A pavé diamond ring features multiple small, closely set accent stones—typically diamonds—set into the band so that very little metal is visible. The stones are secured with tiny beads or prongs, creating a continuous surface of sparkle that wraps elegantly around the finger[1].
The term pavé (pronounced “pa-vey”) comes from the French word for “paved,” since the surface of the ring appears to be paved with diamonds[2]. In the pavé setting, a jeweler drills small holes into the band, places each small stone, and secures it with minute metal prongs or beads. This meticulous process allows for light to pass through each diamond, maximizing brilliance and creating what is often described as a “diamond-paved” effect[2].
Pavé settings are known for:
- Small, closely set accent stones
- Minimal visible metal
- Tiny bead or prong settings
- Low-profile, flush surface
- Stone coverage that wraps part or all of the band
There are several types of pavé settings, such as micro pavé (very small diamonds in multiple rows for a near-seamless diamond surface) and petite pavé (small prongs for a delicate look with a touch of metal visible)[3][2]. Traditionally, round brilliant diamonds are used in pavé settings due to their ability to create the most sparkle at any size, resembling cobblestones and enhancing the ring’s luminous effect[3].
The pavé setting is popular for engagement and wedding rings because it enhances the overall shimmer and brilliance of the ring while keeping the focus on the center stone. The close arrangement of the stones creates a visual flow that catches light with every movement, offering elegance, dimension, and a refined aesthetic[1][4].
While pavé settings are suitable for various styles—from vintage to modern—they can pose challenges with resizing, especially if the diamond coverage is complete around the band. For easier resizing, consider pavé rings where the stones cover only the upper half of the band[5].
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