Education/Choosing your ring
Ring Settings Explained
The short answer
The setting is how the centre stone is held in the ring and positioned above the finger. It affects how much of the diamond you see, how high it sits and how exposed its edges are. Common settings include claw, bezel, cathedral, basket, low and high settings.
What is a claw setting?
The classic way to hold a diamond
A claw setting holds the centre stone with small metal claws placed around its edge. The claws secure the stone while leaving much of its surface visible.
The number and position of the claws depend on the stone shape and design. A round diamond can have four or six claws, while other shapes may require a different arrangement.
A claw setting allows light to enter the diamond from several directions and keeps the centre stone visually open.
What is a bezel setting?
Metal around the edge
A bezel setting holds the stone with a rim of metal around its perimeter. The metal follows the outline of the stone and creates a defined edge.
The amount of metal visible depends on the design. A full bezel surrounds the stone, while other designs can leave more of the stone exposed.
A bezel setting creates a close, framed appearance and works particularly well when the outline of the stone is part of the design.
What is a cathedral setting?
The band rises towards the centre
A cathedral setting uses raised shoulders that curve or angle upwards towards the centre stone. The profile creates a more elevated appearance while giving the setting additional structure.
The height of the cathedral can vary. A subtle rise creates a softer profile, while a higher cathedral creates more separation between the centre stone and the finger.
Cathedral settings can be used with solitaire, halo and other engagement ring styles.
What is a basket setting?
Support beneath the stone
A basket setting uses a framework of metal beneath the centre stone. The structure supports the diamond while leaving space between the stone and the finger.
The basket can be combined with claws and other setting details. Its shape and height influence the profile of the finished ring.
A basket setting is particularly useful when the centre stone needs structured support without completely surrounding it in metal.
What is a low setting?
Closer to the finger
A low setting positions the centre stone closer to the finger. Less of the setting rises above the hand, creating a lower profile.
This can make the ring feel more compact and can be practical for someone who prefers jewellery that sits closer to the hand.
The lower profile can affect which wedding band designs sit comfortably alongside the engagement ring.
What is a high setting?
More height, more presence
A high setting positions the centre stone further above the finger. This creates more space beneath the stone and gives the diamond greater visual separation from the hand.
A higher setting can make the centre stone feel more prominent. It can also allow more room for a wedding band to sit beneath the engagement ring.
The additional height means the stone is more exposed, so your lifestyle is worth considering before choosing this type of setting.
How do you choose the right ring setting?
Start with the centre stone. Its shape and proportions affect how the setting needs to hold and frame it.
Then consider the profile. A low setting sits closer to the finger, while a high setting creates more height and separation. A cathedral adds structure beneath the centre, while a basket creates support directly beneath it.
Finally, consider how you wear your jewellery. The setting is not only about appearance. It determines how the centre stone sits on your hand and how exposed it is during everyday wear.
Which ring setting is right for your design?
| Setting | What it does | What to consider |
|---|---|---|
| Claw | Holds the stone with small metal claws | Leaves much of the stone visible |
| Bezel | Frames the stone with metal | Creates a defined outline |
| Cathedral | Raises the centre with curved or angled shoulders | Creates height and structure |
| Basket | Supports the stone beneath it | Adds structure under the centre |
| Low | Positions the stone closer to the finger | Creates a lower profile |
| High | Positions the stone higher above the finger | Creates more height and exposure |
Frequently asked questions
What is the difference between a ring style and a ring setting?
A ring style describes the overall design, such as a solitaire or halo. A setting describes how the centre stone is held and positioned, such as claw, bezel, cathedral, low or high.
Is a claw setting secure?
Yes. A properly designed claw setting holds the centre stone with metal around its edge. The number and arrangement of claws depend on the stone and design.
Is a low setting better for everyday wear?
A low setting sits closer to the finger and can suit someone who prefers a lower profile. The right setting still depends on the design, stone and the way the ring will be worn.
Does a high setting make a diamond look bigger?
Not necessarily. A high setting changes the diamond's position above the finger rather than increasing its actual size. The centre stone's shape, proportions and carat weight determine its size.
Can a ring have more than one setting feature?
Yes. A ring can combine features such as claws with a cathedral setting, or a halo with a raised centre setting. The final design determines how the elements work together.
Does the setting affect the wedding band?
Yes. The height and shape of the engagement ring setting affect how a wedding band can sit alongside it. This is worth considering when designing the engagement ring.
Can I customise the setting?
Yes. Amarii rings are made to order, so the centre stone, setting and metal can be considered together as part of the finished design.
Where should you go next?
Made for you, made to be worn
Made to be yours
Talk it through with us. A private video consultation covers your diamond, setting and budget, with no obligation.
Book a video consultationKeep exploring
The setting is one part of the overall ring design. Our Engagement Ring Style guide explains how styles such as solitaire, halo, trilogy and Toi et Moi chang...
The centre stone itself is another important decision. Our The 4 Cs of a Diamond guide explains the qualities we consider when selecting a diamond.
The full decision process brings these choices together. Our How to Choose an Engagement Ring guide takes you through the decisions in order.
Lab grown diamonds are real diamonds, with the same chemistry, hardness and fire as mined. How they are made, how they are graded and why we choose them.