High vs Low-Setting Engagement Ring: What You Need to Know
When shopping for an engagement ring, there are so many things to consider. Which ring design should you choose? What do you have to think about in terms of diamond grading? Are different settings better than others? What’s your fiancé-to-be’s personal preference?
Considering all this, you might not even realize the differences between a high- vs low-setting engagement ring. However, don’t overlook this key design component. Making the wrong choice between a high-setting vs low-setting can lead to the wearer’s discomfort and potential damage to the engagement ring.
What You Will Learn
What’s the Difference Between a High-Set vs Low-Set Engagement Ring?
It’s pretty easy to tell the difference between high-setting vs low-setting engagement rings.
Low-set engagement rings feature center stones that sit low against the finger. Think bezel settings, where the stone sits low against the ring’s band with a complete metal barrier called a bezel.
In contrast, the center stone appears elevated on a high-set engagement ring. Thanks to the prongs that prop it up, it sits higher above the finger. Beyond basic prong settings, other popular high-set engagement ring settings include cathedral and trellis.
High vs. Low Ring Setting: Pros
So, what are the pros that come with both of these options?
A high ring setting offers a real wow factor and an eye-catching visual appeal. The diamond or diamonds sit front and center and, as a result, can appear larger. Additionally, because there’s more space around the diamond, a high-set diamond will attract more light, allowing for seemingly more shine and sparkle. Additionally, most high ring settings can be easily incorporated into a flush-fitting bridal set, as the stone is high enough above the finger that the diamond doesn’t block the wedding band from sitting flush with the engagement ring band.
The pros of a low-set ring are similarly myriad. Being low-set makes it a low-profile ring for those who want to mimic their personal style. Low-set rings are more durable than high-set rings, so they’re more suitable for an active lifestyle. Due to the ring’s center stone sitting lower toward the finger, you may see more bezel settings. These settings wrap the stone in a thin metal and protect it from everyday dings and scratches. Some also find low-set rings to be more comfortable overall.
High-Set vs. Low-Set Ring: Cons
However, when considering a high- vs low-setting engagement ring, both options also come with their cons.
A high-profile engagement ring is likelier to snag on fabric and hair. Additionally, the high profile means that the center stone is more exposed to scratching and other damage. If the wearer is very active, they’ll likely need to remove the ring often so it’s not damaged. (Though you may be able to slightly increase a high-profile engagement ring’s durability by choosing the proper diamond cut, round-cut diamonds are typically more durable than diamond cuts that feature a pointed tip or edges, for example.)
Meanwhile, a ring with a low-setting profile isn’t quite as versatile as a high-profile engagement ring. You get fewer overall setting options, low settings don’t work well with larger gemstones, and you may have to opt for a smaller diamond. Some low-setting profile rings may also not be able to accommodate just any wedding band if you would like the engagement ring and wedding band to sit flush. Curved wedding bands may be necessary. Additionally, as alluded to, these rings don’t have the same wow factor as a high-set ring.
High- vs. Low-Set Engagement Ring: The Verdict
So, which is the perfect engagement ring? Whether you pick a low-set vs. high-set diamond engagement ring, it all comes down to your intended fiancé’s preferences and lifestyle.
So, which is the perfect engagement ring? Whether you pick a low set vs high set diamond engagement ring all comes down to your intended fiancé’s preferences and lifestyle. Both appeal to certain personal styles and both can be excellent choices. Likewise, there’s not necessarily a cut-and-dry difference between the two in terms of price.
Choose a High-Set Engagement Ring If:
Choose a high-set engagement ring if your fiancé prefers an eye-catching appearance and lots of shine and sparkle from a big, bold diamond over anything else.
Choose a Low-Set Engagement Ring If:
Choose a low-set engagement ring if you know that your fiancé will become frustrated with all the potential snagging and that they’re likely to damage a high-set engagement ring based on their lifestyle and habits.
Low-Set vs. High-Set Engagement Rings FAQs
What’s the difference between a high-set and low-set engagement ring?
A high-set engagement ring features a center stone that sits high above the finger, usually propped up by prongs. A low-set engagement ring features a center stone that sits closer to the finger.
How does a high setting impact a diamond’s appearance?
Due to the space between the diamond and the band and finger, a high setting can make a diamond appear larger and more radiant. It is the way to go if you want to purchase a smaller diamond but want a bigger diamond look.
What’s an example of a high diamond setting?
Most traditional engagement rings feature a high setting. The Tiffany setting, for example, is a high setting.
How do you take care of a high-setting diamond ring?
The main thing to remember about a high-setting diamond ring is that it is more susceptible to damage and snagging. As such, remove it before any activity and put your engagement ring on last as you get ready for the morning to avoid snagging it in your clothes and hair. You, likewise, don’t want to sleep wearing the ring.
Are high or low settings stronger?
A low setting is your most durable and strongest setting. Choose a bezel or other setting that keeps the diamond low against the band.
Whatever Your Perfect Engagement Ring, Protect It!
Whether you choose a beautiful high-set engagement ring or a more demure low-set engagement ring, be sure that this investment is protected from life’s little mishaps. Just imagine how losing the engagement ring, damaging it, or realizing it’s been stolen could put a damper on your recent engagement!
BriteCo is here to help with comprehensive specialty jewelry insurance that will protect you if any of the above happens—and in many other circumstances. Get your free quote today and see how affordable getting the peace of mind you need can be!
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Kashmir Sapphire Vs. Ceylon Sapphire
Breaking Up? You Might Need a Divorce Ring
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