The prong settings also known as the claw setting is very common in a ring especially for the solitaire engagement rings. Most of us have already seen prong settings. The prong setting is the basket-like base in a ring that holds the ring’s gemstone. The end of the prongs will then be bent over to give the gemstone a snug fit. Prong’s ends can be rounded, oval, points, v-shapes, flat, or into decorative shapes. It can also be set tall, or short.
Now that you know what a prong setting is and how does it looks and set, it is now important for you to know the pros and cons of it before finally choose the ring prong settings.
The pros of prong settings include its ability to make your gemstone more visible as prongs are tiny enough. As compared to other intricate settings, prong setting are quicker to make and thus they are more likely less expensive, and those stones that are placed in prongs are easier to clean.
On the other side of the story, prong settings also have cons including its less protection to the stone as compared to other more enclosed settings. This is because, with prong settings, the girdle area of the gemstone is not covered. One more disadvantage of prong settings is its tendency to snag clothing or other items that the user may touches.
Now that you already know the pros and cons of a prong setting, it is now time to evaluate before deciding. 
- When buying for a ring with a prong setting, one must see to it that the gemstone has a perfect fit with the prongs, and that the stones must not shake around.
- One must check and make sure that the prongs are formed to let the stone sit in the right, safe, and even height and not the other way around.
- If you choose the have a ring with a very thin prongs, you must be aware that you gemstone is at risk on this kind of prong settings as it will tear or wear away.
- One must also take note that hooked prongs will open up in due time. Hooked prongs are the ones that has the prong end has an open loop before it touches the gemstone.
- Short prongs on the other hand may have the tendency to snag clothing and other items, and short prongs are short enough to offer enough contact with the gemstone making your gemstone to be less safe.
- Do not let your gemstone to be overpowered by its super large prongs as it may turn out to be unattractive.
Now that you already know what a prong is, how does it look like, its pros and cons, and how to evaluate it, you must also take note that tall, and narrow settings of prongs can be harsh to your baby’s delicate skin with just one single mistake of your hand moves, if you are planning to have one.
