Claw style settings are the most common style of setting gems for engagement rings. However, claws settings aren’t for everyone, for a range of reasons. Some people simply don’t like claw settings. Others have an active lifestyle or hands-on work environment (such as a nurse or doctor) that makes a ring with claws impractical.
If this is you? I’ve got you covered. Here are 4 clawless engagement ring styles to inspire your design.
1. Bezel Set Engagement Rings
A bezel setting completely surrounds a gem to hold it in place. The metal of the setting encircles the gem right around, up over its girdle (or edge) creating a secure case for it. They create a sleek, modern look to an engagement ring design.
Bezel settings are great for people who need a secure, claw free setting for practical reasons in their day to day life. A single round gemstone in a solitaire bezel set design is the ultimate in practicality. Alternatively, combine multiple gemstones for a more creative design, while also making it practical to wear.
2. Half Bezel Engagement Rings
A half bezel setting (or semi bezel setting) partially encloses a gemstone, leaving some of the girdle (or edge) open. Half bezels can be used as a direct swap for claw settings in traditional design profiles, or they can be incorporated into curved wraparound bands for more unique engagement ring designs.
3. Inset Engagement Rings
For a style where the gems and the band are flush with each other, engagement rings with inset gemstones work beautifully with all precious metal and gemstone colours. This style of clawless engagement ring is best with gemstones in smaller sizes so that the band thickness can accommodate the depth of the gemstone (for larger gems, a bezel set design is a better design option).
Inset rings are delightfully practical to wear, with no raised settings in the piece. This style of clawless engagement ring is one you’ll enjoy wearing day in and day out for many years.
4. Illusion Set Engagement Rings
While technically a claw setting, practically speaking, an illusion setting wears more like a clawless design. An illusion setting surrounds a centre diamond with a patterned ring of metal. Beautiful bright cut patterns in the setting add dimension and interest in the piece.
Illusion settings are reminiscent of vintage engagement ring styles, with an elegant old world feel about them. They’re also excellent at making small diamonds appear larger than they really are, which makes them great to use when incorporating small heirloom diamonds into a new engagement ring piece.
There you have it. Four beautiful styles of settings for diamonds and gemstones in an engagement ring, that can be worked into a custom ring design. Looking to design your own? Get all the advice for your unique engagement ring by chatting directly with our jewellery maker: book an appointment.
