Everything You Need to Know About Bezel Settings

Sophisticated and sturdy, the bezel setting is the MVP of engagement rings. You might be considering one because you like the aesthetic, or you might have discovered the bezel setting because of its functionality. In either case, it's a beautiful style that's worth getting to know.

Types of Bezel Settings

In a full bezel setting, a center stone is set flush within a thin metal rim. Metal completely surrounds the stone, creating a secure hold.

With a partial bezel setting, the center diamond is only partly covered on the sides by metal. This makes more of the stone visible.

Is a Bezel Setting Good? Advantages of this Setting

Let's be real for a minute: would a celebrity like Cameron Diaz wear an engagement ring style that didn't have some major perks? We didn't think so. Bezel settings don't get nearly the attention they deserve, but there's a lot going on with this modern setting style that you'll love.

FIRST AND FOREMOST, THEY'RE SECURE

Bezel settings have a big advantage: security. The bezel setting is an excellent option for those who have active jobs or lifestyles and whose hands see a lot of contact during the day, raising the risk that a stone could be dislodged. For example, doctors, nurses and athletes often shop for hardier engagement ring settings. (Check out our beautiful selection of Engagement Rings for Doctors here.) In a bezel setting, the diamond is largely enclosed and firmly secured to the band, decreasing the chance it will be loosened or lost (or damaged).

THEY CAN ACTUALLY HELP YOU SAVE MONEY ON A STONE

Another benefit of bezel settings is that they easily hide inclusions in the sides of the diamond. This could enable you to save money on the stone — allowing you to prioritize a pricier band, or a bigger reception, or any of the thousand other bills you're dealing with right now — or to choose a slightly lower-grade stone that is larger than your budget would otherwise allow.

THEY TEND TO BE EASIER TO KEEP CLEAN

Many diamond engagement rings have settings chock full of detail, making it harder to keep clean (and you have to keep it clean if you're in the medical profession). So, usually, your choice is to either go ringless during the day, or invest in one of those simple silicon rings. Or, you can get a bezel setting. Because metal encases the entire stone in a secure but stylish embrace, you can count on it for added protection against snags — and the simple design makes it easier to keep clean, too.

YOU WON'T SEE IT ON EVERYONE ELSE

The bezel setting also has a unique look. Cool and sleek, it's also somewhat retro, so if your partner is a fan of vintage styles like Art Deco or Victorian, it could be a perfect match. Typically, bezel settings are seen with a princess or round-cut diamonds, but your options are wide. The style is truly versatile and can read as modern or vintage, depending on the specific design.

Things to Keep in Mind

Bezel settings — like all diamond engagement rings — have their drawbacks, too.

One of the biggest downers of a bezel setting is that it can make your center diamond look smaller than it is (since it's completely encased along the edges in a metal sheath). So, it might not be ideal for you if having a large diamond is a priority.

A bezel setting can be slightly bulkier than traditional prong settings, although it's worth noting the metal wrapped around your diamond isn't thick. But it’s never a bad idea to use our free home preview program to feel the weight of the ring and see if you like that on your hand before you make your final choice.

One note on cleaning: While a bezel setting typically has fewer nooks and crannies than other engagement ring settings, it can be difficult to clean if dirt works its way between the metal and the diamond. If you do decide on a bezel setting, just know you'll have to stay vigilant so the dirt doesn't build up and dull the shine of your diamond (but a soft bristle toothbrush should be able to take care of that).

Bezel Settings on Accent Diamonds

Bezel settings aren't just seen on the center stone. Accent diamonds can also be showcased in a bezel setting, allowing for some truly distinctive ring designs. It's a terrific option to increase sparkle in a secure setting, or simply because you like the look: Check out our Under Bezeled Engagement Ring or Diamond Leaf Engagement Ring for two examples of this distinctive style.

Cleaning and Caring for your Bezel Setting

One consideration to keep in mind with bezel settings is maintenance: Dirt can get between the metal and your diamond, or under the bezel setting, which can be hard to clean. You can clean your ring in warm, soapy water (gentle soap) and can use a soft-bristled toothbrush to help, or opt for a periodic professional cleaning to keep your ring beautiful through the years.