Cathedral vs. Floating vs. Invisible Gallery™ Settings

The cathedral setting is the highest-profile setting for any engagement ring; it beautifully elevates your center stone off the finger giving your ring more flow by adding two symmetrical arches on either side.

What is a Cathedral Setting?

A cathedral setting is an engagement ring setting that features two metal arches on either side of the center stone to elevate it higher off the band—hence the name cathedral. It gives the ring an elegant, architectural look, and is one of the most secure settings available.

Cathedral settings are our highest profile setting, meaning that the center stone is elevated higher off the band than other settings. As a result, cathedral settings may not be suitable for individuals with active lifestyles, as it can snag on clothing or knock on surfaces. 

4.03 carat Pear Shape Lab Diamond Pave Prong Ring

Cathedral vs. Floating Setting

A floating setting is an engagement ring setting that features (typically four or six) prongs shooting out from a complete band to encompass the center stone. Certain shapes need a bit more support than just prongs so we will add a basket—another type of prong setting. A basket includes horizontal metal bands that connect to each of the prongs around the entirety of the center stone.

Floating settings have a unique, modern aesthetic which gives the illusion of a diamond hovering in mid-air. This type of setting helps emphasize the diamond’s quality, and as it is not encumbered by surrounding metal prongs or claws, more light penetrates the stone to make it the center of attention. The exposure of the gemstones makes this type of setting slightly less secure, so care must be taken that they don’t become loose or fall out. 

1.70 carat Radiant Cut Diamond Super Slim Band Ring

Cathedral vs. Invisible Gallery™ Setting

At Lauren B, we have several exclusive, signature collections. One of our most popular designs is our Invisible Gallery™ setting. Our Invisible Gallery™ is an engagement ring setting that has an open underside allowing for the center stone to sit as low as possible on the finger. 

The Invisible Gallery™ setting is the lowest profile setting in our collection. Where cathedral settings are the highest profile settings, our Invisible Gallery™ rings are the complete opposite. This type of setting is perfect for those who have an active lifestyle or work with their hands, such as those in the medical profession. This setting enables you to wear a wedding band comfortably next to it, and it can also be customized with any shape center stone.

1.73 Carat Round Solitaire Invisible Gallery Ring

Benefits of a Cathedral Setting

The number one benefit to a cathedral setting is that its elevation will help your center stone catch light than lower-profile settings. With more light refraction comes more brilliance to your ring. It is also possible that due to the elevation of the cathedral setting, your center stone may look a bit bigger than it really is!

Additionally, as mentioned above, these settings are sturdier than others due to having more points of reinforcement. Should you accidentally hit your ring on something, this will help keep the metal from bending or breaking.

Which Setting Would You Choose?

At the end of the day, your choice depends on your lifestyle and your design preferences. Whether you choose the classic style of the cathedral setting, the clever illusion of the floating setting or the practical Invisible Gallery™ setting, one of our design consultants at Lauren B will turn your dream ring into a dazzling reality. You can also find more ring inspo by looking at our Instagram and Pinterest.