Six-Prong vs. Four-Prong Settings: Which is More Secure? - Complete Australian Buyer's Guide 2025
When you're choosing an engagement ring setting, the number of prongs holding your centre stone might seem like a minor detail. But here's the thing: prongs are welded to the band and suspend upward, creating what looks like a basket for the centre stone to sit within. The prongs are designed to act as a claw, securely holding the centre stone in place. Your choice between four and six prongs has significant implications for both security and aesthetics.
The Security Question: Six Prongs Win, But It's Not That Simple
With a 6 prong setting, the immediate benefit is a more secure setting. If a prong were to break in a 6 prong setting, it's very unlikely that the stone would fall out because the other five are holding it in place. 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 before you immediately jump to six prongs, understand that four-prong settings are still very secure when well-made. The difference is about risk management, not whether four prongs will definitely fail. We're talking about the difference between "extremely secure" and "very secure."
The Aesthetic Impact: How Prongs Change Your Stone's Appearance
Four-Prong Settings: Maximum Sparkle, Modern Look
Four prongs mean less metal covering your stone, which translates to more light entering from different angles. The fewer prongs your ring has, the bigger part of the gemstone is visible, and the more light enters the stone. This creates maximum brilliance and makes your stone appear larger.
Four prongs also give you flexibility in positioning. The traditional design for a 4 prong setting features prongs at the 2, 4, 8, and 10 o'clock positions. This creates a slightly squarish look to the setting and will help squarish cuts like princess, Asscher, cushion, and even radiant look more square. Alternatively, prongs can be positioned at 12, 3, 6, and 9 o'clock for a more modern "compass" orientation.
Six-Prong Settings: Classic Elegance, Enhanced Security
The 6 prong setting itself was actually designed and introduced by famed jewellery house Tiffany over 125 years ago. It was created to accompany their iconic solitaire, round brilliant diamond engagement ring. This gives six-prong settings serious heritage credibility.
Six prongs create a more rounded appearance, particularly flattering for round stones. The placement of the prongs makes the diamond look rounder and more symmetrical. However, six-prong settings make the stones look a bit smaller in comparison since more of the gemstone surface is covered with metal.
Stone Size Matters: When to Choose Which Setting
Smaller Stones (Under 1 Carat): Four Prongs Usually Win
Diamonds smaller than a half a carat may be overshadowed by all the prongs. Six prongs can make smaller stones look crowded and diminish their visual impact. For stones under 1 carat, four prongs typically provide adequate security without overwhelming the stone.
Larger Stones (1.5+ Carats): Six Prongs Make Sense
If you're considering a larger diamond, especially when getting upwards of 3 carats, a 6 prong setting would likely be more desirable. Gemstones of that size and larger can get a big benefit from the more secure and durable setting offered by the 6 prong setting.
Larger stones have more surface area to spare, so the additional prongs don't overwhelm the stone visually. Plus, valuable larger stones benefit from the extra security insurance.
Maintenance Reality: What You Actually Need to Know
Professional Inspections Are Non-Negotiable
Regardless of whether you choose four or six prongs, regular prong checks are crucial, as a broken or weak prong can lead to losing your stone. Most jewellers recommend having your prongs inspected at least once a year.
Professional inspections should occur biannually to maintain peak condition and to catch any issues early before they escalate into costly repairs. This applies to both four and six-prong settings.
Cleaning Considerations
In general, the fewer prongs your ring has, the easier it is to clean. That is why, when it comes to maintenance, the four-prong ring setting is the winner. In comparison, the six-prong setting makes the cleaning of stones a bit harder, especially in the lower part where dirt tends to accumulate more.
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 particularly obsessive about cleaning.
Repair Costs in Australia: Budget Reality Check
When prongs eventually need attention (and they will), here's what you're looking at:
Prong Retipping Costs
Retipping usually costs around $10-25 per prong, but it will cost more if the whole prong has to be rebuilt. In Australia, you're typically looking at:
- Four prongs: $40-100 for retipping all prongs
- Six prongs: $60-150 for retipping all prongs
Full Prong Replacement
Generally, the cost falls within the range of $50 to $250, though simple repairs might cost less than replacing an entire prong or a complex prong setting. For Australian buyers:
- Simple four-prong repair: $80-200
- Simple six-prong repair: $120-300
- Complex repairs: $200-500+ depending on the setting intricacy
When a ring is sent for prong work, it is 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 - it's false economy.
Moissanite Considerations: Does It Change the Equation?
Moissanite is actually 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 the same factors: stone size, personal preference, and your risk tolerance.
For moissanite specifically:
- Under 1 carat: Four prongs showcase the stone's fire beautifully
- 1-2 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:
Examine Prong Alignment - From the top view of the ring, observe the prongs. They should all point inwards toward the centre stone. Address Bent Prongs - If any prongs appear bent or misshapen, it is crucial to stop wearing your ring entirely until a professional can assess the damage.
If you notice a stone moving when you touch it or hear a slight rattle, it's time to get it checked. Don't ignore rattling sounds or obviously bent prongs - they're warning signs that 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. Ready to see these settings in action? Browse our engagement ring collection to compare four and six-prong options side by side.
The Bottom Line: Both Are Secure When Done Right
Here's what really matters: work with a jeweller known for high quality workmanship and you should get a ring that is durable and beautiful. Poor craftsmanship will compromise any setting, whilst quality work makes both four and six-prong settings very secure.
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 5-10 years. Regular maintenance will keep 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
