oval cut.

Emerald Diamonds

With their step cuts and rectangular shape, Emerald cut diamonds create a timeless, elegant look in a bezel setting. The bezel enhances their clean lines and understated style. Since emerald cuts have less brilliance, choosing the right metal and bezel style is key to maximizing light. A partial bezel setting can also work well for this cut.

Princess Diamonds

Princess cuts, with their square or slightly rectangular shape and sharp corners, offer a striking contrast to the smooth curves of a bezel setting. This juxtaposition creates a modern and geometric aesthetic. The bezel setting helps to protect the princess cut's vulnerable corners, which are prone to chipping. To maximize this protection, a full bezel setting is often preferred for princess cuts.

Pear Shaped Diamonds

With their teardrop shape, pear-shaped diamonds offer a distinctive and eye-catching look when bezel-set. The bezel setting accentuates the pear's unique form and can help protect its pointed tip, which is susceptible to chipping. A partial bezel setting is often used with pear shapes to maximize light return and brilliance.

Popular Bezel Setting Ring Styles

Bezel setting diamond rings come in various styles to suit different tastes. Here are some of the most popular options:

Solitaire Bezel Rings

The solitaire bezel ring is this setting style's most classic and understated expression. A single bezel set diamond takes center stage on a simple band. This design emphasizes the diamond's beauty and the bezel's clean lines. The band can vary in thickness and metal type, from a delicate, thin band to a more substantial, wider band.

Bezel Set Halo Rings

Eternity bands, symbolizing everlasting love, can also incorporate bezel settings. In this style, diamonds are set around the band, often in bezel settings. This creates a continuous circle of sparkle and adds a touch of modern elegance to the traditional eternity band.

Three Stone Bezel Rings

Three stone bezel rings feature a larger center diamond flanked by two smaller diamonds, all set in bezels. This design often symbolizes the past, present, and future, making it a meaningful engagement or anniversary ring choice. For example, a round brilliant center stone could be paired with two smaller pear-shaped side stones, all bezel-set.

Channel Setting with Bezel Accents

Channel settings involve small diamonds in a row within a metal channel. This creates a smooth, continuous line of sparkle. Channel settings can be combined with bezel settings by using bezel set diamonds as accents or by setting the center stone in a bezel and using channel settings for the side stones on the band.

Who Should Choose a Bezel Setting?

Bezel setting diamond rings are a great choice for many people, but they're especially ideal for:

• Active Individuals: A bezel setting will protect your diamond from damage if you're always on the go or working with your hands.

• Minimalists: The clean, simple look of a bezel setting appeals to those who prefer understated elegance.

• People with Sensitive Skin: The smooth metal edge reduces the risk of irritation, making it comfortable for daily wear.

• Those Seeking Durability: A bezel setting is a practical option if you want a ring that will stand the test of time.

Bezel Setting Vs. Other Diamond Settings

Let's compare bezel settings to some other common diamond settings:

Bezel Vs. Prong

• Bezel: Offers more protection and durability. The diamond is less likely to get snagged or damaged.

• Prong: Allows more light to enter the diamond, enhancing its sparkle. However, prongs can loosen over time and require maintenance.

Bezel Vs. Tension Setting

• Bezel: Completely encases the diamond, providing maximum security.

• Tension Setting: Holds the diamond in place using pressure from the metal band, creating a floating effect. While visually striking, tension settings are less secure than bezel settings.

Bezel Vs. Halo

• Bezel: Focuses on the center stone with a sleek, modern look.

• Halo: Surrounds the center stone with smaller diamonds, adding extra sparkle and making the stone appear larger.

Conclusion

Bezel setting diamond rings are a stylish and practical choice. They offer exceptional protection, a modern aesthetic, and a secure setting. While they might not exhibit the same brilliance as some other settings, their advantages make them a popular option, especially for those with active lifestyles or those seeking a contemporary design.

If you're considering a bezel-set diamond ring, visiting a reputable jeweler like us is highly recommended to explore different styles and discuss your individual preferences. They can guide you through selecting the perfect diamond and setting combination to create a ring you'll cherish forever. They can also show you how different metal choices affect the overall look of the ring.