What is a tension set ring?
Tension set diamonds, sometimes known as 'floating diamonds', or 'suspended diamonds', appear magically suspended in their settings.
Tension Set Rings History
Tension set rings were originally introduced in the early 1960's by internationally renowned goldsmith and kinetic jewelry creator Friedrich Becker from Germany. Mr. Becker employed lateral pressure to hold precious stones between a spring-hardened ring shank.
In the early 1990's tension ring setting methods were improved by using a special mixture of heat treated alloys to create spring compression. These tension settings exert 65 to 95 pounds per square millimeter (approximately 12000 pounds per square inch) securely holding the gemstone in place. Only especially hard gemstones may be tension mounted: rubies, sapphires, moissanite, cubic zirconia, and of course diamonds.
Tension Set Rings Longevity
Using the above mentioned special metallurgical method, the tension of the shank can be expected to last for many hundreds of years before some loss of pressure may be experienced. When purchasing a tension ring, make sure that special metals and heat treatments are used when the diamond ring is made, otherwise the tension ring will not last and it may not even be a real tension set ring.
Are Tension Set Rings Safe?
The tension setting at first glance can seem a precarious situation for a precious stone, but this is not the case. Due to the high pressure mounting, tension set diamonds and gemstones are considered to be secured as safely, or even safer than, a typical four-prong setting when properly made. Additionally, engineering restrains upon the shank dictate that the mounting must be at least as wide as the gemstone, further protecting the stone from being snagged or chipped. When purchasing a tension set ring, ensure that the manufacturer uses the proper metallurgy techniques as this is a skill only a few craftsmen have mastered. Properly made tension rings cannot be pulled apart by hand but fake tension rings, as sometimes found on internet auction sites, can be pulled apart loosening the stone.
Tension Settings Allow Greater Visibility of Your Diamond
The two point pressure method of securing the stone allows for more light to penetrate the diamond than traditional settings. More light entering into the diamond translates into greater brilliance or fire coming from the diamond. It has been said that a tension set ring can enhance the color appearance of your diamond by as much as two color grades. This brilliance in the diamond and unique look of a 'floating diamond' make tension set rings irresistible.
Tension Set Rings Considerations
Since the tension set ring design is radically different from a standard engagement ring, it is extremely difficult to resize a tension set ring. Although not impossible, it is difficult to resize because the shank of the ring cannot be cut to resize it like a normal ring. When considering a tension set ring, you should be very certain of the ring size and ensure the finger is sized at a jeweler.
Other Names for Tension Set Rings
Tension set rings are sometimes called a number of variation in name including tension mount rings, tension rings, tension set diamonds, floating diamond settings, suspended diamonds, pressure set diamonds, pressure set diamond rings... As you can see they have a variety of names but in they end they all represent a stunning and unique piece of jewelry admired by all.
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