The trellis setting is one of the most iconic and enduring solitaire designs in American fine jewelry — recognizable by the distinctive interlocking or crossing prong structure at its base that gives the ring its name. Named for the garden trellis structure that its crossed prong pattern resembles, the trellis setting transforms the utilitarian prong — a purely functional element in standard settings — into an architectural design feature that is as beautiful from the side and below as it is from above.
The trellis setting is particularly associated with Tiffany & Co.'s proprietary setting designs and has become, through that association, one of the aspirational solitaire configurations in the American market. A moissanite in a trellis setting delivers the same iconic silhouette at a dramatically lower price point, making the trellis aesthetic accessible to a much broader range of buyers.
How the Trellis Setting Works
A standard six-prong solitaire has six prongs that run vertically from the base of the setting to the tips that grip the stone's girdle — parallel, independent, and functionally identical. The trellis setting modifies this structure: alternating prongs (typically pairs) are positioned to cross or interlock at the setting's base before rising to their tips, creating a V-shaped or X-shaped crossing pattern at the gallery (the underside of the setting). This crossing pattern serves both aesthetic and structural purposes: aesthetically, it creates the distinctive lattice or trellis visual; structurally, the crossed prongs provide additional lateral support and rigidity to the prong structure.
Trellis Setting vs. Standard Six-Prong Solitaire
- Gallery appearance: The trellis setting's crossed prong structure creates an open, architectural gallery with visible geometry. The standard six-prong gallery is simpler and more utilitarian.
- Side profile: The trellis setting's crossing prongs create a distinctive side view that is a design feature in itself — identifiable from any angle. Standard six-prong settings are more uniform in their side profile.
- Structural rigidity: The trellis crossing adds lateral stability to the prong structure, potentially increasing stone security over time compared to independent parallel prongs.
- Light admission: The trellis gallery's open structure allows light entry from additional angles, contributing to the stone's brilliance from the pavilion side.
Read more: Moissanite Solitaire Ring Guide
Best Stone Shapes for Trellis Settings
Round brilliant — the classic choice: The trellis setting was developed for round brilliant stones and remains most commonly executed with round centers. The round's symmetrical outline is ideally suited to the trellis's symmetrical prong structure. Read more: Moissanite Size Guide.
Oval — popular contemporary variation: The oval cut in a trellis-style setting has become one of the most sought-after engagement ring configurations in the US market since 2020. The trellis structure adapts naturally to the oval's elongated outline with four prongs rather than six. Read more: Moissanite Oval Cut Guide.
Cushion — vintage-inspired variation: A cushion cut in a trellis setting creates a romantic, vintage-inspired combination that is particularly popular among buyers who appreciate both antique aesthetics and modern stone quality. Read more: Moissanite Cushion Cut Guide.
Metal Choices for Trellis Settings
Platinum: The premier choice for trellis settings. Platinum's density and hardness ensure the crossing prong structure maintains its geometry over decades of wear without metal fatigue or deformation. Read more: Moissanite in Platinum Guide.
14K or 18K white gold: White gold in the trellis setting creates a seamless visual continuity between the prong structure and the stone's colorless brilliance — the most popular American combination.
14K yellow gold: A yellow gold trellis setting creates a warm, classic combination with strong vintage resonance — particularly appropriate for cushion or round center stones. Read more: Moissanite in Yellow Gold Guide.
Browse moissanite solitaire rings including trellis designs: ring collection. Custom trellis designs: custom design service. All stones GRA-certified DEF/VVS1 Excellent cut.
🛡️ Lifetime Gemstone Warranty — Your stones are protected forever.
⬆️ Lifetime Upgrade Program — Upgrade your stones or metal anytime.
✏️ Request a Custom Design — Make it uniquely yours.
📐 Not sure of your size? View our Ring Size Guide & Jewelry Care Tips
Related guides:
Moissanite Ring Settings Guide
Moissanite Solitaire Ring Guide
Moissanite Cathedral Setting Guide
Moissanite Pavé Band Guide
Prong vs. Bezel Settings Guide