Key Takeaways

• Prong = most light and sparkle; four or six prongs.
• Bezel = most secure and snag-free.
• Halo = bigger look; hidden halo = side sparkle with a solitaire look.

Your center stone gets all the attention, but the setting decides how much light it catches, how protected it is, and the overall style of your ring. Here are the most popular options.

Prong Setting

Slim metal claws hold the stone above the band, letting in as much light as possible for maximum sparkle.

• Four prongs show more of the stone and create a slightly square look on rounds.
• Six prongs add security and a softer, rounder outline.
• Best for: anyone who wants a classic look and the most brilliance.

Bezel Setting

A smooth rim of metal wraps around the edge of the stone. It is sleek, modern and very protective, which makes it ideal for active lifestyles and hands-on work.

• Very secure and snag-free.
• Shows slightly less of the stone's edge than prongs, but moissanite's strong sparkle still shines through.

Halo Setting

A ring of small stones surrounds the center stone. A halo makes the center look larger and adds a glamorous, all-over sparkle.

• Classic halo: visible from the top.
• Hidden halo: sits under the center stone, a surprise sparkle seen from the side.

Pave Band

Tiny stones set closely along the band for a continuous line of sparkle. It pairs beautifully with a solitaire, halo or hidden halo.

Three-Stone Setting

A center stone flanked by two side stones, often said to represent past, present and future. It gives a wide, luxurious look across the finger. See our three-stone ring guide.

Cathedral and Low-Profile Settings

A cathedral setting lifts the stone on graceful arches for height and drama. A low-profile setting sits closer to the finger, so it snags less and pairs easily with a wedding band.

How to Choose

• Maximum sparkle: prong.
• Active lifestyle: bezel or low-profile.
• Bigger look: halo.
• Meaningful and wide: three-stone.

Want something one of a kind? Use our Custom Request service, or browse engagement rings.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the most secure ring setting?

A bezel setting is the most secure, because a metal rim surrounds and protects the entire edge of the stone.

Which setting makes a stone sparkle the most?

A prong setting lets the most light into the stone, giving the most brilliance and fire.

Are four or six prongs better?

Four prongs show more of the stone; six prongs add security and a rounder look. Both are excellent choices.