Shopping for an engagement ring can be challenging for those with active lifestyles who may not have much experience with fine jewelry. However, there are many non-traditional options available beyond the classic solitaire ring. If your day is filled with activities like school, yoga, jogging, cooking, cleaning, taking the kids to soccer, rock climbing, crafts, dance class, and more, a bezel setting may be the perfect option for you.

What Is a Bezel?

A bezel setting is a type of setting for gemstones or diamonds in which the stone is held in place by a metal frame that encircles the entire stone. This type of setting is known for its modern and minimalist look, and is often used to showcase unique or unusual stones. Unlike prong settings, which hold the stone in place with small metal prongs, bezel settings offer a secure and protective grip that can help prevent damage or loss of the stone.

Bezel-set engagement rings are not typically given their own category on jewelry sites like other setting styles. It may be more effective to use the search bar instead of browsing categories.

Different Types of Bezel Engagement Rings

There are several variations of bezel settings despite being a simple design.

Full Bezel

Full bezels provide the best protection for your center stone. This type of bezel setting completely encircles the stone.

Bezel settings come in more than just full settings and are often found in the solitaire ring category with plain bands. They can be raised or flat, and some don’t follow the norm. Some full settings may not be flush with the band and can be slightly raised, but the diamond is still encased in metal.

You might even consider choosing a different shape besides round-cut diamonds. You can still enjoy the secure fit provided by a full bezel, while also standing out from others.

Partial Bezel Setting

A half-bezel setting only has a metal rim around half of the diamond or gemstone, while a partial bezel covers just a section. These settings often feature unique designs.

Half bezel settings are a double-edged sword. On one hand, they allow more light to enter the diamond, while still holding it securely in place. On the other hand, this setting exposes much of the girdle or edge of the diamond to the risk of chipping or breakage.

Hybrid Bezel

Hybrid settings incorporate popular ring styles, featuring a bezel-set center diamond and small diamond accents. These diamonds are for a modern design rather than extra protection.

This type of bezel ring is perfect for individuals who prefer the modern style of a bezel stone but do not lead an active lifestyle.

Pros and Cons of Bezel Settings

A bezel diamond engagement ring has its pros and cons, just like any other style. Here’s an overview of the best and worst aspects of owning one.

Pros:

• Prong settings can catch on fabrics, but bezel rings do not have this issue.
• A bezel-set ring is easier to clean than other settings due to its fewer nooks around the diamond.
• Bezel set diamonds are securely held in place
• A diamond set in a full bezel cannot fall out due to the metal surrounding it completely.
• If you lead an active lifestyle, you may want to consider a bezel engagement ring instead of a prong setting.

Breaking Down the Positives

One common issue among engagement ring wearers is the prong setting catching on fabrics, especially sweaters. Repeated catching can cause the prongs to move away from the diamond, increasing the risk of losing it. A bezel-set ring securely holds the diamond flush against the band, preventing fabric snags and loose diamonds.

Having a prong setting doesn’t guarantee the safety of your stone. It just requires more care than a bezel setting.

Cons:

• You have limited options for bezel engagement ring styles in physical jewelry stores.
• Diamonds set in bezels reduce light reflection but offer more protection for the stone.

Breaking Down the Drawbacks:

When choosing a bezel for your stone, you limit your options for engagement ring types. The biggest downside of a bezel is the restricted choices. Brick-and-mortar jewelry stores have a limited selection of bezel settings. You’ll find more options online, but if you’re set on a bezel, your choices for keeping your diamond secure in the band are limited to the three main styles listed. However, there are other flush setting options that provide protection for your diamonds around their edges without using bezels.

The other part that might concern your about is how it impacts the sparkle of your diamond or gemstone. When buying diamonds, many prioritize the sparkle and choose round diamonds as their diamond shape with ideal or Excellent cut grades, which are pricier than those with Very Good or Good cut grades. However, putting these diamonds in a bezel can hide their full impact and symmetry. This may be a way to save money or focus on other factors like color grades or carat weight since a Very Good cut round diamond will look similar to an ideal cut in a full setting.

Bezel vs. Prongs

A major factor in the cost of bezel engagement rings is the center diamond, as well as the ring setting. The price breakdown of bezels can vary, but on average, this setting costs slightly more than a typical prong setting solitaire. However, they are still reasonably priced compared to pave settings.

Bezel Setting Prices

A bezel engagement ring setting may cost more due to the difficulty of crafting them. Not every jeweler has the skill to create beautiful and intricate bezel settings. Moreover, the process of hammering a metal rim around a diamond requires great care and is time-consuming. Additionally, diamonds can still crack despite their hardness rating, while softer gemstones are prone to scratches and being chipped or broken when hit hard enough.

You should also consider future repair costs when choosing a diamond ring. Metal damage may be more expensive to fix than a simple prong setting. Some ring designs, such as eternity rings, may not qualify for free resizing. However, bezel-set diamond rings can still be resized as there is nothing on the band, and the only costly repair would be if the setting itself was damaged. You might even have to purchase a new ring if you damage it too much.

Caring For Your Engagement Ring

An engagement ring is a cherished symbol of love and commitment. As such, it’s important to properly care for this special piece of jewelry. Be sure to clean it regularly, store it safely when not being worn, and get it professionally inspected each year. Following basic care guidelines will help keep your ring sparkling beautifully for a lifetime.

Shop for Bezel setting engagement rings at Clean Origin

If you’re interested in seeing how a bezel setting would look on your hand, it may be worth choosing a retailer with a generous return policy. While most stores give you 30-60 days to decide if you like it, Clean Origin offers a 100-day return window to ensure you love your setting.

Schedule a virtual appointment with one of our team members or visit a showroom in a city near you today!