Cathedral Setting

A cathedral setting uses metal supports that sweep up from the band in arched curves to hold the centre stone, and those arches form a bridge between the band and the head where the diamond sits, so the head ends up higher than in a standard setting. The arches can be left plain, set with diamonds or finished with detail like milgrain, and the look adds height and presence without much extra bulk while giving the centre stone more side protection.

Two or more metal arches extend from opposite sides of the band and curve up to meet the base of the diamond setting, carrying the structural load of the centre stone and creating the elevated profile that gives the setting its name. The diamond is then set in a traditional head, whether prongs, a bezel or another style, that sits on top of the arches. The height and shape of the arches vary by design, so some are subtle and others tall and dramatic.

Round brilliants and ovals are the most common, because their curves complement the arched metalwork, and cushion cuts work well too, with their soft corners echoing the arch curves. An emerald cut sets up a contrast between the stone's geometry and the organic arches. A cathedral setting suits a centre stone of around 0.5 carat and above, since a very small stone can read out of proportion on the lifted arches.

A classic cathedral with plain metal arches is the most traditional, while a diamond-set cathedral runs pave along the curves for extra sparkle in the side profile. A knife-edge cathedral combines a knife-edge band with the arches for maximum light catch, and a split-shank cathedral separates the band into two before it arches upward. A low cathedral uses gentler arches for a less dramatic but still elevated look.

The lifted profile means the diamond sits higher than in most settings, so it is a little more exposed to bumps from above, though the arches do give solid side protection. A cathedral suits anyone who likes architectural detail and does not mind a ring with more presence on the hand, and it is less of a fit if you work extensively with your hands or prefer a low-profile ring.

A cathedral setting is moderately priced, usually on a par with or a little above a standard prong setting, since the extra metalwork for the arches adds some material and labour. Diamond-set arches lift the price further but add real visual impact, and the cathedral is a good choice if you want a distinctive head without the cost of a full halo or a more elaborate setting.