op·en back set·ting | ˈō-pən ˈbak
noun
A setting in which the back of the stone can be seen
The setting for a stone in a piece of jewelry is designed to hold it in place and protect it while showcasing the natural components of that gem. An open-back setting is specifically designed to allow light to pass through the setting and into the gem. This is especially important for transparent or translucent gems like diamonds that can refract light and sparkle brighter because of such a setting. These settings were popularized during the Victorian area and are now commonly used for jewelry not worn close to the skin, such as earrings, allowing the light to pass through a dangling piece of jewelry. More carefully engineered settings for rings and pendants can also be created in such a way as to offer more openings for light.
