Pavé Setting

In a pavé setting, small diamonds (typically 0.01 to 0.02 carats each) are set into small holes drilled into the band, held in place by tiny beads or prongs of metal raised from the band surface. The stones are set so closely together that very little metal is visible between them, creating the illusion of a solid diamond surface. The pavé technique can be applied to the entire band or just a portion of it (such as the top half, which is called "half pavé").

The jeweller drills tiny holes into the band at precise intervals, seats each small diamond into its hole, and then pushes small beads of metal up from the surrounding surface to hold each stone in place. This is extremely precise work, typically done under magnification. Each tiny stone must be matched for size and set at the exact same height to create a uniform surface. Micro-pavé uses even smaller diamonds (under 0.01 carat) set with even more precision for an ultra-fine texture.

Pavé bands complement every centre stone shape. They are most commonly paired with round brilliant solitaires, where the additional sparkle creates a cohesive all-diamond look. Oval and cushion cut centre stones are also popular with pavé bands. For three-stone rings, pavé adds an extra layer of brilliance between the main stones.

Full pavé covers the entire circumference of the band. Half pavé covers only the top half visible when worn, which is more comfortable and practical. Micro-pavé uses smaller stones set more closely for an ultra-fine texture. French pavé uses V-shaped grooves instead of beads, allowing more light into each stone for extra sparkle. U-cut pavé sets stones in U-shaped channels for a cleaner look.

Pavé settings are best suited to people who are mindful about their jewellery and willing to remove their ring during heavy manual tasks. They are not recommended for very active lifestyles or jobs involving frequent hand contact with hard surfaces. If you love the pavé look but lead an active life, consider a half-pavé design that keeps the more vulnerable underside plain metal.

Pavé settings are excellent value for the sparkle they deliver. The small diamonds are inexpensive per stone, but the labour required to set them precisely can add significantly to the setting cost. A pavé band typically adds $300-$800 to the ring price depending on the number and quality of stones. Lab-grown melee diamonds (the tiny stones used in pavé) keep costs lower while delivering identical sparkle.