When it comes to proposing to the love of your life, you want to ensure that you get her the diamond engagement ring of her dreams.  But you have to admit, there are some parts of the shopping process that are utterly confusing.  You know you have to keep the four Cs of diamonds in your head (that’s cut, color, clarity, and carat if you didn’t already know!), but what do jewelers mean when they talk about various engagement ring settings?

An engagement ring setting is the term used to describe the mounting that attaches the diamond to the metal band.  Still worried that you won’t be able to wrap your head around all the engagement ring settings out there?

Not to worry: think of this article as your crash course in the most popular engagement ring settings around.  With this article by your side, you won’t have to be intimidated by any diamond ring settings – because you’ll know exactly what they are.

Prong Setting

The prong setting is perhaps the most popular engagement ring style in the world.  The prong setting (which is elegantly featured in solitaire engagement rings) uses metal claws to attach the rock to the rest of the ring.  The look of the ring will vary depending on how many prongs you opt for.  Four and six-prong styles give the diamond an elevated look, which can help highlight your shining jewel.  Prongs can also be flat or shaped in a V, as featured with heart and pear-shaped engagement rings.

Channel Setting

Also known as an eternity band, channel settings are becoming an increasingly popular choice for diamond engagement rings and wedding bands.  Channel settings feature a row of gorgeous diamonds, which are uninterrupted by prongs or metal bands.  The entire surface has a smooth appearance, which helps highlight your gorgeous diamonds.

Cluster Setting

More brides than ever before want an engagement ring that’s just as unique as they are – and cluster settings are certainly unique!  This type of setting refers to a diamond engagement ring that has diamonds forming shapes like hearts, butterflies, flowers, and other beautiful designs.  Cluster settings are perfect for the bride who wants to make a personal statement with her diamond engagement ring or wedding band.

Now that you know what the most popular diamond ring settings are, it’s time to go out there and find the dream ring for your bride-to-be!