Channel and prong settings are two popular options in engagement rings and wedding bands. Both of these ring settings have their own distinct features and properties. When choosing between the prong and channel settings, you have to know their distinct characteristics. The following are some of the important things you have to know about these two ring settings so that you can find out which suits you the best:
Channel Setting Offers Better Protection To The Stone
In a channel-set ring, the gemstones will be set between two metal strips that form a channel. The sides of the stones will be encased between these strips which can offer them better protection. So the diamonds are not exposed to hits and bumps which can reduce the risk of chipping and breaking. Additionally, you don’t have to worry about the stones going loose in the setting, as they will be arranged in a raw inside the channel, unlike a prong setting that holds each stone using small prongs.
The prongs might become loose over time thereby increasing the risk of losing the stones. But the probability of losing stones is very low with a channel setting.
Prong-Set Rings Are Easy To Clean
The space for dirt and grime to get trapped is low in a prong-set ring. Therefore, it can be easy for you to clean and maintain your ring.
On the other hand, channel-set rings are difficult to clean, as dirt can get trapped between the channels and in between the stones. Even though ultrasonic cleaners can clean your channel-set ring, they might cause the stones to become loose.
It is better to seek the help of a professional to clean your channel-set ring once in a while to maintain its beauty and sparkle.
Prongs Can Snag
As prongs are small claw-like structures, they can easily snag on things which can cause them to become loose or break thereby elevating the risk of losing your precious gemstones. Whether your rings have natural gemstones or lab grown diamonds, they can be very costly and have sentimental value. Hence, it is important to check your prongs often to ensure that they are not loose or broken.
Channel Setting Is Difficult To Resize
As the channel-set ring comes with stones surrounding the entire band, it can be difficult to resize. But if the channel covers only the top half of the ring, then it can be easily resized.
So make sure to consider the properties of both channel and prong setting to know which can be the right option for you.