Settings explained
Channel setting: diamonds held securely in the band
In a channel setting, the diamonds don't sit individually in prongs but side by side in a narrow channel, held by two continuous metal walls on the left and right. From above the stones sit open, from the side they're fully protected. No claw sticks out, no edge catches, the surface looks smooth and calm.
The technique suits rows of equally sized stones especially well, for example along the band of an engagement ring or all the way around a plain wedding band. We choose calibrated stones for a channel, so they fit exactly between the rails and the row looks even, with no gaps.
Why the channel setting holds up in everyday life
Look
An even row of diamonds looks calm and modern, without the restlessness of many individual prongs. Especially good along the band of a solitaire or all the way around a wedding band, where the channel setting draws a clean, straight line.
Security
The stones sit firmly between two metal walls, nothing sticks out and nothing can bend. That makes the channel setting robust for everyday life, including manual work or pulling gloves on and off.
Everyday wear
With no raised prongs, hardly anything catches on clothing or wool. Dirt can build up between the stones over time, a professional clean every few years keeps the row looking clear again.
How a channel setting is made
For a channel setting we first mill a narrow channel into the ring band, its width matched exactly to the size of the chosen diamonds. The stones are then slid in from the side and the two metal walls pressed slightly over the edge, so each stone sits firmly without needing a single prong.
Because the stones need to be calibrated, matching each other to within a tenth of a millimetre, choosing the diamonds for a channel setting matters a lot. For cleaning we recommend a soft brush that reaches between the stones too, more on that in our guide on ring care.
Channel compared to prong and bezel settings
A first orientation. What setting suits your ring is best decided at the table, with the stone in hand.
| Setting | Light entry | Security | Upkeep | Price level |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Channel setting | medium, stones sit between rails | high, held firmly between two walls | clean gaps occasionally | medium |
| Prong setting | very high, stone almost free | medium, prongs can loosen | check prongs yearly | affordable to medium |
| Bezel setting | medium, rim covers the edge | very high, stone fully protected | low, smooth surface | medium |
Models that can be complemented with a channel setting
A small selection from our collection. Every setting, the channel setting along the band included, is possible to measure with us, regardless of the starting model.
What a channel setting costs
Guide prices so you can get your bearings in advance. We always discuss the exact price in person.
Prices include VAT, as of 2026.
Frequently asked questions
In a channel setting the stones sit between two continuous metal walls, in pavé each stone sits in its own tiny prong or bead. Channel therefore looks smoother and more closed, pavé lets slightly more light reach each individual stone from the side.
Yes, it's considered one of the more robust techniques, because no prongs stick out that could bend. The stones sit firmly between the rails. A hard knock on the edge of the setting can still damage a stone, but that's true of any setting.
A soft toothbrush with a little mild soapy water reliably loosens build-up between the stones. Rinse well and pat dry, and the row shines clearly again. Every few years a professional clean with us is worth it, especially if the ring is worn daily.
Yes, that's possible, but it takes more work than with a prong setting, because the channel has to be carefully opened at that spot. Best to bring the ring to our atelier, we look at the setting and tell you honestly what the replacement involves.
As long as the change isn't right in the set section of the band, the size can usually be adjusted like on other rings. If the setting runs all the way around with no free section, a resize is more involved, we check that honestly with you on the actual ring.
The price usually sits in the medium range, comparable to a bezel setting, depending on the length of the row, the number and size of the stones, and the metal. Fixed numbers without a conversation would be dishonest, we calculate the price openly with you in person.
Quick enquiry
Interested in a channel setting?
Send us a short message about where on your ring you'd like a channel setting. We reply within one working day and advise you honestly.