Pave settings for an engagement ring can be absolutely breathtaking.  A pave diamond ring is one that is encrusted with very small diamonds all along the band to give the appearance of solid diamond surface, rather than a metal band.  Because pave-set diamonds use only tiny beads or prongs to hold them in place, very little of the metal band shows through and the diamonds all appear to be free-standing.  Settings like this can either go around the whole band (“full pave”) or stop halfway around (“half pave”).  Most people find a full pave setting visually impressive, but prefer the comfort of a half pave setting, as the tiny diamonds are less likely to rub against the other fingers.  Also, a full pave ring can almost be too much brilliance, drawing attention away from the center diamond. 

Typically, round brilliant or princess cut diamonds are used as center stones in pave engagement rings, since the brilliance and fire of the setting itself doesn’t require a fancy center gem.  Most center stones are prong-set, basket-set or bezel-set, as these styles separate the focal diamond apart from the setting.

Micro pave rings are even more delicate and intricate than regular pave settings.  The individual stones are so small that they appear to blend together and create extraordinary fire.  Also, because the diamonds are smaller than in a traditional pave setting, the surface is much smoother and less likely to rub against the other fingers.