Custom Jewelry Engagement Rings Fine Jewelry Wedding Jewelry

Engagement Ring Durability Tips

Apr 04, 2024

Will my engagement ring last? Is it durable enough?

There is SO much to know about buying an engagement ring, it can be overwhelming. From what type of setting you want, to accent stones and durability, there's A LOT to consider.

When designing our engagement rings we think about all of that stuff so you don't have to... but, not everyone does (*cough* big box retailers *cough*). So if you're looking at other engagement rings, here's what to look out for to make sure your ring is both stunning and durable.

xoxo,

Miranda (your resident engagement ring pro)

~Gallery Rail~

For prong settings, it is important to add a gallery rail. A gallery rail wraps around your stone and connects each prong which stabilizes them. If a prong were to be bent back it would only bend to the gallery rail. If there is no gallery rail the prong may bend all the way back causing the stone to slip out of its setting.

~Band Thickness~

A thin band can bend and break with daily wear and tear. Keep band thickness to a minimum of 2mm (1.8mm for stones sized 1 carat or less). Be sure to increase band thickness as the center stone size increases.

Looks-wise, the difference between 1.8mm and 2mm is minuscule but the change in durability is dramatic.

~Peg Head vs. Cathedral~

The more points of contact the setting has with the band, the more durable the ring. There are two head types to know about.

A peg head has one point of contact with the band. A good wack on a tabletop may bend or break the head.

A cathedral setting has three points of contact with the band. It is much less likely to bend and break. Both head styles allow you to wear a wedding band flush.

~Prong Thickness~

As the size of your center stone increases, the thickness of the prongs should also increase. The thicker the prong, the more durable the setting. This means that the prongs are less likely they are to catch on something and bend backwards.

Learn more about everything you need to know and more in our handy Engagement Ring 101 PDF! Click below.

Engagement Ring 101

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