Prong setting is probably the most popular engagement ring style today, and the first choice for many brides-to-be. These are simple and elegant, and you can easily pair them with most of the wedding ring styles available.
However, if you prefer more glitter and want more than one diamond on the ring, you can choose the shared prong setting. In this variation of the classic prong setting, two gemstones share a pair of prongs, allowing for less metal and more sparkle.
In bridal jewelry, shared prong setting is often confused with pavé and channel set rings. While these three ring styles are very similar, each of them has unique features, and they incubate and complement gemstones in different ways.
But first, let’s see what the shared prong setting in rings actually is.
What Is Shared Prong Setting?
In prong settings, each stone is held in place by a several strategically placed prongs, typically four. In a shared prong setting, two diamonds or other stones are held in place by shared prongs or claws, most commonly two. The prongs are usually slightly bent around the crown of both stones, which are positioned close to each other, to secure them in place.
With this type of setting, the material used to anchor the gems is minimized, allowing the diamonds to flow evenly and more sparks and light to pass through them.
Because the diamonds are arranged so close to each other, they form a glimmer line, undisturbed by the metals between them. The visual effects of the shared prong setting are quite similar to those created by the pavé and channel settings, and as a result, people may not be able to tell the difference between them.
Shared Prong Setting vs. Pavé and Channel Ring Settings
Pavé is the French word for pave, and in pavé set rings, gems are paved with the metal that holds them in place. The metal is barely visible, making a ring with the pave setting look like it’s covered in gems. It's a gorgeous but expensive look, as it takes a lot of time and quite a bit of labor to execute.
As far as channel set rings go, diamonds or other gemstones are arranged in channel or cut-out line or grooves within the band without any metal between them. The gems are placed close together, with metal bars securing them to each side of the row. This type of diamond setting achieves a smooth and modern look with continuous stone lines. For example, since stones are not exposed in the channel setting, they are not as likely to be chipped or hit as they would be in a prong setting.
Finally, we have a shared prong setting. Shared prong set diamonds are generally larger than the first two ring setting types. Although the gemstones are well held in place by the prongs, light is free to pass through them, as each gem has a pair of less obvious prongs in this setting.
Pros and Cons of Shared Prong Set Rings
One of the benefits of shared prong setting is to minimize the use of metal and exposed diamonds, resulting in a delicate and elegant ring that sparkles and extends around half or the entire finger. However, this type of ring setting has several disadvantages.
No matter what type of shared prong set ring you choose, you should consider all of its advantages and disadvantages first.
Pros of Shared Prong Setting
· Light and Brightness: Shared prong setting allows for maximum reflection of light from all diamond angles. Instead of precious metals, the focus is on gemstones that show off the brilliance and shimmer of your ring.
· Versatility: With a shared prong setting, or a prong setting in general, you can play with different diamond shapes and sizes. From princess cut and marquise gemstones to double-row and eternity ring styles, shared prongs will nicely support and complement them.
· Maintenance: This type of ring typically requires very little maintenance and are extremely easy to clean. You just need to make sure to use gentle pressure and a soft toothbrush or cloth when cleaning. In the case a prong breaks, jewelers shouldn’t have any trouble fixing it.
· Unique design: Unlike pavé and channel settings, shared prong settings elevate the gemstone, making the smaller melee diamonds appear larger. It offers a classic and unique ring design suitable for every occasion.
· Cost: Shared prong settings usually need less metal than, for example, bezel settings. Besides, prong settings are relatively easy to craft, which reflects in their price. Therefore, shared prong set rings are typically more affordable than pavé or channel set ones, which are much more complicated to make.
Cons of Shared Prong Setting
· Snagging and scratching: Unless they are rounded, prongs or claws will always poke out a little, particularly if high-set, and can snag on the fabric of your clothes, furniture, hair, and other materials. Sharper prong edges can even scratch your skin. For this reason, we would recommend choosing shared prong set rings with lower-set prongs if you have an active lifestyle.
· Security: Even though a shared prong setting can be quite secure, you can’t get around the fact that jewelers strive to use as little metal as possible to achieve that sought-after minimalist ring design. Besides, having fewer prongs means more strain on each of them, leading to faster prong loosening and, ultimately, less protection for the gems. For this reason, we would recommend having these types of rings inspected at least once a year to make sure the stones sit tight and secure.
To Wrap Up
Your entire ring design will depend on what type of setting you choose. What’s more, the setting type will depend on your budget, personal taste, and lifestyle. Once you’ve considered all of these factors and you still want to go for a shared prong set ring, pay attention to all of its pros and cons and make sure to maintain it properly.
This being said, nothing can undermine the beauty of this classic ring design. A shared prong setting might be relatively fragile compared to others, but you’ll have a timeless ring with dazzling diamonds that complements every style and is worth the extra care and effort.
Post time: Feb-20-2023