The Complete Guide To Tension Set Engagement Rings

When you're planning to propose, you need to be ready to deep dive into the wonderful but complicated world of engagement rings. The first thing to say is congratulations, and the second thing to say is we're here to help shed some light on the ring-buying process - more specifically, arm you with important information that will help you on your quest to find the perfect ring for your intended. 

There is a massive range of engagement ring styles and to the jewelry novice, the multitude of terms used to describe the various elements of a ring will be overwhelming. You set out to buy a beautiful diamond ring and you won't be the first to be confused when confronted with words like bezel setting, cluster setting, double halo, or pavé diamonds.

We can't do an encyclopedic write-up of all the features of a ring you may want to consider so for this piece, we are going to concentrate on one aspect. 

When it comes to diamond engagement rings, most people are looking for the biggest bang for their buck, The bigger the center diamond, the better. Engagement ring designs that create the illusion of a bigger stone are always in demand, hence the rise in popularity of tension set rings. 

Here is a comprehensive guide to tension set rings, why they are considered to be at the forefront of modern engagement ring settings, and why they are an increasingly popular choice. 

What Is A Tension Set Engagement Ring?

All stones in rings need a secure setting. Traditionally, diamonds have been held in place by designs like the prong setting which is where the edges of the stones are gripped by a claw, a bezel setting where the stone has a rim or wrap of the same precious metal as the ring band or the channel setting where the stone or stones sit between borders of metal, rather like being in a ditch. These are the three main types but there are also cathedral settings, bar settings, flush settings, and more. 

Unlike any other setting, the tension setting uses compression to hold the diamond in place. The two ends of the metal band effectively squeeze the stone with the pressure providing a secure hold.

It gives a futuristic look because the diamond appears to be suspended in midair or floating between two pieces of metal.  The tension setting also enables the diamond to be in full view giving the illusion of a bigger stone than any of the classic engagement ring settings which by nature will always obscure some of the diamond. 

The Pros Of Tension Set Engagement Rings

Unique Design

Tension set rings are considered to be unique and very "now". Their contemporary style makes them an appealing and attractive choice for anyone who is looking for a style of engagement ring that is a little bit different and more modern than the norm. Tension set rings are not yet such a popular engagement ring style and still feel a little bit special.

A Secure Hold

When they are properly crafted and fitted, tension set rings provide a safe and secure hold for your central diamond. Although the setting may look fragile, It takes a great deal of force to loosen a tension-set stone. 

This gives you peace of mind that you are minimizing the risk of the stone coming loose or falling out at any point, no matter what diamond shape you have chosen or whether or not your ring has a larger diamond. With a tension setting, you can be confident that your ring's central stone isn't going anywhere!

It Showcases The Beautiful Diamond

Because there is minimal metal contact holding the central stone in place, the diamond is almost perfectly visible. All those characteristics we love about diamonds are on show.

There is maximum light intake so scintillation and brilliance are as good as the diamond cutter's skill intends them to be. If you want to shine and true fire, a tension-set engagement ring will deliver lots of sparkle with this type of setting.

If you are going to spend lots of money on a brilliant stone, then it deserves a distinctive style of setting that doesn't confuse the design with unnecessary additional details.

The Cons Of Tension Set Engagement Rings

Limited Design

It seems a strange statement to say that something that is considered cutting edge is limited but it is, however only in one aspect. 

Because it is the tension that holds the diamond in place, the tension-set ring is, currently, only suitable for solitaire diamonds. It rules out popular styles in modern rings such as the halo setting, cluster setting, and three-stone rings. 

If you want additional diamonds, you'll be limited to embellishments of pavé diamonds on the shanks and band. Although you might find an exceptional ring that has an additional diamond to the solitaire setting.

It is rather unfair to class limited design as a disadvantage of tension rings because jewelry designers are fantastically creative and just a look at any collection will show how they can make very distinctive, interesting, and eye-catching designs that do not need lots of stones for impact. 

There may be just one type of setting but you will find tension set rings of a huge variety. 

Solitaire rings are made with popular shapes of stones including emerald-cut diamonds,  marquise-cut diamonds, and cushion-cut diamonds. 

Plus, if you want to talk about exciting elements of modern ring design, wonderfully interesting things are being done with the bands of tension-set diamond engagement rings. You'll find twisted band rings,  double band rings, braided band rings, and split shank rings. 

It doesn't end there. Tension set rings also come in the spectrum of precious metals - white gold, yellow gold, rose gold and you can even find black gold engagement rings.  

So, what might seem a con, when examined more closely, it's no hindrance to finding a spectacular ring to suit anyone's style.  

Risk Of Damage

Something to be slightly wary of is the fact that the continued pressure that is exerted on a diamond center stone or colored gemstone in the tension set style could lead to some permanent damage over time.

This is particularly the case if the ring is going to be subjected to high levels of impact and wear on an everyday basis. You might want to consider the level of activity in your partner's lifestyle before you decide whether or not this is the perfect setting style for them.

There Are Re-Sizing Limitations

The facts are that tension setting rings are not able to be resized very easily, as the nature of the design means that the precise levels of tension needed to hold the diamond in place are very much determined by the specific dimensions at the time the ring is created.

Things like finger sizes and carat sizes have more influence in a tension set ring simply because it is incredibly difficult, if not impossible to resize it.

If you have decided on a tension style ring, having your intended fiancé's exact ring size is a must, most especially if you are buying online or without them present to try the ring on.

Maintenance And Repair Costs

If a tension set ring gets damaged, repairs can be more costly and complex compared to other traditional settings. They require the use of some more specialized equipment and expertise to properly maintain or regain the tension of the ring.

With proper care, however, there is no reason that a tension set ring should give any more problems than any other vintage style setting.

Where To Find Tension Set Engagement Rings

Now that you have all of the most important information on tension set rings, the next thing to do is find a jeweler with a wide range of options for you to browse.

Danhov is proud to present the Voltaggio collection. The tension-set engagement rings in this showcase the entire spectrum of different shapes, sizes, and styles. We are more than confident that you will find something that you will love, and we are sure that you will end up purchasing the perfect engagement ring to make your proposal go off without a single hitch. Good luck!