Engagement Ring Basics

Though small and delicate, an engagement ring has many different components. If you are currently looking for a ring, you may find yourself coming across a number of terms you’ve never heard of. To make the design process easier, we’re here to help you familiarise yourself with some of these confusing terms.

Also referred to as the mount, this term relates to the entire metal part of the ring (excluding the stone). The setting can be plain or it can be set with gemstones.

Also referred to as prongs, claws are the pieces of precious metal which can be seen bent over the gemstone. These protect the gemstone whilst securing it in place by adding points of contact and a protective cover around the gemstone.

This is the main diamond or other gemstone such as moissanite or sapphire in the ring, held in place by the claws and its seat in the setting.

Side stones or accent stones are any other gemstones beside the centre stone. Side stones are used to enhance the beauty of the centre stone, maximising its brilliance and adding a unique flair to the ring’s design.

Some claw settings may feature gallery rails. These are extra pieces of metal set midway above the band and below the centre gemstone to reinforce the security of the centre gemstone.

Small diamonds set into the gallery rail, offering a subtle sparkle underneath the centre stone especially when viewed from the side.

A circle of small diamonds around the centre stone and visible from above, the halo setting enhances the beauty of any centre stone and also has the ability to make the stone look bigger.

This refers to the gentle slopes of precious metal that arches from the band to give support to the center stone, echoing cathedral architecture.

This term refers to the metal below the centre diamond that connects the setting to the band. The bridge holds the ring together.

Also known as the shank, this is the part of the ring that wraps around the finger and is sized to fit perfectly to the finger.

Small diamonds set closely with tiny claws, forming a continuous, paved sparkle along the band, usually 2/3 around the band.

On the inside of most wedding bands, you will find a small engraving or hallmark, denoting the type of precious metal used to create the setting.