Is there an 'ideal' way to set an emerald cut diamond?

[sprinklesparkles]

Not so much in regards to the overall design of a ring as much as the way the main stone is set.

Traditional prongs cover the windmill corners but I've heard bezel can reduce performance.

Compass prong cause odd reflections and partial bezels leave the stone open to damage.

Is there an ideal setting to showcase faceting to the full extent without impeding performance or leaving it open to damage?

 

[Karl_K]

ECs are not enharantly weak so id just slap some prongs on the windmills and call it good.
Split claws are my favorite properly done.

 

[Ibrakeforpossums]

So the same would apply to compass-setting an Asscher? I'd like to see those little corners . . .

 

[sprinklesparkles]

ECs are not enharantly weak so id just slap some prongs on the windmills and call it good.
Split claws are my favorite properly done.

Thinking I've only seen them improperly done then, I'll dig around thank you.

 

[monipod]

So the same would apply to compass-setting an Asscher? I'd like to see those little corners . . .

I nearly went the compass route but I'm glad I didn't as I think the reflections would drive me nuts. It would be OK at some angles (like looking straight on) but even corner prongs reflect at certain angles. Bar prongs might be OK if set close to the edge of the sides, but I love the fire coming off the edges too much so corner prongs work best.

I think a bezel setting is gorgeous but having enjoyed the bursts coming off the edges of a step-cut, you'd lose a lot of sparkle I feel. I'd go with classic corner prongs, or double claw if it's a big EC.

 

[Polabowla]

Tab prongs maybe?