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Although this style is timeless, it has gained trendy popularity in recent years, appearing on the fingers of newly engaged or married celebrities such as Kate Middleton, Gwyneth Paltrow, Sofia Vergara, and Lady Gaga. But before diving in, what exactly is a pave engagement ring?
Defining Pave
Pave (pronounced pah-vay) translates from French as “to pave” — symbolizing a path adorned with diamonds. True to its name, a pave engagement ring features small accent stones that either encircle a central stone or are inlaid into the band, creating a dazzling effect. Certain varieties of pave enhance the central diamond’s apparent size, offering significant savings without compromising on grandeur.
Micropave
In this design, tiny diamonds are set close together, secured with subtle prongs, which maximizes the diamonds’ visibility while minimizing the metal. Precision is paramount for jewelers working on this style, often using lasers to achieve a perfect finish.
French Pave
Similar to micropave, this style includes a small V-shaped cutout beneath each diamond, allowing more light to penetrate the stone and revealing less metal on the ring.
Bright Cut/Channel
The traditional bright cut or channel setting features diamonds encased between two metal walls. This style has recently surged in popularity, driven by a renewed interest in vintage and vintage-inspired engagement rings and jewelry.
U-Cut/Scallop
The U-cut or scalloped setting features U-shaped cutouts beneath the metal beads holding the accent diamonds, creating a unique design element.
Bezel
Diamonds or gemstones are encased in metal in this setting, securely holding the stone while adding an elegant design feature. Bezel-set rings appeal to both men and women and boast enduring allure.
For an exhaustive look at various pave settings, explore our detailed guide to pave ring setting styles.
Choosing the Perfect Pave Engagement Ring
This versatile setting seamlessly complements both contemporary and vintage-style engagement rings. Reflect on her individual style, your budget, and your priorities regarding the four C’s — cut, clarity, color, and carat. If your budget can’t quite stretch to the next carat size, or if prioritizing clarity means compromising on carat weight, a pave setting might be the ideal solution to maximize your investment.
Searching for extra sparkle? You’ve found the right place. Originating from the French word for paved, a pave engagement ring features numerous close-set accent diamonds, giving the appearance of a continuous diamond surface.
This classic setting style is not only beautiful but also offers exceptional value. A halo design can enhance any setting and make a center diamond appear up to half a carat larger. However, with pave engagement rings, you have a wealth of options. Here are some vital considerations before making your purchase:
Get Acquainted with the Different Pave Styles
Review the various styles and determine your preference for shine versus security. Your final choice should align with your personal taste or that of your loved one. If you’re shopping together, our free home preview program can assist in making your decision. Trying different rings can help clarify your preferences, especially between similar styles like scallop pave and French cut.
Match the Ring to Her Style and Personality
Consider what she’ll want to wear for a lifetime. Her personal style is crucial, but her lifestyle also plays a significant role: there’s a small risk that accent diamonds might become loose if the ring undergoes frequent impact.
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- First: Determine the desired level of sparkle. Does she prefer a classic, simple style, or a more distinctive, artistic band? Pave can adorn part of the band, most of it, or the entire ring. It can be arranged in multiple strands or rows for maximum brilliance.
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- Second: Consider her daily activities. Will she worry about the security of the accent diamonds due to her work or hobbies? Women in hands-on professions, like doctors or nurses, might opt for a sturdier setting.
Evaluate the Overall Size of the Center Stone in Your Pave Ring
Are you aiming for a significant carat weight? If you’re inclined towards a large central stone, pave engagement rings might either complement or overpower her style. Think about the pave or accent diamonds in relation to the central diamond. They can be a budget-friendly way to add brilliance to rings with smaller stones but may detract from larger ones.
Ready to shop? We’re here to guide you every step of the way. At Artful Bracelets, our expert gemologists are experienced in helping couples find the perfect ring. They can explain a diamond’s GIA certificate — which details the carat weight and quality ratings of the stones — to ensure you make the most of your budget.
Top Pave Engagement Rings
Pave And Milgrain Diamond Engagement Ring
This elegant setting boasts a band adorned with micro-pavé diamonds and bordered by classic milgrain edging. You can select the center diamond from five shapes: Round, princess, oval, Asscher, and marquise.
Under Bezeled Accent Diamond Engagement Ring
Featuring ten shared-prong accent diamonds in an under-bezel style, this design beautifully marries modern and traditional elements around a central stone.
Chic Accent Diamond Engagement Ring
Uniquely striking. This distinctive design features two sleek metal accents complemented by 0.17 carats of accent diamonds.
Four Points Diamond Engagement Ring
Timeless elegance. This vintage-inspired band is adorned with four diamond points and additional accent diamonds, bordered with intricate milgrain detailing.
Regalia Pave Diamond Engagement Ring
A slender band that shimmers with brilliance: This three-stone ring is enhanced by pavé diamonds on both the band and around the center stone.
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