What Is the Best Setting for Colombian Emeralds?

Colombian emeralds are prized around the world for their unique color and origin. As delicate gemstones, it’s important to protect them properly when setting them into jewelry. That’s why choosing the right setting not only enhances their beauty but also ensures durability and security.

Whether you’re designing an engagement ring, earrings, or a pendant, knowing the different types of settings is key to making your emerald stand out and stay intact for many years to come.

In this article, we’ll explain what a setting is, what types of settings exist, which ones work best for your Colombian emerald, and some tips to consider when designing your piece.

What Is a Setting in Jewelry?

A setting is the method by which a gemstone is secured onto a piece of jewelry, such as a ring, necklace, bracelet, or earrings. It’s an essential part of jewelry design and manufacturing, as it keeps the stone in place while allowing it to harmoniously complement the rest of the piece.

In the case of Colombian emeralds—which are more fragile than stones like diamonds or sapphires—a good setting helps prevent fractures or damage from impact. That’s why understanding the different types of settings and knowing which is best depending on the cut, size, and use of the jewelry is essential.

Common Setting Types for Colombian Emerald Jewelry

Here are some of the most commonly used setting types:

• Prong Setting: Holds the stone with small metal "claws." It’s the most common type and allows maximum light to pass through.

• Bezel Setting (Full Bezel): A metal band surrounds the entire stone, offering full protection.

• Invisible Setting: Stones are placed side by side with no visible metal. Often used in inlaid stone rings.

• Channel Setting: Stones are set inside a metal channel—ideal for rows of gems, such as bangles or band rings.

• Pavé Setting: Many small stones are set together with tiny metal beads. Great for large or ornate pieces.

• Pressure Setting: The stone is held in place by the pressure of the surrounding metal.

• Tension Setting: The stone appears suspended in the air, held only by the ends of the metal.

• Grain or Micro Pavé Setting: Often used in fine jewelry to precisely set very small stones.

Best Setting by Emerald Cut

The cut or shape of your emerald greatly influences the best setting option. Here are some examples:

• Deep Emerald (pronounced pavilion): Prong setting with a high gallery to accommodate the depth without sacrificing stability.

• Emerald Cut (rectangular): Prong setting (preferably 4 or 8 prongs) highlights the geometric shape, protects the corners, and allows light to enter.

• Oval or Round Emerald: Full bezel or channel setting, especially if paired with side diamonds.

• Pear-Shaped Emerald: Mixed prong setting with added protection for the tip. The pointed end should be carefully protected, as it's the most fragile part.

• Cabochon Emerald (non-faceted): Full bezel setting that fully embraces the stone to prevent it from coming loose.

10 Tips to Choose the Right Setting for Your Colombian Emerald

1. Define how the jewelry will be used:
   Will it be worn daily or only on special occasions?

   • For everyday use, a bezel setting is ideal as it offers maximum protection.

   • For special events, a prong setting may look more delicate and elegant.

2. Consider emerald hardness:
   Emeralds have natural inclusions that make them more fragile. Avoid settings that exert too much pressure on the stone if it has pronounced "gardens" (internal features).

3. Think about the stone's shape:
   The cut determines which setting allows it to shine best. Rectangular or square cuts suit prongs, while round or cabochon cuts work better with bezels.

4. Evaluate the emerald’s depth:
   If it has a deep pavilion, the setting must accommodate the emerald comfortably within the gallery.

5. Ensure the setting protects the edges:
   Especially important if the stone has sharp corners, like heart or pear shapes.

6. Consult an experienced jeweler:
   A jeweler who specializes in Colombian emeralds can advise you on the most secure setting for your stone.

7. Don’t sacrifice security for looks:
   While a tension setting might look spectacular, it’s not always the best choice for a delicate gem like emerald.

8. Choose the right metal:
   18K gold is an excellent option, offering a balance between durability and luxury.

9. Avoid overly open settings:
   The more exposed the stone, the more vulnerable it is to impact or falling out.

10. Make sure the setting is custom-made:
    Avoid using pre-made mountings. Each emerald is unique and requires a custom setting to fit perfectly.

Emerald By Love: The Ideal Setting for Your Emerald

At Emerald By Love, we understand that every Colombian emerald is unique. That’s why we offer personalized advice to help you choose the perfect setting according to your gemstone’s features and the jewelry style you envision.

Our expert team is ready to guide you through every step of the process, ensuring your piece not only looks spectacular but also protects and highlights your emerald’s natural beauty for a lifetime.

Paula A. Bonilla

Social communicator and journalist from Sergio Arboleda University in Colombia. Passionate about continually learning about gemstones and high-end national jewelry.

Currently works for one of Bogotá’s most renowned jewelers, Emerald by Love, a company with over 40 years of experience and two physical stores in Colombia’s capital, located downtown.