There’s a lot to think about when it comes to choosing an engagement ring setting. From your loved one’s personal style and taste to the amount of activity they do while wearing their ring. There are also a variety of engagement ring settings to choose from. So, let’s uncover what the different types of engagement ring settings are to help you make the best decision.
What is an Engagement Ring Setting?
First of all, if you’re wondering what an engagement ring setting actually is, we’re here to clear it up for you. An engagement ring setting is a crucial element of an engagement ring as it refers to how the gemstones are set or mounted into the band. This can not only. completely change the look and style of your ring, but it also helps keep your diamond or other gemstones securely in place. The right setting will be able to highlight the beauty of the stone in the best way possible.
Below, we’ve featured some of the most popular engagement ring settings to choose from:
1. Pronged Setting Engagement Ring
A
pronged setting engagement ring is one of the most common styles that hold a single diamond in place with a thin piece of metal clasped around each corner. It is one of the most delicate and elegant setting styles and is ideal for those looking for a classic solitaire engagement ring.
2. Bezel Setting Engagement Ring
A
bezel setting ring is where the metal circles and encases the entire diamond in order to keep it in place. This type of setting is considered one of the most secure setting types and is a great choice for those who are particularly accident-prone.
3. Pavé Setting Engagement Ring
Pavé ring settings are more commonly seen on eternity rings but make beautiful engagement rings too. This setting features a row of diamonds set tightly next to one another. This setting is a good choice for those who like glitz and glamour and like to go against tradition.
4. Bar Setting Engagement Ring
Similar to the pavé style, a
bar setting however features raised metal between each diamond – making the engagement rings that use this setting more affordable as smaller stones can be used to create the same effect.
5. Tension Setting Engagement Ring
The metal in a
tension setting engagement ring is used to keep the stone in place, with the pressure gripping it. It’s an uncommon setting type, so one best reserved for those who like more unusual jewellery styles.
6. Illusion Setting Engagement Ring
This setting cleverly takes smaller diamonds – usually, princess-cut diamonds – and sets them next to each other to make it look like there is actually just one large diamond there. It’s great for those on a lower budget who want a ring with wow factor.
Ring Settings Based on your Partner’s Lifestyle
The type of ring you choose should also depend on your partner’s lifestyle. For example, someone with an active lifestyle who may work a lot with their hands will need a ring setting to suit their lifestyle and can withstand a lot of wear and tear, like a bezel setting. On the other hand, someone who might have a less than active lifestyle, such as an office worker, will be able to have a more elaborate ring setting style without fear of damaging it.
Here are the engagement ring styles we’d recommend according to your partner’s lifestyle:
Ring Settings for Sedentary Lifestyles
If your loved one doesn’t necessarily lead an active lifestyle or work with their hands, then you have a great deal of flexibility when it comes to choosing the perfect ring for them. You may wish to consider their hobbies. Do they enjoy cooking or gardening? Are they accident prone? Assuming that they are none of the above, you may wish to choose an elaborate vintage-inspired design, a larger centre diamond that is set high for maximum sparkle or a delicate side stone ring.
Some of our favourites:

Ring Settings for Fairly Active Lifestyles
If your loved one is fairly active, maybe they go to the gym or have hobbies that require them to work with their hands, then you may wish to opt for a classic style that is low maintenance. Simpler styles are easier to keep clean (more detailing can trap dirt!) and are usually less prone to damage. Opt for a solitaire, low set halo or a contemporary trilogy ring, for a style that is equally impressive as it is easy to maintain.
Some of our favourites:

Ring Settings for Very Active Lifestyles
If your significant other leads a very active lifestyle, perhaps they are an avid traveller, exercise daily or they are just extremely accident-prone, then you may be concerned about their engagement ring getting lost or damaged. Whilst we would always advise you to get your jewellery insured in case it gets lost or stolen, we think that selecting a ring design to suit their on-the-go lifestyle is the first step to ensure it withstands everyday wear and tear.
Some of our favourites:

Ring Settings for Those with Allergies
Did you know that platinum is a hypoallergenic metal? Choosing platinum for your loved one’s engagement ring not only provides a durable and timeless finish, but it is also a great choice for those with sensitive skin.

Finding the perfect engagement ring can be a bit daunting at first. You will, of course, want to impress your loved one with their dream ring. Don’t worry if the ring they are wishing for doesn’t match their lifestyle - it just means they will need to remember to take it off and store it safely before participating in activities.
We always recommend learning how to look after your diamond jewellery properly to ensure it keeps its sparkle and stands the test of time. Take a look at our
diamond jewellery and engagement ring care guide to find out more.
We understand that choosing the perfect engagement ring can feel overwhelming. Learn everything you need to know, such as how to choose the best diamond for your budget, in our complete
engagement ring guide.
What is an Engagement Ring Setting?
First of all, if you’re wondering what an engagement ring setting actually is, we’re here to clear it up for you. An engagement ring setting is a crucial element of an engagement ring as it refers to how the gemstones are set or mounted into the band. This can not only. completely change the look and style of your ring, but it also helps keep your diamond or other gemstones securely in place. The right setting will be able to highlight the beauty of the stone in the best way possible.1. Pronged Setting Engagement Ring
A pronged setting engagement ring is one of the most common styles that hold a single diamond in place with a thin piece of metal clasped around each corner. It is one of the most delicate and elegant setting styles and is ideal for those looking for a classic solitaire engagement ring.2. Bezel Setting Engagement Ring
A bezel setting ring is where the metal circles and encases the entire diamond in order to keep it in place. This type of setting is considered one of the most secure setting types and is a great choice for those who are particularly accident-prone.3. Pavé Setting Engagement Ring
Pavé ring settings are more commonly seen on eternity rings but make beautiful engagement rings too. This setting features a row of diamonds set tightly next to one another. This setting is a good choice for those who like glitz and glamour and like to go against tradition.4. Bar Setting Engagement Ring
Similar to the pavé style, a bar setting however features raised metal between each diamond – making the engagement rings that use this setting more affordable as smaller stones can be used to create the same effect.5. Tension Setting Engagement Ring
The metal in a tension setting engagement ring is used to keep the stone in place, with the pressure gripping it. It’s an uncommon setting type, so one best reserved for those who like more unusual jewellery styles.6. Illusion Setting Engagement Ring
This setting cleverly takes smaller diamonds – usually, princess-cut diamonds – and sets them next to each other to make it look like there is actually just one large diamond there. It’s great for those on a lower budget who want a ring with wow factor.Ring Settings Based on your Partner’s Lifestyle
The type of ring you choose should also depend on your partner’s lifestyle. For example, someone with an active lifestyle who may work a lot with their hands will need a ring setting to suit their lifestyle and can withstand a lot of wear and tear, like a bezel setting. On the other hand, someone who might have a less than active lifestyle, such as an office worker, will be able to have a more elaborate ring setting style without fear of damaging it.Ring Settings for Sedentary Lifestyles
If your loved one doesn’t necessarily lead an active lifestyle or work with their hands, then you have a great deal of flexibility when it comes to choosing the perfect ring for them. You may wish to consider their hobbies. Do they enjoy cooking or gardening? Are they accident prone? Assuming that they are none of the above, you may wish to choose an elaborate vintage-inspired design, a larger centre diamond that is set high for maximum sparkle or a delicate side stone ring.Ring Settings for Fairly Active Lifestyles
If your loved one is fairly active, maybe they go to the gym or have hobbies that require them to work with their hands, then you may wish to opt for a classic style that is low maintenance. Simpler styles are easier to keep clean (more detailing can trap dirt!) and are usually less prone to damage. Opt for a solitaire, low set halo or a contemporary trilogy ring, for a style that is equally impressive as it is easy to maintain.Ring Settings for Very Active Lifestyles
If your significant other leads a very active lifestyle, perhaps they are an avid traveller, exercise daily or they are just extremely accident-prone, then you may be concerned about their engagement ring getting lost or damaged. Whilst we would always advise you to get your jewellery insured in case it gets lost or stolen, we think that selecting a ring design to suit their on-the-go lifestyle is the first step to ensure it withstands everyday wear and tear.Ring Settings for Those with Allergies
Did you know that platinum is a hypoallergenic metal? Choosing platinum for your loved one’s engagement ring not only provides a durable and timeless finish, but it is also a great choice for those with sensitive skin.
Finding the perfect engagement ring can be a bit daunting at first. You will, of course, want to impress your loved one with their dream ring. Don’t worry if the ring they are wishing for doesn’t match their lifestyle - it just means they will need to remember to take it off and store it safely before participating in activities.