Monday, October 20, 2008

Engagement Ring Shopping Made Easy

Buying an engagement ring is a personal experience for each couple. Each couple will have their own likes and dislikes in regards to diamond size and shape. Some women prefer silver while others like gold rings. Diamond shapes include marquis, round, pear, oval and heart shaped.
Selecting an engagement ring for your beloved may appear frightening, but it doesn't have to be. Men who know little about jewelry will soon learn a lot when shopping for an engagement ring. There are several things you need to consider when looking for the perfect ring.

Cut refers to the proportions and symmetry. If it is rated, look for an excellent, very good, or good rating. Cut quality is important as it makes the diamond shine. Color and clarity are less important and less noticeable. Cut is the skill with which a diamond is faceted and determines the catching of light in a diamond.
Diamonds come in a variety of colors, cuts, clarities and carats (the 4 C's) and there is a diamond for every budget. It's certainly possible to buy an engagement ring for less than $1000. A diamond's quality varies and a smaller diamond with greater quality may look better than a poor quality large diamond.

There are four classes of diamond cut. Class I & Class II are well proportioned diamonds with 88-93 percent light return. Two diamonds of similar cut, color, clarity and caret weight will probably not be equally beautiful. Each diamond is unique just like your soulmate.

Diamonds are measured in carats. The higher the number of carats, the larger the diamond. And the larger the diamond, the more expensive it will usually be.

Every engagement ring is different, so don't be afraid to make this very special purchase. Your soulmate will cherish this gift you picked out for her forever.

By K. M. Ryan

Wedding Ring Sets – United We Stand

Wedding ring sets are integration of both engagement and wedding ring in a similar design, complimenting one another. It is suitable for women who hate wearing more than one ring, or for couples who have budget constraints. It is actually called ‘wedding set’ and is designed to be worn together, and these rings cannot be worn separately as they are soldered to be worn together for a seamless and permanent fit, hence they are inseparable.

Wedding ring sets symbolizes the deep and intertwined relationship they share without discriminating each other and giving each other the same status in the society. The wedding set is a perfect complement to a romantic relationship; many couples choose rings set which symbolizes their closeness and togetherness in harmony and passion with matching designs and settings.
A united wedding ring set is an elaborate designed pair; the pair should have a co-ordination wrap to each of the ring. Yellow gold is the most commonly used in the wedding ring set, but one can also use the combination of yellow as well as white gold to give a striking look to the wedding ring set. Wedding ring sets are mostly designed with intricacy and delicate detailing since they are surrounded with multiple small stones in a pattern with a large stone in centre.

By Akhil Pathak

Choosing the Perfect Wedding Ring

It's a 'once in a lifetime decision' when buying a wedding ring. Choosing the perfect wedding ring depends on what kind of ring you favors and what designs are available. Remember, the most important part of a wedding ring is believe to be the diamond on it, the more unique the better. Also, Whether you prefer yellow gold, platinum, or white gold there is a vast assortment from which to choose. Even more important than how your wedding ring looks, is how it feels. Once you found the perfect wedding ring, it is time to make sure you get a nice and perfect fit.

Sizing your wedding ring can be a little tricky. However, here are some valuable tips to help you obtain the perfect size for your wedding ring:

When getting your wedding ring sized it is best if you are in a comfortable atmosphere since climate and temperature can enlarge or reduce your ring size. After you purchase your wedding ring don’t get it sized immediately because it may not be the actual size at the point of purchase. Wear your wedding ring and give it time to adjust to your finger. Remember seeing buyers always put it on and try to look from different angle? It's not just for fun. They are trying to get the ring to synchronies with their body temperature.

By Jeffrey T

Wednesday, October 15, 2008

How to Choose From an Array of Engagement Rings

The engagement is the first step into your committed relationship and purchasing the engagement ring should be taken equally seriously. It is a pricey undertaking hence you should be careful in your selection. It isn't a simple purchase as it seems like and should be well researched for before narrowing on a selection. The engagement ring would be worn by your spouse all the time so it should be liked and cherished by your spouse.

Your purchasing capacity depends upon your willingness to spend on this lifetime investment. There are many types of engagement rings and you need to decide whether you want to make it a surprise to your spouse or buy it with her consent. If you want to surprise her, you need to know her likings and the type of metal she prefers or give something that she hasn't possessed as of yet.

There are varied alternatives for an engagement ring but the most popular ones are the diamond rings, gold rings and platinum rings. The diamond ring is a perfect match for anyone and it jells up with any kind of mounting metal. The diamond looks stunning with platinum and also along with gold or any other metal, but it is logical to have a sturdy metal to hold the diamond.

It is important to know the diamond before you splurge into its investment. One has to consider the cut, clarity, carat and colour of the diamond, which are its keys elements. There are around 10 popular cuts but there are umpteen other styles designed by jewellery makers. You need to carefully choose your style of cut as it would determine the shine of the diamond and the fit in the ring design. The most popular cuts are the round, oval and princess cut but unique designs require different cuts.

It is always difficult to start with your search; hence online jewellery shopping website is a feasible alternative. Many websites offer to have your own individual designs and choose your style of diamond on it. This will give to a fair idea of your purchase. You can team up your diamond with your choice of metal and can have your design incorporated. This will make your purchase unique and it will be all the more special. Diamonds come in various price ranges depending upon their originality. You can choose the one that is appealing to your spouse and also isn't heavy on your pocket.

By Monty Alexander

Disover The Benefits Of White Gold Engagement Rings

Over the last few years engagement rings made of white gold have been become very popular, because they have a stunning finish and complement any gemstone. The hype started because many couples wanted anything unlike the usual yellow gold engagement rings. For every bride it is significant to feel she owns something different and unique. This is one of the reasons why white gold engagement rings are extremely popular right now, because they will unquestionably make her feel unique.


Prior to choosing engagement rings, always it may be wise when men consider carefully the individual styles and tastes of the future bride. He should find out whether she goes for jewelry of yellow gold or anything in the silver colored range. This comes with silver, platinum, and last not least white gold. If the future bride likes one of these jewelry, then he can be sure that an engagement ring made of white gold is the perfect choice. While he is at it, he should even try to discover the right ring size of his future bride. Later on this will save time and she is able to enjoy her engagement ring directly!

When it comes time to make the choice, it will precipitate to either platinum or white gold. By comparing the features, you'll see that white gold engagement rings have several benefits that platinum bands do not. First you'll determine that the biggest difference in rings is the cost. Platinum is a good deal more expensive than white gold. For just the equal setting and design the price of Platinum settings can be up to twice as much. For this reason in many cases couples opt for engagement rings made of white gold.

White gold rings provide some other advantages as well. One great benefit is that white gold is stronger than platinum which helps avoid bending and scraping easily. Another point is, that the white gold finish stays brighter longer. Platinum can become blunt. Besides, platinum prongs break more at ease than those prongs made of white gold. This is really important because those prongs are keeping the diamonds or other gems. It would be unspeakable to drop off those!

It is really important to consider engagement rings carefully founded on the appreciation and personality of the bride who will be getting it. White gold features so many advantages as well as being really beautiful. White gold is the ideal backdrop for diamonds and other valuable gemstones. The shining of the gem is stunning without overmastering it like yellow gold can. It is the gemstone that should focus on and not the setting. Generally, it is always a very individual choice whenever an engagement band is selected. White gold engagement rings are clearly favorites in the wide range of engagement rings.

By Diane Winter

Tuesday, October 14, 2008

Gothic Wedding Rings Symbolize a Black Heart's Love

What better way to celebrate and symbolize love than to have the right thing to symbolize it - a wedding ring. Wedding bands or rings are a must-have to every wedding ceremony. It's a bit unimaginable if they weren't in the scene. To some who are in the rush of things, any ring will do until they find the time or maybe when they still can't afford to buy one. For others who have lots and lots of time and money to prepare the "big day", choosing the right ring is on a day's to-do checklist.

How about for another type of people who embraces a certain way of life or culture like those of the Goths or Gothic? Is there such a thing as gothic wedding rings? Something to think about. Well the answer here is Yes. There are actually gothic wedding rings available in the market with a variety of designs to choose from. What must be taken into consideration now is what's the right one for a certain Goth, as there are noted three types of Goth?

Believe it or not, this subculture still has its own divisions, grouped into a type of personality. One of which is the Perky Goth. The Perky Goth are the revels in any life situation be it a good one or bad. They try to get themselves into anything and go with the concept of "more is better". Perky Goths are to be found on picnics and going to clubs, while avoiding socializing with others, they're just there. They comprise more of the type of Goths.

The second type of Goth is the Cyber Goth. As compared to usual black color lovers, a Cyber Goth still embraces that black color, while adding details of bright neon colors, alien symbols or designs and even tattoos. They come across with Perky Goths as they can be found in clubs too. Cyber Goths are also known as the "Glow in the Dark" Goth. Their choice of music runs from techno, trance, hard techno, and industrial. Since the word "cyber" is attached to their type, they give interest on gadgets and computers.
Last on the list of Goths are the Traditional Goths. They are known to be the ones who are diminishing. The typical personality of a Traditional Goth performs well in classes like Latin, History, and Art. Weird as others perceive, it probably is because they also do some Medieval times re-enactment. Their ear calls for punk rock, guitar-based Goth music, and the 80s music. Traditional Goths can be normally seen with big hair and clothes detailed with frills.

Whatever type of Goth a person maybe, when marriage comes into the scene, there will definitely be a need for a wedding ring, particularly gothic wedding rings. Where they can be found is as easy as spotting a neon color on a black cloth. There are a few sites on the Internet that offer an array of gothic wedding rings and other high quality jewelry that is readily available up for the picking. Selecting and paying now made easy. Deliveries of orders are done around the world. Usually they accept payments through credit card. Don't keep the ceremony waiting, order that wedding ring of choice ahead of time.

By Diane Winter

Wednesday, July 30, 2008

The Engagement Ring Bling

How much should you spend on a diamond engagement ring?

$100?

$1000?

How about a whopping $1 million?

That’s what Donald Trump just spent on an engagement ring for his lovely wife to be, Melania Knauss. Can you imagine what it must be like to wear any ring worth that much on a daily basis?

The Donald must hire beefy security guards with names like Wolfgang and Spike just to watch over Melania every time her and her delicate ring finger step out the door.

Buying expensive diamond jewelry for their significant others seem to be a Trump family trait. Well, you’ve gotta do something with all that money besides invest in real estate deals.

Trump’s son, Donald Jr. has just proposed to his fiancée, Vanessa Haydon, with a very impressive four-carat emerald cut diamond ring with a diamond-encrusted platinum band. However, Vanessa’s ring can be considered a real bargain at a cost of only $100,000.

While most regular folks will not be able to come close to spending that kind of money on an engagement ring for their sweethearts, there are still many very wonderful options if you’re looking to buy a diamond engagement ring, wedding ring, or wedding band online.


You should be able to find the perfect ring online to fit into your budget. You can even buy a custom engagement ring or wedding ring for a very reasonable price.

So take comfort in the fact that you don’t have to be rich like the Trumps to present your loved one with a truly beautiful engagement ring that will make everyone feel very rich indeed.

By Donna Monday

Symbolism of Wedding Rings

"The meeting of two personalities is like the contact of two chemical substances; if there is any reaction, both are transformed."
-C.G. Jung

Rings have been exchanged as a symbol of the bond of marriage for so long, and in so many different cultures, that the origin of the practice is obscure. Certainly, the circle of a ring represents undying love and the continually renewed vows of the married couple. Circles have long been archetypes for not only timelessness, but also wholeness and homecoming. The circle also speaks to the constant round of the heavens, as well as the eternal return of the seasons, marked by cyclical ritual and celebration.

In addition, the circle in rock art, sacred stone arrays, and astrology represents both the Sun and the Moon, themselves astrological and alchemical symbols for the masculine and feminine aspects of the cosmos. This correspondence with the Sun and Moon is emphasized by the frequent practice of choosing gold for one betrothed and silver for the other, as gold and silver are the metals long associated with the Sun and Moon respectively.

Rings in general have a deeply rooted magical significance. Enchanted rings figure in many ancient folk tales. Incantations and spells for the protection of the wearer of rings are common motifs. Today, in traditional religious ceremonies, Christian and otherwise, the wedding rings are blessed by a minister or priest, thus continuing the symbolic practice of imbuing rings with protective powers.

The widespread tradition of embellishing the plain gold or silver wedding band with various designs and patterns has been known since at least 700 AD, in both Pan-Hellenic and Celtic cultures. The quite ancient symbol of the ouroboros, the serpent which consumes its own tail, was a theme used for wedding rings made of iron in Rome. The ouroboros itself is a symbol of the oneness of creation and destruction in renewal, and the life principle which timelessly feeds on its own inspiration. It also represents the hope for a lifelong marriage union that’s continually renewed.

Celtic wedding rings are often gorgeously decorated with geometric knot work patterns that have a long history and central place in Celtic art. These patterns are strongly vegetative, suggesting tendrils and vines. In fact, in much of Celtic art, including the famous illuminated Bible, The Book of Kells, these Celtic Knots emerge from or transform into vegetative foliage. The beautiful symmetry of these woven patterns is often not square, rigid, or overly formal, but organic, flowing, and a stylized reflection of the curves and spirals found in nature. Indeed, the Celtic Knots that embellish wedding rings herald the ideas of spring, fertility, and the eternal reawakening of the life force - all of which bode well for a fruitful life partnership.

Wedding rings have most commonly been worn on the third finger of the left hand. Speculation has it that this is because the Romans believed that a vein ran directly from this finger to the heart. An alternate suggestion for this tradition is that each finger on the hand is associated with a planet in the ancient systems of astrology, and the ring finger of the left hand was associated with the Sun. In this way, the wearing of a wedding ring on that finger signifies the public proclamation of the union in the daylight, in other words, the conscious and clearly visible world of human community. This correspondence is perhaps even more strongly emphasized by the general tendency to craft wedding rings out of gold, which is symbolically the metal of the Sun throughout folk history and across cultures.

Wedding rings capture the full range of the ceremonial, symbolic, and communal aspects of marriage, and preserve these many levels of significance as a durable and constant reminder. Ancient yet contemporary, steeped in lore and mystery yet almost universally exchanged, wedding rings combine the art of the jeweler, the reverence of the betrothed, and the beauty of love and partnership in a single, resonant symbol.

By Peter Breslin

Thursday, July 24, 2008

Celebrities and their Diamond Engagement Rings

What better way to show the world that you are in love than by the act of giving and receiving a diamond engagement ring? With many actresses and other famous women sporting bigger and sparklier diamond rings, celebrity engagements have become a delight for the jewelry lover. The size of the diamond is not necessarily the key as to what makes some of these rings so famous and recognizable, rather it seems to be a combination of the engagement ring itself and the famous lady it is associated with.

The history of diamond engagement rings

Maximillan I of Austria gave the first diamond engagement ring on record to Mary of Burgundy in 1477. He had the ring commissioned to unite their two houses and make their marriage a unifying symbol to the country.

The smallest diamond engagement ring ever made was given to Princess Mary who was married by proxy to the Dauphin of France in the year 1518. Princess Mary was two years old at the time.

Throughout history diamond engagement rings have become larger, more elaborate, and have included a wide variety of other jewels and metals. Diamond engagement rings settings can be made of silver, platinum, white or yellow gold or a mixture of these elements.
Famous ladies and their engagement rings

Celebrities and other famous people influence the look and style of many aspects in fashion and also set trends. Diamond engagement rings are no exception to this rule. The following is a partial list of the famous ladies and their equally famous engagement rings:

Royalty:

* Queen Elizabeth II received an engagement ring from Prince Phillip that was made from diamonds from his mother's tiara.

* Grace Kelly was given a 12 carat emerald-cut diamond engagement ring from Prince Rainier.

* Lady Diana was engaged with a ring made of an 18 carat blue oval sapphire that was circled by fourteen diamonds.

Actresses:

* Elizabeth Taylor was engaged to her third husband, Michael Todd, with an emerald cut diamond that weighed almost 30 carats. However, she is more known for her other pieces of jewelry, one more striking than the other: the 39 carat Krupp diamond, the 69.42 carat pear-shaped Taylor-Burton diamond and the 17th century heart-shaped Taj Mahal diamond.

* Priscilla was engaged to Elvis with a 3.5 carat diamond engagement ring that was circled by another 21 smaller diamonds and diamond chips.

* Sharon Stone was given a three diamond, 3.5 carat emerald-cut diamond engagement ring by Phil Bronstien.

* Catherine Zeta-Jones' promise to Michael Douglas was finalized with a 10 carat antique marquise diamond estimated at slmost $2 million.

* Joan Collins got a heart-shaped diamond ring in a nineteenth-century setting from husband Percy Gibson.

Pop stars:

* Madonna received from Guy Ritchie an antique Edwardian three-stone diamond ring with a decorative platinum band. The Neil Lane ring was supposed to represent their family: mother, father and son Rocco.

* In the case of Toni Braxton, drummer Keri Lewis designed a stunning 4.5 three-stone diamond ring with an oval-shaped center stone and 2 heart-shaped diamonds on the sides.

* Paris Hilton, even though not a pop star but a diva anyway, received 2 diamond engagement rings from billionaire Paris Latsis, a $5 million 24 carat canary diamond ring and a $2.1 million 15 carat white diamond ring.

* Britney Spears has two engagement rings also: one that she bought for herself before the wedding, a $40,000 4 carat cushion-cut diamond ring with a platinum pave setting, and one that she received 9 month after the marriage from husband Kevin Federline.

* Christina Aguilera became engaged to Jordan Bratman after he presented a $54,000 20-carat diamond engagement ring designed by jeweler Stephen Webster.

* Whitney Houston sports a stunning 4 carat oval-shaped center stone with trillions on the sides which she received from Bobby Brown.

Replica diamond engagement rings

Of course there is the very famous pink diamond ring that Ben Affleck gave to Jennifer Lopez. This 6 carat radiant shaped pink diamond quickly caught the attention of the public and has become a highly sought after replica. It is completed with a platinum band as well as three baguette white diamonds on each side. The pink diamond engagement ring is reported to have been purchased for $1.2 million in 2002. The ring, while easily identified is also very feminine and modern looking.

Replicas of the famous pink diamond ring are now available for a moderate price. The cost of the replicas depends on the quality of the stones and the materials used in reproducing the pink diamond engagement ring.

Some replicas are styled as more antique diamond engagement rings. These rings have an everlasting quality and symbolize tradition and heritage. The recent engagement of Camilla Parker Bowles in February of 2005 featured such an antique engagement ring. The platinum ring has an emerald-cut center diamond with three diamond baguettes on each side. This ring originally belonged to the Queen Mother and is believed to be valued at over $1 million.

Since few people can afford the original item, there will always be a market for replicas of these one of a kind diamond engagement rings. The quality of the replicas varies, as does the price. It is important to note that the styles of diamond engagement rings that are popular with celebrities will soon become the styles that are sought after by the not quite so rich and famous.

By Tim Richardson

Wednesday, July 9, 2008

Diamond Engagement Ring – Budget

A Diamond Engagement Ring is the best and timely gift to your Fiancée. Her heart is as pure as the diamond you are putting on her fingers and your bond of Love is as strong as the Diamond itself. Your first Gift to your would be wife is priceless and will be cherished by her throughout her life. Your Heart is full of Love and affection for her. You would want to give her all the things in the World.

But in spite of all these things the Diamond Ring you are going to gift to her has a price. What should be that price and what amount you must pay for that Diamond Ring? As for everything in life it is always better to have a budget and planning for the purchase of this Diamond Engagement Ring.

How much is reasonable for your diamond Ring. It is said that 2 to 3 months Salary must be the maximum that could be spent on a Diamond Engagement Ring.


Usually the People go for G- H in Color of the Diamond, and VS to S11 in Clarity will be the general specification for an engagement Ring. But depending on the Budget the size of the Diamond will be decided. Higher color of the Diamond and higher clarity of the Diamond will be a good choice but a higher Price has to be paid for it. The Cut of the Diamond also adds to its Price

It will be very difficult for the common People to see the difference between good, very good and excellent cut and symmetry in Diamonds. So is the Case with Polish of the Diamond. But a very poor and not so good Polish and Cut work on the Diamond can be seen even by ordinary People.

First decide about your Budget for the Diamond Ring, and accordingly decide about the properties of the Diamond within the Price like Carat, Cut, Clarity, and Color, the diamond setting and band. Depending on the material for the Band like Platinum or white or yellow Gold the price of the Ring will vary.

If you wish to go for a bigger sized Diamond then you have to compromise with other qualities of the Diamond and you may even get a slightly less quality Diamond with less brilliance. The deciding factor must be the Cut and polish of the Diamond rather than the size of the Diamond. You will love that eternal brilliance of the Diamond if these are taken care of even if the size of the Stone is a little lesser than you wanted.

By John Gibb

Right hand Engagement Diamond Rings

A Diamond ring happens to be the best present as an Engagement Ring. The Right hand Engagement Diamond Ring seems to be the darling of the Diamond Jewelry market and its sales are touching all time highs. This Right hand diamond Ring is associated with the modern independent Career Woman who stands for the Success, Strength and self assertiveness and Freedom.

This old- but renewed product that is projected as the symbol of the eternal Love is opposed to the old style Diamond engagement Rings and the Diamond anniversary Bands. It is designed to be worn on a different hand but its design is also entirely different. The Design of the Right hand engagement Diamond Rings is entirely different from the matrimonial Rings. It is designed with more open spaces, smaller Gemstones that are arranged in such a way that it reflects the personality and individuality of the Wearer.

The Right hand Diamond engagement Rings followed the Diamond engagement Rings that were made wearable by both the men and women who are about to be get married. These Rings were made a symbol of the new era of independent Women who were successful along side the men. The diamond ring at the right Hand makes the new liberated Woman think that the left hand ring stands for the labors that marriage brings along while the right hand Ring reads as the careless, joyful side of life.

These Right hand Diamond Engagement Rings are also made attractive to the Men by telling them that they are encouraged to buy a Gift for their wives that will flatter not only their need for love proofs but also the thought of being valued and respected as an independent person, and not a nice accessory to men or a house decor item.

The trend has been set even if the man is not married but has a love relationship it is a must for him to buy and present a Right hand ring to his lover as a proof of his love and a symbol of his commitment to her. These Right hand Diamond Rings being a symbol of love it also attracted the unusual man and man Gay Lovers and girl and girl lovers also.

Any marketing with the human vanity as the basis has done extremely well and this technique has been effectively used to create a trend among the humans for the marketing of a product just by declaring and reinforcing the thought that these right Hand Engagement Diamond Rings are a must buy and Gift to maintain the relationship.

By John Gibb

Thursday, July 3, 2008

About Engagement Rings Styles


The engagement ring is a ring you can use for the rest of your life, in many cases people place the engagement ring next to their wedding ring, which means that its style should reflect the same idea as of the wedding ring, this combination should be on your mind when looking for your engagement ring.

It is traditional for Americans and Europeans to place an engagement ring on the left-hand ring finger of a woman who has accepted a man’s proposal for marriage. The engagement ring is a symbol of the devotion and intent to be the one and only woman in her beau’s life. It lets everyone know that this is a lady that is spoken for. In the classical history of engagement ring styles and traditions, the ring was fashioned from a plain gold band. Today, engagement ring styles have evolved into a monster of choices that rivals the purchase of the wedding ring.


Traditional engagement ring styles often deal with a precious band that showcases a diamond or another gem. Over the years, the modern engagement ring style seems to incorporate a wide range of band varieties, including silver, gold and the increasingly popular platinum option. Since the 1940s, a single diamond is practically considered standard in today’s society. The well-known diamond company, De Beers, who pushed a highly successful advertising vision for the gem, made all of this possible.

It is not uncommon to see emeralds, rubies or sapphires taking the place of a diamond, but it is the latter that symbolizes strength and the concept of something that will last a lifetime. Engagement ring styles are often based on their durability, which is seen through the gems, as well as the bands. Gold and platinum last longer and represent higher quality than silver.

A growing trend among band materials includes titanium and stainless steel, which costs less, but also have a higher level of durability. It is these materials that allow a tension setting that projects the illusion of a stone that is floating.

There are many different engagement ring styles to choose from including classic and modern looks. With classic engagement ring styles, the settings are usually platinum in the bands with a round or emerald-cut for the stone. Modern engagement ring styles use a bezel-set design, making daily wear a compatible addition to any wardrobe.

As with all jewelry there are trends in engagement ring styles that are hitting the scene and includes antique rings that present a vintage flair that allows you to feel like you are wearing something rather historic. Some of the characteristics of these rings include floral accents, as well as filigree settings.

Platinum rings tend to be more expensive, but they will not only last longer, but will also keep its brilliant shine. It will not tarnish or yellow like other metals. These bands also make a variety of hand-carved, customized options possible.

Whichever ring you decide you go with you should always try and lower the price and ask for some kind of discount, if you know exactly what you want you can also search for the same design concepts in other shops, in either case it is always good to research and compare prices and quality.

By Roy Dietelzieg

Monday, May 12, 2008

Black Diamond Engagement Ring

There are many kinds of diamonds to choose for your loved one, especially for an engagement ring. You can actually choose different designs, shapes, sizes and colors.

Colorless diamonds are popular choices for engagement rings. A man can choose to give his bride-to-be a pink or yellow diamond engagement ring; which is preferred by a lot of women. So giving a black diamond engagement ring is not really a popular choice.

Unlike traditional colors of diamond engagement rings, this engagement ring is "unique" if not an eccentric kind of ring to choose for a loved one.

There are probably a few women who would have a taste or penchant for this very odd color of engagement ring because often the color of black is associated with evil, darkness or even witchcraft. So it would be surprising if not scary to be given this ring.


But unknown to people, black diamonds are popular stone choices for male jewelries especially for Europeans. They are usually included in wedding rings and bracelets and are often combined with more lustrous or more colorful diamonds and other precious stones to enhance the brilliance of the colored gems or highlight the black diamond itself.

Men who offer to give this type of engagement ring also choose rings that are set in platinum or titanium to enhance the color of the black diamond or combine it with stones the color of their choice and have the design custom made to make it extra special.

The appearance of black diamonds may be in hues of green, gray or midnight black. The color can range from being dense or translucent in hue.

When buying a black diamond engagement ring, you need to go to an accredited jeweler because some people trick sellers by adding color to fancy stones and make it appear a true black diamond. You can ask for papers proving that you are getting the real deal.


By Alice Sy

Where To Look For Cheap Wedding Jewelry

It has been customary for soon-to-be brides to be concerned about every detail of their special day. Unless your family already has an heirloom of fine-looking wedding ornaments, chancing upon a few pieces of attractive yet cheap wedding jewelry is certainly a delightful surprise.

Despite being a seemingly trivial facet of that big and momentous occasion, the value of finding the perfect set of necklace, bracelet and earrings to match the bridal gown should never be underestimated. In fact, some people even go to great lengths just to ensure that everything is perfect - even if it means spending large sums of cash for a jewelry set that they'll only be wearing once.

Of course, there are ways to save up on cash. Getting your hands on a bridal jewelry set doesn't always have to be expensive. You can in fact get a hold of cheap wedding jewelry without breaking the bank. Here are some tips on how to avoid overspending.

1. "Something OLD, something new, something BORROWED, something blue..."

People around the world have long since followed this age-old wedding tradition. You may also apply this phrase in an attempt to save money on wedding jewelry. First, you can fit it into the "something old" part by purchasing second-hand pieces of jewelry. You can buy these things over the Internet, particularly on Ebay, or in shops that sell used items.

For the "something borrowed" bit, you may actually borrow wedding jewelry from friends or family members. Not only is it an ancient wedding custom, you also get a chance to cut back on your wedding expenses simply by borrowing stuff instead of purchasing them.

2. "Do-It-Yourself"

If you can't afford to buy a set of fine-looking wedding jewelry, you might want to try making them yourself. You don't necessarily need to wear diamonds or expensive gemstones in order to get that glitter you very much wanted. You just need a small budget to purchase the materials you'll be needing and a bag full of creativity. Not only will you save money making your own wedding jewelry set, you will also gain the pride of saying that you've actually created something beautiful using your bare hands.

3. Window-shop with your friends.

This alternative is suitable for people who do not have a knack for making their own jewelry. If you would rather buy ready-to-wear jewelry instead of crafting them, then you may want to do some window-shopping with your friends first. Doing so allows you to get a closer look at the various offers in the market. The more options you have for cheap wedding jewelry, the better chances you'll get out of your potential transactions.

By Albert Lee

Diamond Engagement Ring Size - What Is The Average Carat Weight of a Diamond Engagement Ring in 2008

The diamond engagement ring is a symbolic gesture usually received by the bride to be from her future spouse. Diamond engagement rings come in a variety of styles and sizes these days and no matter what one may desire with regard to this type of ring they are sure to find one which perfectly suits their tastes. Some individuals who are shopping for an engagement ring may wonder what carat weight is the appropriate one to purchase and what most people buy when it comes to diamond size. The following will highlight some trends with regard to carat size and focus on what the average carat weight of a diamond engagement ring is in 2008.

Past Carat Weight Trends

In the early 20th century, diamond carat weights were quite generous. In 1939, the average carat weight of engagement ring diamonds was 1 carat. A couple of decades later in 1976, the average carat weight of diamond engagement rings actually decreased to a ¼ carat. The fluctuation in the average size amounts can be seen for a few different reasons such as the cost of the diamonds and the overall average income of the population at that time.


Current Carat Weight Average and Differences Seen in Various Areas

Today, the national average for the diamonds chosen for engagement rings with regard to carat weight is 0.38 carats. In general, the carat weight averages of engagement ring diamonds are increasing. However, in order to truly understand the average relating to diamond carat weight for engagement rings it is important to look at the specific regions in which the engagement rings are being purchased as trends can be seen throughout these areas as well.

Larger cities such as Boston, Philadelphia and New York City have an average of 1.6 carats as it relates to diamond engagement rings. When viewing diamond carat weight averages in some of the Southern states and "Bible Belt" regions, the carat averages are anywhere between 0.25 and 0.40 carats. The state of Alabama has an average of 0.50 carats when it comes to diamond carat weights for those who are about to be married. When considering the entire state of California, the diamond carat weight average has been seen as over 1.0 carats. Focusing in on a more specific region within California such as the La Jolla/Del Mar area, the carat size is quite generous and is stated to be around 2.75 carats. When looking at carat weights with respect to engagement rings outside of the United States, such as in Europe, the average there is 0.30 carats and the stone within the engagement ring is not always a diamond gemstone.

In general, the average size of one's diamond engagement ring is increasing. With regard to the cost of such a beautiful ring, the average price spent on a diamond engagement ring these days is somewhere between $2500 and $3000. Although many have heard the notion that a diamond engagement ring should be at least 1 carat in weight, this is a relatively new sentiment. The fact of the matter is that a diamond engagement ring should suit the individual it is being given to and should be affordable to the person buying it. The true purpose surrounding it is the thought and love with which it is given.

By James Greene

Choosing a Fabulous Bling Bling Engagement Ring

Most men feel the pressure when choosing an engagement ring for the woman of their dreams. This is often due to the fact that the average man does not sit around and study diamond rings or learn what is important and what is not. It is a common misconception to just think about the size of the diamonds and color of the setting because you can end up with a not-so-pretty ring. As most men forget some of the important characteristics of a diamond ring, here is a bling bling buying 101 to help make your purchase.

The Five C's

The five C's are what most jewelers associate with when you are buying a diamond ring. They are as follows; color, cut, clarity, carat and cost. Each of these aspects of a diamond affects another. If the stone is larger in the same cut it will be more expensive but a stone might be smaller in a different cut and still be more expensive. Also you might have speckles of dirt in the diamond which decreases the clarity or the sparkle and makes it worth less.

Color
Diamonds come in array of different colors from clear to blue or pink. There are even canary diamonds which are yellow but more expensive than the yellow tinted clear diamonds. Most popular by demand are the clear diamonds that have no tint of color in them.

This color scale is marked from D,E,F as colorless to further letters in alphabet as color increases. As you continue in the alphabet, the more color a diamond has and typically it will cost less. The only exceptions are when you have rare diamonds that are colorful like yellow, pink or blue.

Cut

The two most sparkling cuts of diamonds are the brilliant and the radiant. These diamonds sparkle more due to the amount of laser cuts they do when cutting the diamond. Each crossing set of cuts, also known as a facet, allows the light to sparkle off of it a little more creating a more beautiful diamond.

The brilliant diamond is round and the radiant diamond is rectangular with soft corners. These cuts are recommended because if you are on a budget and can only afford a smaller diamond, you will still get a lot of sparkle for your money.


Clarity

The clarity of the diamond is determined on the amount of dirt spots or bubble looking spots in the stone. These marks are called inclusions and most are not visible to the naked eye. The more there are in the diamond and the larger they are, the less value is put on the diamond. This is one of the most important things to consider when looking at a diamond.

If there are multiple inclusions that are large, the diamond would be not as sparkling and that would decrease the value. Most people would get a large diamond if they could afford it, but a lot of larger diamonds have more inclusions than smaller ones. This make the larger diamonds with great clarity cost way out of your budget.

Carat

Carat is the measurement of size they use when evaluating diamonds. The carat is a weight measurement that equals about two-hundred milligrams. Diamonds are anywhere from 0.01 carat to 5 carats. The most common way to get a good sized diamond without paying too much is to get a .9 or .95 carat which is just under one carat. When shopping for a diamond you will see this difference and also see rings with total carat weight.

The total carat weight is the total of all the diamonds in any given ring. Make sure you look into that as the center stone may be smaller than anticipated due to side stones in the setting. If you want to be very careful, go to a diamond store that allows you to view each individual loose diamond prior to setting it for you. This allows you to verify the specs prior to purchasing.

Cost

Diamond rings can cost anywhere from one-hundred dollars to millions of dollars. Each of the four previous C's come into hand when determining the cost of any diamond ring. The general rule of thumb is to spend three months pay on a diamond ring. I think that is a little steep and would stick to one month's pay. You can always upgrade in the future or spend the money to put a down payment on your first home together or go on a vacation.

Make sure that you price rings out based on the color, cut, clarity and carat before making the purchase. Some stores have sales on diamonds which usually means they are overpriced to begin with. I would stay away from places like that. There are jewelry exchanges and places that do not have sales and guarantee their diamonds for a lifetime. These are the types of stores you want to look into.

Final Note

As a final note of advice when choosing a diamond ring is the warranty and wear and tear policy of the store. It is more desirable to go with a company that will polish or re-dip it in white gold at no extra cost throughout the years as rings wear. Also if your diamond falls out, make sure they will replace it at equal color, cut, clarity and carat at no charge. This way you do not have to worry about that expense yourself. Just make sure you bring your ring in every six months so the warranty stays true!

By Alexine Laurel

Aquamarine Engagement Rings

What better stone to choose for an engagement ring than one that represents optimism, wellbeing, and faithfulness? We are talking about the beautiful Aquamarine gemstone. Not only is this gemstone a great conversation starter, it also is the birthstone for the month of March. The name aquamarine has Latin origins, "aqua" meaning water and "mare" meaning sea.

The aquamarine is aptly named because of the wide spectrum of blue colors that it comes in; from a pale blue to a deep sea blue-green. The deeper colors are more sought after, therefore more expensive. No matter what shade that you decide on for the stone for an engagement ring, the ring will is bound to be commented on.

Most aquamarine stones have been heat-treated to enhance the blue coloring. This treatment has no effect on the quality or the hardness of the stone. The aquamarine rates a 7.5 on the hardness scale, making it a perfect choice for daily wear.


The aquamarine is a virtually flawless stone, rarely if ever having inclusions that are sometimes common in other gemstones. This gemstone is great for being cut into any shape and faceting enhances the sparkle and beauty of the stone. Due to the beautiful blue coloring of the aquamarine, the most common settings are either platinum or white gold. However, the blue is equally as beautiful in yellow gold settings.

Caring for the aquamarine gemstone is simple. Simple cleaning with soap and water brings back the beauty of the stone. Avoid using ultrasonic cleaners, rapid temperature changes, and contact with most household cleaners to prevent damaging the gemstone.


Finding aquamarine gemstone rings for engagement purposes should not be hard as most jewelers carry a variety of styles. But if you do have difficulties or cannot find a design that strikes you as the one you must have, you should look online and you will find many reputable jewelers. So if you are planning a wedding by the seaside or just want a ring that is special and unique, consider the distinctive aquamarine gemstone for the engagement ring you present to your beloved.

By Julie Shields

Sunday, April 27, 2008

Wedding Rings: Choosing the Perfect Wedding Ring

Perhaps one of the most important types of rings that you will have to purchase is a wedding ring. Besides engagement rings, wedding rings are probably the most crucial of all ring purchases. The symbolism behind a ring of this type is so great that choosing a perfect ring is a very important task. There are many decisions a couple needs to make with regard to choosing wedding rings. Things such as metal type, style and size are part of this decision-making process. Another factor couples consider when purchasing wedding rings is price as they are often paying quite a bit on other wedding necessities. This article will provide an overview on various choices that come into play when choosing the perfect wedding band. Type of Metal

Using the term metal alongside the word wedding band is not the most romantic thing in the world; however, the ring is indeed composed of a metallic material and one has a wide range of options when looking to purchase a particular type of wedding band. Gold is one type of material that a couple may choose to have their wedding rings made of. Rings made of gold come in either white gold or yellow gold in a variety of karats, i.e., 10 karat, 14 karat, or 24 karat. Another popular type of metal that wedding rings are composed of is platinum. Platinum wedding bands have become increasingly more desirable in the past few years. Platinum rings tend to be pricier than gold ones; however, it is a beautiful metal type that is strong as well. If it will not empty your pocketbook or wallet, platinum is a great choice for a wedding ring. Size and Style


Couples in pursuit of the perfect wedding rings will also find that they come in a variety of sizes and styles. Almost any wedding band can be sized to adequately fit the finger of any individual. If you can find the perfect-sized ring without having to alter the size thereafter, then that is your best bet as frequent sizing of a ring may alter the strength thereof (this is usually only true if you have the ring sized more than once).

There are also a number of different unique and exquisite styles of wedding rings for both men and women. If you go to a jewelry store, you may be surprised at just how many different styles of wedding bands are available to the general consumer. You can have the rings engraved or even embedded with diamonds and other gemstones. Baguettes are becoming increasingly popular for women’s wedding rings and these beautiful additions add so much to a basic ring. Some wedding rings will have various types of gems inlayed in them and individuals may sometimes choose to have their birthstone as part of their wedding ring to add a little something extra to it. There is so much that you can do to make your wedding rings unique and special. Price

Another less romantic factor that couples need to consider when purchasing a wedding ring relates to pricing. As individuals are oftentimes on a strict budget while planning their wedding, they may have to set a limit of how much they are able to spend on wedding rings. There are a few ways to get the most bang for your buck when shopping for wedding bands.

End of season sales are a great way to take advantage of large discounts and still get the ring that you want. A lot of times a jewelry store or department store will have an end of season clearance sale on various types of jewelry, including wedding rings. By taking advantage of these types of sales, you may find the perfect ring at a great price. It is always important to keep an eye out for retailers who are having clearance sales.

Utilizing coupons is a second way to keep the total price of your wedding ring purchase to a minimum. Department stores will often print coupons in their mail circulars that may give you a good percentage off of the price of jewelry and since many department stores stock wedding rings, this is a great thing to take advantage of.

One last way to get a good price on wedding rings is to use the internet to find the perfect ring. Since shopping for a wedding ring over the internet may not appeal to all individuals, it is important to be aware of a certain little trick that will enable you to get a good price over the internet but choose your ring in a retail store. If you are in a particular store and see a wedding ring that strikes your fancy, try it on, find the perfect size and then go home and see if that store has a website. If they do, take a look online and see if that particular ring is offered at a lower price via the web. Sometimes you will get lucky, other times you won’t. Regardless, it never hurts to take a peek and see.

These are just a few things to consider when trying to find the perfect ring. If you know what your options are prior to securing wedding rings, you will be more informed and feel better prepared in your quest for the most spectacular wedding ring.

By James Strutton

Tips Of Buying Enagement Rings For Your Loved Ones

If things go right, you'll only be buying one engagement ring in your lifetime. But an engagement ring is a big investment. With your lack of experience, how are you going to make sure you find one that your sweetheart likes but is still a wise purchase? Follow these ten steps, and you're sure to find the perfect engagement ring.

1) Determine Your Budget When a guy's shopping for an engagement ring, salespeople often do a sneaky thing – they make him think that the amount of his love is tied to how much he spends on a ring. Better to figure out how much you can afford to spend before you step foot in a store. The standard rule is two months salary – but – this is also a rule that the diamond industry created! However it's still a decent place to start, but then figure out your personal budget.

2 ) Pay Attention You're going to have to make a lot of choices – platinum or gold? Modern or traditional? Flashy or understated? It's easier if you've done your homework beforehand. Look at the jewelry your sweetheart wears on a daily basis – if it's all silver with intricate designs – look for a platinum engagement ring with intricate designs (often called filigree). If it's just a few heavy gold pieces, well, then go in that direction.


3) Choose a Stone While jewelers will sell you a preset ring, you can often get a better deal if you choose the diamond separately. It helps if you know what shape your sweetheart wants – round, pear, marquis, etc. The most classic shape is a round solitaire. More homework – read The Four Cs of Diamond Buying. You'll thank me later. Another money saving tip – look for a diamond with high color and cut, but with slightly lower clarity. Make sure you look at the stone with a jeweler's loupe (like a magnifying glass) – but most flaws (or "inclusions") can barely be seen even with a loupe.

4) Choose the Setting After you've got your stone, then comes the setting. You could go for simple with a solitaire setting, or you could add filigree, extra side stones, and other details. You can choose gold, white or rose gold, platinum, or even titanium.

5) Maximize Your Budget If your intended is always talking about huge diamond engagement rings, but two months of your salary wouldn't buy a Big Mac, you're going to have to stretch the budget. Ask for a stone with more surface area – it won't sparkle as much but it will look bigger. Ask for stones that are slightly less than the next carat (0.8 instead of 1 or 1.9 instead of 2) – the almost indiscernible difference can add up to big savings. Instead of a diamond solitaire engagement ring, consider a less expensive center gemstone (such as tourmaline, blue topaz, sapphire) flanked by two small diamonds. Choose white gold instead of platinum. And consider an antique engagement ring.


6) Get a Buddy Don't go into a jewelry store alone. They're scary places full of way too many choices. If you can, bring your sweetheart's best friend or mom along to help you choose. But if you're worried they'll spill the beans, bring a trusted buddy of yours. Make sure they have taste, or you'll be trying to propose with a ringpop. Also, assuming they like the person you're buying it for, this is a great moment to bond with your parents and get their advice.

7) Think About Bringing Your Sweetheart With You You'll lose the element of surprise, but you'll be sure that she likes her engagement ring. More and more couples are doing it this way.

8) Get a Quality Jeweler Ask for recommendations from friends and family. My advice is to stick to the mom and pop jewelers and try to avoid the national chains – they often sacrifice quality for mass marketing. But make sure the store is accredited by the Jewelers of America or is a member of the Gemological Institute of America (GIA). Before you buy, find out what the return policy is so that you can exchange it if you didn't do your homework properly.

9) Plan Ahead You may not be able to just walk out of a jewelry store with a ring. Not only will you need to save up for it, but depending on what you order it could take a couple weeks for them to set the stone, do any engraving, or even custom design your ring (like Brad Pitt did for Jennifer Aniston). So if you want to propose on a certain date, make sure you start working on the ring early.

10) Get it In Writing Would you buy a house without an inspection? No? Well then don't buy a diamond without an independent diamond-grading report from the GIA or the American Gem Society. It should include the 4 c's of color, cut, clarity and carat, as well as the shape and size. And, like your house, don't forget to get the ring insured.

By CK Nick

Thursday, April 24, 2008

The Aura Of Engagement Rings - Enhance Your Love

Though the thought of wearing a diamond or an emerald engagement ring brings happiness to the soul, but the idea of buying it sends shivers through out the body of the lovers.

Buying an engagement ring, for many, is not only a tough job but also a risky one. The main question which adheres to the mind of the person is what if she does not like the engagement ring bought by me?

Thus buying an engagement ring requires a lot of planning.

To start with, choose the stone, style and color suiting the personality of your beloved. If you are planning to gift a diamond engagement ring to your beloved, do a thorough research on diamonds. Diamonds come in various styles and colors. Also cut, clarity and carat of the diamond, is an aspect which should not be missed.

Platinum engagement rings are also in vogue these days. A very serene metal, many women cherish platinum engagement rings. Platinum engagement rings are equally liked by men. Thus, women can even choose platinum as an option for an engagement ring.

Women are not always attracted towards a precious engagement rings. What attracts them more are the emotions attached with it. The concept of gifting inherited engagement rings has increased in the past few decades. Women adore engagement rings, worn by your mother or grandmother. It brings to her the feeling of being loved and trusted.

Engagement rings, whether diamond engagement ring or sapphire engagement ring, reflect what you feel rather than what you have. What lies behind this engagement ring, is a long story of love, faith and commitment. A diamond engagement rings, does not reflect diamonds, but the feelings attached with it.

An engagement ring is the most durable gifts, among almost all the gifts presented to your lover. Chocolates, stuff toys, all perish, but an engagement ring sticks to the hand of your lover for ages. So one should purchase an engagement ring with great cautious and care.

If engagement rings would not have been that important, then many celebrities would have roaming without it. Women love boasting about their engagement rings. So, buy an engagement ring with care and patience.

You can also shop for engagement rings online. Many trustworthy online stored provide great options to chose from. Thus it not only saves time but also provides you with every minute detail about a particular ring.

By Dean Candy

Turquoise Engagement Rings

Looking for something different and unique to present to your beloved? A turquoise engagement ring might be just the thing to show her just how unique she is. Is there a special meaning for you in the month of December? Choosing a turquoise engagement ring is an additional way to commemorate December as it is the birthstone for this particular month. In many cultures, the blue-green stone is associated with luck, wealth, faithfulness and trustworthy relationships. It is also associated with the metaphysical characteristic of promoting happiness. What greater way can you represent the luck that you found your beloved and the wealth of love and happiness that the two of you will share?

The history of turquoise dates as far back as 3,000 B.C. The beauty of this gemstone has adorned many historical artifacts from all over the world from Egypt, Mexico, Turkey, Persia and the United States. The turquoise is a copper aluminum phosphate that occurs naturally in all shades of blue. You can find it in shades from sky-blue, robin's egg blue, blue-green, grayish green, or green. The more copper that the stone is composed of makes the stone bluer, while the more iron or chromium makes the stone greener. Rarely if ever, will you find a turquoise that has been faceted because faceting brings out the reflective properties of clearer gemstones, and turquoise is not clear. However, you can find many popular shapes such as marquise, oval or heart.

Due to the softness of turquoise, usually only a six, many stones are given a hardening treatment to make them more durable, as well as waxing or polishing to promote their color. Some stones may be dipped in a coloring agent before being sealed; according to rules of the ICA this must be indicated. Due to the softness of the stone, gentle care and cleaning are required. It is recommended that one should remove the turquoise before sun tanning as the UV rays can change the color of the stone. Also, when washing dishes, using household cleaners, or bathing the turquoise engagement ring should be removed to prevent damage. When storing, it should be stored away from other jewelry to prevent damage to the stone. If you have any doubts about the care or cleaning of your engagement ring, contact a reputable jeweler that has knowledge about this gemstone's care.

Due to the uniqueness of using turquoise as an engagement stone, it may be very hard to find one unless you live in the Southwestern United States. Below we have listed a few links to help you get started.
http://www.silver-rings-direct.com/turquoise.html.
http://engagementrings.lovetoknow.com/wiki/Turquoise_Engagement_Rings
http://www.purple-label.com/search/web/colour/aqua-or-turquoise
http://www.daysjewelers.com/category/rings/gemstone+rings/other+gemstone+rings.do?sortby=ourPicks&page=3

If you really want to impress your bride to be, consider custom designing her engagement ring. This will show her that a lot of love and thought went into the creation of her ring. One such designer that specializes in unique gemstone ring design is:
http://www.joannarepton.co.uk/jewellery_engagement_rings.asp

Show her that the sky is the limit when it comes to your love for her with a beautifully designed engagement ring that has "a piece of the sky" as the gemstone.

By Julie Shields

Tips for Choosing an Art Deco Engagement Ring

Art Deco, the design movement that occurred between 1925-1939, gave us some of the most beautiful architecture, furniture, decor and jewelry. Art deco engagement rings are no exception featuring beautiful contrasting colors, strong geometric shapes and symmetry of design. Here are some tips for choosing an Art Deco engagement ring that will help you locate the perfect ring for the love of your life.

Although engagement rings of the Art Deco period were made with both white and yellow gold, one of the most popular metals of the day was platinum. The bright white of platinum provided great contrast with the stones in the engagement ring and helped to define the Art Deco style. When choosing an engagement ring you may want to consider going with platinum rather than gold since it not only is a trademark of the period, but also is a beautiful and enduring metal.


When it comes to Art Deco engagement rings, diamonds seem like an obvious choice. However, you may want to consider other options as well since rings created during this period were also made with sapphires, rubies, emeralds and beautiful filigree work. Opting for an engagement ring with one of these others stones - with or without diamonds - can allow you to get a ring that is truly unique and stands apart from more traditional engagement rings. This is a great way to make an elegant and lasting statement.

Although you can purchase reproduction rings you might want to think about going with a true vintage or antique Art Deco engagement ring. The history of these older rings can make them romantic reminders of a bygone era that you can carry forward into your future together. Additional, the craftsmanship and quality of antique rings is often superior to more modern rings and you can often find great deals on older rings. That means that by going with a vintage or antique ring rather than a reproduction you can sometimes get a lot more ring for your money.


Most importantly, when selecting an engagement ring be sure to think about the tastes of your future wife. If you are stuck take a look at the other jewelry that she wears and try to choose something similar is color and style.

By Sandy Curtis

Start Your Love Story With Engagement Rings

Since time immemorial, engagement rings have been used as a symbol of love and commitment. It has been used by many lovers to woo their beloved one. And after getting into any form of relationship, what is most expected by the lady love is a shinning engagement ring, depicting commitment and security.

These days the market is flooded with various types of engagement rings. They are made out of different types of stones and with different style and sizes. You can even get your engagement rings customized.

There are many big players in the market who have come up with a huge variety of engagement rings. They have given a new definition to the engagement ring trends. The demand of engagement rings is showing an upward move day by day.


Though diamond engagement rings are considered to be ideal engagement rings, in many countries people prefer engagement rings of different stones and metals. Rubies, emeralds, star sapphires and sapphires are second best options as engagement rings. Use of semi precious stones as a part of engagement rings is also not less common. In many countries band of gold and platinum are also used as a part of engagement rings.

Silver is a less preferred option for engagement rings. It is a less durable metal. So if you do not prefer gold or silver engagement ring, then opt for platinum engagement rings.

Engagement rings represent unbroken cycle of love and faith. It is once in a life time day, when you present your beloved with her most cherished ring. An engagement ring is worn through out life, so it should be bought with care and concern. The lady wears it boosting about the men he loves.
In ancient time engagement ring represented the wealth and superiority of to- be -groom. This is not the same these days. But to some extent it gives an opportunity to the lady to show off her husbands love for her.

Thus engagement rings form a very important aspect of a relationship. So it should be chosen with utmost care suiting the personality of your loved ones.

These days many online stores have come up. These online stores help make you choose from a huge variety of engagement rings available online. They sell engagement rings made out of variety of metals and gemstones. You can even customize your engagement ring, choosing a different style and a different gemstone.

Try making your engagement an unforgettable moment for your beloved. Choose the best for her, and if you do not have time, switch to some reputed online stores. You will surely get what she desired for.

By Dean Candy

Buying A Diamond Engagement Ring

OK guys, we all know that buying a diamond engagement ring is no big deal, right? Well, actually, it's probably one of the most important purchasing decisions you'll ever have to make because of the high-ticket value and the sentimental importance of the gift you give to that special someone in your life. For the most part, a diamond engagement ring is something that will have to last forever, and may even be passed down to the next generation as a family treasure. All the more pressure, then, to make sure that the diamond engagement ring you select is of high quality and is likely to last the long haul. However, is there also a way to ensure you don't end up with a dud, and you get it right when trying to choose that ring your partner secretly has her eye on?


The first thing to do when preparing to buy a diamond engagement ring is to illicit from your girlfriend what kind of styles and designs of rings she likes. Does she like something plain with one solid diamond, or something a bit more adventurous with a number of smaller stones? Is she going for gold, or does she prefer white gold or platinum for her ring? Obviously don't come straight out and ask her unless you want to completely ruin the surprise, but try to find out what she likes and what she doesn't first off.


When you understand what she likes and what she doesn't it's time to find out her size. Yes, rings do come in different sizes. It depends on the thickness of your wife-to-be's finger what size she should take, and there's no real easy way of finding out this info if you don't know it already. Try asking he friends and family, or alternatively take one of her rings into a jeweller who should be able to advise you on which size you should be looking for.

Finally it is important to ensure the standard of the craftsmanship is high so as to avoid potential damage to the aesthetics or to prevent

By Guna Seelan

Diamond Engagement Rings - Take Your Love A Step Further

Engagement is one step ahead in a relationship, leading towards marriage. But strangely no one knows exactly when the concept of engagement rings actually started and what made men gift their women with engagement rings.

But this amusing concept in itself is followed in many cultures and traditions. It is believed that the concept of wedding rings was started by Romans. The Romans called their engagement rings, betrothal (truth) rings. They chose the third finger of the left hand as an option for wearing engagement rings. Egyptians believed that the vein from this finger went straight to the heart.

With the passage of time, diamond became the most sought after metal for engagement rings. Men started choosing diamond rings, as an option. They chose diamond rings mainly because it was the hardest metal they could find anywhere on earth. This symbolized deep bond between the bride and the groom.

It was in the fourteen and the fifteen centuries that the diamond rings became famous as wedding rings. The diamond engagement rings were gifted only by the royal and affluent people.


But with the advent of De Beers and its tag line 'A diamond is forever,' diamond became more famous among the normal class. Since then, many a men have chosen diamond rings as an option for engagement rings to woo their beloved.

Getting engaged is an auspicious day in a person's life. Therefore one should be very cautious regarding the wedding ring he is planning for his lover. Diamond engagement rings as engagement rings are the safest option.

History is the witness, how much amused a women feels, after she is gifted with diamond rings. Diamond engagement rings depict purity and chastity in love. It reflects the deep heartened bond between the man and the women.

Diamond comes in various colors and sizes. What one needs to take care of is the cut, clarity, carat and the cost of the diamond. Diamond comes in various colors like pink, blue and black. But the purest from of diamond is the crystal clear diamond.

If still confused where to buy the diamond engagement ring from, then log on to an online shopping store. Online shopping store provides you with an array of diamond engagement rings. Shopping online is thus a time saving option, especially for people who are into hectic jobs.

Enjoy your engagement with the ring she craved for. Show her your love by gifting her with a diamond engagement ring. Diamond rings actually rule the heart of women.

By Dean Candy

Tuesday, April 8, 2008

Wedding Ring Information

A wedding ring or wedding band is, as a rule, worn on the fourth finger (thumb included) of the left hand in many parts of the world. The reason being that it is a belief that the Latin name "vena amoris" or "vein of love" ran directly from the heart to this finger. Other parts of the world wear the wedding ring on the right hand (eg. Russia, Chile, Poland, Germany to name but a few.)

The majority of rings are made from precious metals, gold or platinum, with the recent rise in popularity of of non precious metals such as stainless steel, Titanium, Zirconium and Tungsten. These non precious metal rings are often inlaid with precious metals and diamonds to enhance their appeal.

The wedding ring signifies commitment and loyalty to a marital partner and is more commonly women who wear this symbol, but due to the rise in popularity of alternative metals for wedding rings, men are now fast approaching acceptance of wearing a ring also.

Engraving the inside of a wedding ring is a tradition encouraged to personalise the band and to help cement the relationship also adding sentimentality. Normal inscriptions include the name of the partner together with the wedding date on the inside of the wedding ring, although it is not unusual to engrave lines from meaningful songs and weird messages known only to the couple.

Plain flat or domed rings are the two most popular styles. Another style commonly known as a "Russian" wedding ring is of three fine rings woven together to make one. The three rings symbolise, love, hope and faith.

Some cultures favour puzzle rings - interlocking wedding rings assembled in order to form one ring and Celtic style bands are increasingly popular in English speaking countries - the Celtic knot symbolises oneness and continuity.

By Alan Hadley

Wedding Ring

The wedding ring is a ring that will often be made from precious metals, and it will be worn on the left ring finger. It is also worn on the right ring finger in countries such as Norway or Russia. The purpose of a wedding ring is to represent a marriage. Both spouses will wear rings to show that they are commited to each other. The custom originated in Europe, but has spread to many other countries which are outside of Europe. In some cultures the wedding ring is only one of three rings that will be given when a couple is in the process of getting married.

The other two rings are the engagement ring and the promise ring. The engagement ring is well known, and will be given when a couple has become engaged. A promise ring is not as well known, but will be given once a couple begins courting each other. In many European countries, the name of the soon to be spouse will be placed within the ring. While wedding rings have traditionally be worn by women, wedding rings are now designed for men as well. It is the responsibility of the best man to make sure the rings of the couple are cared for. The best man will present both rings during the marriage ceremony.


In highly intricate weddings, a ring bearer may be used to carry the rings as well. The ring bearer will usually be a young male who is related to either the groom or bride. He will carry the rings on elaborate pillows. In some European countries, the engagement ring is the wedding ring, and the status of the ring will change once the couple is married. If a different ring is used for the wedding ring, the bride may still wear it if she chooses. The choice of which finger the ring should be worn on has changed over the centuries.

Traditionally, the fourth finger on the left or right hand has always been used, and when a married couple wears their rings on their left hands, this is a sign that they have eternal love for each other. While wedding bands have historically been worn by women in the US and UK, they are now commonly worn by men. The use of diamonds on wedding ring is extremely popular. The precious metals that are used in the ring will often be gold or white cold, but titanium has also become popular, especially for men. Many couples will avoid using diamonds and will use other precious gems such as rubies or sapphires.

In addition to this, stainless steel is now being used in a number of wedding rings. Stainless steel has a much higher durability than gold, and can showcase a better finish than titanium. Some metals are poisonous, and are not used for wedding rings. If you want to buy a gem, you will want to measure the quality based on its softness. Gems have a softness scale that ranges from 1 to 10. A gem with a rating of 1 will be the softest, while a gem with a rating of 10 will be the hardest. Gems that have a rating of 7 should not be picked for wedding rings.

By Michael Colucci

About Engagement Rings Styles

The engagement ring is a ring you can use for the rest of your life, in many cases people place the engagement ring next to their wedding ring, which means that its style should reflect the same idea as of the wedding ring, this combination should be on your mind when looking for your engagement ring.

It is traditional for Americans and Europeans to place an engagement ring on the left-hand ring finger of a woman who has accepted a man's proposal for marriage. The engagement ring is a symbol of the devotion and intent to be the one and only woman in her beau's life. It lets everyone know that this is a lady that is spoken for. In the classical history of engagement ring styles and traditions, the ring was fashioned from a plain gold band. Today, engagement ring styles have evolved into a monster of choices that rivals the purchase of the wedding ring.

Traditional engagement ring styles often deal with a precious band that showcases a diamond or another gem. Over the years, the modern engagement ring style seems to incorporate a wide range of band varieties, including silver, gold and the increasingly popular platinum option. Since the 1940s, a single diamond is practically considered standard in today's society. The well-known diamond company, De Beers, who pushed a highly successful advertising vision for the gem, made all of this possible.
It is not uncommon to see emeralds, rubies or sapphires taking the place of a diamond, but it is the latter that symbolizes strength and the concept of something that will last a lifetime. Engagement ring styles are often based on their durability, which is seen through the gems, as well as the bands. Gold and platinum last longer and represent higher quality than silver.

A growing trend among band materials includes titanium and stainless steel, which costs less, but also have a higher level of durability. It is these materials that allow a tension setting that projects the illusion of a stone that is floating.

There are many different engagement ring styles to choose from including classic and modern looks. With classic engagement ring styles, the settings are usually platinum in the bands with a round or emerald-cut for the stone. Modern engagement ring styles use a bezel-set design, making daily wear a compatible addition to any wardrobe.


As with all jewelry there are trends in engagement ring styles that are hitting the scene and includes antique rings that present a vintage flair that allows you to feel like you are wearing something rather historic. Some of the characteristics of these rings include floral accents, as well as filigree settings.

Platinum rings tend to be more expensive, but they will not only last longer, but will also keep its brilliant shine. It will not tarnish or yellow like other metals. These bands also make a variety of hand-carved, customized options possible.

Whichever ring you decide you go with you should always try and lower the price and ask for some kind of discount, if you know exactly what you want you can also search for the same design concepts in other shops, in either case it is always good to research and compare prices and quality.

By Roy Dietelzieg

Diamond Engagement Ring

The establishment of diamond rings as engagement rings as a standard in Western culture is a result of one of the most successful advertising campaigns in history, by one of the world's leading diamond producer in the 1940s.

An engagement is incomplete without a beautiful diamond ring which bonds two people into their relation. But a diamond ring has to be unique and beautiful yet solid and durable. A diamond engagement ring is a charming product to be flaunted around which adds value to your relation, and we all should thanks to the diamond engagement ring for striking your heart with love as it is believed that diamond rings worn on the third finger of your left hand are very much connected to a certain vein of love in that finger which directly flows to your heart and making a unique space within itself. Design of diamond rings and especially diamond engagement rings have varied a lot over the years and are continuously evolving with current times and its trends. Current fashions for engagement rings are for a gold, platinum, or silver band with a single diamond, but may change in a couple of years again.

An engagement ring is often significantly expensive and acts as a visible demonstration of a man's commitment to his betrothed.

There is nothing that can be replaced with an awesome diamond engagement ring to celebrate this delicate occasion to offer your would be ‘significant better half’ as a promise to be with her in good and bad times and support her with love, care and tenderness and have a flourished life together. A diamond engagement ring and any diamond rings as well are just not a lifeless product but they speak a lot about your relation in silence words between two hearts. That’s the reason why diamond rings have to be chosen with a lot of care.

By Gerald

Diamond Rings for your Engagement – know what she likes

Diamond Rings for your engagement is the most fitting Gift to show your love you have for your fiancée. It is natural on your part to gift her something that is priceless as your love to her. Your idea of presenting her with a Diamond Ring for her engagement is the best decision and it seems to you that your Love is as priceless and unique as a diamond born millions of years ago.

From olden days engagement Rings have continued to make the statement for unity and everlasting love between a man and his Woman. Now the time has come to buy your fiancée that special engagement Ring that will captivate her Heart. Many tools are available to help you avoid the pitfalls when shopping, and show you how to make use of the knowledge that made possible to educate you, and guide you on your quest.

First you must know what she likes and to know this take your fiancée to the Mall or Jewelry store in your local area, on some pretension and watch her glide across the other side of the Shop where the Diamond Rings are being displayed. Allow her to feed her curiosity, and/or try on a Ring or two, or three and keep your Ears open to the Jeweler's lingo, listen for clues like Ring size and the style of Diamond she admires, whether that be brilliant round , emerald cut, Pear, Oval, Heart, etc.

You must also know whether she likes a solitaire Diamond Ring, or a three stone diamond ring? After walking away from the Jeweler you should have gathered enough info on what type of Diamond your fiancée desires.

Most of the Women want a large diamond; remember that a larger diamond that creates the illusion of Power, Wealth and Influence. But to some women that may not be comfortable to wear. So it is always better for your fiancée to be humble with a smaller diamond which will not clash with her persona, something she may feel at ease wearing that is more humble to her soul. This will avoid a gaudy yet risky to wear engagement ring also in fear of having it stolen.


The size of the Ring has to be decided as per the size of the finger also, and bigger the finger the bigger the diamond, the smaller the finger the smaller the diamond otherwise the ring may once again look overawing unfit to her beautiful finger.

By John Gibb

Pear Diamond Engagement Ring

In choosing the perfect engagement ring for your beau, aside from the price and the size of stone, an important consideration is the shape of the gem as well. The pear shape diamond engagement ring may not be a conventional choice but any engagement rings that profess love are truly fit for the woman you love.

The pear diamond engagement ring is also known as the teardrop shape. It is actually a cross between the oval and marquise shape of stone. You may have seen this type of engagement ring as popular cuts for earrings and pendants but lately this type of shape is making its way on engagement rings as well.

Unknown to many, the pear shape diamond engagement ring or teardrop diamond is cut and perfected by a Flemish in the name of Lodweyk Van Berquem as early as the 1400's. Although this diamond engagement ring did not gain much popularity because gemologist and jewelers feel the design was a waste of diamond.

Since this diamond is cut in a way that one end is round and elongated and the other tip is pointed, so most part of the gem is cut away.

Fortunately with the advancement in technology, different machines and methods for cutting the diamond is invented so not much of the diamond is wasted. The pear diamond engagement ring would be perfect as a solitaire but you can have it styled set and designed with other stones or precious gems to accentuate the diamond itself.

The most controversial pear diamond ring would probably be the one actor Richard Burton gave to his lady love Elizabeth Taylor. It was a 69.42 carat pear diamond. Eventually it was sold in 1979 for three million dollars $3M that helped build a hospital in Botswana.

By Alice Sy

How to Buy Diamond Engagement Rings

There is much to consider when purchasing a diamond – especially diamond engagement rings! The tradition of presenting a woman with a diamond engagement ring when proposing began in 1477 when Archduke Maximilian presented a diamond ring to Mary of Burgundy – and in most cases, the woman you plan to propose to will expect a ring to accompany that proposal!

First, determine how much ring you can afford. Most people use the ‘two months salary’ rule. This means that the ring should cost the equivalent of two months of your current salary. Because you have other bills to pay, saving up this amount of money may take quite a bit of time. You should consider financing. Simply go to the jeweler of your choice and tell them that you plan to buy an engagement ring, and that financing will be necessary. Go ahead and get the credit check out of the way, find out what your payments will be, and how much of a down payment is required.

Now, have your mother, sister, or your girlfriends best friend take your girlfriend shopping, and make sure that they gaze at the engagement rings to get an idea of what she might like. Make sure that the jewelry store you buy the ring from will allow you to return the ring, if that is required, or allow your girlfriend to exchange it for another if she isn’t happy with it!

Monday, March 31, 2008

Anatomy of an Engagement Ring

The ritual of the wedding proposal and the presentation of the diamond engagement ring create the highlight event of any courtship. A tradition that dates back to the ancient Romans, the engagement ring itself has many layers of symbolism. Each piece of the ring is a strong symbol communicating key information about herself, her partner and their relationship.

The Band
The first symbol is no mystery – most people know the wedding band represents the eternal circle, and the same principle applies to the engagement ring. The symbol of the unending circle with no beginning and no end, illustrates eternal love.

But the band of the engagement ring has changed in the last century – at least, the metal used for the band has. The warmth of gold has been a standard for eons, but today, couples have several readily available options. In the last few years, platinum has been gaining in popularity and prominence, trumping the gold standard for engagement rings.


The rarity and expense of platinum makes it an attractive alternative to gold, even white gold. But the durability of platinum is possibly its most endearing quality – a metal that will stand up to dents and scratches over the lifetime of the engagement ring and the marriage, with the ability to maintain its original beauty.

The Shape of the Diamond
The shape of the diamond is the only element of the ring that is a direct reflection of the bride-to-be’s personality. There are six to eight common shapes to choose from, and each sends a very different message.

The round diamond is very classic and traditional, and sends this very clear message about the bride. The princess cut, in contrast, communicates the message of a woman with a strong sense of style. The second-most popular ring shape, the princess cut, can have a more “bling” quality to it – the way the diamond is cut reflects light in a way that contributes to a more brilliant quality.

A pear-shaped diamond resembles a brilliant teardrop, and is an indication of a woman who has a unique quality. The heart-shape – yes there is one – indicates a woman with more of a sentimental flair.

The Stone
The diamond in an engagement ring is another symbol of purity, endurance and longevity. A rare and precious stone, diamonds come from the earth and literally take billions of years to form. A gem stone that can only be scratched by one of its own, the popularity of diamonds in engagement rings can be linked to the association between the strength and durability of a diamond and the same in a marriage.

While the “4 C’s” have been the clear guidelines for choosing a quality diamond, today’s brides, thirsty for originality, are choosing alternative gems for their engagement rings. Whether motivated by their birthstones, or personal preference for something other than a diamond, brides are choosing everything from rubies to opals for their engagement ring stone.

Solitare vs. Three-Stone
The diamond solitaire engagement ring is another tradition that has stood the test of time in the design of diamond engagement rings. And while the single diamond in the pronged Tiffany-style setting remains popular, the three-stone ring is giving the solitaire some competition.

While the solitaire ring represents the idea of a solitary true love, the three-stone ring’s symbolism – a couple’s past, present and future – works as an engagement ring or an anniversary ring. Either way, the standard for a three-stone ring is a central diamond more prominently displayed by two slightly smaller diamonds. However, some brides prefer to have a different gem on either side of the diamond.

The beauty and importance of the engagement ring began centuries ago, but the engagement ring and ritual we know today is believed to have started in 1477 when Archduke Maximillian presented an engagement ring to Mary of Burgandy.

Through world wars, the rise and fall of empires, the evolution of cultures and emergence of technologies, the individual symbols and collective representation of the engagement ring have not much deviated from tradition. The engagement ring is a strong symbol because the separate pieces of the whole are, themselves, incredibly powerful elements.

By Jill Renee

Selecting the right Engagement Ring

The engagement ring is one of the most important rings anyone can own, second to the wedding ring, there are many choices, variations and types and choosing the right one is essential.

Consider the type of wedding ring you'd like to wear, so the two will go together. Usually wedding rings are gold, white gold, red gold or platinum. The engagement ring generally looks better made from the same metal. There are bridal sets in which the wedding ring and engagement ring are made to match perfectly.

Have the ring size measured properly (in any jewellers). The ring shouldn't fit too tightly - in hot weather hands swell up and you won't be able to get it on or off. Equally, it shouldn't be so loose that it slides around on your finger or over your knuckle too easily.

Diamonds are traditionally the most popular stone for engagement rings. This is because the diamond's rarity and durability symbolises the constancy of the love declared by the couple! Sapphires come a close second, followed by rubies and emeralds. Many engagement rings are designed with a main (larger) stone, set with diamonds around it.

There are thousands of styles of engagement ring to choose from. Bear in mind that it will be worn for a lifetime so it's worth taking your time and choosing the right one. Don't be pressurized into a purchase instead shop around and make sure you buy from a reputable company. Why not consider buying in the comfort and relaxed setting of your own home, with superior custom made rings made to your personal specification by Strictly Bespoke.

A great idea being buying a cheap engagement ring and then let the lady choose her own, as mentioned this is the most important ring you can buy and no one wants to be disappointed.

Etiquette denotes that if the bride-to-be calls off the engagement, the engagement ring should be returned. However, if the man calls it off, she gets to keep it and, if she's got any sense, flog it to the highest bidder!

It's best to steer clear of second-hand rings, unless they are quality antiques or family heirlooms, and even then be careful. NEVER give a girl a ring you already gave to someone else and got back when it all went pear-shaped

By David Ton

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