Eternity Band Prongs & Basket Question

[Sandy13351]

Is there a difference in strength between an eternity band with SHARED prongs vs each stone having FOUR prongs each?

What are the pro''s and con''s with open vs closed basket settings? It would seem like closed prongs would be stronger, but do they block light and hence the diamond''s sparkle? Just to clarify, the closed prong setting is one where you cannot see the diamond culet.

 

[Sandy13351]

Anyone??

Here is the OPEN basket pictures. Pro's and con's? Strength an issue? Will the metal on the closed look heavy?

 

[Sandy13351]

Here is the CLOSED BASKET.

 

[swingirl]

The prongs are usually larger on a shared-prong band to accommodate both stones that they are holding. I would say the quality of workmanship would be more important then the style of prongs. I have a shared-prong band and it has held up quite well. I prefer the look of less metal.

 

[Diamond Explorer]

Hi Sandy,

Generally four prong settings are more secure than shared prong. But the design is often more bulky with the extra prongs. I like a compromise between security and style, and suggest split-prong designs. Often called fish-tail.

The difference between the two designs you pictured would probably not be noticeable in terms of the diamonds brilliance. The open style is a design choice that can have both aesthetic and practical reasons. It could give the design a lighter and more delicate look, and the closed a more substantial and solid look. The open design also saves metal weight, but both reasons could be considerations when the pieces were designed

 

[Jim Summa]

Hi Sandy,
This is a good question. I have not seen any durability pros or cons really between these styles (4 prong vs shared prong) over the years. I want to stress that jewelry, especially rings, need to be maintained and inspected at least yearly.
I think the closed side one is the way to go because these rings are cast and its certainly not going to be weaker. Another reason is that a jeweler when finishing the sides of the ring is able to get a cleaner look.
It is very popular to stack these rings together, if this is something you are considering make sure that the rings are designed so the stones don''t rub. This is the fastest way to damage the stones in your rings.