Bezel (jewellery)

Definition and Types of Bezel

• A bezel is a wider and usually thicker section of the hoop of a ring.
• It can contain a gem or a flat surface with an engraved design.
• Bezels are commonly worn on the upper or outer side of the finger.
• In gem-cutting, bezel refers to the sloping facets that surround the flat table face of a cut stone.
• Bezels can also be found on tools, appliances, vehicles, cell phones, and tablets.

Bezel Settings

• Bezel settings are used to hold stones in place with a raised metal rim.
• Modern bezel settings use a band of metal with a groove and a flange.
• Historic bezel settings often had a hole or slot in the ring with a thin lip to hold the stone.
• Bezel settings can also refer to a rotatable rim on a clock or watch.
• Other types of bezel settings include swivel bezels and box bezels.

Advantages of Bezel Settings

• Bezel settings provide better protection for the stone compared to prong settings.
• They are less likely to allow the stone to scratch other surfaces.
• Bezel settings offer increased security and reduce the risk of the stone being dislodged.
• They are commonly used for diamonds and provide a secure fastener.
• Flush settings are a variation of bezel settings, extending the top of the diamond above the base.

Bezels in Jewelry Making

• In modern bezel settings, the bezel is shaped to fit the gem and soldered into place.
• Cabochon stones rely on a shallow angle cut into the side of the stone to stay in place.
• Clear, faceted stones like diamonds have a shallow groove cut into the bezel itself.
• Bezel settings for diamonds are also called rub-over settings.
• Flush settings are another variation of bezel settings for diamond rings.

References and Citations

• The definition of bezel can be found in the Oxford English Dictionary and Dictionary.com.
• The International Gem Society provides information on gemstone facets and terminology.
• The British Museum collection database showcases examples of different types of bezels.
• Etymonline provides the etymology and meaning of the word 'bezel.'
• Additional references and citations can be found in the Wikipedia article on bezel (jewelry).

Bezel (jewellery) Data Sources