The pave setting is so called because it makes the metal band look like it’s been ‘paved’ with tiny little diamonds. These diamonds sit on the top of the band and are held in place by tiny prongs or beads. There are several types of pave settings, but the concept is the same.
The aim of the pave setting is to provide as much sparkle as possible for the ring and to enhance the center stone. While different shapes can be used for pave, small round melee diamonds are the most common.