Definition of a Diamond Solitaire

by Garnet Greene

Overview

Definition of a Diamond Solitaire

According to diamond expert Sue Healy, "Something like 18 tons of rock need to be crushed before a single carat of diamond is found." An object this rare and difficult to find deserves to be showcased in its ideal setting: a solitaire.
What Is a Diamond Solitaire?

When a stone is set as a solitaire in a ring or pendant no other stones are used in the setting. A solitaire setting is reserved for stones of good quality.

The Classic Diamond Solitaire Ring

The classic diamond solitaire ring was designed by Tiffany & Company and is known as the Tiffany "six-prong" setting. Six prongs ensure that once a diamond is set it will be secure within its setting.
Preferred Metals

A valuable diamond should be set in gold or platinum. Silver is too soft a metal to properly protect a diamond.
Bezel Mountings

A bezel is a ring of metal that surrounds a solitaire stone. A bezel protects a stone even better than prongs, but a bezel will also prevent the stone from showing its full brilliance because a bezel setting blocks more light than prong settings.
Other Stones

Diamonds are not the only stones set as solitaires. Fine stones of all varieties, including sapphires, rubies, tourmalines and alexandrites, are all set as solitaires.
Tricks of the Trade

Flaws in diamonds may be hidden under the prongs of a ring. When buying an expensive ring ask to see an appraisal of the loose stone.

References & Resources