What is a Bezel Setting?
The bezel setting is the oldest diamond and gemstone setting. The bezel setting features a metal rim which hugs the sides of the diamond or gemstone, extending slightly above the stone’s face. The rim can wrap all the way around the diamond, stretching around its entire circumference, or it can wrap around only a portion of the stone, known as a partial bezel or half-bezel setting. Despite its encompassing design, bezel settings do not affect the brilliance of the enclosed diamond. This is because the majority of light that enters a diamond enters the stone’s table (top) rather than its sides. In fact, full-bezel and half-bezel settings are considered to be extremely protective. Both hold the stone securely in place and safeguard it from chipping and scratching.
Bezel Set Diamond Engagement Rings
The bezel set ring is a popular, elegantly modern engagement ring setting. Because of its clean simplicity, some see the bezel setting as relatively plain. However, bezel set diamond engagement rings have just quite a wide range of styles. The metal surrounding the diamond in a bezel setting can be easily ornamented, thickened, thinned, or twisted. These delicate modifications can add an air of sophistication to any diamond engagement ring. The most common diamond shape for bezel-set diamond engagement rings is round; however, princess and emerald cuts are popular alternatives. Accent stones are also commonly used to enhance the bezel setting.
Because of the protection that a bezel setting offers and because of the more subtle, elegant look they create, they are also a popular choice for
men’s engagement rings.
Partial Bezels
Partial bezels, which are gaining popularity as trendy design options, do not completely surround the diamond but rather only a portion of the stone. The amount of the stone that is covered depends on the design of the ring and the diamond’s size or diameter. When purchasing a diamond engagement ring set in a partial bezel compared to a full bezel it is important to be certain that the setting is secure and well-crafted.
The Advantages of a Bezel Setting
The bezel setting provides more
protection for a diamond than other settings and is typically recommended for people with an active lifestyle. The rim, or collar, that stretches around the stone snugly holds it in place and therefore the stone is less likely to become dislodged. Bezel settings also protect the diamond from dirt and dust that can build up around it, as well as from accidental rubbing or blows that may cause chipping or scratching. The rim of the bezel setting can also advantageously hide any preexisting chips or scratches on a damaged stone.
Although bezel set rings are protective and secure, they should still be handled with care.
