Choosing the Perfect Claws for Your Engagement Ring

We understand that it can be a little overwhelming when you are on the hunt for that perfect ideal claw setting for your engagement ring. It can be the number of claws or even the shape of the tips, there are a lot of things to consider.

Don't worry, though; we're here to make things easy and explain it to you in just simple language. You will feel more comfortable choosing the ideal claws for your ring – your best jewelry idea!

Claws: 4, 6, or 3? Let's Examine It

The diamond's shape is mainly composed or based on the number of claws you should have. We will break it down by shape so you can see which one is best for your stone, so don't worry.

For Round Diamonds—What’s the Best Number of Claws for You?

Round diamonds are by far the most popular, so let’s start here. With round diamonds, you can choose between 4 or 6 claws.

4 Claws

The 4-claw setting works for diamonds of all sizes, from small to large. It’s a classic look, and most 4-claw settings come with something called a “basket.” This is a metal framework that holds the claws together, giving the diamond extra support. If you prefer a setting without a basket, our skilled jewelers can make the claws thicker to ensure the diamond stays secure.

Visually, a 4-claw setting gives the round diamond a slightly squarer look but still shows off more of the stone. If you want the diamond to steal the show and sparkle from every angle, this is a great option.

6 Claws

If your diamond is around 0.80ct or larger, we recommend the 6-claw setting. The more claws you have, the more securely the diamond is held in place on your engagement ring—two claws would need to be damaged before the diamond could ever come loose. Another plus: with 6 claws, there’s no need for a basket.

This setting gives your round diamond a beautifully rounded, symmetrical look. The only downside is that the extra claws show more metal around the diamond, but this is only noticeable on smaller stones.

What About the Other Diamond Shapes?

For the Fancy Shapes

This may include Princess, Cushion, Oval, Emerald, Radiant, and Asscher. For these shapes, a 4-claw setting is generally the way to go. It follows the shape of the stone and keeps things secure. Occasionally, you might see some of these diamonds set in “double claws,” where each corner has two claws instead of one for extra support.

Pear-Shaped Diamonds

Pear-shaped diamonds typically use 3 claws to hold them in place. However, in certain designs that don’t use a basket, 5 claws might be used to provide a little more security.

Marquise Diamonds

Marquise diamonds often look stunning in a V-shaped claw setting, where each end of the diamond has a claw in the shape of a V. These do require a basket for strength, or, in some designs, an additional claw on each side for added support.

Want to Make a Choice Between Square, Round, or Eagle Claw Style?

Now that you’ve got a sense of how many claws you need, it’s time to think about the style of the tips. The tip of the claw makes a big difference in the overall look of the engagement ring. Let’s explore the three main styles:

· Eagle claws are super popular right now and for good reason. The tips of these claws look like the sharp talons of an eagle—strong and protective. If you like a more secure and bold look, this could be your style.

· Square claws have tips that are squared off, and they’ve been a staple in fine jewelry for years. They’re classic and minimal, covering less of the diamond’s surface. If you want a more traditional, understated look, square claws are a great choice.

· Round claws have soft, rounded tips, and they’re one of the oldest and most classic styles of claw. The round shape is gentle, it covers less of the diamond, allowing more of the stone to be visible. This style has stood the test of time for a reason—it’s simply beautiful and elegant.

Let Us Help You Pick the Perfect Claws for Your Engagement Ring

At Lee David Diamonds, we understand that every diamond is unique, so we carefully choose the best claw style for your specific stone with the best jewelry idea. But if you’ve got a particular style in mind, just let us know! Our friendly team is here to help you customize your engagement ring to perfection.