What Is Bezel Jewelry?
Bezel jewelry refers to a style of jewelry where the gemstone is encased in a metal rim that surrounds it completely or partially. This differs from prong settings, where the gemstone is held in place by small metal claws that allow more of the stone to be exposed.
At its core, a bezel setting consists of a metal band that encircles the gemstone, holding it securely in place. The bezel typically comes in two main parts: the bezel wall (or bezel band) and the bezel edge (or bezel lip). The bezel wall is the part of the setting that actually surrounds the stone. It is usually made from precious metals like gold, platinum or silver. The wall is carefully shaped to match the size and contour of the gemstone, ensuring a snug and secure fit. The bezel edge is the lip or edge of the bezel that folds over the top of the gemstone, locking it into place. Depending on the design, this edge can either wrap over the entire circumference of the gemstone or just a portion of it.
Types of Bezel Settings
Full Bezel Setting
In a full bezel setting, the gemstone is completely surrounded by metal, offering maximum protection and a smooth, polished look. This is the most secure bezel setting, as the bezel’s walls shield the stone from potential scratches, chips or knocks, making it ideal for fragile gemstones like marquise and pear-shaped diamonds, or for those seeking extra security for their rings or other jewelry.
Half Bezel Setting
A half or partial bezel wraps around only part of the gemstone, leaving one or more sides exposed. This design creates a more open, airy feel while still offering some protection and allowing more light to enter the stone, enhancing its brilliance and sparkle.
Full Bezel Setting
Half Bezel Setting
Prong vs. Bezel Setting
While prong settings are a popular choice for many engagement rings and fine jewelry, bezel settings offer several distinct advantages. The metal encirclement of a bezel provides far more protection for the gemstone, making it less prone to damage from physical wear and tear. For those concerned about prongs catching on clothing or hair, a bezel setting offers a smooth, flush design that is much less likely to snag. Bezel settings are also considered more modern due to their sleek, understated design, especially in comparison to traditional prong settings.
Does a Bezel Setting Reduce Sparkle?
A bezel setting can slightly reduce a gemstone’s sparkle compared to other settings like prongs or halos because it covers more of the stone’s surface, limiting the amount of light that can enter from certain angles. However, the reduction in sparkle is generally minimal, and the tradeoff is often worth it for the added protection and secure fit. For diamonds and other gemstones with excellent brilliance, a well-crafted bezel can still allow plenty of light to pass through, maintaining much of the stone’s sparkle.
Is a Bezel Setting Pricier Than Other Settings?
A bezel setting can be more expensive than other settings because it requires more metal. While the initial price may be higher, many buyers consider it a worthwhile investment for its long-term resilience.
Bezel jewelry offers the perfect balance of form and function. Shop bezel jewelry from Borsheims online or in store today.
