Tasked with keeping pricey rocks in place, prongs are maybe the hardest-working element in gem-set jewelry. Their function makes them inherently utilitarian, but that doesn’t mean they need to look that way. Check out these sweet styles containing vine-inspired, spiked, and chiseled effects.

Earrings in 18k gold with 12 cts. t.w hand-cut faceted green amethyst set in faceted prongs, $2,750; Elizabeth Garvin

Racha Vine earrings in 18k pink gold with 91.43 cts. t.w. moss agate, 2.15 cts. t.w. tsavorite, and vine-inspired prongs, $5,900; Shawn Ames Jewelry

Aurora Borealis ring in 18k yellow gold with 8.65 ct. Ethiopian opal and claw-like prongs, $19,800; Lisa Kim Fine Jewelry

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JCK