Prong setting

A prong setting is one component of what is known to jewelers as a head, a claw-shaped type of binding (typically three, four, or six individual prongs per head) that is welded or soldered to a jewelry item to mount (or "set") a gemstone to the jewelry item.

The head can be handmade, cast, or die struck, and it is made from some type of precious metal, such as gold, silver, or platinum.

[1][2] High-quality settings are less likely to snag on clothing, as the prongs are firmly attached to the gem and well finished.

[2] Getting the ring checked regularly is a good idea to prevent any accidental loss of a mounted gemstone.

Some effective ways include using a 10X loupe to check for gaps between prongs and gemstone, listening for sounds made by loose gemstone, and taking it to a professional jeweler once every six months for checks.