Tension Setting
ten·sion set | ˈten(t)-shən set
noun
A jewelry setting that holds the gemstone in place by pressure rather than prongs, a bezel, or other mounting
A tension setting is unique in that it holds the gemstone in place within a piece of jewelry with pressure rather than the physical restriction of prongs, a bezel or other type of mounting. Visibly, tension settings don’t appear to have anything holding the gem in place, making it look to be floating or freely attached to the setting, there is a spring-loaded element to the metal that exerts pressure on the stone to hold it in place. To further support the stone, there may also be grooves etched into the metal. These will be level with the girdle and ensure the correct amount of pressure and catch are in place to keep the diamond or other gemstone stationary.