The Art of the Setting
When choosing an engagement ring, most people focus on the diamond itself — its cut, clarity, and brilliance. Yet, it’s the setting that gives the jewel its personality and secures its most precious element. The setting not only determines how light interacts with the diamond but also reflects the wearer’s style, lifestyle, and values.
At Prins & Prins Diamonds, every setting is meticulously handcrafted by master goldsmiths within our heritage atelier at Huguenot House. Whether you prefer timeless simplicity or intricate detail, understanding the differences between the prong, bezel, and halo settings can help you select a design that feels uniquely yours.
The Prong Setting – Timeless Elegance
Few designs are as iconic as the prong setting. Often called a “claw” setting, this design uses slender metal arms to hold the diamond securely in place while exposing as much of the gem as possible to the light. The result? Maximum brilliance and a sense of refined simplicity that has defined engagement rings for over a century.
A four-prong setting creates a modern, minimalist appearance that accentuates the diamond’s natural shape, while a six-prong design offers extra security and a subtly rounded silhouette. Cathedral-style prongs — which lift the diamond slightly above the band — add height and drama, perfect for those drawn to architectural beauty.
At Prins & Prins, our craftsmen shape each prong by hand, balancing delicacy with durability. The prong setting remains a favourite among those seeking understated sophistication — a classic that endures from generation to generation.
The Bezel Setting – Sleek and Secure
For those who prefer clean lines and everyday wearability, the bezel setting offers an elegant alternative. Here, a thin rim of precious metal encircles the diamond entirely or partially, holding it securely in place while offering a modern, sculptural look.
Unlike the open structure of a prong setting, a bezel provides enhanced protection against knocks and scratches — ideal for clients with active lifestyles or professions that require durability. Despite its contemporary feel, this design has ancient origins, dating back thousands of years to early goldsmithing traditions.
When crafted by our artisans at Prins & Prins, a bezel setting feels modern yet timeless. It frames the diamond with precision, enhancing its shape and giving it a soft glow that speaks to both confidence and refinement.
The Halo Setting – Radiant and Romantic
Few settings capture romance quite like the halo. A circle of smaller diamonds surrounds the central gem, magnifying its brilliance and giving the illusion of greater size. The halo first rose to fame during the Edwardian and Art Deco eras, when jewellers began experimenting with symmetry and light reflection — and its charm has never faded.
Modern halo designs can be tailored to suit every taste: from vintage-inspired double halos with delicate milgrain detail, to sleek contemporary versions that appear to float above the band. This setting symbolises completeness and eternal love — a radiant frame for life’s most meaningful promise.
Every halo at Prins & Prins Diamonds is created with meticulous attention to proportion. Each surrounding diamond is hand-set under magnification, ensuring perfect alignment and a seamless sparkle.
Choosing What Reflects You
Selecting an engagement ring is about more than aesthetics — it’s a reflection of who you are. The prong setting may suit the romantic traditionalist, the bezel the minimalist with a modern spirit, and the halo the dreamer who loves vintage glamour.
At Prins & Prins Diamonds, our consultants take the time to understand your lifestyle, your story, and your sense of style. Whether you’re drawn to understated elegance or bold expression, your setting should echo your individuality — a daily reminder of your shared journey.
Cape Town Craftsmanship and Heritage
Set within the historic walls of Huguenot House, our atelier continues the centuries-old tradition of fine jewellery making. Here, skilled goldsmiths, gemmologists, and designers collaborate to create Bespoke Engagement Rings that embody both technical mastery and heartfelt artistry.
Each ring is handcrafted on-site, ensuring full transparency from concept to completion. Our diamonds are ethically sourced and internationally certified — natural treasures transformed through South African skill and integrity.
When you choose a Prins & Prins creation, you’re not only investing in beauty but in a legacy of craftsmanship that has defined Cape Town’s fine jewellery heritage for generations.
A Setting for Every Story
Your engagement ring is more than a piece of jewellery — it’s a chapter of your story, designed to last a lifetime. Whether your heart leans toward the light-catching grace of a prong, the sculptural strength of a bezel, or the timeless romance of a halo, the artisans at Prins & Prins Diamonds will bring your vision to life.
Visit our heritage showroom in Cape Town or explore our online collection of Bespoke Engagement Rings to discover how the perfect setting can illuminate not only your diamond, but your love story itself.
