GIA Diamond Setting Styles & Jewelry Design Flashcards

Which setting style holds a diamond using small metal claws or prongs that grip the girdle of the stone?

Answer: Prong setting

A prong setting uses metal claws (typically 4 or 6) to grip the diamond's girdle, maximizing light exposure.

A bezel setting encircles the diamond with a rim of metal primarily to achieve what benefit?

Answer: Protect the diamond's girdle and reduce the risk of chipping

The bezel setting's full metal rim protects the girdle and edges, making it ideal for active wearers.

In a channel setting, stones are secured by placing them in a groove between two parallel metal walls without any prongs between gems. What is a key advantage of this style?

Answer: The smooth surface protects stones from snagging on fabrics

Channel settings create a smooth, snag-free surface because there are no prongs or metal between the stones.

Which ring style features a wide metal band with the diamond set so its table is flush or nearly flush with the band surface?

Answer: Flush (burnish) setting

A flush or burnish setting recesses the diamond into the metal so it sits level with or just below the surface of the band.

A tension setting holds a diamond in place using the compressive force of the metal band itself. What is the primary concern a GIA-trained sales professional should communicate to customers?

Answer: Resizing is difficult and may require professional reassembly of the setting

Because tension settings rely on precise metal compression, resizing must be done by a specialist and can be complex.

Pavé settings are characterized by multiple small diamonds set closely together with minimal metal visible. What effect does this style create?

Answer: Creates a surface that appears to be paved or covered in diamonds

Pavé (from the French word for 'paved') creates a glittering carpet effect by setting many small diamonds closely together.