Micro pave set engagement rings have grown in popularity and are one of the most sought after setting styles for engagement and wedding rings today. These sparklers consist of tiny diamonds set around the band of the ring, micro pave rings are highly brilliant and eye-catching, with a certain aesthetic look that make them stand out.
However, as with all things, there are pros and cons to micro pave settings. Let’s take a look at what these are and whether this setting is right for you.
Pros of Micro Pave
1.      Micro Pave Rings are Beautiful
There’s no denying the beauty of a well-crafted micro pave engagement ring. The tiny diamonds set into the metal create a delicate, sparkling and petite look with an appearance that catches the eye and stands out. Unlike any other type of ring setting, micro pave gives the illusion that the entire ring is of diamonds. The finish is smooth and polished.
2.      Minimal Metal
The focus in a micro pave ring is on the diamonds. When you look at a well-crafted micro pave ring setting, it appears as though it is floating and there doesn’t seem to be anything holding it together. The metal is often unnoticeable or minimal. This is part of what makes the micro pave setting so elegant and a stunning choice for a bridal ring. Some jewellery designers expertly combine the diamonds and the metal to highlight both aspects in the ring.  The contrasting textures and appearance of the smooth shiny metal and the sparkly, brilliant diamonds create an intriguing design.
Cons of Micro Pave
1.      Lower Durability
With micro pave settings, there’s no denying that over time, some of the diamonds get dislodged. Many micro pave settings have a large number of melees, in some cases well over 200 stones. The higher the number of stones the higher the risk of diamonds falling out.  As a result, micro pave settings are not as durable as other ring settings out there. If the ring suffers a direct knock, the delicate metal prongs can bend or break allowing the diamond to fall out.
This is an industry-wide issue and can happen regardless of where you purchase the ring from. However, if the quality of the retailer is low, the chances of the diamonds falling out are higher. Having said that, diamond melees don’t fall out that easily and even if they do, having them replaced is not very difficult to do.
If you’re someone with a very active lifestyle, and you use your hands a lot, this might not be the best option for you.  Jewellers cannot guarantee micro pave settings for more than a few months.  It will probably last for years, but people with active lifestyles will bankrupt a jeweller if he guarantees micro pave settings for a prolonged period. It is always suggested that these rings are removed when any physical activities take place, even gardening and washing of dishes.
2.      Higher Cost
The cost of a micro pave ring depends on a number of factors, including the number of diamonds used for the setting as well as how complicated and elaborate the design is.
For example, some settings feature diamonds thickly encrusted all around the band in several rows while others merely feature micro pave in a small section of the ring, perhaps as accents. Naturally, the first example would be a lot more expensive than the second.
In most instances, setters charge a labour fee per stone which will push the price up. If you are on a tight budget, then a micro pave ring setting may not be the right choice for you.
3.      Difficult to Clean
When dirt gets lodged within those tiny grooves and in between the metal prongs, getting rid of it requires extra effort. However, you can clean your ring at home using soap and water and a soft toothbrush. Soak the ring in a soapy solution and softly tap out any dirt using the brush. Using ultrasonic cleaners on a micro pave setting is not recommended as the intense vibrations of the water can cause the diamonds to dislodge.
How to clean your diamond jewellery?
4.      Difficult to Resize
The other thing about micro pave settings is that they are very difficult to resize. In some cases, some settings may not be re-sizable at all meaning that you will be stuck with a ring that simply does not fit.
Over time, finger sizes tend to change, and rings may become too tight or loose. In these cases, normally you would take the ring to a jeweller and have it resized to fit. However, the tiny diamonds around the setting can affect how this is done.
Before you purchase, check with your jeweller whether the ring can be resized at a later date. Many designers often leave a part of the ring setting without diamonds- normally at the very bottom – to ensure that the ring can be resized. Also choose your ring size with care. Use a ring sizing tool if you aren’t sure what your finger size is.
How to Take Care of Micro Pave Settings
All engagement rings require maintenance from time to time to ensure that they last as long as they should. Here are a few suggestions on how to take care of a micro pave ring:
1.      Professional Maintenance
Once or twice a year, it is important to take your micro pave ring to a professional to have it examined and maintained. A professional jeweller will be able to check the integrity of the setting and fix any loose stones. They will also be able to replace any dislodged stones.
2.      Protect from Impact
If you’re engaging in vigorous physical activities, take off your micro pave ring to avoid unnecessary impact and exposure. Knocking the ring against hard objects is a sure-fire way of damaging the setting. Always wear a micro pave ring sensibly.
3.      Check for Warranty
Prior to purchase, check what warranty or maintenance policies the jeweller offers. This is important in case you need diamonds replaced or for general maintenance of the setting. Most retailers offer reasonable warranties which will normally come with a small fee.
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