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Pave Settings:
In this type
of setting, diamonds are fit into tapered holes and set almost level
with the surface of the ring. Then some of the surrounding metal is
raised to form beads which hold the diamonds in place. Sometimes the
metal around the bead-set stones is raised or engraved to form
decorative patterns.
When there are
three or more rows of diamonds in this way without partitions between
the stones, it is calle pave, which, in French means paved like a
cobblestone road. In order to give the impression of a continous
diamond surface, it is customary to use white gold or platinum to
support pave-set diamonds even if the rest of the ring is in yellow gold.
Pave Setting
Advantages?: Usually protects diamonds better than a prong setting.
Allows uniterrupted designs of varying width. Pave set rings appear
larger eventhough the stones are smaller. Each tiny diamond, weighing
just a few points, is fully cut with 58 facets. Though small in size,
each stone contributes to the overall, shimmering look of the design.
After it is positioned in its hole, tiny bits of metal from the
surface of the shank are pushed over the edge of the diamond, forming
tiny beads to hold the stone in place.
Pave Setting
Disadvantages: Is a risky setting method in terms of possible stone
damage. It does not provide as smooth of ring surface as bezel,
channel and flush setting. |
