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Bezel setting, a timeless technique in the world of jewelry making, involves encasing a gemstone within a raised metal rim. This method not only secures the stone firmly in place but also enhances its visual appeal, allowing the gemstone’s beauty to shine through while providing a protective barrier. In this essay, we will delve into the various bezel setting techniques used in jewelry production, exploring their history, application, and the artistry involved in creating these intricate designs.
History of Bezel Setting
The concept of bezel setting dates back centuries, with evidence of its use in ancient civilizations. However, it wasn’t until the modern era that this technique became a staple in jewelry design. The evolution of bezel setting has been driven by advancements in metalworking and a desire to showcase precious stones in new and innovative ways.
The Advantages of Bezel Settings
Since bezel-set stones are surrounded by metal, this setting provides more protection than its popular alternative, prong settings, which leave more gemstone exposed. The extra security means bezel-set stones are less likely to get scratched. What’s more, they don’t snag or catch on fabrics or other materials.
Another cherry on top: bezel settings require little upkeep. Unlike delicate prongs, which need to be tightened or even replaced over time, bezel-set jewelry are fairly low-maintenance. And with more gemstone surface covered, dirt won’t build up in the hard-to-reach corners or edges of your center stone.
However, due to its surrounding effect on the gemstone, the size of the exposed part of the gemstone is reduced, the area wrapped by the metal edge is larger, and the transparency is relatively weak, which is not conducive to the setting of transparent gemstones.
Types of Bezel Settings
Full Bezel Settings
Full bezel settings wrap the entirety of a gemstone’s circumference. Besides providing more support for your gemstone, this style can hide blemishes and inclusions that might otherwise lay bare.
Half Bezel Settings
Half bezel settings, also known as semi-bezel settings, only partially wrap around a gemstone. With more gemstone exposed, this style lets more light in, making your stone appear more brilliant than the traditional full bezel style. However, with less metal encircling your gemstone, half bezel setting offer slightly less protection than full bezel settings.
Caring for Bezel-Set Jewelry
Since the setting sits flush with the metal, simpler bezels are relatively easy to clean. Still, dirt can sometimes get stuck between the gem and the underside of the bezel. When this occurs, never use a sharp object in an attempt to pry it loose. Instead, take the piece to a professional who can clean and remove the dirt without harming the piece.
Conclusion
Bezel settings are a defining stylistic choice, one that comes with extra protection for your gemstone. And as you can see, bezel-set jewelry designs come in a wide variety. You can find the perfect piece to add to your jewelry collection in ColoritaJewelry Store. In addition, our bespoke jewelry service also allows you to transform your design draft into the ideal one-off piece of jewelry that will be unique to you.
