What are tension set engagement rings?
Tension set engagement rings rely on enormous tension from the ring’s setting to hold the diamond securely in place. Diamonds suit tension settings owing to their hardness and durability. Most tension settings feature a solid one-part ring design.
Tension settings use the tensile strength of precious metal to retain diamonds or gemstones. Many designs draw inspiration from tensile design works used in building and architecture.
A structure that is characterized by a tensioning of the fabric or pliable material system (typically with wire or cable) to provide the critical structural support to the structure.
Unity makes an impressive engagement ring to showcase a diamond within the tension setting.
Tension settings for round diamonds
The Annabelle engagement ring provides a simple tension set design for round diamonds. Available in many size options, the ring holds a classic round brilliant cut diamond. In addition, we make this same ring in 100% ethical Fairtrade Gold.
The Pro’s and Con’s of tension settings
There are pro’s and con’s when it comes to a tension setting. Firstly, they look amazing. Very simple, open and very modern. Many styles strip all fuss from an engagement ring. The diamond becomes the focus of a tension set diamond engagement ring.
Minimalist settings lack the security provided by traditional claw settings. For this reason, tension set diamond rings need a little care. To explain, exposed diamonds carry a greater risk of damage. In addition, tension settings risk damage from knocks and bangs. Especially true for tension set engagement rings with large diamonds.
The Unique diamond engagement ring—our best-selling tension set engagement ring.
Suitable coloured gemstones for tension settings
If you love a little colour, why not choose a Ruby or Sapphire. Both offer a hard gemstone close to diamond on the Mohs scale of hardness.
Bespoke tension set engagement ring set with a blue sapphire.
Unique tension-set engagement rings
Some tension set engagement rings offer a unique look compared with traditional rings. The Orion ring shown above features a part-bezel setting. The round brilliant cut diamond sits into the setting. On the opposite side, the exposed edge of the diamond features a small claw. The claw provides the tension required to hold the diamond in place.
Tension set Princess cut diamond engagement rings
Princess cut tension set engagement rings offer a clean look. To explain, the straight edges of a Princess cut align with straight setting edges. For example, the Alexa ring design shows one of our popular ring designs.
Almost all of our tension set diamond engagement rings present a unique minimalist look.
View the Alexa ring design within our engagement ring collection
Oval tension set diamond engagement rings
One of our most popular oval solitaire designs features an oval cut diamond. The Ursula engagement ring makes a great addition to our tension settings. In addition, the Serenity engagement ring features a bypass ring design.
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.
