We understand how difficult it is to decide on the right claw for your engagement ring. In this article we will cover everything to do with claws, from choosing how many claws to the different types of tips (ends) of the claws. After reading this it will be easy for you to choose the right claw combination when buying an engagement ring.

Three, Four or six Claws?

The shape of the diamond has a lot to do with how many claws you have, to make it simple we will break down the options in to different shapes. We’ll begin with round diamonds as they are the most popular shape.

Round diamond 4 or 6 claws?

For round diamonds, you can choose 4 or 6 claws. In fact, round is the only shape where 6 claws can be used. The differences between the two choices are to be found below.

4 Claw setting for round diamonds can be used for any size stone from the smallest to the biggest, however keep in mind that most 4 claw settings come with a basket, unless you specify not to have one. The basket is the part that connects the 4 claws so the diamond looks like its sitting on it. The importance of the basket is to give strength to the claws. Keep in mind that if a basket is not used, our master jewellers have to make the claws thicker. 

The 4 claw setting makes the round diamond look a bit squarish, but at the same time it shows more of the diamond. 

6 Claw settings for round diamonds we recommend only using stones of around 0.80ct and bigger. When having 6 claws you need to cover more surface of the diamond. Hence a small diamond gets overpowered by too many claws surrounding it.

Having 6 claws has two main advantages, which are firstly, the diamond is held more securely. For the diamond to become loose, at least 2 claws would need to be damaged or bent out of shape. Secondly as it has more claws there is no need for a basket.

The appearance of having 6 claws gives the diamond a round shape look. The only downside of having 6 claws is that shows more metal around the diamond, but this is less noticeable on larger stones.