The most common gemstone setting for engagement rings is the prong or claw setting. In a prong setting, your diamond or gemstone will be inserted into 3 or more metal prongs which form a basket like base. Thereafter, the prong ends will be bent over in a way that makes them rest against the crown, thereby holding the girdle of the stone safely in place.
You may select an engagement ring whose prong ends are visible and rounded. Other shapes include the ovals, v-shaped, points, as well as the prong ends left flat or in other decorative designs. Prong settings may also be tall, such that they position the stone well above the band of the ring. Alternatively, you may settle for short prong settings which will have your diamond positioned closer to your finger.
Whichever prong setting design you go for, you should ensure that your diamond will be snugly held by the prongs without wobbling around. Also check that the prongs enable the gemstone to sit at an even height without being too high up or low down on either side. As much as possible, try to avoid the very thin and flat prongs as these may eventually wear out or break apart, causing you to lose your costly diamond in the process. It is also important to note that the hooked prongs which form an open loop before it comes into contact with the gemstones tend to open up with time. Again, this could lead you to lose your precious stone.
You are also better off steering clear of the short prongs as these are not sufficiently in contact with the stone and will not therefore be able to hold it safely in place. Instead, these tend to damage clothing as they get caught on the clothes that you are wearing.
