Tension setting

In a tension setting, a gemstone is held between the open ends of a metal ring by carefully controlled pressure. The result can make the stone appear to float. The German term is Spannfassung.

Much of the stone remains exposed. GIA notes that a hard impact can shift or loosen it, and resizing may be difficult or impossible. The construction and the particular gemstone must therefore be assessed together.

Examine the area beneath the stone: a concealed bridge or other support may indicate a ring that only resembles a tension setting visually. Describe the actual construction when it can be confirmed. A qualified jeweller should assess damage and the possibility of resizing before work is commissioned.