Pave Setting

What is a Pave Setting?

Pave settings always hold a number of diamonds or gemstones.  These stones are seated in individual cavities imprinted into a metal base and secured by little metal beads or small prongs.  Gems are set every closely together in pave settings; so close, in fact, that they appear to coat the jewelry entirely.  The setting gets its name from the French word for ‘paving’ since the face of a pave set jewelry piece looks like it is paved with diamonds. 

Pave Set Diamond Engagement Rings

Most pave set diamond engagement rings feature pave set side stones that encrust the metal band with many small stones. In a full pave setting the entire band is paved with stones whereas in a half pave setting only the upper part or central part of the band is set with stones.  Because pave is considered to have a “vintage look”, it is common to see pave set diamond engagement rings feature a round or princess cut centerpiece diamond mounted in a high Tiffany setting. Sometimes, the center stone is  fancy colored.  In most cases, pave set engagement rings feature a band crafted from white gold or platinum: metals that are thought to enhance the brilliance of small, closely set diamonds.   

Micro pave diamond engagement rings use the smallest possible diamonds to create more intricate designs that are not possible with larger gems.  With micro pave rings the stones can not only wrap around a curved metal band but may also encircle a central diamond. Thirty or more tiny diamonds can be encrusted on a ring’s band with a micro pave diamond engagement ring.  However, it is important to keep in mind that the total carat weight of these micro pave side stones will most likely add  add up to about  three-quarters of a carat. Some people prefer the small surface that micro pave ring setting create with the smaller micro stones fitting so tightly together.

What are the Advantages of a Pave Setting?

The pave setting creates a very distinctive look.  The effect of setting small diamonds closely together can make a ring shine with brilliance.  A pave set diamond ring simply shows off less metal and more diamond.  Pave set jewelry with less intricate design can generally be bought at very reasonable prices since small diamonds are significantly more common, and therefore less expensive, than larger diamonds.

Caring  Pave Set Jewelry

Since the diamonds in a pave setting are quite exposed, pave set diamond jewelry requires special care.  Due to the large number of small diamonds, there are naturally more crevices which are vulnerable to dirt build up.  Additionally, the metal beads or small prongs holding pave set diamonds in their seat are so small and delicate that they are prone to breaking and loosening.  Loose prongs and metal beads can lead to lost or damaged diamonds.  For these reasons, it is important to regularly inspect your pave set jewelry for any potentially loose stones. It is also important to regularly clean your pave set jewelry.  This can be done professionally by a local jeweler, or at home.  Simply soak your pave set jewelry in soapy lukewarm water and use a soft, clean cloth to gently wipe it dry. Most jewelers will check your pave set jewelry for loose prongs, beads or stones free of charge.