When choosing an engagement ring, most people focus on the gemstone, metal, setting, and cut, but often overlook one particularly important factor—the setting profile. What’s an engagement ring’s setting profile? It can generally be divided into two types—low setting and high setting. These two profiles affect not only the appearance of the ring but also its comfort and durability. Moreover, they influence the choice and matching of a wedding band later on! Below, we’ll introduce the differences between low and high setting engagement rings, their pros and cons, etc. to help you make a better choice!
To better understand what follows, let’s start with a brief overview of the parts of engagement rings covered later in the content and their corresponding terms. Let’s take the most common solitaire prong-set ring as an example:
Table Of Contents
- What Is a Low Setting Engagement Ring?
- Pros & Cons of Low Setting Engagement Rings
- What Is a High Setting Engagement Ring?
- Pros & Cons of High Setting Engagement Rings
- Low vs. High Setting Engagement Ring, What’s the Difference?
- Low vs. High Setting Engagement Ring, Which Right for You?
- High & Low Setting Engagement Rings: Best Setting Style
What Is a Low Setting Engagement Ring?
A low setting engagement ring is one in which the gemstone is set low in relation to the outer edge of the band. So, how do we determine what’s considered “low”? From the side, the gemstone’s culet is close to or nearly touching the band’s inner edge. The gemstone whole does not rise too much above the ring band, making the ring more flattering to the finger.
Pros & Cons of Low Setting Engagement Rings
Pros:
- Gemstone closer to the finger, the overall design is smoother and more compact, making it more comfortable to wear.
- Increased practicality. The smoother design is less likely to snag on clothes or other objects during everyday wear.
- Greater durability. A low setting can better protect the gemstone from impact and damage.
- Simple and understated design, ideal for those who use their hands frequently in daily life or work.
- Suitable for small-carat gemstones. The low setting design makes the gemstone look more harmonious and compact.
Cons:
- The gemstone may look smaller. Besides being partially obscured by the basket/claw, the band may also cover part of the gemstone, reducing its visible surface area.
- Less brilliance. A low setting allows less light to interact with the gemstone, making it less sparkly than a high-profile ring.
- It is more challenging to pair with wedding bands. The design often spreads the band/shank outwards near the gemstone, making it difficult to wear flush with a straight wedding band. If you want to create a flush effect, you need to choose a contoured or curved wedding band.
What Is a High Setting Engagement Ring?
A high setting engagement ring, as the name implies, is one in which the gemstone is set higher above the band, with the base of the gemstone culet significantly higher than the band.
Pros & Cons of High Setting Engagement Rings
Pros:
- Greater visual impact. The higher setting allows more light to enter the gemstone from different angles, enhancing its brilliance.
- The gemstone looks bigger. The gemstone is raised above the band, making it more visible. And the intense sparkle and fire create a visual effect that makes the stone look bigger.
- Easier to pair with wedding bands. High setting engagement rings can be adapted to fit more styles of wedding bands with more options.
- A high setting ring often looks more luxurious and is an attention-grabber.
- Ideal for larger gemstones, as the setting showcases their shape and sparkle.
Cons:
- Prone to snagging on clothes or other objects. Since the gemstone sits much higher above the finger, it’s more likely to catch on things. Especially with a high & prong setting.
- More susceptible to damage due to its prominence.
- May not suit individuals with smaller hands or those who prefer a minimalist style.
- Larger gemstones in high settings may shift or feel unstable when worn.
Low Setting vs. High Setting Engagement Ring, What’s the Difference?
In summary, the main difference between low and high setting engagement rings is the height at which the gemstone is set, leading to different visual effects and experiences. Let’s use the table to briefly compare these two setting profiles:
Type | Low Setting Engagement Ring | High Setting Engagement Ring |
---|---|---|
Image | ||
Gemstone Hight | Low | High |
Style | Simple and understated | Luxurious and bold |
Wearing Comfort | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
Durability | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
Visual Impact / Brilliance | ⭐⭐⭐⭐ | ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐ |
Low Setting vs. High Setting Engagement Ring, Which Looks Bigger?
A high setting engagement ring tends to look bigger due to its elevated structure. And, the higher setting allows more light to pass through the gemstone, enhancing its sparkle and giving the appearance of a larger stone.
There are many more ways to make an engagement ring look bigger, check out our How to Make Your Engagement Ring Look Bigger? to learn more!
Low Setting vs. High Setting Engagement Ring, Which Right for You?
The answer is… it’s entirely up to you! Whether a low or high setting engagement ring is better depends on your personal preferences and lifestyle. If you’re still unsure, you can follow the tips below!
Who should choose a low setting engagement ring?
- You prefer a subtle and modern design where the gemstone isn’t too prominent.
- You want a ring that’s comfortable for everyday wear, whether at work or during daily activities.
- You frequently use your hands for tasks such as outdoor activities, cooking, or crafting.
- You’re concerned about the durability of the gemstone and want it well-protected from damage.
- You have shorter fingers, and a low setting ring can make them appear longer and more balanced.
Who should choose a high setting engagement ring?
- You want your ring to be the center of attention, with the gemstone’s sparkle being your top priority.
- You often wear your ring at formal events and want it to stand out, reflecting luxury and elegance.
- You don’t mind being more careful during daily wear to avoid damaging the gemstone.
Both low setting and high setting engagement rings have their unique beauty and practicality. Low setting rings focus on comfort and durability, perfect for active, understated wearers. High setting rings are more glamorous and eye-catching, ideal for making a statement in special settings. Ultimately, the choice depends on your personal style and lifestyle. Choosing the right engagement ring is not just a beautiful experience but also a meaningful form of self-expression.
Best Setting Styles for High Setting Engagement Rings
- Prong Setting: The prong setting is the most traditional and popular. Versatile for various gemstone shapes and sizes, and can easily “lift” the gemstone, is an excellent choice for high settings! There are many types of claws, including 4,6,8, round, pointed claws, and others. They are suitable for a variety of designs.
- Cathedral Setting: The band/shoulder extends upwards, forming an arch that supports the gemstone, enhancing both the visual impact and stability of the ring.
- Trellis Setting: A variation of the prong setting, where the prongs intersect below the gemstone, creating a graceful and strong “trellis” structure.
Best Setting Styles for Low Setting Engagement Rings
- Bezel Setting: This is the most common way to set a ring in a low setting. A metal rim wraps around the edge of the gemstone, providing excellent protection. With a low setting, the band looks extremely natural with its connection to the outer metal used in the wrap setting.
- Cluster Setting: Multiple small stones are arranged to create the appearance of a larger, more ornate centerpiece.
- Tension Setting: The gemstone appears suspended between the band, held in place by the ring’s tension, offering a modern look while keeping the stone low-set and secure.
- V-Prong Setting: Designed for gemstones with pointed edges like pear or marquise cuts, the V-shaped prongs offer extra protection while keeping the stone low and secure.
What are you waiting for? Contact us today to create a one-of-a-kind engagement ring just for you!