The Complete Guide To Channel Set Wedding Bands

When planning your wedding, inevitably you will arrive at a point where you need to choose your wedding ring(s) - unless you had already decided on a matching bridal set when the engagement ring was purchased. With so many different types of wedding bands to consider, finding the perfect ring can quickly become a time-consuming job.

Modern wedding band designs span a huge range. We've certainly moved on from plain gold bands. Where previously you had the choice of a simple band of yellow gold or white gold, there has been a revolution in wedding rings with the introduction of different materials.

You might decide on black gold, a platinum band, a tungsten band, or one made from totally different materials like stainless steel, ceramic, wood, titanium, and carbon fiber. Innovation and creativity in wedding ring design have also introduced a great deal of choice. Plain bands have given way to twisted bands, braided bands, engraved bands, and bands with all different types of finishes like brushed, matte, and high polish. There are also bands with complex designs and textured finishes like hammered, sandblasted, grooved, and etched.

There has also been a major movement toward diamond wedding bands. Diamond engagement rings have been the norm forever but wedding bands set with diamonds and/or other gemstones have become one of the most popular designs for modern couples.

There is one big difference between diamond engagement rings and diamond wedding rings. The setting.

When you choose an engagement ring that includes any kind of stone, there is a wide variety of settings that can hold the stone - bar setting, bezel setting, pave setting, prong setting, solitaire setting, cluster setting, gypsy setting, cathedral setting, illusion setting, basket setting, flush setting, halo setting, tension setting and more.

For wedding bands, to maintain the integrity of the concept of the band, the channel setting is the majority choice. You might find other types of settings but it is unusual to find a wedding band where the stones stand proud from the ring's surface.

Here is everything you need to know about channel set wedding bands.

What Is A Channel Set Ring?

A channel set ring features precious stones along the shank, set in place along a track between two secure walls of precious metal.

The individual stones are nestled next to one another and are kept in place by the adjacent stones, rather than being held by other stone settings.

It is a design commonly associated with eternity rings.

The channel setting is not specific to wedding bands. This setting can be used in engagement rings too, not only as the main feature but also as additional embellishment.

The channel setting is similar to a pavé setting but generally uses thicker metal to secure the diamonds that line the band.

The diamonds used in a channel set ring can be small (although larger stones than pavé cut) or large but the larger they are, the wider the wedding band will be.

Pros Of A Channel Set Ring

The most attractive characteristic of a channel set ring is that you can get a lot of bling for a reasonable price.

The proximity of several stones, even small ones, enhances the dazzle factor so you get the extra sparkle. The shine and fire are not diminished and also because smaller stones can be used, they can be less than perfect without affecting the brilliance of the ring. Any imperfections and inclusions are minimized in a channel setting.

Channel set rings tend to be cost-effective on a like-for-like carat weight basis with other types of stone settings because each stone doesn't require a separate setting. It allows for a mix of stones that might have minor variations in carat size, shape, clarity, and color.

Another advantage of a channel set wedding band is stone security. The metal walls of the shank completely cover the potentially fragile girdle of the diamonds so it is very unlikely that a ring with a channel-style setting will ever do something like snag on loose clothing or any other potential hazard. The channel also acts as a lip over the edges of the stones so there is also little possibility of the setting becoming loose so that stones are lost.

Cons Of A Channel Set Ring

There are a few cons but the biggest bugbear is that it is not so easy to give a channel setting proper care. The channel setting is more prone to gathering dirt, dust, and grime than other wedding band styles. The diamonds are secured so closely together that it can be difficult to keep the surfaces and crevices completely clean.

Another issue is with sizing. Many types of rings can be resized. By the addition of some metal or removal of some metal, a ring can be made bigger or smaller. If during its lifetime your ring no longer fits, you'll need to take advice on how to make a secure fit.

The same features that make it a secure setting and difficult to resize also make a channel set ring difficult to repair. When attempting a repair it is easy to bend the channels. this runs the risk of the fit of the stones in the channel being compromised.

What To Look For In A Channel Set Ring

Which Stones, Cuts, and Materials Make The Best Combinations For Channel Set Rings?

In general, the expert opinion is that channel set rings look best when chosen with round diamond shapes or princess-cut diamonds. In terms of metal type, there is an array of metals for wedding rings that all look fantastic, but as with engagement rings, white gold is the most popular choice.

Some people are attracted to a mix of stones in their channel set wedding band but these can also look more like an eternity ring. It is all down to personal style and also what complements your engagement ring design.

How To Tell If The Ring Is High-Quality?

Rings that are carefully handcrafted from scratch are usually the best in terms of detailed quality. The main thing that you want to make sure of is that the stones of your channel set ring are set very securely next to one another.

Don't be afraid to check on this security by performing a few simple tap tests. If the diamonds look like they are wiggling in their setting, then you should not be satisfied with the quality of the finished article.

What Is The Wearability Like?

Channel set rings are very smooth and comfortable to wear. They won't get caught on clothes or anything else. The metal edges of the band protect the diamonds which also makes the channel setting a practical choice for everyday wear being durable as well as fashionable.

How To Take Care Of A Channel Set Ring

The secure and safe design of channel set rings makes them less of a risk for damage. The straight edges protect the stones so you don't have to be overly cautious.

Although this all-encompassing kind of design helps to keep the stones safe, it does make the ring much more prone to trapping substances like lotion and dirt in its small and detailed crevices. Because of this, it is recommended that you make the effort to clean your channel set rings at home at least once a week, combined with an annual steam clean from your expert professional jeweler.

It is also possible to perform a deeper kind of cleaning from the comfort of your own home, with the easiest method boiling some water, taking it off the stove, adding some clear detergent, and then letting the ring sit in it for a while. Give time for the hot water to dissolve whatever might be stuck between the stones, and then use a toothbrush to very gently brush the residue away. Once done, rinse the ring and let it dry.

Frank Jewelers is proud to present an excellent range of quality channel set wedding rings. They are available to purchase online but we offer a very personable face-to-face experience. Contact us today to schedule an appointment.