Bar:

A setting with two short, parallel bars that grip the stone while running perpendicular to the band. Light enters on the exposed sides of the stone. The stone is at minimal risk for loss or damage, and also unlikely to snag. 

Bezel:

A metal basket with lip border that matches the shape of the stone. Bezel settings offer excellent hold and protection as well as a smooth, practical surface. The basket limits light to the top of the stone.

Channel:

A setting popular for multiple stones. They're embedded within the band, and protected by the rails. They're also securely held and extremely unlikely to snag or damage. A Channel setting can limit light exposure on the stones.

Flush:

A stone is recessed within the material so its surface is even with the band. Flush offers great grip, protection and a smooth surface. Although light exposure is limited, Flush settings have a very modern look. They tend to be pricey.

Pave:

French for "paved," Pave settings resemble a road of small stones. Pave settings sparkle brilliantly, but they can have some risk of exposure to loss, snagging and other damage.

Prong:

The most popular engagement setting. Prongs use anywhere from 3 to 6 claws to hold a stone in place. They allow lots of light in, and their grip is very secure. Prong settings can snag and offer less stone protection than other settings.

Tension:

A modern setting that uses tons of pressure to grip a stone. Plenty of light gets in, but grip and damage exposure can be an issue. True tension settings are rare, expensive, and can't be resized. Less pricey imitations are available.

Wrap:

A unique setting that hugs a stone using metal branches or the SPLIT SHANK of the band itself. Wrap settings allow plenty of light to get in. They also provide a secure grip, but the stone can be at risk of exposure to snagging or damage.