If you are unused to diamond sizes, you may think that a three-carat diamond will be a relatively small stone, and thus, can be set in any mounting that you desire. While 3 carats is just over half a gram (0.6g, to be precise) – which, admittedly is small by most measures – as far as diamonds go, it is actually a very decent size for a gemstone. Let us take a look at some of the features you should take into account when choosing a setting for your 3-carat diamond.
Light vs Security
With almost every diamond setting, you will find that there is going to be a battle between light and security. Your diamond’s sparkle comes from the light that is allowed to penetrate the diamond from all sides, which is then bounced around – refracted, reflected and chaneled inside the stone – before being allowed to escape through the table (or top face) of the stone. Therefore, a setting which allows a lot of light into the stone will help it to sparkle even more brilliantly – but such settings can have only the lightest hold on your diamond, increasing the risk of it coming loose, and perhaps getting lost.
Claws vs Bezel
Claws are perhaps the setting which allows the most light to flood around a diamond, and they are usually in groups of four, six, or eight claws. The lower the number of claws, the more light flooding into the diamond – and the more risky the setting is. A bezel setting is almost the opposite of a claw mounting. Bezels form a smooth lip over the diamond’s girdle (the widest point) holding it in place almost immovably and keeping it safe from accidental loosening. However, bezel mounts, by their very nature do not allow a great deal of light into the stone.
Cathedral and Split-Shank Settings
Two of the more distinctive settings for diamond engagement rings, both of which would suit a stone such as a Whiteflash 3 carat diamond, cathedral settings and split-shank settings are both reasonably secure, and also offer a good influx of light from external sources.
This is because the cathedral setting holds the stone firmly – using bezel or claw settings – in a cradle of the same metal from which the ring’s band is made. Cathedral set diamonds stand proud of the band, which allows for plenty of light to go in, even as the setting grips onto the diamond’s face.
Split-shank settings have the ring dividing into two as it curves around to the central stone, and rearing up for form sturdy bezelled claws that hold the diamond in such a way that it cannot come loose or get lost. This setting also offers some protection to the stone, as the ‘claw’ tops curve over the stone, providing a measure of protection from damage.
So which is the best setting for your carefully chosen diamond? Obviously, it will depend on your personal taste. But if you are looking for a good-looking vehicle for your diamond, that will draw every envious eye and make your already large stone look even bigger and better, why not consider a bezeled cathedral-mounted engagement ring?