You’re looking for that perfect engagement ring. But a lot of the styles won’t work for your active lifestyle. The problem is you do a lot with your hands. No worries, the flush ring setting is probably the most practical of all the engagement rings.
The flush setting engagement ring sets the gemstone into a drilled hole in the ring band. This makes the diamond flush with the band and a low profile is created. The flush setting has the lowest profile of any engagement ring setting.
A flush setting isn’t ultra-elegant or flashy. It’s not going to stick out in a crowd. It’s a modest beauty. But it does have merits. We’ll discuss the flush setting’s pros and cons. We’ll also look into why it might be the right choice for your active lifestyle.
The Flush Setting Engagement Ring
Often called the rubbed setting, the flush has gained some popularity. It has a sleek and contemporary design. And with society’s current trend to go minimalistic, the flush setting fits right in. With this setting, a gemstone is set into a drilled hole in the metal band. The stone is then dropped into the hole and using a pusher to press down, metal is rubbed around the gem.
The metal completely encases the gemstone’s girdle. Because of this necessary technique, the stone must be hard.
A Setting with a Lot of History
Another name for the flush setting is a gypsy ring. This romantic name brings up visions of the exotic and carefree lives of the gypsies we’ve read about. The style goes back to the 1900s. Back then, a plain band was set with:
- Rubies,
- Garnets
- Amethysts
- Diamonds
The band gave the appearance that the stones were sitting flush with the metal. Gypsy rings used various metals. One favorite was the old standby: gold. Gypsy rings are found in:
- 9ct gold
- 15ct gold
- 18ct gold
Often given to young girls, sweethearts or wives, the gypsy ring was extremely popular in the late Victorian era. It was simple and durable. Many of these rings survived and are still worn today. It was and is a great everyday style.
Reasons to Choose the Flush Setting
The flush setting is great not only for gemstones but for engraving. A flush setting can be customized with a unique message. They go beyond just showcasing a single jewel and encompass the ring’s full meaning.
Do you work with your hands? This setting allows you the freedom to go about your work without worrying about losing or damaging a stone. It’s highly durable and perfect for anyone on the go. You need to decide how important this durability is.
If your future fiancé is a little short on cash, a flush setting is great from an economic standpoint. He’ll be able to purchase a beautiful ring. The bonus is there’ll be space for him to engrave a special message for you.
We mentioned minimalist earlier. Is that you? Do you like to keep things simple? Then a flush setting may be just the ring for your finger.
Many Men Choose the Flush Setting
Because of its simplicity, many men are choosing the flush setting for their partner. The flush setting gives understated elegance. A simple band or engraved band with a gemstone is the perfect way to show your love.
Flush Settings are Versatile and Imaginative
The flush setting is very versatile. It can be:
- A simple band
- Focal point for Metal
- Accent to a center stone
A Simple Band for the Minimalist
A flush setting can be a simple band with one diamond in it. It can also be a band with many different types of gems encircling it. Each ring is unique. A combination of gems and engraved designs make a simple band dance to life.
A message from your future fiancé, engraved in the ring, could add all the beauty you need. Regardless the flush setting creates a minimalist’s dream engagement ring.
Acts as a Focal Point to the Metal
Not everyone is crazy about gemstones. There are some that are more interested in the precious metals that hold the gemstones. If you like the shiny or matte finish of precious metals, then a simple flush setting is for you. Instead of setting off the stone with the metal, use the stone to accentuate the metal. Any metal works. Some include:
- Gold
- Platinum
- White Gold
- Titanium
This setting highlights the metal.
Use the Flush Setting as an Accent
The flush setting can be used as an accent to a centered stone. For instance, a bezel setting combined with the flush setting makes a beautiful yet functional engagement ring. There’s no need to worry about losing stones if you have an active lifestyle. They’re safe.
Using a circle of small gemstones, the prong setting can also be beautifully paired with the flush setting. This will add a different dimension to your center stone.
What Diamond Cut Works Best with a Flush Setting
Small round cut diamonds or other gemstones work well in a flush setting. But if you are using the flush setting as an accent to a center stone, you have more choices. A princess-cut pairs beautifully with a flush setting. You’ll also want to look at a cushion cut.
The Pros of a Flush Setting
There are many pros to a flush setting. It is a versatile and safe way to wear as an engagement ring. Some of the pros include:
- Functional
- Secure
- Simple
- Customized engraving
A Sensible Setting for the Active
It’s a ring that states your future fiancé‘s love without all the show. It’s a practical way to wear a ring without it getting in the way. The durable flush setting can take a pounding without a lot of damage
Know that Your Gemstone is Secure
If you work with your hands and you’re afraid of losing your gemstone, this setting is for you. The flush setting is totally different than other settings. The gemstone is embedded into the metal. You won’t have more security for your stone or stones than that.
The Minimalist Design
If you like simple and to the point, you’ll love the minimalist look of this design. Not only is the setting flush but it’s flush with your hand as well. If you work with your hands, this is the perfect setting for you.
Customized for You
Words of love can be engraved into the metal of a flush set ring. But it goes beyond that. You can incorporate an engraved design to accentuate the stones. The sky’s the limit with what you can do with the metal. Use the metal as a blank canvas, or just keep it simple and clean.
The Cons of the Flush Setting
There are some downsides to a flush setting. Take a look at some of the cons
- Minimizes gemstone
- Rather Discreet
- Little sparkle
- Difficult to Find
The Stone Doesn’t Pop
The gemstone isn’t going to stand out. The same reason this is a pro, is the reason it’s a con. The stone is literally flush with the metal. So, it’s protected but at the same time, it isn’t going to pop.
The Rather Discreet Look
Most people aren’t going to grab your hand to see your flashy engagement ring. It’s just not that sort. The Flush setting creates a modest ring. It’s going to be very discreet in how it shows.
It Doesn’t Have That Sparkle
The flush setting is a little like the bezel setting. They both have a diminished sparkle due to the setting’s nature. With the flush setting the gemstone is pressed into the metal, this prevents light from entering the bottom or the sides. Its shine is dependent on what light strikes and is reflected off its top.
How the Flush Setting Stack up to Other Settings
The simplicity of the flush setting isn’t going to compete in flashiness with settings like the halo or prong. But the flush setting dominates when it comes to durability and safety. Your stone is secure.
Buying a Flush Set Ring
The flush setting is very economical and budget-friendly. Find a jeweler who is familiar with the technique. It takes a little skill to set stones in a flush setting. And when it comes to the stone, choose one that is hard. A soft stone such as emerald, may not hold up to the pressure that goes into creating a flush setting
The Bottom Line
Take an honest look at your lifestyle when you and your future fiancé are shopping for a ring. The setting you choose should go with your style. A flush setting works great with someone on the move constantly.
If you’re into pottery, welding, or work with your hands another way, you’ll need a setting that is durable. The minimalist in you will also appreciate this simple but ultimately beautiful setting.
