It’s All About the Bezel
Jewelry trends come and go, and that’s especially true of engagement rings. You’ll always have the classics, but some styles fall in and out of favor. That’s certainly been true of the bezel setting, which has taken a backseat to prong settings for a while now. That’s all changing.
Bezels are quickly becoming one of the hottest trends of the whole year and making a comeback in a major way. If you’re a fan of mixing old-fashioned style with a modern twist, don’t miss out on the new bezel settings on the scene. Keep them in mind as you shop for engagement rings or the next piece in your collection.
What is a Bezel Setting?
If you’ve never heard of a bezel setting, it’s essentially a thin line of metal encircling the diamond. They’re typically circular, though not always. Think of it like a metal halo – there are no extra diamonds, but the function is similar. Milgrain edging lets bezels play into that “vintage look” that makes them unique.
1.59ct Round Diamond Wide Bezel Eternity Band
Bezels come in two main styles: full and partial. Full bezels fully encompass the stone in metal, whereas partial bezels only cover some of the stone.
Round Moissanite Bezel Set Engagement Ring
3.62 carat Emerald Cut Lab Diamond Half Bezel Ring
In addition to being lovely to look at, bezels are also strong and secure. They beat out prong settings in that regard. If you’re going to spend money on a diamond or gemstone, it should stay put. The last thing you want to do is have a loose setting that causes you to lose your stone. Bezel settings wrap around sharp edges and keep them in place. Even if you have an active, on-the-go lifestyle, this type of setting protects your stone.
Benefits of a Bezel Setting
Bezels have a lot of strengths, quite literally, and are worthy of the attention they’re drawing this year. If you’re considering a bezel engagement ring, familiarize yourself with all the benefits of your potential new ring.
Protective and Secure – Not only do bezels keep your stone protected and secure, they actually shield it from damage; if you drop your ring or otherwise damage it somehow, bezels take the brunt of it before the stone. They are also great at keeping your stone in place. Bezels don’t snag on clothes or other fabric, either, so your ring won’t be pulled or get stuck.
Vintage/Modern Duality – Bezels walk a fine line between looking sleek and modern while staying true to their vintage roots. This duality is something prongs or a basket setting won’t be able to match fully.
Lauren B Difference – the difference between a Lauren B bezel engagement ring and other jewelers is how we craft our bezel. In addition to the traditional bezel that might reduce light performance, we offer a unique bezel setting that allows for maximum sparkle with the addition of airlines on each side.
4.03 carat Asscher Cut Lab Diamond Bezel Set Engagement Ring
The History of the Bezel Setting
Bezel settings are quite possibly the oldest settings around. It has existed for practically as long as people have been making and wearing jewelry, so it’s stood the test of time in a major way. Archaeological evidence shows bezels used as far back as Ancient Egypt, the Roman Empire, and the Byzantine Empire. Suffice it to say, it’s been around a while but has come a long way since its primitive origins.
Bezel settings were popular throughout history, but the love for the bezel style reached its peak in the 1940s and 1950s. It continued in the background for decades afterward, partly overshadowed by prongs and other settings, but now it’s making a triumphant return once again.
Is This the Ring For You?
At once classic and modern, tried-and-true yet fresh and energized, bezel settings hit many of the right notes. The style deserves its hard-earned place in jewelry history, as well as its current resurgence in popularity. But is it right for you? If you live an active life, work hard, or just plan to wear your ring frequently, this setting is a wonderful choice. It’s incredibly protective, forgiving of inclusions and imperfections on your stone, and will help make it last.
As you choose your ring, think about your life and how everything fits together. If a bezel setting fits your needs, congratulations! You’re getting a ring with antique charm rolled up with a modern and sleek appeal. That’s hard to beat! Schedule an appointment with one of our dedicated design consultants to personalize your dream bezel ring. You can also check out our Instagram to see some of our bezels in action!
