Setting DescriptionThis setting with channel-set sidestones makes an elegant choice for your center diamond. There are six well-matched round diamonds, three on each side, in a classic channel setting. The channel holds the diamonds securely flush with the top of the setting, and is a great choice for everyday wear as there are no prongs or sharp edges. The round diamonds are brilliant against the highly polished surface of the metal. In profile, the shoulders of the setting rise up to meet the center diamond in a cathedral style; this design somewhat protects the center diamond and elegantly integrates the diamond and band. The edges of the setting are slightly squared off, and the top of the band has a clean, flat profile. The band measures 1.6 mm thick by 3.05 mm wide and tapers very subtly toward the back for comfort. This setting combines the sparkle of the diamonds with a classic cathedral style for a beautiful complement to the center diamond.
The diamonds in the setting are a minimum of J in color, I1 in clarity. Since the diamonds are in the near-colorless range, they should appear white in the setting. This color should blend well with the color of the center diamond, particularly if the center diamond has a G to J color grade. A center diamond with a D, E, or F color grade may show a slight color difference to the J color diamonds in this setting, but it should not be very noticeable to the casual observer. The I1 clarity grade means that it might be possible to see the internal inclusions in the diamonds with the unaided eye, but it is unlikely that the inclusions would be seen with the diamonds mounted in the setting. The diamonds are well cut, with proportions and polish designed to capture the light and sparkle beautifully in the setting.
The setting is made of 14 karat white gold, which is a popular and flattering precious metal for a diamond ring. 14k white gold has a wonderful white color that complements the clear brilliance of diamonds, and is a great value. 14k gold is 58.3% pure 24 karat gold, with the remaining percentage usually being alloy metals of silver, copper, nickel, zinc and palladium. The alloys add strength to the pure gold, which would be too soft for everyday wear on its own. White gold is often plated with rhodium, a metal in the platinum group, to enhance its white color. 14k white gold is not as white in color as platinum, as it is yellow gold made white through alloys. Some people prefer this warmer white over platinums grayer white. 14k white gold is quite durable for everyday wear. As a precious metal, it will naturally patina, or scratch lightly on the surface, but the original bright polished luster can be maintained through an occasional cleaning and polishing.
