Double Claw Prong Settings: Buyer’s Guide

Double Claw Prong Settings

Double claw prong settings have gained prominence as a stylish piece that can complement a number of diamond cuts.

In this article, we’ll explore everything to know about them, such as pros and cons, how it compares to alternatives, and if this type of setting is right for you.

What is a Double Claw Prong Setting?

Double claw prong settings feature two slim prongs close together. The diamond is often held by the double claws in four places, creating a total of eight points on its edges that’s covered by a prong.

Check out an example of this setting below, where I’ve highlighted the double prongs.

Double Claw Prong Setting for Engagement Ring

In many designs, the prongs extend upward from the top of the shank, where they split into two as they approach the diamond’s table.

From there, each prong reaches over the diamond’s girdle to secure it in place.

Here’s a profile view that shows that feature.

Profile of Double Claw Prong Setting

They can be used on band’s made of rose or yellow gold or ones that have a split shank design. 

What distinguishes it from other types of prong settings is the two prongs placed tightly together for added protection.

Pros

Security

The purpose of double claw prongs, aside from the sleek aesthetic, is for better securing rounded or sharp corners on emerald, cushionoval, and radiant cut diamonds.

Each of these cuts have areas where they’re vulnerable to chipping or sliding loose. 

The claws provide added security.

For example, cushion cut diamonds have rounded corners shaped like a pillow. Even though its corners are curved, the edges are straight.

You can identify these characteristics in this cushion cut.

Cushion Cut Diamond with Double Claw Setting

If the diamond is hit against a hard surface and rotated, it may fall out of the setting. 

A double claw setting with an extra prong on each corner solves this problem. In the example above, the halo of small diamonds surrounding the main one provides another layer of protection.

Hide Inclusions

The claws also hide inclusions, or flaws that develop from intense heat and pressure during its formation. 

Many diamonds on the market have visible inclusions you might want to cover. 

In fact, if you’ve chosen a diamond that weighs around one carat, and its clarity grade is SI1 or below, there’s a higher chance its flaws are visible to the naked eye.

Diamond Clarity Scale

When they’re located toward the middle of its table, there’s no concealing them with a double claw prong setting.

But if the black spots, feathers, or crystals are located in a corner, a double claw setting can be placed over them. The diamond will then appear eye-clean.

A word of caution is inclusions are more likely to result in chipping if they’re positioned in weak points such as corners.

So although the claw may cover it, you should avoid diamonds with significant inclusions in those areas. Pressing too hard on it may cause it to weaken.

Slim Appearance

The setting also has the benefit of making the prongs appear more slim.

Buyers often want to minimize the appearance of prongs on a diamond. By having two thin prongs instead of a single one, it gives the setting a sleek look.

This modern aesthetic is especially appealing when paired with a cut matching that style.

To illustrate, princess cut diamonds like the one below have a squarish shape and are known as a modern cut.

Double Claw Prong Setting

The thin double claws highlight its square shape.

If you’re shopping for a diamond online, like I did for my wife’s engagement ring, I recommend pairing the setting with multiple diamond cuts to learn which combination fits your taste.

Cons

Covers Facets

Even though it can present a sleek appearance for the diamond, the extra prong covers more facets compared to a single prong. 

If you were to remove one of the prongs from each corner of the diamond, it’d still be held in place, and more facets would sparkle.

The extra metal is an area where light can’t hit the diamond, which diminishes its brilliance.

But the difference is minimal enough that it wouldn’t appear dull compared to one with single prongs.

Snags More Easily

Another downside to double claw prongs is the potential for them to get caught or snag on hair, furniture, or other items. 

This issue is prevalent with any type of prong setting, but it’s more of a challenge when there are eight sharp claws holding the diamond compared to four.

When the prongs snag, it may bend them backwards and loosen their grip on the stone. If this happens, I recommend not wearing it until it’s repaired.

You might not notice if the diamond slips out, which is a much larger problem than fixing a broken prong.

Additionally, prongs without the claw-shaped ends are less likely to catch.

But it’s best to not wear the ring during physical activity no matter your choice of setting.

How do They Compare to Other Settings?

The two types of settings closest to a double claw prong are a single claw setting and double rounded prongs. Even though they’re similar, each has a unique appearance and functions differently than double claws.

Single claw prongs also have the benefit of matching the facets of a round diamond. They more easily blend into the diamond’s table compared to rounded prongs

Notice the rounded ends of the prongs on this setting.

Rounded Claw Prongs

The only difference between single and double claw prongs is the added prong on the latter, which can take up more room on the table. The diamond is better secured with the double claw, but it does sacrifice a small degree of brilliance.

Double rounded prongs are a similar design to the double claw. The difference is their tips. 

On the rounded prong, its end is shaped like a ball. It’s less likely to snag compared to pointed ones because there aren’t sharp claws on the ends that easily catch. 

The rounded ends hang slightly over the girdle onto its table. Double claws are thinner and more elongated, so they often reach farther onto the table. 

Another type of setting similar to double claw prongs is V-prongs

Here’s an example of V-prongs on a marquise cut.

V-Prongs on Marquise Cut

From a distance, the two look identical because they both feature sharp ends with a hole in the middle. 

They’re also both used to hold the sharp edges of certain cuts. 

The difference is V-prongs are a single prong with a slit down the middle instead of two separate prongs.

Is a Double Claw Prong Setting Right For You?

Double claw prong settings aren’t as popular as other types, but it’s the right fit for many buyers because of its sleek appearance and how it holds the diamond.

Consider a double claw prong setting for your diamond ring if:

  • You’ve chosen an oval, emerald, radiant, or cushion cut diamond
  • You want strong security for the diamond, especially on vulnerable corners
  • The modern look of thin prongs stretching across the crown is appealing
  • There are minor inclusions in corners you want to conceal

By exploring a range of options for double claw prong settings, you can find the right piece of jewelry for you.

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Jacob Clarke

Jacob Clarke

Jacob Clarke is the founder of TeachJewelry.com.

He earned an Applied Jewelry Professional Diploma from the Gemological Institute of America (GIA) and now brings you essential information about diamonds, settings, and more.

Jacob has consulted with leading jewelry brands, and his work has been cited in Clean Origin, Diamond Nexus and industry publications.

He's also a member of the International Gem Society.

He enjoys discussing jewelry with readers, so contact him with any questions at jacob.clarke@teachjewelry.com.

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Jacob Clarke

Jacob Clarke from Teach Jewelry

About Me

Greetings, my name is Jacob and I am the founder of Teach Jewelry. My aim is to guide you in making informed decisions when it comes to diamond and engagement ring selection. I provide comprehensive yet accessible advice and tips to ensure clarity, eliminating any concerns of overpaying for your diamond, engagement ring, or other jewelry. Whether your interest lies in selecting a top quality diamond, choosing its ring setting, or exploring other jewelry pieces, rest assured, you will attain the knowledge needed to select the right piece with confidence.

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