When you’re shopping for engagement rings, you’ll spend a lot of time focusing on things like ring shape, band style and center stone. Chances are you probably haven’t put hours into thinking about the height of the setting. But the reality is that this often-overlooked element actually has a huge impact on the aesthetic and functionality of your ring, so you want to make sure you pay attention.
In this guide, we’ll cover all the details of setting height to help you determine how high or low to go when looking at ring designs. Most of our affordable engagement rings feature a medium setting to help ensure sparkle without getting in your way. However, there are other setting types for those who want something a little different. While a medium setting is a popular choice, as it combines elements of bold style and functional minimalist choices, the right setting is really up to the wearer. Whatever you decide, understanding ring setting height is the key to finding a piece that feels like it was made just for you.
Browse All of Our Affordable Engagement RingsDifferent Setting Heights
When we talk about high and low settings, we’re talking about how much the stone protrudes from the band or how high up the prongs prop it. These different style settings have their pros and cons, so make sure you’re aware of what each comes with before making a purchasing decision.
A high-setting engagement ring will have a higher profile, meaning the stone will be propped up higher and protrude more from the band. On the other hand, a low-setting ring will sit a lot closer to the band and create a more flush look. Some ring settings aren’t propped up at all and are flush or set into the band, such as bezel-set rings.
This is often where the comparison of a prong setting vs. bezel setting comes into play. A prong setting uses metal claws to lift the stone up and maximize light reflection (hello, high profile!), whereas a bezel setting encircles the stone with a metal rim, keeping it snug and secure against the band for a lower profile.
Setting heights vary because they affect brilliance — higher settings let more light in to enhance shine — and functionality. Choose a prong setting, like most of the engagement rings for sale at Modern Gents, to get the most sparkle for your buck. The prong setting holds up the stone and lets light in from below, highlighting the many facets and magnifying the sparkle.
High Setting: Dialing Up the ‘Wow’ Factor
Choose a high profile engagement ring if you want a style that commands attention and stands out in a crowd. In general, high-set engagement rings tend to bring more sparkle because they are propped up more, allowing more light to come through at every angle. If sparkle is your main objective — no shame in that! — then go for a higher setting. This is the perfect choice for the lady who wants a pizzazz-packed ring that’s a bit more on the flashy side. If you’re looking for extra bling, a high setting has a bolder front and side profile and suits bold yet classic choices, like solitaire engagement rings. For maximum brilliance, skip the solitaire setting and opt for a halo engagement ring.
However, it’s worth weighing the pros and cons of high setting styles before you commit. While they offer unmatched brilliance and maximize the size appearance of your center stone, they are a bit more vulnerable. Because the stone sits high off the finger, it’s more exposed to accidental knocks against doorframes or tabletops. If you’re the clumsy type (we’ve all been there), just keep in mind that a high setting might need a little extra mindfulness.
Low Setting: Pretty, Classic and Subtle
If you love the look of a sparkly stone but don’t want anything getting in your way throughout the day, go for a medium or low-setting engagement ring. These rings sit closer to the band (and your finger), creating a more flush, seamless look. A low profile engagement ring doesn’t have the same “wow” factor, but it does suit everyday life better with its subtler stylings. That means low profile settings won’t stand out quite as much, making them a great choice for those who love the minimalist engagement ring look or want something a bit more subtle.
One of the major low-profile engagement ring benefits is the superior gemstone protection in ring settings. By keeping the center stone closer to your hand, the metal of the setting acts as a buffer against impacts. This structure naturally shields the edges of your stone, making it less likely to chip or loosen over time.
However, on the other end of the spectrum, those looking for large stone engagement rings will want a higher setting to accommodate the size of the rock along with any other side stones.
Profiles and Functionality
Not only does the profile of your stone affect the style of the ring, but it also impacts how it functions in your day-to-day life. Naturally, a higher setting is much more likely to get caught on things, including your hair, gloves, etc., and that can be quite annoying if you’re someone who has an active lifestyle. Kids, pets and machinery can be risky when you rock a rock that protrudes a lot. Another thing to consider with high settings is that all those snags (if you aren’t careful) can bend your ring. While it’s unlikely to be bent noticeably, it’s still bad for the long-term health of the ring to continually get snagged. Taking it to a jeweler once or twice a year for an inspection and cleaning is going to be essential for those wearing higher settings — even those that are more secure, like a cathedral setting.
When thinking about ring setting durability and maintenance, the low-profile option is generally lower maintenance. Low-profile rings tend to be quite a bit more subtle, ensuring that they stay out of your way while you’re using your hands. If you have to wear gloves a lot or come into contact with hair, fibers or anything else that could get stuck in your ring, we’d recommend sticking to a lower profile. This makes them some of the best everyday wear engagement ring styles for people who work with their hands, like nurses, teachers, or artists.
Looking for the best ring setting for an active lifestyle? You might also consider choosing the ring you prefer and then wearing a silicone ring while working, exercising or working with your hands. The nice thing about having a silicone ring is that you can choose any setting of an engagement ring and wear the silicone ring for everyday life. No sweaters will get snagged on your silicone ring!
Check Out Our Silicone Wedding Bands and RingsNo matter which setting you choose, you can still mix and match with different metals and stones. While you’ll want to keep in mind what flatters your skin tone best, any setting can look good with any color ring — from classics like silver and yellow gold to more modern choices like rose gold that push the boundaries of ring styling.
Choose a Ring You Love
At the end of the day, as long as you choose an engagement ring that honors your special romance and suits your sense of style, you’re doing it the right way. Figuring out how to choose engagement ring setting styles shouldn't be stressful—it should be fun! Think about your daily routine. If you're super active, lean low. If you live for the glam, aim high. There is no wrong answer when it comes to expressing your love. The debate of high vs. low profile ring really just ends with your personal preference.
With so many engagement ring styles to choose from, it’s easier than ever to find the perfect ring for you — whether a low or high profile setting. Browse our complete array of dazzling engagement rings to see some brilliant examples of rings featuring higher settings, lower settings and everything in between.
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