You and your partner have agreed to tie the knot, and you received some important feedback for choosing an engagement ring: as much bling as possible! While you could start searching for the largest diamond you can find, a pavé setting is another option to consider. What does that mean? We’re so glad you asked because we’re ready to tell you more!
What is a Pavé Engagement Ring?
You’ll know when you find a pavé setting because the engagement ring band is lined with small, round cut diamonds or gemstones. Here’s a quick tip to help you remember: The term “pavé” is said to translate to “pave” in English. So, think of a pavé ring as the jewelry world’s version of a paved cobblestone road.
This type of setting has been reportedly seen for centuries in rings, earrings, brooches and more. Small prongs or tiny metal beads hold the stones close together to prevent metal from showing between the diamonds. To achieve this look, jewelers cut small holes into the metal, set the gems inside and form the prongs/beads around the stones.
*Pro Tip: If you don’t want glimpses of your ring band or prongs peeking through the diamonds, choose a silver-looking metal, such as white gold or platinum. The silver tone will be less noticeable when paired with the shimmering diamonds.
Types of Pavé Settings
Pavé: You’re familiar with this setting now. It features a ring band that’s typically lined with small, round cut diamonds/gemstones.
Micro pavé: What sets this apart from a classic pavé setting? The diamonds decorating the ring band are even tinier, usually weighing less than 0.01 carats! Sometimes, more than 100 of these stones are used, and they’re placed very close together. So, it looks like one long strip of diamonds.
Petite pavé: In this setting, smaller prongs are used to hold the diamonds in place, so you’re able to see more of the twinkling gems.
French pavé: If you look closely, you’ll notice V-shaped cutouts beneath the diamonds lining the ring band. They allow more light to hit the gems, therefore creating more sparkle.
U-cut pavé/scallop: As the name suggests, U-shaped cutouts are added underneath the diamonds for a unique look.
Should You Buy a Pavé Engagement Ring?
Pros:
Sparkle: To put it simply, these rings will sparkle more due to the additional diamonds/gemstones!
Cost: The accent diamonds along the ring band also make a center stone appear larger. As a result, you can likely save a few bucks by choosing a slightly smaller center stone.
Versatility: Pavé bands pair well with many types of stones and design elements, including solitaire settings and halos. So, these rings can take on a modern or vintage look, depending on your partner’s preference.
Cons:
Delicacy: You’ll often find pave rings with thinner bands, as they highlight the diamonds well. However, these delicate pieces aren’t ideal for partners who use their hands often.
Resizing: Since these stones are usually positioned close together, it can be difficult for a jeweler to resize the ring, especially if the gems wrap around the entire band.
Loose Stones: If your partner is a bit too active while wearing their ring, there’s a slight chance the prongs might start to bend. And you know what that means. Diamonds could become loose and eventually fall out. While this isn’t likely, you’ll want to take precautions!
Have a question? We can help!
Gage Diamonds is Chicago's premier jewelry showroom and online retailer of engagement rings, wedding bands, and fine jewelry. We offer a selection of dazzling handpicked diamonds, including certified natural and lab-grown diamonds.
We’re committed to helping you find the ring of your dreams. For inspiration, browse our website or set up an appointment with a member of our trusted staff at our in-person showroom.
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