• Channel Setting– A row of care-
  fully calibrated, small gems set side-
  by-side between parallel ridges of
  metal. The gems form bands or
  ribbons of sparkling color that contrast
  with the metal’s gleam. Gems in a
  channel setting must be very similar to
  each other in dimension and propor-
  tions in order for the metal to hold
  them all securely. The style can be
  adapted for single gems and cluster-
  like arrangements.

Colored Gemstones 7 5

Rounds and square cuts are

channel set side by side

between parallel ridges of metal.

Photo courtesy Chatham Created Gems.

Pink sapphires are channel-

set in a dramatic arch over

diamond pave’d in platinum.

Photo courtesy Alfieri & St. John.

The technically challenging invis-

ible setting is performed under

magnification.

Photos courtesy Tycoon.

• Pavé Setting – Small gems (usually round) set
  next to each other across the jewelry’s surface. The
  term is pronounced pa-VAY. It means “paved” in
  French, and the appearance is like a glittering veneer
  of gemstone color.


• Invisible Setting– Small square gems set side-by-side
  within a wire-like framework. The filaments of the frame fit
  into grooves that have been cut into the gems’ girdles so the
  metal holding the gems doesn’t show from above.