Although diamonds are the hardest gemstone and the hardest natural substance known to man, not every diamond engagement ring is a flawless fit for a rough-and-tumble lifestyle.
An athlete, for example, might find a very delicate and high-set ring more of a hindrance than a pleasure. What, after all, is the point of a gorgeous diamond ring if wearing it does not fit your daily routine?
Proud (high) claw settings are gorgeous and classic, but can be a bother for ladies with a hands-on kind of job. Women in the medical profession, for instance, may find a high ring difficult to manage under a latex glove. An administrative or office environment, however, is no challenge for the classic claw set engagement ring.
Tube (bezel) settings are exceptionally secure, cannot hook on fine threads, and look lovely when set low. This style is an ideal, sleek option for active, hands-on daily routines—though rings of any style should always be removed before high-impact sports like rock climbing to prevent catastrophic ring damage or severe physical injury.
The setting of the main diamond is only the beginning, though. When it comes to deciding on the rest of the ring, bearing your daily activities in mind is just as important. A chunky band, for instance, may be more hard-wearing, but can be an uncomfortable hindrance in the gym or when playing a sport like tennis, where it might hurt your grip.
Also, bear in mind the cleaning and maintenance best suited to your hobbies. A baker or artist might find the nooks and crannies of a detailed filigree ring difficult to keep dirt-free.
Both pavé and channel settings are great ways to add sparkle to just about any ring, especially when it comes to adding small diamonds around a larger centre stone. While both pavé and channel settings add brilliant accent sparkle, channel settings seat diamonds flush between two solid walls of metal, creating a smooth, snag-free surface ideal for active wear. Pavé settings, by contrast, secure stones with tiny raised metal beads on the surface—delivering a dazzling paved effect, though requiring slightly more care to protect the micro-prongs during heavy physical tasks.
In the end, choosing the perfect ring is all about what feels the most comfortable to you in terms of height, weight and structure. This being said, absolutely nothing beats a fine diamond ring, custom-made to suit your taste and way of life just perfectly, whatever your style may be.
For more information on the perfect ring to suit your lifestyle, or to set up an obligation-free design consultation, contact our team of highly qualified jewellery designers today. With our endless expertise, wide selection of diamonds and master goldsmiths, we provide the most sought-after and exquisitely made engagement rings Cape Town has to offer.
