Channel Set Engagement Rings

What to consider when buying a Channel engagement ring?

When buying a Channel engagement ring you should consider many different things. Below are some key points:

• Gemstone
• Metal
• Setting
• Shank Style

1. Gemstone

   When buying a Channel set engagement ring, the gemstones or diamonds are one of the most important considerations for your Channel style. What sort of gemstone you choose for your Channel style is important, whether you want a diamond, sapphire, ruby, or other gemstones. After choosing a stone, it’s important to look at the 4 C’s: Cut, Colour, Clarity, and Carat weight. The sizes of the diamonds and/or gemstones, whether it’s 0.5 carat, 0.75 carat, 1 carat, 1.5 carat, or 2 carat Channel engagement ring, will affect the design. Your budget is the key to helping make a decision for centre stone size and quality. Another consideration is the shapes of your centre stones. Round, oval, princess, Asscher, emerald, and pear cut centre stones are popular options for the Channel style.

2. Setting

   There are 3 main setting options for Channel engagement rings: prong, bezel, and tension settings. Prong settings are the most popular setting for Channel engagement rings, with 4, 6, and 8 prong variations being the most common. Tension settings are another option when choosing a setting for Channel, and are very unique, but only certain shapes can be set in a tension setting. Bezel settings also come in full bezel and half bezel alternatives. Bezel options are the safest option and are a great choice for those who are clumsy and prone to damaging their ring. The perfect setting for a Channel engagement ring comes down to your preference, and weighing up the benefits of the different settings.

3. Metal

   Platinum and gold are the two main metal choices for those interested in a Channel engagement ring. Platinum has its beautiful silver colour and is a very durable option for a Channel engagement ring. Gold comes in 9k, 14k, and 18k gold for engagement rings, along with white, yellow, and rose gold colours for Channel engagement rings. Consider the metal type you like along with the different colours, and the durability of the metal or its karat when choosing a metal for your Channel engagement ring.

4. Shank Style

   Shank style is another consideration when purchasing a Channel set engagement ring. Shank style refers to the different design elements of the ring's shank and band. There are 6 main types of shank styles to choose from for a Channel setting: straight, tapered, knife-edge, split-shank, twisted, and bypass shank. Each of these have different designs, and one must consider this along with how it complements the other elements of the ring.

Why should I buy a Channel Engagement Ring?

Buying a Channel engagement ring comes with added security, thanks to the enclosed metal around the ring contributing to the safety and protection of the side stones. Channel side stones can also enhance the centre stone, creating a centre stone with a lot of brilliance and scintillation. Moreover, Channels provide customisation options, allowing for a unique and personalised design. However, there are drawbacks to consider. Channel engagement rings are generally more expensive than solitaire rings due to the additional stones and intricate settings. The increased shine might be too flashy for some, and the overall design can become more complex, potentially not appealing to those who prefer a simpler style.

What are the pros of buying a Channel engagement ring?

• Very Safe Setting - Channel settings are very safe settings with their enclosed metal design and smooth surface, it keeps gemstones safe by reducing the chances of damage or snagging. It's especially secure for side stones, offering a blend of aesthetics and practicality.
• Enhances centre stone - The placement of Channel side stones on the band of the ring doesn't just add visual appeal; it also works to enhance the beauty of the central stone. The brilliance of the smaller Channels shines and reflects onto the centre stone of the engagement ring, enhancing the centre stone's brilliance, and provides the appearance of a larger diamond.
• Customisation of Channels - One of the key advantages of Channel set rings lies in the customisation options. You can personalise your Channel settings by choosing the type, size, and arrangement of the Channel side stones, allowing you to craft an engagement ring uniquely yours.

What are the cons of buying a Channel engagement ring?

• Hard to repair - Repairing channel settings can be challenging due to their design. In a channel setting, gemstones are nestled between two continuous metal walls, creating a seamless and secure appearance. This very design, while excellent for protection, makes it intricate to access and manipulate individual stones for repairs. Jewellers have to take apart the entire channel and recreate the channel to add or replace gemstones.
• Channels can be too shiny - The additional sparkle from the Channel side stones, although a pro for many, can be a con for those who prefer a simple design. The addition of the Channel side stones may be perceived as too flashy.
• Requires more maintenance - The additional stones and detailed settings create more surfaces for dirt accumulation. This results in more cleaning required as dirt accumulates quicker on the Channel setting. Overall, it’s not a massive con but is a consideration when looking to purchase a Channel set engagement ring.

How much does a Channel engagement ring cost?

A Channel engagement ring at DG & Co. Jewellery costs between $1,475 - $4,685 for the style alone. When choosing a diamond or gemstone centre stone, this can really bring up the cost, especially when going for a large high-quality diamond or precious gemstone. The average Channel engagement ring with a centre stone is around $8,000 - $10,000.

What are the most popular Channel engagement rings?

The best Channel engagement rings will ultimately be dependent on each person's preferences, but our most popular designs are below:

• Channel Set Diamond Engagement Ring in 18 Karat White Gold
• Round Cut Bezel Diamond Ring with Channel Set Side Stones
• 5 Stones Diamond Engagement Ring with Channel Setting Side Stones
• Emerald Cut Trilogy Ring with Channel Set Shoulder Diamonds
• Emerald Cut Four Prongs Diamond Ring with Channel Set Side Stones in 18K Yellow
• Cushion Cut Four Claws Set Diamond Ring with Channel Set Side Stones in Platinum
• Round Cut Bezel Diamond Ring with Channel Set Side Stones in 18K White
• Emerald Cut Four Prongs Diamond Ring with Channel Set Side Stones in 18K Rose
• Emerald Cut Four Prongs Diamond Ring with Channel Set Side Stones in 18K White
• Princess Cut 4 Claw Setting Diamond Engagement Ring Channel Setting In 18K Yellow and White Gold
• Round cut diamond wedding set rings with channel set shoulders in Platinum
• Round cut diamond wedding set rings with channel set shoulders in 18K Yellow

What are the alternative styles to Channel engagement rings?

There are many alternative styles to a Channel engagement ring. The most common alternative styles are halo, double halo, split shank, and three stone; all these alternatives can also feature channel side stones