When it comes to prong settings in jewellery, particularly claw settings, the goal is to secure the gemstone while allowing light to pass through to enhance its brilliance. The gemstone is held in place by creating grooves in the prongs where the girdle (the widest part of the stone) sits, and then the prongs are closed around the stone to secure it.
A common concern arises when customers feel that the stone is moving slightly within these grooves, leading them to believe that the stone is improperly set or insecure. However, slight movement within the prongs can be normal and does not necessarily indicate a manufacturing defect.
Key Points About Prong Settings:
- Slight Movement: In well-made prong settings, a small amount of movement can occur because the prongs are designed to be flexible to some extent. This flexibility helps absorb shocks and protects the stone from damage if the ring is knocked or bumped. Therefore, slight movement is not a sign of a loose stone but rather a feature that helps secure the stone under different conditions.
- Security of the Stone: Properly set prongs should securely hold the gemstone without significant movement. The stone should not wobble noticeably when gently touched or shaken. If there is excessive movement, this could indicate that the prongs need adjustment, but it is not necessarily a defect unless the prongs are improperly crafted or significantly uneven.
- Maintenance: Prong settings can loosen over time due to wear and tear, especially if the ring is worn daily. Regular maintenance is crucial to ensure that the prongs remain secure and the stone stays in place. This maintenance is part of normal jewellery care and not typically covered by warranties as a defect.