The difference between channel settings and grain settings
There are two very popular setting styles for diamond wedding rings. Both channel settings and grain settings are strong favourites. Both setting styles suit diamond eternity rings and diamond wedding rings. There is a subtle yet noticeable difference between both setting styles.
The Channel setting
Channel set eternity rings (also used for wedding rings) feature edge-to-edge diamonds held within the walls of a channel. Round diamonds and square Princess cut diamonds are most popular in half and fully set designs.
The channel setting is popular because it gives a clean look to the ring. Channel settings are smooth an unlikely to catch or to snag on clothing. Channel set wedding rings and eternity rings can be made in any width across various profiles. Princess cut channel settings provide a seamless row of diamonds. By comparison, round diamonds will reveal small gaps between each diamond as part of the design.
The Grain setting
Grain settings have a similar appearance to channel set rings. Instead of being secured between the walls of a channel, small beads of metal hold diamonds in place. The beads of metal are often hard to detect with the eye, but clearly visible under 10x magnification.
Grain settings give a more textured appearance than channel settings. Running your finger across a grain set diamond wedding ring, there is a more textured feel due to the small grains of metal holding the diamonds.
Are grain settings or channel settings best for shaped wedding rings?
A shaped wedding ring can be created with a channel or with a grain setting. The choice is a personal preference. One of the deciding factors is usually which style most suits the engagement ring itself.
The following set of designs were created by our bespoke design process. On the left we see channel set shaped bands and grain settings on the right side.
Maintenance and repair – best settings for durability and long-term wear
It is very difficult to specify which style of setting is best for long-term wear. If we were to choose one style over the other, it would need to be grain settings. Grain set rings are more easily repaired and more forgiving when diamonds need to be replaced. Grain settings have also become very popular in recent times due to their Vintage style appearance. Between both styles, channel settings have a more contemporary feel between the two designs.
Need more guidance on channel or grain settings?
If you need more information or advice on either setting style, contact us at any time. We create many ring designs featured on our website and offer a complete bespoke design service to create the perfect straight or shaped wedding ring.
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.
