It's one of the oldest jewellery setting techniques on record, with examples found from as far back as Ancient Egyptian times, and there's a reason bezel set jewellery is still popular today. This gorgeous stone setting has a unique style that sets it apart and offers a long list of benefits, from stone security to size illusion. We love using this technique when creating engagement rings, and over the years, we have found that our customers are just as charmed by these pieces as we are!
We'll explore bezel setting rings more in this post, along with their wonderful benefits and the questions we're frequently asked about this unique setting style.
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What is a bezel setting?
A bezel setting is a type of jewellery setting where a stone is secured to a ring by a metal circle surrounding the stone, rather than by prongs, bars, or other attachments. Often spoken about in the context of rings, this setting is also known as a rub-over ring, due to the 'rubbing over' style of the metal around the outer edge of the stone. A bezel setting offers a very sleek and smooth look; some think they look modern and contemporary, while others praise them for their vintage effect, showing how versatile this gorgeous ring setting can be, depending on the wearer's style.
The benefits of a bezel engagement ring
This ring setting style is incredibly popular for its long list of benefits.
Safe, secure, and snag-free
The bezel setting is known as one of the most secure settings for your stone, offering the highest level of security thanks to the band of metal surrounding the stone and holding it in place. This snag-free design makes it more secure than prong settings, making it perfect for those with more hands-on careers, parents, and those with an active lifestyle. A bezel engagement ring is great for general everyday wear, too, as you won't need to worry about it catching on textiles or surfaces.
Perfect for fragile stones
Bezel settings are ideal for precious stones that are more fragile, such as emeralds and opals. The secure rim of metal that covers the edges of the stone acts as an extra layer of protection against any dings that could otherwise damage, chip, or even break a delicate stone's surface.
Simple cleaning
Thanks to the enclosed nature of this setting, bezel rings are incredibly easy to clean. A simple wipe or a very gentle scrub with a soft-bristle toothbrush and warm, mildly soapy water, and your ring will sparkle like new. The fully encapsulated setting means no tiny nooks and crannies that you can't reach to clean. To learn more about cleaning your special jewellery and what products and techniques to use, take a look at our helpful jewellery cleaning guide.
Size illusion
A bezel setting can make diamonds and other precious stones look bigger. This is done in two ways:
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By matching the metal to the stone colour, you can create the illusion of a bigger stone, such as platinum or white gold with a diamond or clear stone, or yellow gold with topaz or other yellow-toned gemstones.
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A thick metal edge can make the stone appear larger, as the metal adds to its dimensions.
Some people love big, statement stone engagement rings, and a bezel setting is a perfect way to achieve that look without the need to pay more for a larger stone.
Low setting
Bezel settings have the option of a much lower profile than other engagement rings. This is a huge benefit to those looking for a more flush-to-the-finger style, or those with an active lifestyle, kids to look after, and hands-on tasks at work.
Versatile
Because a bezel setting only requires a rim of metal formed to the outer edge of the stone, it can be done for any stone shape or cut. From elegant pear cuts to minimalist emerald cuts, bezel settings can be adapted to fit, giving you a wider array of choices for your engagement ring. Many ask what the best stone shape is for a bezel setting, but its wonderful versatility means a bezel setting can work for every cut.
Is a bezel set engagement ring more expensive?
The answer to this question is fairly complex! As with all engagement rings, the price depends on the size, stone, cut, shape, brand, and other finer details. But, if we were to compare a pear-cut sapphire solitaire ring in a bezel setting and the same with a prong setting, the bezel would generally be slightly more expensive. This is because of the extra material used to surround the stone. However, bezel engagement ring owners say that the higher price tag is an investment in security, as the bezel setting offers safety from its snagless design.
Instead of paying later for lost precious stones or repairs, a bezel set is far more likely to hold the stone securely in place. Many are more than happy to pay that little bit extra for this kind of assurance.
Overall, bezel set rings are no more expensive generally than other setting styles. Our own handmade bezel engagement rings fall into the same pricing range as our other rings, ensuring you're able to choose from all of our beautiful pieces with the same budget.
What is the difference between a flush set and a bezel set?
Often a little mixed up while exploring engagement ring setting options, the flush set and bezel set have a very distinctive difference. While both feature a stone or stones typically covered on all sides, a flush setting means the stone sits totally flush with the band. If you ran your finger over the surface of the ring, you'd only feel the lightest texture of the stone's surface, as the rest of it would sit within the band material. Bezel rings, however, have a protruding stone, with a band of metal all around its edge.
Can a stone fall out of a bezel setting?
Though incredibly unlikely, it is technically possible for a gemstone to fall out of a bezel setting, but it would take a lot to make this happen. Known to be one of the most secure settings, stones will only fall out if the metal around the outside becomes quite heavily damaged, loosening the stone. Bezel engagement rings are often thought of as the everyday wear ring, so the force to damage the metal in a way that could lose the stone would have to be significant.
If the bezel ring has been made poorly, such as the bezel height being too short, then the ring may be more susceptible to breakage. Here at Wild Fawn, our highly experienced goldsmiths create each bezel engagement ring with care and precision, only delivering the final piece once it's truly perfect.
Design your own bespoke bezel set engagement ring
If you're interested in creating a bezel engagement ring that is truly yours, consider our bespoke engagement ring service. We'll explore your tastes and preferences with you, then design and handmake a stunning piece of jewellery that tells your personal love story.
To discover what we're capable of, don't hesitate to get in touch to arrange a bespoke jewellery consultation, either over video call or in our London studio. We can't wait to create your dream bezel engagement ring.
Visit our engagement ring style guide to learn more about different settings, styles and types of engagement rings.
