When you're choosing an engagement ring setting, the number of prongs holding your centre stone matters more than you might think. Prongs are welded to the band and suspend upward, creating a basket for the centre stone to sit within. They act as claws that securely hold the stone in place. Your choice between four and six prongs affects both security and appearance.
The Security Question: Six Prongs Win, But Four Prongs Are Still Secure
Six-prong settings are more secure. If one prong breaks, five others still hold the stone. This is basic maths: more prongs mean more backup if something goes wrong.
Four-prong settings are less secure than six-prong settings, so the stone could become loose over time. The girdle (the outer edge of the diamond) is more exposed to wear and tear, making it more susceptible to scratches and chips.
But four-prong settings are still very secure when well-made. The difference is about risk management, not whether four prongs will fail. We're talking about the difference between "extremely secure" and "very secure."
How Prongs Change Your Stone's Appearance
Four-Prong Settings: Maximum Sparkle, Modern Look
Four prongs mean less metal covering your stone, which allows more light to enter from different angles. This creates maximum brilliance and makes your stone appear larger.
Four prongs also give you positioning flexibility. The traditional design features prongs at the 2, 4, 8, and 10 o'clock positions, creating a slightly square look that suits princess, Asscher, cushion, and radiant cuts. Alternatively, prongs can be positioned at 12, 3, 6, and 9 o'clock for a modern "compass" orientation.
Six-Prong Settings: Classic Elegance, Enhanced Security
The six-prong setting was designed by Tiffany over 125 years ago to accompany their iconic solitaire round brilliant diamond. This gives it serious heritage credibility.
Six prongs create a more rounded appearance, particularly flattering for round stones. The placement makes the diamond look rounder and more symmetrical. However, six-prong settings make stones look slightly smaller because more of the surface is covered with metal.
Stone Size Matters
Smaller Stones (Under 1 Carat): Four Prongs Usually Win
Diamonds smaller than half a carat may be overshadowed by six prongs. For stones under 1 carat, four prongs provide adequate security without overwhelming the stone.
Larger Stones (1.5+ Carats): Six Prongs Make Sense
If you're considering a larger diamond, especially 3 carats or more, a six-prong setting is more desirable. Larger stones have more surface area to spare, so additional prongs don't overwhelm visually. Plus, valuable larger stones benefit from extra security.
Maintenance Reality
Professional Inspections Are Non-Negotiable
Regardless of whether you choose four or six prongs, regular prong checks are crucial. A broken or weak prong can lead to losing your stone. Most jewellers recommend inspections at least once a year, with some suggesting biannual checks to catch issues early.
Cleaning Considerations
The fewer prongs your ring has, the easier it is to clean. Four-prong settings are easier to maintain because six-prong settings make cleaning harder, especially in the lower part where dirt accumulates.
For home maintenance, both settings clean easily with warm water, a drop of washing-up liquid, and a soft toothbrush. The difference is minor unless you're obsessive about cleaning.
Repair Costs
When prongs eventually need attention (and they will), retipping usually costs around $10 to $25 per prong in Australia, but more if the whole prong needs rebuilding. When a ring is sent for prong work, it's often necessary to address all the prongs for safety and cosmetic purposes. The best practice is to replace or retip all prongs at the same time. Don't try to save money by fixing only the damaged prong.
Moissanite Considerations
Moissanite is harder than many natural gemstones at 9.25 on the Mohs scale, making it durable enough for both four and six-prong settings. The choice comes down to stone size, personal preference, and your risk tolerance.
For moissanite specifically:
- Under 1 carat: Four prongs showcase the stone's fire beautifully
- 1 to 2 carats: Either setting works well, choose based on aesthetic preference
- 2+ carats: Six prongs provide extra security for your investment
Red Flags: When Your Prongs Need Immediate Attention
Stop wearing your ring immediately if you notice:
- Prongs that don't point inwards toward the centre stone
- Bent or misshapen prongs
- Stone movement when you touch it
- Slight rattling sounds
Don't ignore these warning signs. They could save you from losing your stone.
Making the Right Choice for Your Lifestyle
Choose Four Prongs If:
- Your stone is under 1 carat
- You want maximum sparkle and stone visibility
- You prefer a modern, clean look
- Easy cleaning is a priority
- You're budget-conscious (lower repair costs)
Choose Six Prongs If:
- Your stone is 1.5+ carats
- Security is your top priority
- You love the classic Tiffany-style look
- You want the stone to appear more perfectly round
- You're willing to pay slightly more for maintenance
Your Lifestyle Matters
If you're active, work with your hands, or are generally hard on jewellery, the extra security of six prongs might be worth the trade-offs. If you're careful with your ring and prioritise maximum brilliance, four prongs could be perfect.
The "right" choice depends on your stone size, aesthetic preferences, and how you plan to wear the ring. Six prongs are more secure, but four prongs aren't insecure. Six prongs offer classic elegance, but four prongs provide modern sparkle.
Most importantly, whichever you choose, commit to annual professional inspections. It's advisable to get your ring retipped every 5 to 10 years. Regular maintenance keeps your stone secure regardless of how many prongs are holding it.
The best setting is the one you'll love looking at every day whilst feeling confident it will protect your investment for decades to come.
Thanks for reading!
Jared & Brie
