By: Jeffrey M. Bertman Graduate GemologistJewelry designers have made widespread use of pronged settings, which firmly hold diamond solitaires in place with four to six slender metal clasps. This most popularly used setting for engagement rings allows the gemstone to bathe in sunlight and sparkle. There is another type of setting, known as the “tension” setting, which utilizes even less metal to hold the diamond in place. In effect, the tension-set ring acts as a spring that holds the gemstone securely at only two points without any metal bridging the gap where the diamond is held. As a result, the gemstone seems to hang in midair. Because light enters the diamond from all angles, the gemstone sparkles more than a pronged setting would allow.See our outstanding selection of beautiful offerings at 1402 Hancock Street, Quincy Center. Or reach us at 617-773-3636 or www.rogersjewelry.com