Pavé setting
Pavé setting is a decorative method in which many small gemstones are placed closely so that the surface appears paved with stones. The name comes from the French word pavé. Tiny beads or very small prongs of metal usually secure the gems.
Construction and confusion
GIA describes pavé as a form of bead setting. Small stones sit in recessed openings and are secured at their edges. A channel setting instead places a row between two continuous metal walls. Terms such as micro pavé may refer to very small stones and fine work, but the name alone establishes neither age nor quality.
Condition
Look for missing or moving stones, worn beads, irregular spacing and evidence of resetting. A dense field can be difficult to clean and repair, and resizing a ring may disturb the stones. Avoid brushes that can catch on worn settings.
