What is a Pavé Setting?
Pavé (pronounced pah-vay), from the French word for “paving,” is a setting where numerous small diamonds or gemstones highlight the main stone, creating a sparkling effect. Typically, the diamonds are set so closely that the metal beneath them isn’t visible; to facilitate this, many buyers opt for white gold bands to minimize the visibility of the metal prongs. The pavé ring setting is also known as a “bead” setting, and if the stones are particularly tiny (smaller than about .01 carats), it is called a micro-pavé setting.
Thanks to the added shimmer, a pavé ring setting can make a diamond appear larger than it is, allowing you to save money by selecting a smaller center stone. A pavé setting is distinct from a ring with side stones due to the number and density of stones: A pavé setting resembles a street paved with diamonds, whereas a side stone ring might use larger diamonds or gemstones to accentuate the main stone.
Different Styles of Pavé Settings
Micropave
This style features closely set accent diamonds secured with small prongs, drawing attention to the diamonds while minimizing the metal. Jewellers work with high precision to create this setting; lasers are often utilized to achieve a flawless result.
Micropave Set
In this design, accent diamonds are closely set with small beads of metal securing them. This enhances the diamonds’ sparkle, reducing the visibility of the metal. Jewellers meticulously set stones using this technique, often employing lasers for precision.
French Pave
This style, similar to micro pavé, features a small, V-shaped cutout beneath each diamond, allowing more light to reach the stone and minimizing the visible metal on the ring.
U-Cut Pave / Scallop
The U-cut or scalloped setting features metal beads with U-shaped cutouts beneath that hold the accent diamonds, adding an intricate design element.
Bright Cut / Channel
The traditional bright cut (or channel setting) is named for the appearance of diamonds held by two walls of metal. This classic setting has gained popularity recently due to the resurgence of interest in vintage and vintage-style engagement rings and jewelry.
Shared Prong
Two accent stones are held together by the same prong in this style, minimizing the metal, ensuring a tighter and more uniform look, and allowing light to enhance the diamonds’ sparkle.
Surface Prong
The most common setting, surface prongs tightly hold each diamond in place. The prongs can be rounded, flat, pointed, or V-shaped.
Bar
The bar setting secures diamond accents with bars of metal on either side. This secure style is typically used for baguette-style diamonds in three-stone rings or eternity bands.
Bezel
This setting encloses diamonds or gemstones in metal, securing the stone and adding a delightful design element. Bezel-set rings are popular among both men and women and have timeless appeal.
Pros of Getting a Pavé Ring Setting
The primary advantage of a pavé ring setting is that you get more sparkle for your money. Pavé set rings have a continuous shine, giving the impression that the diamonds are more abundant and larger than they actually are. This setting also highlights and enhances the center stone through the sparkle of the side stones. A pavé setting in a halo design, where small diamonds encircle a larger stone, can make the center stone appear bigger and add extra shine, especially if the center stone is set low. The pave setting is also highly versatile, complementing both modern and vintage-style engagement rings beautifully.
Things to Consider About the Pavé Setting
While pavé settings have many advantages, there are some considerations. It is best suited for diamonds only, as it doesn’t provide adequate protection for more delicate gemstones. Additionally, the close pave setting can make resizing the ring difficult. There is also a slight chance of losing side stones. When caring for the ring, it’s crucial to remember that soaking a pavé set engagement ring may increase the risk of diamonds becoming loose — handle the ring with extra care when cleaning and maintaining it.
How to Clean a Pave Diamond Ring
Like all precious jewelry, use a cleaning solution specifically designed for the metal and gemstone you are wearing. If you don’t have a specialized cleaning solution, use a soft-bristled toothbrush and warm soapy water. Avoid using chemicals or harsh abrasives. Use the brush to clean around prongs and crevices on the ring. Jewellers can steam clean and ultrasonic clean the jewelry to maintain its finish. Following these steps will ensure that your pavé ring or pavé wedding band remains safe for daily wear and continues to sparkle. Always remember to remove the ring while cooking, cleaning, or exercising to prevent it from getting dirty, greasy, or filmy.
