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The
Tension Set Ring
A tension set ring is perfect for those looking for a unique style of wedding ring, or a ring they can help to design. These rings have only been around since the 1990s, (the tension setting was originally developed in the 1960s but improved upon in the 1990s), and due to new styles they have become quite popular in recent years especially in the form of tension set diamond rings and tension set engagement rings. The only problem: tension set rings should be created using extremely strong metals and gemstones, and unfortunately there are many tension rings on the market that do not meet these standards. A tension ring uses the pressure of the metal band to hold a gemstone in place; no setting is required, and the gemstone seems to be poised in midair. When strong metals and gemstones are used to create these rings, 12,000 pounds of pressure per square inch, and sometimes more, is exerted on the gem. Tension Set Wedding Ring Pros: - These rings are custom made to fit the wearer's finger, and the buyer can choose their own style and gemstone.
- Quality tension set rings will last a lifetime without the need for repairs unlike most prong set rings.
- Gemstones in these settings are exposed to more light because they are not shadowed by prong settings, and so they seem to have more brilliance and fire (which is one reason why tension set diamond rings are becoming more popular).
- Tension rings can hold a carat size of approximately 0.10 carats to 8.0 carats.
Tension Set Wedding Ring Cons: - In most cases these rings cannot be resized. Some jewelers who specialize in tension set engagement rings and wedding rings offer resizing services if the rings are returned to them, but it is a time consuming and sometimes costly process.
- Due to their recent popularity, cheaper tension set wedding ring imitations are being sold which can become easily damaged.
- Smaller carat gemstones can look even smaller in a tension set style, although new technologies have led to thinner more delicate looking rings.
- Can the stone fall out of a tension ring? There has been reports of stones falling out of tension set rings, but these reports are sketchy. A quality tension band will only lose it's pressure on the stone if it comes under extreme pressure from an outside source. Cheap imitations may bend or lose their stability, and in these cases it is possible for the ring to lose it's stability and as a result the gemstone may become loose or fall out.
- Tension rings made with white gold alloyed with nickel can cause allergic reactions.
How do you know you are buying a quality tension set wedding ring? - The best tension rings are created out of extremely strong and durable metals such as titanium, platinum, and stainless steel.
- Other metals such as gold, or white gold, can bend or become scratched over time. White gold also usually requires rhodium plating which must be replaced every few years. White gold formed from yellow gold alloyed with palladium or platinum can hold up in a tension set ring though, so if you want to buy a gold tension ring always ask what the gold has been alloyed with, (just be aware that these rings will not be as strong as titanium, platinum, or stainless steel).
- A tension set wedding ring should only be made using extremely strong gemstones that have a Moh's scale hardness rating of 9.0 or higher. These gemstones include diamonds, diamond synthetics such as HTHP or CVD diamonds, rubies, sapphires, or the diamond simulant known as moissanite.
- Some tension set rings are created using gemstones with a Moh's scale hardness rating of 8.0 or above, these gemstones include spinel, topaz, cubic zirconia, and chrysoberyl. Buyers should be aware though that these rings are not as strong as those using harder gemstones, and cubic zirconia has a tendency to scratch and cloud overtime.
- Softer gemstones made in a tension ring can eventually scratch, crack, and possibly shatter.
- Quality tension set rings should come with a guarantee or warranty against loss or damage.
- The gemstone set in the ring should come with a complete grading report and certification.
The Best Buying Tip for Tension Set Rings: - Be a savvy shopper. While there are many lower quality tension rings on the market, don't be fooled by these cheaper imitations which can easily become scratched, lose their shape, and become damaged. Only buy rings which have been created out of strong metals and strong quality gemstones.
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I was excited to buy a GIA certified D,IF diamond with a platinum tension setting until I talked to one well-known jeweler in the Bay Area. I ...
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