Confuse about an engagement ring setting, which one to choose among basket setting vs prong setting. There are many types of settings to choose from, but the two most popular are prong settings and basket settings.
Keep reading to learn more about the basket setting vs prong setting its characteristics of each set so that you can make the best decision for your future fiancée!
Prong Setting
Prong settings are the most common type of setting used in jewelry, especially in engagement rings. Prongs are small metal claws that hold stones in place.
The number of prongs varies depending on the size and shape of the stone being set. Smaller stones usually have three or four prongs, while larger stones may have six or more.
When done correctly, a prong setting provides a secure and elegant way to show off a gemstone.
The Pros Of Prong Settings
There are several reasons prong settings are so popular in jewelry.
- First, they are very versatile and can be used to set all different shapes and sizes of stones.
- Second, because the metal holding the stone is exposed, it allows for more light to enter the stone, making it appear brighter and larger.
- And thirdly, when done correctly, prong settings can be quite sturdy and secure.
Prong settings are also relatively easy to repair if a stone should fall out. A good jeweler will fix a prong fairly easily, and often it can be done without even having to remove the stone from the setting.
The Cons Of Prong Settings
While there are several advantages to prong settings, there are also some disadvantages.
- One of the biggest drawbacks is that because the metal holding the stone is exposed, it can get bent out of shape if hit or bumped against something hard enough. This can cause serious damage to the setting and even cause the stone to fall out completely.
- Another disadvantage of prong settings is that they require more care than other types of settings. It is important to take extra care when cleaning and storing jewelry with prong settings so that you don't damage them.
Basket Setting
A basket setting is similar to a prong setting in that it holds the diamond in place with metal claws. However, instead of having just a few prongs, a basket setting has a metal cup that surrounds the entire diamond. This type of setting is very secure, so you don’t have to worry about the diamond becoming loose and falling out.
How Is Basket Setting Done?
Basket setting is usually done by hand, as it requires a very high level of craftsmanship.
- First, each stone is set into its own little cup or "basket," which is then welded onto the piece of jewelry. The welder has to be very careful not to damage any of the stones while working.
- Once all the baskets are in place, they're soldered together to create a single, cohesive unit.
- Finally, the entire setting is polished to a high shine.
What Are The Advantages Of Basket Setting?
There are several advantages to basket setting, such as:
- It's Very Secure: Because each stone has its own little "basket," basket setting is one of the most secure settings for gemstones. There's very little chance that a stone will come loose and fall out.
- It Showcases the Stones: Basket setting really lets the stones shine and sparkle, as there's no metal obscuring them in any way. If you want your gemstones to take center stage, this is definitely the setting for you!
- It's Durable: Basket setting is also quite durable, as there aren't any prongs or other delicate parts that can easily break off. This makes it a good choice for everyday wear.
How to Choose the Perfect Basket Setting Vs Prong Setting for Your Engagement?
When you are choosing a basket set for your engagement ring, there are a few things to keep in mind.
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Shape Of The Diamond
The shape of the diamond is one of the most important factors to consider when choosing a basket setting. The most common shapes for diamonds are round, princess, and pear. However, there are many other shapes available as well. The shape of the diamond will affect how well it sits in the basket setting.
For example, a round diamond will sit nicely in a setting with four or six prongs. A pear-shaped diamond may require eight prongs to ensure that it does not move around too much.
Size Of The Diamond
The size of the diamond is also an important consideration when choosing a basket setting. A large diamond will need a stronger setting to support it, so you will want to choose a basket. It is made from a sturdy metal, such as platinum or white gold. If you are using a smaller diamond, you can get away with using a less expensive metal, such as yellow, gold or silver.
Metal Used For The Setting
The final factor to consider when choosing a basket setting vs prong setting is what metal you would like to use for the setting itself. As mentioned above, platinum and white gold are good choices for larger diamonds because they are very strong metals.
Yellow gold and silver are good choices for smaller diamonds because they are less expensive metals. You can also choose from a variety of metals. That have been specially designed for engagement rings, such as palladium or titanium.
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How To Choose The Perfect Prong Setting For Your Engagement Ring?
There are four main types of prong settings: single, double, triple, and quadruple. So, which one is right for you and your fiance?
Single Prong Settings
A single prong setting is perhaps the most popular type of setting for an engagement ring. This setting showcases the diamond (or diamonds) by cradling it in a simple metal band. The result is a sleek, elegant look that never goes out of style.
One advantage of a single prong setting is that it allows more light to reach the diamond, resulting in greater brilliance and fire. If you choose a single prong setting, be sure to have the prongs checked regularly; over time, they can loosen and need to be tightened or replaced.
Double Prong Settings
A double prong setting features two prongs instead of one. The extra support provided by the second prong can secure even the largest and heaviest diamonds securely in place.
A double prong setting also has the advantage of showcasing more of the diamond than a single prong setting does. If you love large, statement-making diamonds, a double prong setting is an excellent choice.
Triple Prong Settings
A triple prong setting is similar to a double prong setting, with one key difference: as its name suggests, it has three prongs instead of two. A third prong provides additional support and security for your diamond, making it an ideal choice if you're concerned about losing your engagement ring.
Like a double prong setting, a triple prong setting also allows more light to reach your diamond, resulting in increased brilliance and fire. However, because there are more metal elements involved, a triple prong setting can obscure some of the diamond's facets from view.
Quadruple Prong Settings
A quadruple setting is very similar to a triple setting, but with one additional — you guessed it–fourth sets. These fourth sets provide extra support and security for especially large or heavy set, making it ideal if you're looking for peace of mind.
Because there are even more metal elements involved than in a triple setting, however, a quadruple setting can obscure even more of set facets from view. So if you're looking for maximum sparkle, this might not be the best option for you.
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Conclusion
So in basket setting vs prong setting the Basket setting is a more popular option because it offers more security for the diamond. However, prong setting can be a better option if you are looking for more sparkle. Solitaire is almost always set in a prong setting, so if that’s the look you’re going for, go with solitaire.
