Why are stones in stacking rings usually bezel set?

[Django74th]

This may qualify as the dumbest question of the day as I’m sure there is an obvious answer that I’m missing somehow. Why do most stacking rings designs have the gemstones bezel set rather than in prongs? Is it too many prongs and they catch or is it something structural about using a bezel set? I have a few small stones (paraiba, demantoid, etc.) that I’m thinking about turning into stacker rings. They are beautiful and I want to let as much light in as possible. Doesn’t a bezel block light for an already small stone? All input and conspiracy theories are welcome!

 

[MariMeow]

Haha, no conspiracy theories from me, but you're right in that a Bezel would make the stone look smaller AND block light from other angles.

Are you looking at any styles in particular? I've seen a little bit of everything. If you're still looking for ideas, I've seen some great stacking rings at Catbird, Audry Rose, or Jennie Kwon Designs.

 

[deorwine]

Otherwise the stones would rub against each other.

i have also wondered if it were possible to make stackers with the stones set at different heights, or some other cklever way to protect them that also lets light through.

 

[LemonMoonLex]

Actually bezels make a stone look bigger in my opinion.
I always do a miligrained bezel for an added oomph in size.

& Bezels are classic and common for stackers for the sole reason that you don't want the stones scratching eachother or prongs scratching other stones.

Also unless you have a darker stone like a grey spinel or a dark Garnet then bezeling them won't make them super dark. Bezel them with open backs and you'll get more light. Also demantoid and Paraiba are super bright gems so bezeling won't be an issue!

 

[chrono]

I'd say it depends on how the bezel is done. I've seen some where it is completely covered and swallows the stone (no light and too metal heavy). Some bezels have open sides to allow light in and also very thin "lip".

 

[Django74th]

@chrono - Good point -- I'll have to examine the bezel designs more carefully

@TheGarnetGirl -- open back is a good idea. I think I've mostly seen them closed which is maybe why I have the perception that it darkens the stone.

@MariMeow -- YES -- IDEAS PLEASE!!! I'll look at the ones you've already recommended and would love to see your other favorites. I'm just starting to look into designs

What if I put thin bands between each gemstone ring -- would it still scratch if I used prongs?

Thanks for all the input guys!