Claw & Basket Settings
Premium Settings For Loose Stones
Our collection of claw and basket settings offers jewellers the perfect combination of security and visibility for showcasing loose gemstones. Crafted from high-quality materials, including solid 925 sterling silver and 9ct white and yellow gold, these settings are designed to enhance the brilliance of your gemstones by allowing maximum light exposure. Whether you’re creating an engagement ring, pendant, or a pair of earrings, our claw settings provide a versatile and elegant solution that caters to both contemporary and classic design preferences.
High-Quality Materials for Durable and Elegant Jewellery
We understand that the quality of your jewellery settings is just as important as the gemstones they hold. That’s why our claw and basket settings are made from durable, high-quality materials like solid sterling silver and 9ct gold. These metals not only provide strength and longevity but also add a touch of luxury to your jewellery creations. Our settings are available in various sizes to accommodate different gemstone shapes, ensuring that each stone is securely held while enhancing its natural beauty.
Enhance Gemstone Brilliance with Claw Settings
Claw settings are specifically designed to maximise the brilliance and sparkle of your gemstones. By holding the stone in place with minimal metal coverage, these settings allow light to enter the gemstone from multiple angles, creating a stunning display of brilliance and fire. This makes claw settings an ideal choice for engagement rings and statement pieces where the gemstone is the focal point. Our collection includes a range of claw settings that can accommodate different gemstone sizes, making them a versatile choice for any jewellery project.
Basket Settings: A Sophisticated Option for Secure and Stylish Designs
For those seeking a setting that offers both security and style, our basket settings are an excellent choice. The basket design cradles the gemstone in a lattice-like structure, providing a secure hold while maintaining an elegant and refined appearance. Basket settings are particularly popular for creating timeless jewellery pieces that require a balance between durability and aesthetic appeal. Whether you’re working with precious or semi-precious stones, these settings provide a sophisticated foundation for your designs.
Ethical Jewellery Making with Recycled Metals
At Ore Metals, we are committed to promoting ethical jewellery practices. Our claw and basket settings are crafted from recycled sterling silver and gold, supporting sustainability and reducing the environmental impact of mining new materials. By choosing settings made from recycled metals, you can create beautiful jewellery that aligns with your values and meets the growing demand for ethically sourced products. This commitment to sustainability ensures that your jewellery not only looks good but also does good.
Versatile Settings for Contemporary and Classic Designs
Our collection of claw and basket settings caters to a wide range of design preferences, from modern minimalist styles to classic, vintage-inspired pieces. The versatility of these settings allows you to explore different design possibilities, whether you’re crafting a simple solitaire ring or an intricate multi-stone pendant. With a variety of styles and sizes available, you can find the perfect setting to match your creative vision and bring your jewellery designs to life.
Frequently Asked Questions
Claw settings, also known as prong settings, are a type of jewellery setting where metal prongs (claws) hold the gemstone in place. These settings enhance gemstone jewellery by allowing maximum light to pass through the stone, which increases its brilliance and sparkle. Claw settings are popular in engagement rings and other high-end jewellery because they showcase the gemstone's beauty while securely holding it in place.
To choose the right size claw setting for your gemstone, measure the stone's diameter and depth. The setting should be slightly larger than the gemstone to ensure a secure fit. Additionally, consider the shape of the stone, as different shapes (round, oval, etc.) require specific prong configurations. It's important to select a claw setting that balances the gemstone's size and weight to provide both security and aesthetic appeal.
Claw settings are best suited for faceted gemstones, such as diamonds, sapphires, rubies, and emeralds, which benefit from maximum light exposure. These settings are ideal for harder gemstones that can withstand the open exposure of the claws. Claw settings are also commonly used for stones with a brilliant or step cut, as the prongs allow light to enter and exit the stone, enhancing its sparkle.
Yes, claw settings can be used for both round and oval gemstones. It’s important to choose a setting that matches the shape of the stone—for example, a round setting for a round gemstone and an oval setting for an oval gemstone. This ensures that the gemstone is securely held and properly showcased.
Basket settings offer several benefits in jewellery making, including enhanced security and aesthetic appeal. The lattice-like structure of a basket setting cradles the gemstone, providing strong support while allowing light to pass through the stone. This design not only showcases the gemstone's brilliance but also adds an elegant, refined look to the jewellery. Basket settings are versatile and can be used in rings, earrings, and pendants, making them a popular choice for both contemporary and traditional designs.
To secure a gemstone in a claw setting and prevent it from loosening, place the stone in the setting and gently press it down to ensure it sits evenly. Using prong pliers or a prong pusher, carefully bend each prong over the stone’s edge, starting with opposite prongs to apply even pressure. Ensure that the prongs are tight against the gemstone without leaving any gaps. Regularly check the prongs for wear and tear, as over time they may need to be tightened or repaired to maintain a secure hold.
Claw settings can be suitable for beginners in jewellery making, especially when working with standard-sized gemstones and pre-made settings. However, setting gemstones in claw settings requires precision and careful handling to avoid damaging the stone or bending the prongs unevenly. Beginners may want to start with simpler designs and practice on less valuable stones before working with more complex or high-value projects.
Claw settings are popular for engagement rings because they allow the gemstone, often a diamond, to take center stage by maximizing its exposure to light. This setting enhances the stone’s brilliance and sparkle, which is a key feature in engagement rings. The minimal metal coverage also adds to the elegance of the design, making the gemstone appear larger and more prominent.
Claw settings allow maximum light entry by using minimal metal to hold the gemstone in place. The prongs lift the stone above the ring or pendant base, exposing more of its surface area to light. This design ensures that light can enter the stone from various angles, enhancing its brilliance and sparkle. The result is a dazzling display of light and colour that makes the gemstone the focal point of the jewellery piece.
Yes, basket settings are durable enough for everyday wear, provided they are properly crafted and maintained. The basket structure securely holds the gemstone in place while providing protection from impact and wear. Regular checks and maintenance, such as tightening prongs and cleaning, will help ensure the longevity of the setting. Basket settings are a good choice for jewellery pieces that are worn frequently, as they offer both security and style.
The essential tools for setting gemstones in claw settings include prong pliers or a prong pusher, a burnisher, and a jeweller’s loupe. Prong pliers are used to gently bend the prongs over the gemstone, while a bezel pusher helps secure the prongs tightly against the stone. A burnisher smooths and polishes the prongs, and a jeweller’s loupe is necessary for inspecting the setting and ensuring precision. These tools are crucial for achieving a secure and professional finish.
Yes, claw settings can be used with both precious and semi-precious stones. The versatility of claw settings makes them suitable for a wide range of gemstones, from diamonds and sapphires to amethysts and garnets. The key is to match the claw setting with the stone's hardness and size to ensure a secure fit and to avoid damage during the setting process.
To care for and maintain jewellery made with claw and basket settings, regularly clean the pieces with a soft cloth and mild soapy water to remove dirt and oils. Avoid exposing the jewellery to harsh chemicals or abrasive materials, as these can damage the metal and stones. Periodically check the prongs and settings for signs of wear or looseness, and have them professionally inspected and tightened as needed. Proper storage in a dry, padded jewellery box will also help prevent damage and keep your jewellery looking its best.
Yes, claw settings are versatile and can be used to create rings, pendants, and earrings. Their ability to securely hold a gemstone while allowing maximum light exposure makes them ideal for a variety of jewellery designs. Whether you’re crafting an engagement ring, a delicate pendant, or a pair of sparkling earrings, claw settings provide the flexibility and style needed to showcase your gemstones beautifully.
Yes, basket settings are secure, as they provide a sturdy framework that holds the gemstone in place while protecting it from impact. The lattice-like structure cradles the stone, offering both security and elegance. Properly crafted basket settings, combined with regular maintenance, ensure that the gemstone remains securely in place, making them a reliable choice for everyday jewellery as well as special pieces.
Yes, claw settings are suitable for minimalist jewellery designs. Their simple and elegant structure allows the gemstone to be the focal point of the piece, aligning well with the minimalist aesthetic. The minimal metal coverage provided by claw settings complements the clean lines and understated style typical of minimalist jewellery, making them an ideal choice for those looking to create simple yet stunning pieces.
To ensure the security of larger gemstones in claw settings, use a setting with a sufficient number of prongs to evenly distribute the stone's weight and pressure. The prongs should be strong and properly aligned to hold the gemstone securely in place. Additionally, regularly check the prongs for signs of wear or loosening, and have them tightened or repaired as needed by a professional jeweller. Using a high-quality setting and proper care will help maintain the security of larger gemstones.
Yes, claw settings can be customized for bespoke jewellery pieces. Customization options include adjusting the number and style of prongs, selecting different metals, and modifying the height and angle of the setting to accommodate unique gemstone shapes and sizes.
Achieving a professional finish with claw and basket settings involves precise craftsmanship and attention to detail. After securing the gemstone, use a burnisher to smooth and polish the prongs, ensuring they are evenly aligned and securely hold the stone. Carefully inspect the setting with a jeweller’s loupe to check for any gaps or uneven prongs. Proper finishing techniques, such as buffing and polishing, will give the setting a smooth, high-quality appearance, enhancing both the durability and aesthetic appeal of the jewellery piece.
Claw settings are best suited for jewellery designs where the gemstone is the focal point, such as engagement rings, solitaires, and statement earrings. The minimal metal coverage allows the gemstone to take centre stage, maximizing its brilliance and sparkle. Claw settings are also ideal for designs that emphasize elegance and simplicity, making them a popular choice for both modern and classic jewellery styles.
Yes, claw settings are versatile and can be used in both modern and vintage-inspired jewellery designs. In modern jewellery, claw settings offer a sleek, minimalist look that highlights the gemstone's beauty. In vintage-inspired designs, claw settings can be combined with intricate detailing and antique finishes to create a timeless, elegant appearance. Their adaptability makes claw settings a favorite in a wide range of design aesthetics.
When choosing a claw setting for a delicate gemstone, consider the number of prongs, the strength of the metal, and the overall design of the setting. Delicate gemstones, which may be softer or more prone to chipping, require secure prongs that provide adequate protection. A setting with more prongs can distribute pressure more evenly across the stone, reducing the risk of damage. Additionally, choose a metal that complements the gemstone's durability, and consider a lower-profile setting to minimize exposure to impact.
To select the right claw setting for a statement ring, consider the size and shape of the gemstone, as well as the overall design of the ring. A larger gemstone may require a setting with additional prongs for extra security. The style of the prongs—whether rounded, pointed, or V-shaped—should complement the shape of the gemstone and enhance its appearance. The setting should also align with the design theme of the ring, whether it's modern, vintage, or a unique custom piece, to ensure a cohesive look.
Basket settings enhance the visual appeal of gemstone jewellery by providing a delicate, intricate framework that cradles the gemstone while allowing light to enter from multiple angles. This design not only secures the stone but also showcases its brilliance and colour. The open structure of a basket setting adds an element of elegance and sophistication, making it a popular choice for high-end jewellery pieces such as engagement rings, earrings, and pendants.