What is a Pavé Engagement Ring?

What is a Pavé Setting?

When shopping for engagement rings, you may come across the term "pavé" and wonder, what does pavé mean in jewelry? In French, "pavé" means "paved," and this setting style lives up to its name.

Pavé diamonds are small stones set closely together, creating a continuous glittering surface that resembles a cobblestone street. A pavé setting refers to the technique where these tiny diamonds are secured with minimal metal, often by prongs or beads, to create a dazzling effect.

A pavé engagement ring, then, features these small diamonds, typically along the band, to add extra sparkle and elegance to the piece.

Common Misconceptions about Pavé

A common misconception is that pavé diamonds are less secure due to their small size. While it's true that the smaller stones in a pavé band or setting might appear delicate, they are securely held in place.

Another misconception is that a pavé diamond ring can't be resized due to the delicate setting. Many jewelers can resize pavé engagement rings with proper care.

Lastly, some people believe that pavé settings are limited to traditional styles, but they can complement a wide variety of ring designs, from vintage to modern.

Advantages and Disadvantages of a Pavé Engagement Ring

One key advantage of a pavé engagement ring is the extra brilliance it provides. Pavé diamonds, although small, significantly increase the ring's overall sparkle, making pavé engagement rings popular for those seeking maximum shine. Additionally, pavé settings can give the illusion of a larger center stone, making the ring feel more luxurious without significantly increasing the cost.

Of course, there are also some downsides. The tiny diamonds in a pavé setting are more prone to loosening over time, especially with daily wear. So, do pavé diamonds fall out easily? Not necessarily, but the risk is higher compared to solitaire settings. Regular inspections by a jeweler can help prevent stone loss.

Do pavé diamonds sparkle more? Yes! The small, closely set stones catch light from every angle, enhancing the overall brilliance. However, this extra detail tends to come at a higher price. Pavé rings are often more expensive than plain bands, but not always.

In summary, pavé engagement rings offer an enchanting sparkle due to the closely set diamonds along the band, giving the entire ring a glittering appearance. While they may require more maintenance and can come at a higher cost, the visual impact is worth it for many. If you're seeking a luxurious look with extra brilliance, an engagement ring with a pavé band or a pavé wedding band may be the perfect choice!