Sancy a perfect design for larger diamonds
Why choose a 4 claw diamond engagement ring?
Many of the modern engagement ring designs that you will see in retail stores and online, favour the four claw setting style. Across many variations, the same simple design applies to most styles. Four claws or prongs rise towards the edge of your diamond – the result – a simple, uncluttered setting which shows off the diamond with the least amount of fuss. Today’s post takes you through some of the benefits to this exceptionally popular engagement ring style.
1. 4 Claw ring settings are simple
The claws of the engagement ring are functional. They are there to keep the diamond in place. Reducing the quantity of claws will reduce the security of the diamond. Four claw settings offer the least amount of ‘claw’ whilst still retaining the diamond, safely held within the setting.
The Elsa engagement ring, shown set with a large Purple Spinel
2. 4 claw settings compliment stone shape
Consider the square Princess cut diamond. If you choose a claw setting, how many claws will you expect there to be? Quite simply the shape of the diamond – having 4 corners, decides the amount of claws or prongs. Unless the diamond is bar-set or tension-set, most Princess cut diamond engagement rings feature four claw settings.
3. Simple 4 claw engagement rings allow light into the diamond
Four claw settings tend to be unrestricted and open – allowing light to freely pass into the diamond with little interruption. More light passes through the diamond, to refracted and reflected from the surface of the stone. This helps emphasise the brilliance of your diamond.
The Lila engagement ring shown with a 3 carat diamond
4. 4 claw ring mounts are versatile
Some four claw engagement rings are versatile, supporting more than one diamond shape. Four claw engagement rings with rounded claws lend themselves very well to accommodate round, cushion and princess cut diamonds.
5. Simple settings can be easier to clean
Without the complication of more claws, there is less metal surrounding the diamond in which dirt and grime can be caught up.
6. 4 claw settings are symmetrical
is an important aspect of engagement ring choice. The balance of four equally spaced claws lends to the overall symmetry of the ring. Symmetry is carried through most designs from the perfect faceting of the diamond, through to the layout and design of the finished ring. They eye favours balance and symmetry, which are aesthetically pleasing. Four claw settings remain popular for their simple beauty and basic symmetry.
The Faith engagement ring features a simple 4 claw setting with channel set diamond shoulders.
7. Uncluttered settings reveal the diamond
It’s all about the diamond, not the setting. Whilst many people focus on the setting, most of the value of a ring is spent on the diamond. Four claw engagement ring designs allow the wearer and observer to focus on the diamond with less attention drawn to the surrounding setting.
8. 4 claws give a modern appearance
Four claw settings are less traditional. 20 – 30 years diamonds were set – surrounded by at least six claws to secure the diamond. Six and eight claw settings are considered traditional and the modern four claw setting prevails.
9. 4 claw settings suit smaller diamonds
Set within six or eight claws, smaller diamond sizes below a quarter of a carat disappear – surrounded by far too much metal. Four fine claws balance beautifully, making an ideal choice for smaller diamond sizes used for petite engagement rings.
10. 4 claw settings are easier to secure after sizing
A lesser consideration for most people, but a point worth sharing. When an engagement ring is made smaller, the setting can open slightly. Following a size adjustment, the setting often requires tightening around the stone. Four claw engagement ring are far more tolerant to this work than other setting styles.
View our collection of four claw engagement ring styles online.
About Mark Johnson
My name is Mark and I'm founder at Serendipity Diamonds. By day you'll find me working in our showroom—in a variety of roles. My work (which I love) ranges from photographing jewellery, to writing blog posts and helping clients with my colleagues Drina, Emily and Debbie.
