The Pros and Cons of the Channel Ring Setting

At the peak of its popularity in the late 1980s through the 1990s, the channel ring setting was beloved for its ideal combination of extra sparkle, extra gemstone protection, and a clean, modern look. Today, the channel setting is most commonly seen in wedding and anniversary bands, but it still makes a great option for an engagement ring.

Pros of the Channel Setting

“A channel-set ring is more cost-effective,” says Los Angeles-based jeweler Corina Madilian. “You can hide variations in sizes of diamonds, and you don’t have to set each stone individually. That lowers prices.”

Because the metal walls on the shank completely cover the fragile girdle of a diamond, a channel setting is also more protective than pavé or bead-set bands. A channel-set band is also less likely to snag clothes.

Cons of the Channel Setting

The biggest con of a channel-set ring is how quickly it gathers dirt. “Once dirt or lotion gets between the stones, it can take the sparkle away pretty quickly,” says Madilian. “You don’t want to let anything accumulate.”

Fortunately, cleaning a channel-set ring is a breeze. “The easiest thing to do is boil a little water, take it off the stove, add some clear detergent⁠, and let the ring sit for a bit,” Madilian explains. “Let the hot water dissolve whatever is between the stones, then use an old toothbrush to gently brush away any residue. Rinse it, and then you’re done.”

Ready to shop for your own channel-set engagement ring? Here are 15 stunning options.