When you set out to design your own engagement ring, you should take the time to learn about some of the basics of ring design. That is, if you want to go beyond the standard design programs which many of the online jewelers have. Those are actually just customization packages, kind of like choosing from a menu only much more expensive.

Using a pave setting accomplishes several things when you are designing. It can made use of many small similar size and cut diamonds very effectively. Because the small diamonds are being set close together and the settings are invisible, the engagement ring almost looks like it's one or more large diamonds rather than small diamonds. You can get much more diamond for your money by using the pave setting, since tiny diamonds cost much less than the equivalent weight in one large diamond.

When you design an engagement ring using a pave setting, it is common to have a larger focal stone in a tiffany style setting in the center, a single row of small diamonds matched to the width of the band on either side of the center stone. A second common engagement ring style is to have the above ingredients, but to have a wider band on which short rows of pave diamonds are set across the band. This adds additional width and texture to the ring. Without a center stone, this design is often used as a man's engagement ring. A third common pave setting style is a band set with diamond without the center focal gemstone. Sometimes called eternity or anniversary rings, this design also makes a beautiful and unique engagement ring. The band itself can be designed in a swirl or arc to add additional interest.

In addition to the lower cost, designing your own engagement ring and making use of the pave setting allows you to create a ring that is like no one else's. Anyone who enjoys looking at the beautiful ring catalog pictures can easily get some ideas to get you started, but in the end, you can fiddle with the design until it is something that is perfect for your lifestyle. Once you have found or drawn a picture of the ring you want, you can work with a qualified jeweler to turn the picture of the perfect engagement ring into the real thing.

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