Scallop, French and U cut pavé are all ways of setting small diamonds with metal cut away beside each stone, so more of the diamond shows and more light gets in. The difference is in the shape of the cut: a curved scallop, a V shaped French cut, or a rounded U, and each gives a slightly different edge to the band.
These styles build on standard pavé. If you are new to the basics, start with our pavé vs micro pavé vs cut down pavé guide. A word of warning on terms: scallop and U cut are often used interchangeably, and the names vary between makers, so it helps to look at a photo or drawing of the cut rather than rely on the label alone.
Scallop pavé
In scallop pavé, the metal between the beads or claws holding neighbouring stones is cut away in curved, rounded shapes, and along the side of the band this forms a series of gentle curves beneath each stone. From the side it looks like a row of small arches. The effect is soft and slightly vintage, and it shows off the side of each diamond.
French pavé
French pavé, sometimes called French cut or V pavé, cuts the metal into small, angled V shapes beside each stone, leaving more of each diamond's side on show. The diamonds sit in fine, pointed channels with tiny beads or claws holding them. It gives a crisp, delicate look with more sparkle and less visible metal.
Illustration of a band with V shaped cuts between the stones, similar to French or fishtail pavé.
U cut pavé
U cut pavé shapes the opening beneath each stone into a rounded U, which is most visible when you look at the band from the side. It sits between scallop and French in look: open enough to let in light, with a smoother curve than the sharp V of French pavé.
How they compare
| Scallop | French | U cut | |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cut shape | Curved arches | Sharp V | Rounded U |
| Look | Soft, vintage | Crisp, delicate | Clean, balanced |
| Metal visible | A little more | Least | Moderate |
Are they less durable than standard pavé?
Cutting metal away lets in more light but leaves a little less metal around each stone. With good setting and sensible wear, these styles are well suited to everyday rings, and regular checks help keep the stones secure. As a general guide, a professional inspection at least once a year is sensible for a pavé ring worn every day. Checks around every six months may be worthwhile if the ring sees heavier wear, the claws are very fine, a stone has come loose before, the band has been resized or repaired, or you notice movement or snagging. Our guide on whether pavé weakens a ring covers this in more detail.
Where they work best
- Shoulders of a solitaire, to lead the eye to the centre stone.
- Halos, where a light edge keeps the halo delicate.
- Wedding and eternity bands, for sparkle from the side as well as the top.
- Fancy shaped halos, where the cut away edge follows the outline of an oval or pear.
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Frequently asked questions
What is French pavé?
A setting where metal is cut into small V shapes beside each stone, so more of each diamond shows.
What is the difference between scallop and U cut pavé?
Scallop pavé uses gentle curved arches beneath the stones, while U cut uses a rounded U shape, giving a slightly cleaner line.
Do these styles sparkle more than standard pavé?
They can, because less metal surrounds each stone and more light reaches its sides.
Are scallop and French pavé suitable for everyday wear?
They can be, with good setting and regular checks. They have a little less metal around each stone than standard pavé.
Are scallop and U cut pavé the same thing?
The terms are often used interchangeably and describe closely related rounded cuts, though naming varies between makers.
How often should a pavé ring be inspected?
At least once a year as a general guide, and around every six months for rings that see heavier wear or have very fine claws.