A pavé setting is a ring style where the band appears "paved" with tiny diamonds or gemstones. In the UK, pavé (pronounced "pa-vay") comes from the French word for paving, and it refers to the small stones set close together with minimal metal visible.
How does a pavé setting work?
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- Tiny accent stones: - Multiple small diamonds or gems are set into the band.
- Micro beads or prongs: - The stones are held by small beads or prongs, creating a smooth surface.
- Continuous sparkle: - When viewed from a distance, the band looks like a continuous row of glittering stones.
Types of pavé settings
- Micro pavé: Uses very small stones (often <0.01 ct) with delicate metalwork.
- French pavé: Each stone is set into a small V-shaped cutout, emphasising individuality and sparkle.
- U-shaped pavé: Stones are held by U-shaped prongs, allowing more light through the sides.
- Lab-grown pavé: Some designs use lab-grown diamonds for ethical sourcing and better value.
Pros of pavé settings
- Enhances the centre stone: A pavé band makes the main stone look larger and more brilliant.
- Continuous sparkle: Adds extra brilliance and sophistication to a ring without overwhelming the design.
- Versatility: Works with many centre stone shapes (round, oval, cushion, etc.).
Cons of pavé settings
- Maintenance required: Small stones can loosen over time and may need re-tipping.
- Less durable: Not ideal for very active lifestyles or heavy daily wear because the tiny prongs are more delicate.
- Cleaning: Dirt can accumulate between the small stones; regular gentle cleaning is needed.
Caring for pavé jewellery
1. Clean gently with warm water and a soft brush; avoid ultrasonic cleaners unless recommended.
2. Inspect your ring every 6–12 months for loose stones or worn prongs.
3. Remove your ring during strenuous activities or manual work to avoid knocks.
4. Consider insuring your ring for peace of mind.
Internal links
- For active lifestyles, see our guide to Best Engagement Ring Settings for an Active Lifestyle .
- Learn how to upgrade your ring in our How to Upgrade Your Engagement Ring guide.
FAQs
What is the difference between pavé and channel settings? A channel setting uses a continuous groove to hold diamonds flush with the band, whereas pavé uses small prongs or beads for each stone, leaving more surface sparkle.
Do pavé rings lose stones easily? Not if maintained properly. However, because the stones are small and the prongs are tiny, they can come loose with rough wear. Regular checks will minimise this risk.
Can pavé settings be resized? Minor resizing is possible, but significant changes may loosen the tiny stones. Always consult a professional jeweller.
What metals work best with pavé? Platinum and 18ct gold (white, yellow or rose) provide good durability and hold stones securely. 9ct gold works but may not be as durable over many decades.
Last updated: February 2026