How Claws on Eternity Rings Get Lifted (Real-World Examples)
Eternity rings are loved for their beauty, symbolism, and sparkle from every angle. However, one of the most common questions jewellers are asked is:
'Why do the claws on eternity rings lift over time?'
This article explains how and why prongs (also known as claws) can lift, using real-world examples, and what that means for everyday wear. Understanding this helps you wear your ring confidently and care for it properly.
What Does “Lifted Claws” Mean on an Eternity Ring?
A lifted claw is a prong that has bent slightly upward or outward, no longer sitting flush against the stone. Even a very small movement can:
- Catch on clothing or hair
- Feel sharp against the skin
- Reduce the security of the stone
Because eternity rings have stones set all the way around the band, they are more exposed to daily wear and pressure than other ring styles.
Example 1: Gripping Hard Objects
What happens:
- You grip a heavy shopping bag handle, gym weight, or steering wheel
- The ring presses firmly into the object
- Pressure acts like a lever, forcing a claw upward
Why eternity rings are more affected:
There is no flat, solid underside to absorb pressure. Every contact point is a stone or a claw, so force goes straight into the setting.
Example 2: Catching on Fabric or Hair
What happens:
- A slightly worn claw catches on knitwear, silk, towels, or hair
- The pulling motion gently but repeatedly pries the claw open
- Over time, the claw lifts further with each catch
This is often how people first notice an issue, as snagging becomes more frequent.
Example 3: Knocking Against Hard Surfaces
What happens:
- The ring knocks against granite countertops, desks, or door frames
- The impact pushes the stone inward
- The claw bends away from the stone in response
Repeated small knocks—rather than one big impact—are usually responsible for this type of wear.
Example 4: Everyday Hand Movements (Slow, Invisible Wear)
Even without obvious knocks, daily movements apply constant micro-stress:
- Typing on keyboards
- Opening jars or bottles
- Pushing doors
- Sleeping with hands curled
Over time, these repeated motions fatigue the metal, particularly in softer alloys such as gold, allowing claws to gradually lift.
Why This Is Normal Wear — Not a Fault
It’s important to understand that lifted claws are not a sign of poor craftsmanship. They are a result of:
- Fine, delicate settings required to maximise sparkle
- Continuous everyday use
- Natural metal fatigue over time
Any ring with exposed stones will experience wear—eternity rings simply show it sooner because every side is working hard.
Should This Put You Off Wearing an Eternity Ring?
Absolutely not.
Think about your car:
- You know it will experience wear and tear
- Tyres wear down, brakes need replacing, paint picks up marks
- Yet you still drive it every day because it’s meant to be used
Jewellery is no different. An eternity ring is designed to be worn, enjoyed, and lived in. Understanding the risks simply allows you to:
- Wear it with confidence
- Remove it during high-impact activities
- Have it checked periodically by a jeweller
With sensible care and routine maintenance, an eternity ring can last a lifetime.
Final Thoughts
Eternity rings are beautiful, symbolic, and made to be worn—not hidden away. Lifted claws are a natural consequence of everyday life, not something to fear.
By understanding how wear happens and taking small precautions, you can enjoy your ring every day while keeping it secure and sparkling for years to come.
If you’d like advice on durable eternity ring designs, maintenance schedules, or whether an eternity ring suits your lifestyle, a professional jeweller can guide you to the best choice for long-term wear.
CLICK HERE Check our eternity ring designs
or indeed CLICK HERE and design one yourself
House Keeping
With everyday wear, it’s entirely natural for the fine claws on an eternity ring to lift gradually over time. To protect your stones and keep your ring looking immaculate, we recommend an annual Eternity Ring Valet— a discreet, workshop-level refresh designed to maintain both beauty and security.
Your ring is cared for by our in-house jewellers using professional bench techniques, with a focus on long-term durability and a “like-new” finish.
- Claw check & redress: each claw is inspected and carefully re-seated for secure, comfortable wear
- Professional steam clean: removes daily build-up to restore brilliance and sparkle
- Workshop polish: refinishes the metal for a smooth, high-lustre look
- Returned like new: refreshed, checked, and ready to wear with confidence
Price: £59 (inc. VAT) @ the time of going to press
Turnaround: Next-day service
If your eternity ring has started to snag, feel sharp, or you’ve noticed a claw sitting proud, booking an annual valet is one of the simplest ways to prevent stone loss and preserve the ring’s finish.
CLICK HERE
Book your annual Eternity Ring Valet to keep your claws secure, your diamonds bright, and your ring looking exceptional.