Reasons to Avoid a Bezel Setting—And Why They’re All Wrong
When shopping for an engagement ring—or any piece of fine jewelry—choosing the right setting is essential. The way a piece is styled not only defines its overall look and feel but also impacts how practical it is for daily wear.
While halo designs often steal the spotlight, bezel settings quietly shine as a sleek, secure, and modern alternative. Despite their many advantages, however, bezel settings are sometimes unfairly labeled as "vintage" in a way that suggests they’re outdated or old-fashioned. This misconception often stems from older designs where bezel settings were bulkier and lacked the refinement we see today.
It’s time to put the myths to rest! In this blog, we’ll explore how bezel settings have transformed into a stylish and practical choice, bust the myths surrounding them, and help you see why a bezel-set piece of jewelry might be exactly what you’re looking for.
Myth 1: Bezel Settings Make the Diamond Look Smaller
This myth suggests that the diamond in a bezel setting will appear smaller because the metal rim conceals its edges. Some worry that the diamond loses its impact or that it looks “boxed in” compared to open settings like prongs.
It’s time to shift that perspective. While bezel settings do surround the diamond, this doesn’t make it look smaller. On the contrary, the bezel acts like a spotlight—it frames the diamond and directs attention to its beauty. The result? A clean, bold presentation that highlights the stone’s shape and sparkle. For a bit of optical magic, choose a bezel setting in a light-reflective metal like platinum or white gold. These metals work with the diamond’s natural sparkle to amplify its brilliance, making it pop even more.
The Charlotte engagement ring illustrates how a bezel setting can frame a diamond beautifully without diminishing its size or brilliance. Its sleek metal frame encircles the center stone, acting like a bold spotlight that enhances the diamond’s shape and sparkle. The Charlotte also features a hidden strip of pave-set diamonds along and under the bezel for an extra dose of shimmer. This romantic design proves that bezel-set jewelry can be both practical and breathtaking—a true celebration of strength, resilience, and everlasting love.
Myth 2: Bezel Settings Don’t Sparkle Enough
Diamonds are all about the dazzle, and it’s easy to assume that a bezel setting might limit how much light hits the stone. After all, prongs expose the diamond’s sides to light—so doesn’t surrounding it in metal take away some of its shine?
This myth comes from a total misunderstanding of how diamonds sparkle. Most of a diamond’s brilliance comes from light entering through the top, or table, and reflecting within the stone. A bezel setting leaves this entire surface unobstructed, ensuring your diamond shines just as brightly as it would in a prong setting. By protecting the edges from chips, scratches, and dirt, the bezel keeps your diamond in pristine condition while maintaining its brilliance.
The Eliza engagement ring beautifully demonstrates how a bezel setting elevates a diamond’s sparkle. Its half-bezel design secures the center stone while leaving the top completely open, allowing light to enter and reflect within the diamond for maximum brilliance. By protecting the diamond’s edges from chips, scratches, and everyday wear, The Eliza ensures that your stone stays radiant and pristine for years to come.
Myth 3: Bezel Settings Are Old-Fashioned
Some people think bezel settings belong in a history book alongside vintage jewelry styles. Because the design has been used for centuries, there’s a lingering belief that it’s too outdated for a modern look.
While bezel settings do have a rich history, they've still as contemporary as it gets. Thanks to their clean lines, they are a natural fit for modern trends like geometric designs and mixed metals. For those who love mixing tradition with innovation, bezel settings are proof positive that a classic design can still feel bold and forward-thinking.
The Pave Charlotte engagement ring is a perfect example of how bezel settings have evolved while staying rooted in timeless design. Its sleek silhouette pays homage to the classic bezel, but features a dazzling pave band, a hidden halo, and a diamond bridge under the center stone. These innovative details add layers of brilliance, making it a bold and forward-thinking choice for today’s trends.
Myth 4: Bezel Settings Aren’t Secure Enough
When imagining a bezel setting, some people worry about its durability. Does that smooth metal rim really hold the diamond securely? Couldn’t it pop out if the setting gets bumped?
Here’s the truth: bezel settings are among the safest options available. Unlike prong settings, which grip the diamond at specific points, a bezel completely encircles the stone, holding it snugly in place. And let’s not forget the practicality: prongs can loosen over time or snag on fabrics, while bezels are smooth, sturdy, and practically maintenance-free. With a bezel setting, you can focus on living your life, not worrying about your jewelry.
The Amelia diamond pendant is the perfect example. Its smooth design is worry-free and built for everyday wear. Whether you’re dressing for a busy day at the office or an elegant evening out, this pendant ensures your diamond stays safe while showcasing its brilliance. With its modern simplicity and unmatched practicality, The Amelia proves that a bezel setting can be both a luxurious and reliable choice.
Myth 5: Bezel Settings Are Hard to Maintain
Finally, there’s a misconception that bezel settings trap dirt or are harder to clean. Some worry that the metal rim makes it difficult to access the diamond, requiring extra effort to keep the jewelry looking its best.
This couldn’t be further from the truth! Bezel settings are incredibly low-maintenance, especially compared to prongs. The smooth, enclosed design prevents dirt and debris from collecting around the diamond, which means less cleaning overall. At Keyzar, we offer a lifetime warranty on all the jewelry we sell, which includes cleaning and rhodium plating, so if your piece does need any maintenance, it’s covered.
The Bezel Stud Earrings are a beautiful example. Their smooth, enclosed design prevents dirt from building up around the diamonds, making cleaning a breeze compared. Whether you’re heading to a casual brunch or a formal event, these versatile earrings keep your sparkle radiant with minimal upkeep.
Why Bezel Settings Are Worth a Second Look
By now, it’s clear that the myths about bezel settings are nothing more than misconceptions. Far from being dull, old-fashioned, or difficult to maintain, they’re an exquisite yet practical choice that checks every box: beauty, durability, and individuality.
Whether you love the idea of a sleek, minimalist piece of jewelry or want something with bold, modern flair, the bezel setting offers endless possibilities for customization. Pair it with your favorite diamond shape, mix metals for a trendy look, or add accent stones to make the design uniquely yours.
Conclusion
Don’t let outdated myths hold you back—discover the beauty and practicality of bezel settings. Whether it’s an engagement ring, a pendant, or a pair of stunning earrings, our bezel-set designs offer the ideal balance of elegance, durability, and modern flair. Explore Keyzar’s bezel collection today and find a piece that feels as special as the moments it represents.
