When opposed to prong settings, the bezel setting (also called the rubover) is perhaps a less common choice for engagement rings. However, this underdog design is making a comeback as a coveted ring feature for contemporary brides. Although a bezel set engagement ring appears to have a modern style overall, it actually pays homage to thousands of years of stone-setting history, making them an excellent choice for proposal. A bezel ring is a beautiful option for any couple because of its timeless style and sophistication. Once you and your future spouse decide on a bezel setting ring, you can complement it with a diamond bezel necklace.
What Is a Bezel Setting?
The stone in a bezel setting is kept in place by a metal ring. The stone is protected with a metal shell that slightly overhangs the stone’s edges.
Designer and jeweler Emma Clarkson Webb speculates that the rub–over setting has been in use virtually since the inception of jewelry and stone setting. “The oldest sort of setting” describes this basic layout. Poppy Delevingne, Mary-Kate Olsen, and other modern fashion icons are fans of this design of engagement ring.
Since bezel settings have a long history, they are typically associated with vintage or antique pieces of jewelry. However, the style has been redesigned in numerous contemporary shapes, expanding its applicability in many ways.
Below, you’ll find information on bezel set rings and what to look for in a bezel set engagement ring.
What is a Prong Setting?
A prong setting secures gemstones in place by encircling it with little metal prongs. These prongs’ tips might have a variety of shapes. Round, square, or pointed tips are most frequently seen on prongs. On several pointed fancy gemstone shapes, such as marquise cut, pear, and heart-shaped gemstones, V-shaped prongs are also employed.
Although three-prong and six-prong setups are also prevalent, standard prong configurations typically have four prongs. Engagement rings frequently have four-prong or six-prong settings. The double prong is another popular prong design that uses pairs of prongs rather than a single prong.
Which Settings—Bezel or Prong—Should You Pick?
It’s entirely up to you whether you want prong or bezel settings. Rub–over settings can be the ideal option for you if you want a strong, fashionable, and useful setting. Prong settings can be your best option if you want the most shine and variety in your style.
It’s important to note that you may favor prong settings for some jewelry and bezel settings for others. If you frequently work with your hands, for example, you might prefer a bezel ring setting that will suit your active way of life. However, if you like the way prong settings look, they might work well for something like diamond stud earrings, which are much less likely to crush on something or get knocked around than a ring would be.
Browse our personalized diamond jewelry and experiment with different setting, diamond shape, carat weight, and precious metal combinations if you’re still unsure which of these setting designs is best for you.
What to Look for in a Bezel Setting
- What types of stone cuts are suitable for a rub–over setting? Webb observes that while it can accommodate many stone cuts, a round brilliant cut performs particularly well in a bezel setting.
- How does the cost of this bezel set ring compare to others? Rub–over settings “tend to be more expensive as they are more labor-intensive for the jeweler to set the stone and subsequently demand more metal weight,” according to Webb.
- Can settings of the edge be combined with other settings? They can, indeed. According to Webb, “I frequently enjoy combining the edge with a claw setting to produce a more unique design.”
Why Choose a Bezel Set Engagement Ring
One of the most individual design decisions you can make for your ring is the type of setting. The bezel setting is one frequently disregarded design element that has a rich past but a distinctly contemporary style. A bezel setting offers a distinctive and lovely appearance, works with stones of any shape like cushion-cut and princess-cut diamond, is highly secure, and requires very little care to wear. But doesn’t that lessen the shine of a diamond?
Pros and Cons of Going Bezel
In the world of wedding and engagement rings, the bezel setting has always been incredibly popular. Due to its extreme security and suitability for use with the tools available at the time, it has been the most widely used method of stone setting since the craft’s inception. Over time, the rub–over setting‘s design has evolved significantly, thus we’ve gathered some noteworthy benefits and drawbacks to take into account.
Pros
Bezel settings are fantastic for a number of causes. First, according to jewelry expert Webb, “precious and fragile stones are commonly employed in especially with the rub-over setting.” This is due to the security it offers. The security of the stone is “a huge pro,” she continues, “since the metal completely encircles the center diamond or gemstone, meaning that it is extremely protected from regular wear and tear.” Additionally, “bezel settings create an optical illusion to exaggerate the size of the stone.” When the color of the metal and the stone are matched, they give the impression that the stone is larger than it actually is. In contrast to claw settings, which expose the stones more, a rub-over setting can frequently appear chunkier. Plus, it conceals a gemstone’s flaws and imperfections on the sides.
Cons
Bezel settings are more expensive than other settings due to the skill involved in creating the bezel set and the extra metal needed. Less of your diamond will be visible if there is more metal. A thicker bezel setting has the potential to reduce sparkle by limiting the quantity of light that may enter the diamond. Compared to other setting designs, such as prong, it is considerably harder to remove the stone from the setting if you ever need to.
Types of Bezel Settings
A full bezel and a partial bezel are the two different sorts of bezel settings. Any shape or size of diamond will be entirely encircled by a full bezel setting. Partial rub-over settings, also known as semi-, half-, or open bezels, don’t completely encircle the stone and include gaps or spaces in the edge. This creates a very distinctive and contemporary appearance.
Both varieties of bezel settings will retain your diamond firmly in position. There are advantages and disadvantages to all sorts of settings, but the security of the rub-over setting is unquestionably its most appealing quality.
The Bezel Setting's Appeal
Because it provides a modern and streamlined aesthetic and is ideal for a busy lifestyle, the bezel is a popular engagement ring setting. The bezel set provides more security than prong settings for active individuals or those in physically demanding occupations, such as those in the medical or construction industries. A bezel-set engagement ring completely encircles the girdle of the stone, making it considerably less likely that your diamond would break or chip if struck.
In comparison to other setting designs, the edge’s contemporary appearance is also very simple to maintain. Prongs don’t need to be periodically inspected or cleaned, although they can get broken if they make too blunt of an impact on a hard surface. A bezel setting is exempt from all of those issues.
Since the diamond lies flush against the metal frame and there are less nooks and crannies for debris to get trapped, cleaning your ring also tends to be easier. Since it’s a hard-to-reach place, the underside of the edge can be a little trickier to clean, but using warm soapy water and a gentle brush should do the trick.
The ability of the bezel set to effectively conceal flaws and defects in a diamond is another important characteristic. The metal rim of the bezel set is likely to obscure these when they are close to the diamond’s edge, making them less noticeable to the human eye. If the apparent inclusions are at the borders of the diamond, this may give you some leeway in selecting a lesser clarity grade for the stone.
Bezel settings, like a halo setting, can make the main stone appear larger. It’s an optical illusion that causes the stone to appear larger due to the additional layer of metal wrapping around it. This feature performs best when the stone’s and the metal’s colors are complementary.
Bezel settings often cost more than other settings like prong settings, which is an essential consideration. This is due to the fact that making a custom-fit bezel set for a gemstone requires a great deal of skill and knowledge. Additionally, there will be a greater material cost due to the additional metal required.
Tips on Styling Your Bezel Setting
Bezels are particularly helpful for forms with pointy tips, such as a pear or marquise, because they precisely protect the delicate areas of the stone. The bezel setting is also excellent for achieving a soft appearance, and when combined with other design elements, it may either make the edge the star of the show or the best supporting actor. For ideas, we picked a few of our favorite bezel-set engagement rings.
14K Rose Gold Oval Bezel Engagement Ring Bezel-Set Oval Opal and Diamond Ring
Beautiful opal with striking color play is bezel-set horizontally. The traditional east-west oval shape is reinterpreted in this ring in 14 karat white gold, with sparkling diamond accents on the shoulders.
14K White Gold Bezel Engagement Ring Bezel-Set Round Aquamarine Solitaire Engagement Ring
The Aquamarine and white gold ring we provide is the quintessential symbol of femininity. This engagement ring features a round Aquamarine Solitaire set in bezel-set solid white gold band that are plated with rhodium. The conventional centerpiece round Aquamarine makes it a great choice for the unconventional bride.
14K Rose Gold Bezel Engagement Rings 2 CT Heart Cut Solitaire Bezel Moissanite Wedding Ring
The heart-cut solitaire Moissanite makes this engagement ring one of the most romantic pieces of jewelry ever created. Moissanite adds sparkle for the bezel, and the band features a minimalist design. Classy and refined without any apparent effort. Put on this beautiful ring and broadcast your love to the world.
14K Gold Low Profile Bezel Set Engagement Ring Princess Cut Solitaire Bezel Moissanite Ring
Our engagement ring is princess-cut Moissanite, which not only sets this ring apart as something very special, but also offers a similar brilliance of a round-shaped diamond. The princess cut is perfect for the woman who loves a good challenge and knows how to romance with all her heart. This princess-cut solitaire bezel Moissanite ring exudes elegance, sophistication, and a hint of danger.
14K Gold Bezel Set Engagement Rings London Blue Topaz and Diamond Engagement Ring
The engagement ring’s center stone is a blue Topaz. This trendy bezel set ring is made out of 14k gold and features a 0.15ctw vibrant dark Blue topaz stone, which a 0.03ctw round diamond embellished next to. This stunning Blue Topaz and Diamond ring, with its low profile details and design, is perfect for your bride.
Unique bezel set engagement rings
The setting, which seems to have stood the test of time, is full of meaning. Couples might take into account a variety of symbolisms associated with the unique bezel set engagement rings.
Stability and Protection
Bezel settings have long been a sign of strength and security; this makes them an excellent choice for a couple looking to emphasize the durability of their relationship. Edges are also a fantastic option for a bride-to-be because they reflect togetherness, cooperation, compassion, and devotion.
No. Five
The circle of a bezel set makes you think of the meanings of the number five, such as love, loyalty, and kindness. Any of these ties can be a beautiful way for a couple to show their love.
Peace and Harmony
The energy of the rub–over setting shows how a couple is starting to build a life together by looking for peace and unity. So, a unique engagement ring with a bezel setting can be a beautiful represent of the beginning of a marriage.
Strength and Protection
An engagement ring set in a edge could be the ideal option. Rub–over settings are popular among couples because of their old or antique vibe, but they also offer unparalleled safety. Bezel-set solitaire rings are the perfect way to show off many vintage rings with old European cuts and semi-precious stones since they highlight their timeless beauty.
According to recent research, 5.2% of people want to choose a unique bezel set engagement ring. The most popular style is the solitaire diamond, followed by halo, three stone, and channel set rings.
Oval bezel engagement ring
Bezel settings may be used for stones of any shape, though they are most often used for round diamonds or gemstones. Diamonds and gemstones of various shapes, including princess, cushion, emerald, marquise, oval, asscher, pear, and heart, can all be set in bezels.
Rub–over settings can help conceal imperfections in a gemstone engagement ring by encasing its edges. A rub–over setting can hide flaws in an oval diamond, such as a chip on its edge. Or, if the gemstone has an imperfection on the edge of the gemstone, bezel setting can greatly reduce the visibility of the gemstone’s flaw.
A frequent myth regarding diamonds in rub–over settings is that they always look less sparkly than they actually do. Even though a oval bezel engagement ring will let in less light than one in a prong setting ring, this does not make it less brilliant or dull.
Most of the light entering a diamond comes from its table (the top), which remains visible in a rub–over setting. Well-crafted oval bezel engagement ring allows the maximum amount of light to enter the diamond’s table, allowing the diamond to sparkle magnificently, while badly designed bezel setting rings may cover too much of the diamond, diminishing its ability to reflect and refract light.
Bezel wedding band
The bezel setting, regardless of the diamond shape, is perfect for eternity-style wedding rings as well as showcasing the central stone of an engagement ring. Traditional round and oval shapes, as well as the unique square diamond cut, can be found in the most popular Elleroses rings.
Most gemstones are suitable for bezel wedding band, which protects stone and gives the impression that the stone is brighter than it actually is.
Low profile bezel set engagement ring
In a rub–over setting, less is more. You can’t go wrong with a edge if you value understated sophistication and a minimalistic, contemporary style. A ring with a low profile has a setting that is flush with the metal of the band rather than raised above it. Depending on your line of work, a low-profile setting may be the best fit for you.
Bezel settings are another way for low-profile settings. When working with a rose-cut diamond, a rub–over setting is ideal. We suggest a low profile bezel set engagement ring if you’re interested in a huge stone with a subtle appearance. You can get an engagement ring you’ll love if you keep in mind to work with a competent jeweler who has the ability to produce a high-quality rub–over setting that perfectly fits the center stone.
Round bezel engagement ring
The bezel set is known for being a strong, elegant, and standard setting. This is the perfect place for a couple to show how strong their bond is. There are many reasons why a rub–over setting might be a good choice for a couple. Depending on the time period, metal, and style of the ring as a whole, a bezel ring can be much cheaper than a diamond or three-stone ring. The meaning of a bezel-set engagement ring can show how strong and stable a couple is while also showing their sense of style. No matter why a bride-to-be chooses a round bezel engagement ring, it gives her a beautiful connections to the long and wonderful past of engagement rings.
Different types of bezel ring
Different rub-over settings can either completely encircle a stone or only do so partly. Some also have very detailed milgrain. We’ll go into more detail about each type below.
Full Bezel Ring
Full bezel settings go around the full edge of a diamond. In addition to giving your stone more support, this style can hide flaws and other imperfections that might otherwise be seen.
You can find full-bezel engagement rings in many different metals and with different shapes of gemstones. A rose gold bezel ring is unique because it has a pinkish color, and a yellow gold bezel ring will never go out of style.
Half Bezel Ring
The gemstone in a half bezel setting, sometimes called a semi-bezel setting, is only partially encased. With more gemstone exposed, this style lets more light in, making your stone appear more bright than the typical complete rub-over setting. Half bezel engagement rings are beautiful, but they don’t provide quite as much security for your diamond as full bezel rings do.
Milgrain Bezel Ring
Milgrain bezel settings are an elegant touch that will impress those with a keen eye for design. Milgrain, for the uninitiated, is the term for a jewelry design technique in which the edge is made of very small metal beads. The vintage appeal of engagement rings is enhanced by such attention to detail.
Bezel set moissanite ring
There are a number of benefits to choosing a bezel set moissanite ring. The bezel setting is often used in particular for precious and fragile stones. This is because of the safety it affords. With the metal completely encasing the gemstone, the gemstone is safe from theft and is well-protected from normal wear and tear. A rub-over setting may look less refined than its more open-back claw setting sibling. However, rub-over settings also create a trick of the eye to enhance the size of the stone. On the other hand, moissanite is less expensive than diamond, which makes it a more affordable option compared to a classical diamond ring.
Sapphire bezel ring
The bezel setting has been used for as long as people have worn jewelry. Experts agree that this setting style is the first form of its kind and was likely employed at the dawn of jewelry production and stone setting.
For this reason, antique jewelry and ring designs frequently feature rub-over settings. The rub-over setting has advanced significantly since its early iterations. The clean and sleek designs of today’s gemstone jewelry highlight the stones’ natural shapes and colors. Therefore, a sapphire bezel ring is popular for their retro and elegant design, making it a popular choice for both casual and formal occasions.
Less is definitely more when it comes to bezel settings. You really can’t go wrong with a bezel if your aesthetic is one of slick elegance and a crisp, contemporary appearance. Just keep in mind to work with a qualified jeweler who has the know-how to create a premium bezel setting that precisely fits the center stone, and you ought to leave with an engagement ring you adore.
How to Take Care of an Engagement Ring with a Bezel
Bezel set rings often protect the stone much better than prong settings because metal surrounds the stone. The tight band of metal is less prone to loose diamond and is less likely to draw dirt. This makes cleaning bezel-set diamond engagement rings simple. Use warm water and a tiny bit of dish soap to clean your bezel ring, then rinse and dry with a soft cloth. When not in use, keep it in a box lined with cotton.
Diamond bezel necklace
Diamond bezel necklace are quite secure, which is maybe their best feature. Bezel settings completely enclose a gem, while prong settings only partially do so. Even diamond bezel necklace are extremely secure, however prong settings might become loose over time and cause you to lose a stone.
Diamond bezel necklace offers increased security in comparison to other options. Diamond bezel necklace are superior to diamond prong settings necklace for protecting gemstones from damage due to bumps and drops because they cover more of the gemstone. Any gemstone would benefit from this, although more delicate stones like emeralds would be especially well-protected.
A diamond bezel necklace is popular because the center stone gives a larger illusion than it actually is. The diamonds are held in place by a thin metal band that encircles the stones’ circumference, known as the bezel. Bezel settings, which completely enclose a gemstone, are often utilized for solitaire pendants, rings with elevated settings, and stud earrings to maximize the gemstone’s aesthetic effect.
The most popular style of diamond bezel necklace is termed a full bezel setting because it entirely encloses a gemstone. However, there is another type of diamond bezel necklace called a partial bezel setting. Partial bezels are a variation on the traditional rub-over setting in which only the gemstone’s sides are encased in metal. Half bezels, open bezels, and semi-bezels are all names for these types of rub-over settings.
Diamond bezel necklace come in a wide variety of designs, in addition to the many varied shapes. The style of a diamond bezel necklace can range from modern and minimalist to vintage and antique depending on the level of detail in the engravings. Diamond bezel necklaces come in a wide variety of designs, from subtle pieces with little stones to ostentatious ones with massive gems. The simple sophistication and adaptability of diamond bezel necklaces make them a popular accessory choice.
Bezel pendant
Bezel settings are often more expensive than other types of settings, such as prong settings, so bear that in mind. This is due to the fact that making a gemstone bezel setting to order requires a high level of experience and competence. There will be an increase in material costs due to the increased demand for metal.
Particularly helpful for pointed-tip pendant shapes like pear and marquise, a bezel will completely shield the stone from damage. When used with other design elements, the rub-over setting can either take center stage or serve as an outstanding supporting actor, both of which are excellent uses of the bezel’s versatility. At Elleroses, there are some bezel pendants that are just right for you.
Diamond bezel strand necklace
There are many reasons why people like diamond bezel strand necklace. One reason is that they are beautiful, classic pieces of jewelry that can be worn anywhere, from a formal event to a casual day out. The rub-over setting is also popular because it gives the diamonds an extra layer of protection so they don’t fall out or get broken. Also, diamond bezel strand pendants can go with many different kinds of clothes and accessories. These necklaces are a popular choice for people who like classic jewelry that can be worn at any time and with any outfit. They have a simple but dainty look.
Bezel jewelry
Bezel settings are used for numerous types of jewelry, including necklaces, bracelets, and earrings, despite being frequently used to describe engagement rings. You can choose from a variety of items at Elleroses that make use of this chic setting.
Maybe you’d prefer to add a pair of bezel-set gemstone earrings to your ensemble apart from ring and necklace. The bezel set diamond drop earrings from Elleroses go with almost any outfit. As an alternative, diamond-bezel-set hoops and ear climbers produce a dramatic look. They are the ideal statement pieces for the fashion-forward.
Bezel settings, when applied to the classic tennis bracelet, provide a modern twist. These bracelets are a great addition to any jewelry box because they are so adaptable.
Bracelets adorned with slim bezels are an even bolder accessory option. These bracelets are a great addition to any outfit, and the unyielding toughness of rub-over settings seems ideal for them.
A distinguishing stylistic option that offers additional security for your diamond is bezel settings. And as you can see, there is a large variety of bezel jewelry styles. In Elleroses or from an authorized retailer, you can find the ideal addition to your jewelry collection. Whether you have a rub–over setting or not, our professionals are available to answer any queries you may have.
Bezels meaning
A bezel setting is a type of jewelry mounting in which a thin metal band completely or partially encircles a gemstone. The stone is held firmly in place by this sort of setting, usually with the stone sitting flush with the ring.
A prong setting, on the other hand, guarantees that the ring stones are more visible and will stick out significantly from the mounting.
Bezels can accommodate stones of varying sizes and shapes, and they complement jewelry of any style. It may also be paired with silver, rose gold, yellow gold, or platinum.
Half bezel setting
While a full bezel setting (one that completely encloses a gemstone) is the most common type of rub-over setting, there are also rub–over setting called partial bezels. The term “partial bezel” refers to a rub-over setting that does not completely enclose the gemstone it is meant to protect. These partial bezel settings are sometimes called semi-bezel, open bezel, or half bezel settings.
In addition to the different shapes of the rub-over settingg, you’ll also find rub-over settings with different styles. Rub–over setting can be sleek and simple for a modern style, or intricately engraved for a more classic, vintage, or antique feel.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is a bezel engagement ring right for me?
Compared to the minimal touch that traditional prong settings have with your center stone, a bezel-set engagement ring provides a little bit more security. Your diamond is more vulnerable and susceptible to damage with prongs. Think of it as holding a diamond between two fingertips as opposed to your palm.
Does a bezel make a diamond appear larger?
In a bezel setting, the diamond’s girdle is encircled by a band of metal. The diamond may appear to have a wider circumference as a result.
Can a diamond in a bezel setting fall out?
The bezel setting is perfect for persons who live an active lifestyle since it can withstand exposure to rough wear and keeps the stone well protected. There is less chance for the stone to become loose and tumble out of the setting than there is with prong settings. Additionally, unlike prong settings, rub-over setting don’t snag on commonplace objects.