At First Glance They Look the Same, But Choosing Can Be Confusing! Types of Diamond Settings for Single Stone Necklaces*

Solitaire Diamond Necklace

A solitaire diamond necklace can be worn for everyday use as well as a chic accent for special occasions.

It’s the kind of jewelry that every adult woman should have at least one of ♡

(It's also popular as an engagement pendant instead of an engagement ring, right?)

For beginners in jewelry, a solitaire diamond necklace may seem like all the designs are “the same at every store,” even though there are differences in the quality of the diamond and the metal.

However.

Just like engagement rings, there are several ways to set a diamond in a necklace, and the setting can significantly change the overall vibe. So when it comes to choosing one, it can become surprisingly important, and preferences can vary quite a bit.

In this article, we will introduce the different types of diamond settings.

If you're looking for a solitaire diamond necklace, I’d be thrilled if you could take a look ♩

[Necklace] Type of Diamond Setting ① Bezel Setting

Bezel setting (written in kanji as 覆輪留め) involves encircling the diamond with K18 gold or platinum and securing it in place.

The thickness of the frame may differ depending on the brand, so it’s worth checking! *

Bezel setting is known as Bezel Setting in English, referring to a frame or bezel.

It's a classic design for solitaire diamond necklaces, making it easy to pair with casual clothes due to the presence of a frame.

Even with a plain white T-shirt, a single diamond sparkles elegantly amidst a casual outfit ♡

A famous example of a bezel setting necklace is Tiffany's Elsa Peretti's "Return to Tiffany" collection ♡

It’s a timeless pendant that can be used for a long time.

Cartier's Diamants Légers also features a bezel setting ♡

The Cartier version, with its double frame (appearing stacked), is also adorable.

It pairs beautifully with antique dresses and retro clothing ♩

For a more budget-friendly option than Tiffany and Cartier, ete also offers bezel setting necklaces.

Its design seems to create a clean neckline ♡

[Necklace] Type of Diamond Setting ② Prong Setting

Next, let's discuss the "prong setting," a method where the diamond is secured by being lifted with several prongs.

(This is the most standard setting for engagement rings ♡)

The number of prongs can subtly change the appearance, but designs with four or six prongs are common.

Fewer prongs allow more light to enter the diamond, while more prongs add stability.

(That said, having fewer prongs doesn't mean the diamond is at risk of falling out, as it doesn't affect the strength of the setting.*)

Here is a necklace with a [four-prong] setting.

The prongs are typically positioned at the 2 o'clock, 4 o'clock, 8 o'clock, and 10 o'clock positions, similar to a clock.

Tiffany’s famous solitaire necklace features a four-prong setting.

Having the minimum number of prongs can make the diamond appear larger.

By the way, I checked the price difference between bezel and prong settings using Tiffany's prices...

The bezel setter "Return to Tiffany" collection with 0.12 carats costs 161,700 yen.

A four-prong solitaire also costs 161,700 yen for the same 0.12 carats. It’s the same price! *

Here’s a necklace with a [six-prong] setting.

The six-prong setting embraces the round brilliant cut shape, which is said to make diamonds shine beautifully. *

(This is why many engagement rings feature six prongs.)

With prong settings, you can choose between:

👆 The type shown in the top photo, which has a ring on top where the chain passes through.

👇 The type in the bottom photo, where the chain connects from the 2 o'clock and 10 o'clock positions in a dual suspension style.

Which one do you prefer???

Beyond Four and Six Prongs...

While prong settings typically come in even numbers (four or six being common), it's not impossible to have different quantities.

For example, here is an eight-prong setting* (on the right side, an ahkah pendant).

The many small prongs create a cute appearance ♡

Here’s a necklace with a five-prong setting.

It carries a slightly star-like image ♡

Although rare, I found instances where people had custom-made three-prong necklaces.

(The prongs were set at the 12 o'clock, 4 o'clock, and 8 o'clock positions.)

Pay attention to the diamond settings too ♡

A solitaire diamond necklace is a piece of jewelry that you want to cherish and wear for a lifetime.

You may first notice the size and quality of the diamond and the color of the metal, but because there are similar designs, it’s important to see the subtle differences and choose what you love.

If you’re considering acquiring a solitaire diamond necklace, please pay attention to the type of diamond setting as well! ♡

Bezel and prong settings (four-prong and six-prong) are the standard options. *

➡ A Collection of Solitaire Diamond Necklaces under 10,000 yen

➡ Recommended Iconic Jewelry from Three Famous Foreign Brands for Choosing Engagement Necklaces

➡ Comprehensive Guide to Diamond Settings for Center Diamonds in Engagement Rings