Customizing a ring or pendant with your own natural gemstone—especially a rare parti sapphire or Australian sapphire—starts with choosing the right semi-mount setting. Whether your gemstone is a round-cut Ceylon sapphire or a fancy-shaped blue-green sapphire, a semi-mount allows for a personal and professional finish.

What Is a Semi-Mount Setting?

A semi-mount is a piece of jewelry that’s partially complete and designed to hold a central gemstone. It includes the band or framework, but leaves the center stone unset—allowing you to add your own gemstone, such as a certified natural sapphire or coloured zircon.

Types of Semi-Mount Settings

• Prong Setting: Classic and secure; allows maximum light to pass through the gemstone.
• Bezel Setting: Encircles the stone for strong protection—perfect for daily wear.
• Tension Setting: Offers a sleek, modern look with minimal metal coverage.
• Halo Setting: Accentuates the center gem by surrounding it with smaller stones.

Materials Used in Semi-Mounts

Choose a setting material that complements your gemstone and lifestyle:

• 14K/18K Gold: Yellow, rose, and white gold options available.
• Platinum: Strong, hypoallergenic, and luxurious.
• Sterling Silver: Affordable and elegant—ideal for custom silver designs.

How to Select the Right Setting

1. Match the setting size to your gemstone’s dimensions (length, width, depth).
2. Choose a style that enhances your gemstone’s unique characteristics.
3. Work with a trusted jeweler or lapidary to ensure perfect alignment and secure setting.

Gemstone Considerations

When selecting a loose gemstone for a semi-mount, consider the Four Cs: Clarity, Cut, Color, and Carat weight. At Sapphire Pal, all of our natural sapphires and gemstones are ethically sourced and certified, including top-quality Ceylon and Australian stones.

Visual Examples

Below are examples of semi-mount settings designed to hold sapphires, garnets, and zircon stones:

Photo Credit: Gemcuts Australia

Recommended Jewelers for Semi-Mount Settings

• Gemcuts Australia – Specializing in sterling silver semi-mount rings.
• Koodak Jeweller's Supplies – Wide variety of claw and bezel settings.
• Australian Diamond Valley – Custom mounts for natural gemstones.
• Starco Jewellers – Tailored fine jewelry and mount options.

Want to Learn More?

If you're planning to mount a parti sapphire into a custom ring or pendant, check out our dedicated guide: How to Mount a Loose Natural Parti Sapphire into a Semi-Mount Setting .

Ready to Get Started?

Browse our collection of handpicked, certified loose gemstones including:

• Natural Parti Sapphires
• Australian Sapphires
• Ceylon Sapphires

Need Help? Contact our team for expert advice on choosing your setting or gemstone.