Settings explained
Pavé and micro-pavé: many small stones, one surface of light
A pavé setting doesn't rely on one large stone but on many small ones, placed close together. Each diamond sits in its own tiny prong or bead, so close to the next that almost no metal shows between them. The result looks like a paved surface of light, which is exactly where the name comes from: pavé is French for paving stone.
Micro-pavé takes it one step further: the stones are so small, usually under 1.3 millimetres, that they're set under a loupe. The technique needs a steady hand and real experience, and the result is a surface that catches light with every movement, without any single stone stealing the show. At émin we plan every pavé line to measure, matched to setting, metal and budget.
Why couples choose pavé
Look
A pavé line breaks light into dozens of small reflections instead of one large one. It looks especially good combined with a solitaire or halo, because the band keeps carrying the centre stone without competing with it.
Security
Every stone sits in its own small setting, spread across many points. If one tiny stone is lost, it barely shows and is easy to reset. Still, an annual check is worth it, especially if you wear the ring every day.
Everyday wear
The surface sits flatter than a tall prong setting and catches less on wool or gloves. Soap and skin oil still build up between the stones over time, so regular cleaning keeps the sparkle alive.
How a pavé setting is made
Before a single stone is set, we plan the line: how many diamonds, what size, how close together. For micro-pavé we choose calibrated stones that match each other to within a tenth of a millimetre, otherwise uneven gaps appear and the surface looks restless instead of calm.
Each stone is embedded individually in a tiny bead or prong, carved by hand from the surrounding metal. This work takes noticeably longer than setting one large stone, but every millimetre of band ends up contributing to the sparkle. For how to keep the fine setting looking its best, see our detailed guide on ring care.
Pavé 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 |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Pavé / micro-pavé | high, many small reflections | medium, many single points | check and clean regularly | medium to higher |
| 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 with a pavé-set band
These rings from our collection combine a halo with a fine pavé line along the band. We adjust the width and density of the line for you.
What pavé and micro-pavé cost
Guide prices so you can get your bearings in advance. We discuss the exact surcharge in person, depending on the length and stone count of the line.
Price depends on the work involved. We calculate openly, no surprises.
Prices include VAT, as of 2026.
Frequently asked questions
Both place many small diamonds close together. Micro-pavé uses even finer stones, usually under 1.3 millimetres, set under a loupe. The result looks even more fluid, but takes more time and experience to set, which is reflected in the price.
Generally secure, as every stone sits in its own small setting. A single tiny stone can loosen over the years, especially with hard hand work or sport. We recommend an annual check, so anything like that is caught early and fixed without fuss.
Yes, that's actually the most common case. A pavé line along the band puts the centre stone further in the spotlight without taking attention away from it. It also works beautifully as a continuous accent on a wedding band or as a standalone fine line on a plain band.
The gentlest method is lukewarm water with a little mild soap and a soft toothbrush to loosen build-up between the stones. Rinse well and pat dry afterwards. Every few years a professional clean and check at our atelier is worth it, especially for rings worn daily.
That depends on the length of the line, the number and size of the stones and the metal. Fixed numbers without a conversation would be dishonest, so we calculate the surcharge openly once we know how much of the band should carry stones and in what quality.
Almost always, yes. Pavé can be applied to nearly any band, regardless of style or centre stone. Exceptions are very narrow or strongly curved bands, where we plan the line together with you so the stones sit evenly and the setting stays stable.
Quick enquiry
Interested in a pavé setting?
Send us a short message about which model you like and how fine the line should be. We reply within one working day and calculate the surcharge openly.