Types of Prongs for Your Engagement Ring
Welcome to The Clear Cut Classroom, where we take deep dives into all things diamonds and jewelry! If you're invested in your diamond design journey, don't forget the prongs! Here is our crash course on prong styles for setting your diamond engagement ring.
Many prong styles exist and suit different diamond shapes better than others. We have four popular prong styles such as: claw prongs, double claw prongs, ball prongs and tab prongs. Prongs are the pieces of metal that hold your diamond in place on your band. So, what are the differences? Let's discuss!
Claw Prongs
Claw prongs are the most common prong style and for good reason! This style blends seamlessly with any diamond and accentuates its shape. Platinum prongs are the best as they reflect more white into the diamond rather than yellow gold prongs, making the diamond appear more yellow. For most diamond shapes, 4 prongs are the best to have. They can be set on your diamond's 4 corners or with a compass setting with prongs on each north, south, east and west point. Compass prongs are better for diamond shapes that don't have corners like a round brilliant!
1.05ct Oval Cut with Single Claw Prongs
Double Claw Prong
Double claw prongs are simply two prongs next to each other, just like a regular claw prong style. These resemble talons and are an option for stylistic purposes. The luxurious style house of Harry Winston features double claw prongs in many of their designs, being their signature prong choice. If you choose double claw prongs, they can be set on the 4 corners or compass as well!
1.30ct Emerald Cut Diamond with Double Claw Prongs
Ball Prongs
Ball prongs are another choice that features small points of metal that resemble a ball for your prongs. They appear more prominent and visible around the diamond. On a round brilliant diamond, you can go either 4-way or 6-way ball prong setting. 4 prong style squares off the shape, whereas 6 prong style accentuates a rounded silhouette.
6 Ball Prong Style on an 0.80ct Old Euro Diamond
Tab Prongs
Tab prongs are another option for your prong style. These prongs pair beautifully with emerald cuts and Asscher cuts, creating a vintage, art-deco appeal. Overall, we recommend this style for more geometric shapes if that is what you want to accentuate in your diamond!
1.07ct Cushion Brilliant Diamond with Tab Prongs
That's our deep dive into prong styles! Hope this helps you solidify your choice on which prongs you'll pick for your diamond engagement ring!
Are you ready to book your call with a gemologist at The Clear Cut? Start here!
Class is dismissed!