A channel setting is a row of accent stones set into a grooved channel and laid edge to edge. GIA describes it as a distinctive look, and says this design protects the gemstones, making it a good option for an active person. The stones are held by the walls of metal, not by a tiny claw between each one.
How a channel setting holds the stones
The channel is a groove that runs along the band, or along the shoulders beside a centre stone. Each diamond or gemstone is seated in that groove, with a small lip of metal over the edges to keep it in place. From above, you see a continuous line of stones, with metal running along both sides.
GIA also groups channel with other side stone settings. It notes that channel protects stones by keeping them flush, while a bar channel allows more light to enter the side stones. We can design either approach in CAD once we know the stone sizes and the width of the band.
Where a channel is used
A channel can run along a wedding band, as in the baguette example above. It can also sit on the shoulders of an engagement ring, framing a centre stone. GIA discusses channel as a side stone setting in that second role, alongside pavé and other arrangements.
| If you want | A channel may suit | Pavé may suit |
|---|---|---|
| A clean line of stones with metal on both sides | Yes, that is the look of a channel | The metal shows as tiny beads between stones |
| Fewer small claws to catch | Yes, there are no claws between the stones | GIA notes pavé stones can be vulnerable if the wearer is extremely active |
| A band that can be resized later | Only if the channel does not run too far around the finger | Also limited, for the same reason |
| Easy cleaning | The groove can collect soap and oil, so the underside still needs a gentle clean | The same is true of tight pavé |
Choosing and looking after a channel
Because the stones share one groove, their sizes have to match the channel closely. That is why we only begin making once you have approved the design and the stones in writing. A 70 percent deposit is paid at that point, and making time is 5 to 6 weeks.
Channel set rings still need care. Soap and oil gather in the groove, just as they do under a centre stone. A gentle clean that reaches the channel usually restores the sparkle. If a stone looks low or the metal lip feels sharp, the setting should be inspected.
We include one free resize within one month, provided the design can be resized. A channel that runs a long way around the finger can be difficult to alter, which is better decided on the CAD than after the ring is made.
If you are comparing side stone settings, start with our guide to pavé engagement rings, or see how a flush set ring seats a stone in the metal. You can also browse the diamonds we can source, or contact us for a video consultation.
Frequently asked questions
What is a channel setting?
It is a row of accent stones set into a grooved channel and laid edge to edge, held by the metal walls rather than by individual claws between each stone.
Is a channel setting a good choice for daily wear?
GIA says this design protects the gemstones, and calls it a good option for an active person. The stones sit in the channel, so there are no claws between them to catch in the same way as pavé.
How does a channel setting differ from pavé?
GIA describes pavé as many small gems placed close together and held by small beads of metal. In a channel, the stones sit in a groove between two walls of metal. Pavé can look more like a continuous sparkle, but GIA notes that those small stones can be vulnerable if the wearer is extremely active.
Can a channel set ring be resized?
It depends on the design. We include one free resize within one month, provided the design can be resized. Some channel, pavé or full eternity styles cannot be altered as freely, which is worth deciding at the CAD stage.