Pavé Settings: Sparkle Details in Gemstone Rings

Silver ring with a emerald gemstone on a white background

If your eyes light up every time you see a glittering ring, you are not alone. Many ring lovers are drawn to pavé settings—and for good reason. This style adds rows of small, dazzling diamonds that catch the light with every movement, giving your ring an extra layer of shimmer.

At Van Drake Jewelers in West St Paul, MN, we know how important it is for your ring to feel special and reflect your taste. Whether you are shopping for an engagement ring or looking to buy gemstone rings that dazzle with detail, pavé settings could be the sparkle you are looking for.


Elegant white gold pavé engagement ring set with round brilliant-cut diamond center stone

What Is a Pavé Setting?

Picture a cobblestone street—each stone fitted tightly together to make a smooth, glittering path. That is exactly what a pavé setting looks like. In this style, small diamonds are set close together with minimal metal showing. The result is a band that looks like it has been dipped in light.

The term "pavé" comes from the French word for "paved." That is fitting, since these rings appear to be paved with diamonds. You can find pavé work on the band, around the center stone, or even as part of a halo.


Two gold pavé engagement rings with amethyst and sapphire gemstones on a white background

Why Choose Pavé for Your Gemstone Ring?

You might wonder what makes pavé settings so popular, especially when there are other styles like bezel ring designs to consider. Pavé offers a few key benefits:

  • Added sparkle: The small diamonds in a pavé band reflect light from many angles, making your center gemstone look even more radiant.

  • Visual texture: Pavé gives your ring a unique texture that stands out, especially when viewed up close.

  • Romantic charm: The detailed work creates a soft, romantic feel—perfect for gifts or engagement rings.

Whether you are after that "wow factor" or just want a little more twinkle in your jewelry, pavé might be the detail that speaks to you.


Types of Pavé Settings

Not all pavé settings are the same. You can choose from several styles depending on the level of sparkle and the overall look you are going for:

1. Micro Pavé
 This is the most delicate version. It uses extremely small diamonds set closely together, often with a microscope. It is ideal if you want the maximum shine in a very fine band.

2. French Pavé
 In this setting, the metal is cut into a V-shape to hold the diamonds, which lets in more light. You get extra brilliance with a touch of European flair.

3. U-Cut Pavé
 As the name hints, each diamond sits in a U-shaped groove. This gives a little more depth and lets light bounce around under the stones.

4. Pavé Halo
 A row of pavé diamonds forms a halo around the center stone. It makes your main gemstone appear larger and brighter.

Each type has its own charm, and the best one for you depends on your personal style and how much sparkle you want.


Set of five silver rings with colored gemstones on a white background

Pairing Pavé with Gemstones

Pavé settings are often used with diamonds, but they look just as beautiful with colored stones. At Van Drake Jewelers, many of our Gemstone Rings feature pavé details to complement sapphires, emeralds, rubies, and more.

You can pair a bold center stone with a pavé band for contrast, or use pavé as a frame to bring out subtle color shifts in your gemstone. It is like framing a painting—just the right border can bring everything together.

 

Durability and Care Tips

Pavé settings are strong, but like all fine things, they need a little care.

  • Regular checks: Since the diamonds are small and closely set, it is a good idea to have your ring checked for loose stones every now and then.

  • Gentle cleaning: Use a soft brush and mild soap to clean your pavé ring at home. Avoid hard knocks and chemicals.

  • Remove when necessary: Take your ring off during activities that might put pressure on the band, like gardening or lifting weights.

At Van Drake Jewelers, we offer jewelry services to help you keep your pavé ring in great shape.


Pavé vs. Other Settings

Not sure if pavé is right for you? Here is how it compares to a few other settings:

  • Pavé vs. Bezel: Bezel settings surround the gemstone with a band of metal, offering more protection but less sparkle. If you want shine, pavé might win your heart.

  • Pavé vs. Solitaire: Solitaire rings put all the focus on one center stone. Pavé adds sparkle to the band, making the entire ring glitter from all angles.

  • Pavé vs. Channel: Channel settings hold diamonds in a groove between two walls of metal. They are sleek and modern, but pavé has more sparkle per square inch.

Want to see the differences in person? Visit our West St Paul showroom to try on different styles side by side.


Is Pavé Right for You?

If you love jewelry that catches the light and makes people take a second look, pavé settings are worth considering. They fit many styles—from delicate and romantic to bold and dramatic.

You might love pavé if:

  • You want a ring that sparkles with every movement.

  • You like detailed craftsmanship.

  • You want to frame a beautiful center stone.

  • You are shopping for something that feels classic, yet special.

And if you are shopping for someone else? Pavé adds that little something extra that says, “I thought of every detail.”


Shop Pavé Settings in West St Paul, MN

At Van Drake Jewelers, we offer a curated selection of pavé rings that balance beauty and quality. Whether you are picking out your first fine ring or designing a custom piece, our team is here to help you choose the right setting, gemstone, and style that fits your life.

 

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