# Tension setting

> In a tension setting the stone is held only by the pressure of the band, with no prongs; it gives a floating-stone effect but demands hard metals and very hard stones.

- Source: https://www.711grados.com/en/tension-setting/
- Language: en
- Note: This entry was drafted with the help of AI and is pending review by the author.
- Published: 2026-06-26
- Updated: 2026-06-26
- Translation (es): https://www.711grados.com/es/engaste-a-tension/
- Author: Sandra Sánchez
- Site: 711 Grados (https://www.711grados.com/)

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The tension setting seems to defy gravity: the stone hangs between the ends of the band, which press it in tiny grooves.

![Steps of the technique: Calculate the tension, Cut the grooves, Open the band, Insert, Release, Check](https://www.711grados.com/media/diagrams/tension-steps.en.svg "Summary of the steps")

## How it works

The band is made of a hard, springy metal and the grooves are cut with great precision. The pressure of the metal holds the stone.

## Requirements

Hard metals such as platinum, [titanium](https://www.711grados.com/en/titanium/) or 14K gold, and hard stones such as diamond, sapphire or ruby. Soft stones cannot withstand the pressure.

## Limitations

It is very hard to resize and an incorrect size can loosen the stone. It is usually an expensive piece because of the precision it demands.

## Look

Very contemporary: the stone seems to float, with no metal around it.

## Step by step

1. **Calculate the tension.** Choose hard metal (platinum, 18K gold).
2. **Cut the grooves.** Make an exact groove on each side.
3. **Open the band.** With a press to insert the stone.
4. **Insert.** Place the stone between the ends.
5. **Release.** The band returns and grips.
6. **Check.** Verify that it does not move.

## Tools and materials

- Tension press
- Hard metal
- Caliper ([caliper](https://www.711grados.com/en/jewelers-scale-and-caliper/))
- Loupe

## Common mistakes

- Soft metal: it loses tension.
- Imprecise groove.
- Fragile stones: they chip.
- Trying to change the ring size.

## See also

- [Stone settings: types and how to choose](https://www.711grados.com/en/stone-settings-types/)
- [Titanium](https://www.711grados.com/en/titanium/)
- [Platinum](https://www.711grados.com/en/platinum/)