What is a flush setting?
By Jared James · Last updated 21 May 2026
Definition
A flush setting, also called a gypsy or burnish setting, places a gemstone directly into a drilled hole in the metal so the top of the stone sits level with the surrounding surface. The metal around the girdle is burnished inward to hold the stone, leaving no prongs or raised rim above it, and the result is a smooth, snag-free surface. It is a clean, contemporary look well suited to wedding bands and men's rings where a low-profile, hard-wearing set is wanted.
Frequently asked questions
- What is the difference between a flush setting and a bezel setting?
- In a bezel setting, a collar of metal wraps around and above the girdle of the stone, holding it in a visible rim. In a flush setting, the stone is set into a hole and the surrounding metal is burnished to the stone's edge so nothing rises above the surface. Both are secure and low-profile, but a flush set stone is more completely integrated into the metal.
- Is a flush setting secure?
- Yes, it is one of the more secure setting styles because the stone is essentially held within the body of the metal rather than gripped above it. There is no risk of a prong catching and bending, which makes it a good choice for active wearers.
- What types of stones suit a flush setting?
- Round and small diamonds are most common, particularly in pavé-style rows along a band. The setting works best with hard stones like diamonds, sapphires and rubies, because softer gems might chip during the burnishing process that secures them.
Designing a ring
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