Pavé Diamonds 101: Everything You Need to Know About the Types of Pavé Settings

When it comes to sparkle, it doesn't get much better than pavé diamonds on an engagement ring. A common misconception is that pavé diamonds are a type of stone—pavé is actually a type of engagement ring setting. And, there are even more specific categories of pavé settings that all have their own unique look. When choosing an engagement ring, you'll want to be informed of all the different options out there so you have an idea of what you like—and what you don't like. Whether you're looking to design a custom engagement ring or have begun shopping for an engagement ring, we've broken down everything you need to know about pavé diamonds so you can decide if you'd like to include them in your ring.

In this article:

• What are Pavé Diamonds?
• Types of Pavé Settings
• Sparkling Pavé Engagement Rings to Shop Now

What are Pavé Diamonds?

What we commonly refer to as pavé diamonds are actually a type of setting made up of tiny diamonds. Stephanie Gottlieb, founder and creative director of Stephanie Gottlieb, explains "'Pavé' refers to a popular type of setting, where small diamonds are set closely together creating a 'paved' appearance. The stones are held in place by tiny beads or prongs, which are barely visible, maximizing the sparkle of the diamonds and giving the piece a seamless look."

While the diamonds by themselves are not necessarily pavé, what makes a pavé diamond is the setting of these tiny diamonds. The word pavé actually comes from the French word for pavement or cobblestone, so you can think of this setting as a tiny road of cobblestoned diamonds.

Commonly mistaken for channel settings, there is a distinct difference between a pavé setting vs. a channel setting and it all comes down to how the stones are held in place. "In a channel setting, gemstones are set in a row between two metal rails or channels,'" Gottlieb says. "This design holds the stones in place without the use of prongs, allowing for a smooth surface. Channel settings showcase a continuous line of diamonds or other gemstones." In short, a pavé setting uses beads or prongs and a channel setting does not.

Pavé settings are beloved by to-be-weds for their megawatt sparkle. The tiny rows of diamonds catch the light at every angle, making for an extra sparkly and beautiful engagement ring. This setting can be used on a variety of types of engagement rings in many unique ways. If you're looking for extra sparkle and shine on your engagement ring or wedding band, pavé diamonds would be a great thing to consider while shopping.

Types of Pavé Settings

Pavé settings come in a few different variations that have their own unique characteristics. The size of the stones as well as the type of setting used is what differentiates each type of pavé setting.

Micro Pavé

Photo: Stephanie Gottlieb

"This involves setting very small stones closely together, often using tiny prongs or beads. This is ideal for intricate designs," Gottlieb explains. A micro pavé setting shimmers with every move because there are more diamonds needed to cover the surface area. Because micro pavé diamonds are so small, the ring will typically have a much lower profile and will be more comfortable for everyday wear than a ring with larger stones.

French Pavé

Photo: Grown Brilliance

Also known as fishtail pavé, a French pavé setting is characterized by V-shaped settings that hold the diamonds in place and create texture. "In this style, the stones are set with a unique cut that allows for more light to enter the diamonds," Gottlieb shares. "The prongs are designed to be less visible, creating a seamless look while still providing stability."

Petite Pavé

Photo: Stephanie Gottlieb

"Similar to micro pave, this setting features small diamonds that are slightly larger than those in micro pavé," Gottlieb shares. "It maintains a delicate appearance while allowing for slightly more visibility of the stones." This type of pavé is a great middle ground for those looking for a delicate style, but prefer slightly larger stones than those in a micro pavé.

Bright-Cut Pavé

Photo: Lauren B Jewelry

A bright-cut pavé is considered one of the more traditional pavé settings. This setting can look very similar to a channel setting because it consists of decorative metal edges that resemble a channel. However, rather than being held by a channel, bright-cut pavé diamonds are secured by beads carved from the underlying metal on the band. Gottlieb explains, "This technique uses larger stones and is characterized by their flat, polished edges. The stones are often cut in a way that enhances their brilliance and creates a clean, geometric look."

Scalloped Pavé

Photo: Stephanie Gottlieb

"In scalloped pavé settings, the diamonds are set in a way that their edges create a scalloped effect," Gottlieb says. The metal beads that hold the stones in place have U-shaped cutouts that create a scalloped edge when continued all the way around the band.

U-Cut Pavé

Photo: Stephanie Gottlieb

One of the most popular types of pavé settings, the U-cut setting gets its name from the U-shaped grooves that hold the diamonds in place. "This style features stones that are set in a U-shaped channel, allowing for enhanced light reflection," Gottlieb tells us. "It creates a distinct, rounded look that showcases the diamonds beautifully." Similar to the scalloped pavé, U-cut pavé settings are designed to use minimal amounts of metal so that the diamond can shine—literally.

Sparkling Pavé Engagement Rings to Shop Now

Once you've decided that you want to include pavé diamonds in your engagement ring, it's time to start shopping. There are pavé diamond rings out there for every budget and style. Below, we've edited down a few of our favorite sparkling options to shop right now.

Stephanie Gottlieb 2.04ct Cushion Diamond Button Engagement Ring

Photo: Stephanie Gottlieb

This show-stopping ring is guaranteed to make a statement. A sparkling cushion cut diamond is framed with pavé diamonds and a retro-inspired shape.

Brilliant Earth Petite Twisted Vine Diamond Engagement Ring

Photo: Brilliant Earth

Intertwined bands create dimension on this beautiful engagement ring. A tiny row of pavé diamonds adds just enough shimmer.

Kendra Scott Signature Engagement Ring in 14k White Gold

Photo: Kendra Scott

This gorgeous engagement ring from Kendra Scott features a round-cut diamond set in a vintage-inspired setting flanked with pavé diamonds. Plus, it stacks beautifully with their Signature Band Ring.

Yessyan Almasaty Open-Band Solitaire Diamond Ring

Photo: Yessayan Jewelry

Toi et moi rings are having a moment, and this variation is no exception. It features both a marquis cut and a teardrop-shaped diamond. The open-band shape is modern, while the pavé diamond band adds extra shimmer.

Ring Concierge 2.57 Oval in the Whisper Thin Pavé

Photo: Ring Concierge

As the name suggests, this engagement ring is light and thin, making it perfect for to-be-weds who want a minimalistic ring. The Whisper Thin Pavé is both dainty and glamorous.

Stephanie Gottlieb 2CT Round Brilliant-Cut Pavé Split Shank with Pave Scarf Engagement Ring

Photo: Stephanie Gottlieb

A pavé split shank adds a modern twist to this otherwise classic ring. The round center stone adds plenty of sparkle, which is further enhanced with a hidden pavé scarf.

Sarah O. The Jenna 2.50 CT Oval Rustic Diamond Bezel Ring

Photo: Sarah O. Jewelry

Stand out from the crowd with this one-of-a-kind ring from Sarah O. It features a bezel set oval light gray/brown rustic diamond set in a shimmering pavé band. This ring is a must-have for bohemian nearlyweds.

Gabriel & Co. Camden - 14K White Gold Hidden Halo Oval Diamond Engagement Ring

Photo: Gabriel & Co.

There is no shortage of sparkle on this shimmering engagement ring. Pavé diamonds and a hidden halo catch the light from every angle, making this ring the perfect choice for those looking for maximum shine.