My Least Favorite Diamond Shapes for Engagement Rings

Marquis engagement rings are oval shaped diamonds which have both ends pointed. Marquis diamonds have 56 facets and are twice as long in length as their width. The 2 to 1, length to width ratio is considered ideal and something to think about when shopping for a marquis, as it will effect the sparkliness of the diamond. A good cut is important cut is also important in that it helps prevent the dreaded "bow tie" effect, whereby the center of the diamond is darker and has reduced brilliance. While the Marquis diamond is by no means my favorite shape, it boasts a number of cool properties:
1) It has a cool story behind it: The shape of the stone was said to be designed for Louis XIV of France who wanted a diamond fashioned after the Marquise de Pompadour's smile.
2) The marquis diamond is considered one of the most flattering for the hand as it makes the finger look more slender
3) The stone may look bigger than it actually is. The marquis diamond not only has a large surface area but the elongated lines can make the carat size look larger than what you plunked down money for.
Yes, I'm a pear-hater. Perhaps I've been influenced by some of my friends who also don't like the pear. I remember one time when an acquaintance of mine got engaged. My friend, who was closer to this person, forwarded me a picture of her pear diamond with a disparaging caption about the ring shape. All cattiness aside, everyone has different views on what looks good, so don't let my taste unduly influence you.
The pear shaped diamond is considered to be a round brilliant diamond at one end and a marquise shape at the other. It is sometimes referred to as a tear drop due to its rounded side and pointed edge. A length-to-width ratio between 1.45 and 1.75 is typically considered most desirable for the pear. Just so you know, the pear-shaped diamond is less sparkly than the round brilliant, and loses more brilliance, if poorly proportioned. One thing in particular to avoid when shopping for a pear shape is the dreaded bow tie effect: a dark area in the middle of the diamond which looks just like a black bow tie. It is hard to avoid the bow tie effect completely with the pear. One nice thing about the pear is that it tends to make one's fingers look slimmer.
I hope I'm not offending anyone by saying that I think heart shaped engagement rings are ugly. I used to wear rings with hearts on them in middle school, thus I connect heart shaped rings to a typically horrifying period in most anyone's life. Plus, the symbolism of a heart shaped engagement ring lacks creativity. We already know you're in love, if your wearing an engagement ring. At this point, your woman's not only got your heart, but your savings account, freedom, and body, mind, and soul. You're whipped. No need to let the world know this with a big, cheesy heart. Don't get me wrong...there are plenty of heart-shaped diamond admirers. Some would say that the heart shape is the most romantic of all the diamonds. In fact, Joan Collins received a heart shaped engagement ring from her husband.
Hearts can either be wide or long. They are most similar to the pear shaped diamond but have a cleft at the top. When looking to purchase a heart, make sure the top arches are symmetrical in appearance. Assymmetrical hearts will look more like pears. When looking at other women's ring fingers, you won't see too many hearts. Hearts are less typically found in an engagement ring setting and more commonly seen in earrings or pendants. I will say one good thing about heart shapes: that they cost around 20%-25% less than round diamonds.
The author recently got married and sports a beautiful ascher cut diamond ring. She and her husband put together the website: http://www.ultimate-engagement-ring-guide.com to help you find the perfect engagement ring.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Julie_Shields

Want to Know What the Average Engagement Ring and Wedding Costs?

The average engagement ring costs about $3,000-$4,000. The equals roughly 2-3 months salary for the regular Joe who is going to spend that much. Better start putting those pennies in your piggy bank. Joel spent a little bit more than this on my ring.
The average diamond carat size ranges from a .5 to a 1.0. Regardless, most jewelers will tell you that women prefer a full one carat diamond. My diamond is about a 1.25 carat size. I wanted the look of a full diamond but not one that was so big that it looked gawdy on my finger.
The average woman has a ring finger size of a 7, with the typical ring size spanning from a 5 to a 10. Not everyone falls into this range...I have extremely tiny hands and a size 3 ring finger....I won't go into it, but it was quite an ordeal to get my ring resized
The average engagement lasts for over a year, so you have plenty of time to plan and look through bridal magazines. Joel and I opted for a six months long engagement. We had already dated for 3 years and felt like we were ready to move forward without waiting for a full year. That meant I started planning the wedding about a week after the proposal.
The average wedding costs $26,000-$30,000! Yikes! Expect to spend in more expensive areas of the county such as New York or New Jersey. Joel and I spent quite a bit less and still had a very elegant wedding...so it can be done.
The average age of the bride and groom ranges from 27-29. That described us perfectly...we were 27 and 28.
The average wedding has close to 200 guests. We had about 80... it was a nice sized, intimate affair.
The average couple spends at least $3,000 more than they had anticipated on the wedding. We were good and only went about $500 over our budget. We are both very practical individuals and really preferred to direct our savings towards a downpayment on a house.
An average of 53% of weddings make it until "death do us part." I know this will be us :)
The author just celebrated her one year anniversary and sports a beautiful ascher cut ring. She and her husband put together the website: http://www.ultimate-engagement-ring-guide.com to help you find the perfect ring.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Julie_Shields

Why The Three Stone Diamond Ring Is So Popular And Desirable

All women would like a three stone ring from her partner. The three stone ring was designed by the De Beers Jewelry Company and became an instant classic, setting the jewelry industry on its ear. The three stones signify the message of love to the recipient. The first stone often smaller signifies past love. The middle and large stone represents present love and the smaller third stone is for future love.
Who would not want a beautiful classic ring? They can be altered to make them more personal using different stones instead of diamonds. You can use the birthstones of the couple with the smaller stones and leave the larger one a diamond. It can be as special and personal as the individual who will own it.
This ring can be changed to fit any occasion. It can be used as an engagement ring or for an anniversary present. Because it has a classic simple design it can be incorporated into a wedding set quite easily. Birthdays and Christmas are other occasions to give the three stone ring for those who can't wait until a special anniversary or romantic holiday.
When using the three stone ring as an engagement ring there are several options to turn it into a lovely wedding set. Because the center stone is set higher than the other two it is possible to use a plain band to accompany it. Another option is a wedding band with a channel set of stones the same size as the two smaller stones in the engagement ring. This type of band can really highlight the beauty of the engagement ring. The groom's ring can also be a band with three matching stones in the same pattern. Usually men don't like a large flashy ring with protruding stones that can be caught on things.
The cost of one of these rings can very well depend on the type of stones used and the setting. A plain silver band with small traditional round cut diamonds will cost less than one with a white gold or platinum band and large stones. The first thing before buying a ring is to determine the price range you are willing to spend. Many jewelers will try to get you to upgrade to more expensive settings and stones, but you have to stick to your guns or your gesture of love could be a real budget breaker.
Every couple has a past they want to celebrate because it has brought them to a wonderful present time and when celebrating the present, there is always a hope for the future. The three stone ring is a perfect symbol of these three periods in a relationship.
Gregg Hall is an author living in Navarre Beach, Florida. Find more about this as well as why diamonds are forever at http://www.diamondringsplus.com
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Gregg_Hall

How To Choose A Quality Diamond Ring and Diamond Jewelry

You are about to make a very important decision. You are going to buy a diamond. Whether it is an engagement ring to start a new life with someone special or a pair of earrings to signify twenty five years together, a diamond is something special. You want make sure you are getting the best quality diamond for the money you are spending. So, how do you know you are not wasting your money? Here are a few things to keep in mind while shopping for that diamond ring.
The very first thing you are going to want to look at is your budget. In years past, the rule of thumb was that you spend two months salary on a diamond ring. However, that rule generally no longer applies. Today, with people living together before the question is asked, it is much more a question of how much your budget will handle.
After you know the price range you are looking for and can afford, you can then move on to the four “Cs” of diamonds. Color, cut, clarity and carat weight. Let’s take a look at the first one.
Color is the overall color of the stone. Traditionally, diamonds will rage from colorless to yellow. The less color in the stone, the more desirable it is. This typically has a relationship to the purity of the gem, although some people prefer the yellowish tint to a diamond stone. I personally think the yellowish tint makes it look old and not as clean as it should be.
Cut is very important to how the diamond will shine. If it is well cut, it will capture all available light and reflect it back to the height of its potential. If the diamond is cut too shallow, it will not gather light. If it is cut too deep, it will take light and not reflect it back. There are various different kinds of cuts, and a knowledgeable jeweler should be able to explain this to you as well as show you the same piece in different cuts so you can see the difference for yourself.
Clarity refers to how flawless the stone is. Diamonds that are flawless are going to be very rare and, therefore, very expensive. Usually, you can get more bang for your buck if you go down a couple of points on this category and get either a near flawless stone or one that has no visible incursions to the naked eye. Of course, the more visible the flaws, the less expensive the diamond. When you exmaine the gem with the naked eye, you should not be able to see "scars" or blemishes within the stone. If you can see scars but only when wearing a jeweler's "loop" (the magnifying monacle microscope that any quality jeweler has on hand, which you can ask to borrow to examine a stone), then it is probably worthy of your consideration.
The last of the four Cs is carat. This is how big the diamond is. It is worth mentioning that the larger stones are more rare and are more expensive. Because of this, you can get the same amount of total carat weight for less money. As an example, two half-carat stones are less expensive than a single full carat ring.
When shopping for the perfect diamond ring, the setting will also come into play, as well as what type of metal the ring is made of. Gold is traditionally the metal of engagement and wedding rings, but silver; white gold and platinum have started to become more popular in recent years as well. This is more a matter of personal taste than anything else, although you want a quality setting.
One more thing to look for when shopping for a quality diamond ring - a quality jeweler. They will help you decide what your budget should be and show you a wide range of what you can afford. They will be able to tell you more on the four Cs, show you a variety of settings and help you through the buying process so you are comfortable with your purchase. Don't be afraid to ask the jeweler to borrow his "loop" for a minute so you can get a close view of the diamond you are considering.
Jon is a computer engineer and long-term world traveler who maintains many websites to pass along his knowledge and findings. You can read more about diamond rings and diamond jewelry at his web site at http://www.diamond-jewelry-ring.com/
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Jon_Arnold

Affordable Rings Create Precious Memories

There's a profound truth to the saying, "It's not the cost of the gift, but the thought behind it." Gifts of jewelry create precious memories, yet all too often the person giving the gift feels as though he must spend more than he can afford in order to demonstrate his feelings to the woman he loves. Unfortunately, the jewelry industry often reinforces this belief, going so far as to offer guidelines about what a man should spend on an engagement ring, for example. (The "guideline" is two months' salary.) For most men, it's not realistic to go deeply into debt in order to buy jewelry. Indeed, extravagant jewelry often is locked in a vault or a safe, rather than being worn and enjoyed by the recipient. There are many affordable rings available that can express feelings of love and appreciation, and which will be worn with pride by the recipient. Discount rings can be unique and elegant, with a style that mimics the most costly designer jewelry. In contrast to guidelines provided by the jewelry industry, you can buy affordable rings that your recipient will treasure. When selecting a ring, think about the setting. A 10k gold ring is as beautiful as a 14k gold ring, but is a more affordable purchase. A 10k gold ring setting can be found in both yellow gold and white gold, and will set off the stones just as beautifully as a 14k setting. The next element to consider is the gem stone. A natural gem stone will come to life in a 10k gold ring setting. Peridot, blue topaz, citrine, amethyst, ruby, garnet, emerald, and sapphire would each make for the perfect natural gem stone to coordinate with a 10k gold ring setting. Finally, when considering buying affordable rings, think about the size and cut of the natural gem stone. Although the jewelry industry would lead you to believe that bigger is better, a number of small stones in an elegant and unique designer setting can be even more striking than a single large natural gem stone. For example, imagine ten small round cut diamonds on either side of five small rubies in a 10k gold ring setting. Or consider the glitter and sparkle of six marquise cut blue topaz stones set as flower petals surrounded by thirteen small round cut diamonds. Nine small round cut diamonds in a heart shaped setting with an elegant band can be breathtaking. Whether you're looking for a promise ring, an engagement ring, or a gift for that special anniversary, birthday, or Valentine's Day present, you don't have to spend a fortune. Affordable rings will convey your feelings and be worn with appreciation by the woman you love.
Chris Robertson is an author of Majon International, one of the worlds MOST popular internet marketing companies on the web. Visit this Jewelry Website and Majon's Jewelry directory.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Chris_Robertson

Do You Want To Build Your Own Engagement Ring?

If you answered "yes" to this question or are interested about diamond jewelry, then you might want to read on. It is very easy to build your own engagement ring online. Basically, what you do is choosing a ring and add a diamond to it. Then of course you will have to propose and show the unique gift you created for her.
Concerning the ring many styles are available, from a Solitaire ring to a Pave setting full of little diamonds around the center one, this will be your decision. Plus, some online stores give you the possibility to see how it will look like when the diamond will be mounted on the ring, and even how it looks on a finger.
The three metals you can choose from to design your own engagement ring are Platinum, Yellow Gold and White Gold. White metals became more popular as they reflect more light as Yellow Gold. This, of course, enhance the brilliance and sparkling of the diamond.
The diamond, let's talk about that, this is the most important piece of the engagement ring. Well Important here means the most expensive. But a beautiful diamonds is not necessarily perfect. A perfect diamond, would be ideally cut, colorless and flawless. These diamonds are very rare, so you need to find a compromise between these criteria.
Don't worry, the imperfections of a diamond are only visible by an experienced eye, and under magnification. Nobody could notice slight flaws if they are not experts. So are you ready to engage? Then why not design a unique jewel and build your own engagement ring.
If you want to build your own engagement ring online, learn to build your own ring at BuildEngagementRing.net You will also find more about diamonds and precious metals. The best stores are also listed so you can shop for certified diamonds with confidence.
You will also find more about diamonds and precious metals. The best stores are also listed so you can shop for certified diamonds with confidence.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Tobias_Rieper

Discount Engagement Rings

Engagement rings are usually associated with a large sum of money. Buying a cheaper engagement ring that is good quality is a rather difficult task. Often, the issue of the engagement ring cost puts a damper on a happy occasion. If you are searching for the ideal engagement ring for your beloved but are on a tight budget…don’t lose hope…there’s definitely a solution for you!
When one searches for an engagement ring, the first thing that one considers is the price. If you are on a tight budget, you don’t need to strain your finances by buying an expensive diamond and platinum ring. You can always choose the yellow or white gold that are a lot less costly, yet look just as gorgeous.
There is a large selection discount engagement rings available and they are equally as impressive and exquisite as the pricey engagement rings. However, not every jeweler carries the less expensive engagement rings. You will have to search quite a number of places to find them. Usually, when one hears “ discount engagement rings”, one is reminded of poor quality and cheap looking rings, but the discount rings are not always like that. There are several jewelers, online as well as offline, that carry quality engagement rings who are happy to offer them to their customers at a discount price. So, when you are looking for an engagement ring for your fiancé, you don’t necessarily have to spend thousands of bucks.
It is not difficult to find discount engagement rings these days. Besides the many jewelers in your town or city, the Internet also has many jewelry stores that present a large selection of jewelry designs and styles. These online jewelry stores often sell engagement rings at a greatly reduced price. They may offer discounts as a promotion for their store or during an end of season sale. Many offline jewelers’ give discounts on rings purchased by long-term customers. This helps in building good will in the market. But don’t get lured by all the discount offers. It is essential to check the reputation of the jeweler and the quality of the engagement ring that you are buying. Be a little cautious while making the purchase and you can pick up the perfect discount engagement ring for your partner.
Even if you purchase a discount engagement ring, it will in no way hamper the true spirit of the occasion. With a discount engagement ring, you can definitely express the beauty and the purity of your love for your fiancé and make your engagement a memorable occasion.
Roy Dietelzieg worked in the jewelry industry for 10 years and has been writing about his reflections on jewelry philosophy. Roy currently writes articles with tips for buying Discount Engagement Rings at http://engagementring.zupatips.com/
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Roy_Dietelzieg

Shopping For An Engagement Ring? Some Tips On Finding That Dream Ring!

I love seeing the excitement in a guys eye when he first starts shopping for an engagement ring. When I did it I couldn't stop thinking about popping the question and seeing the look on her face when she saw the ring I got for her. I knew I wanted it to be her dream ring, I just had to figure out what that was!
Most guys have no clue about diamonds when they go shopping for an engagement ring. After all, it's not something you buy for yourself and most people don't buy diamonds more than once or twice in a lifetime.
This is a time when you have to do something that a lot of guys have trouble with - pay attention to your girlfriend! As funny as it sounds, finding the perfect ring will depend on it to a certain extent.
Finding the diamond for your ring actually is one of the easiest parts of choosing your ring. You have to know your stuff, but my website and the guide I put together for you will make it easy. Make sure you check it out: it will save you time and a good chunk of cash.
The hardest part for most people is choosing what type of setting (the band) to pick.
First, figure out what color you want. For this, just look at the jewelry she already wears. Does she wear a lot of yellow gold? Or does she stick with silver?
If she wears gold - than it's easy. Her engagement ring will be made of yellow gold. If she wears silver, than stick with platinum or white gold.
This is even an area you can come right out and ask. If you ask if she prefers silver or yellow gold, she isn't going to automatically think you are shopping for a ring. You can even say that your buddy just bought his girlfriend a new silver necklace but he wasn't sure if he should go with gold instead. This conversation leads to a natural way of asking her what she prefers.
When it comes to the style of the ring, you have three main ones to choose from. These are a Diamond Solitaire ring, a Diamond ring with sidestones or a Three Stone ring.
A solitaire ring is the most popular choice. It is simple yet elegant and is the best way of showing off a single diamond. It is a band with one diamond mounted to it.
A ring with sidestones features a center diamond with many smaller diamonds on both sides of it. These diamond are usually quite small but they do add a little sparkle to the band itself.
A three stone ring has a main center diamond, and then two smaller diamonds beside it - one on each side. Usually the side diamonds are about 30-60% of the size as the center stone.
It can be difficult to know exactly what she wants. I always suggest going for a solitaire ring if you aren't sure. It is timeless and classic piece of jewelry and it's the best way to show off the diamond. However, I do suggest trying to find out what she would like the most.
The best thing to do is have one of her girlfriends ask her for you. Make sure you only ask someone you trust can keep a secret and someone that will be able to ask her without making it obvious why she is asking the question. Girls do talk about jewelry together so she won't be suspicious unless her friend gives her reason to be.
Also, pay close attention to the jewelry she already owns. Does she go for flashier rings or more of a simple look? By knowing her style, you should have a good idea of what she would prefer.
Have fun shopping for your ring. It's a really exciting time and I hope you get the reaction you are looking for. If you want some extra help choosing a diamond and saving a hunk of cash stop by my website - that's what it's there for!
Good luck!
Tom Mason is a diamond expert and specializes in finding his clients engagement rings at prices far below retail. His experience and expertise have led to the publication of the book The Ultimate Diamond Buying Guide - A guide that has helped people from around the globe find the perfect diamond ring at a great price.
Visit his website for more tips on saving money on your engagementring purchase.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Tom_Mason

How To Afford That Special Engagement Ring

In order to purchase an engagement ring, if you don’t have the money saved for that purpose, you’ll either have to save it or resort to financing. Both alternatives are interesting and which one you’ll choose will depend on how rushed in you are. If time is a pressing issue, then you’ll need to find some sort of financing. Otherwise, you can start saving for the purchase.
When Time Is Not An Issue
When you have enough time to save the money for purchasing a ring, it is a good idea to do so. That way you’ll save a lot of money on interests due to financing. Making the necessary adjustments to your budget will help you put a fixed amount apart every month to build up the sum you’ll need to purchase that special engagement ring. It’s just better to put some money aside every month than waiting to see if there is money left at the end of the month.
The prices of engagement rings are very varied. You can obtain an engagement ring for a price that can range between a couple of hundreds to several thousands dollars. There are of course engagement rings worth a lot more than that but this article is not intended for such eccentricities. According to the price of the ring you’ll need to calculate the time you’ll need to save the money and thus, the amount you’ll have to put aside every month.
When Time Is An Issue
When time is an issue you have no other choice but to resort to financing. There are many different financial products that you can obtain in order to pay for an engagement ring. For instance, if you own a credit card, then, your problem is half solved as you only need to purchase your engagement ring with your card and pay as much as you can of the balance every month to fully pay it off. However, whether the ring is expensive or you don’t have enough credit left on your card you may want to try other alternatives.
Unsecured personal loans are an excellent choice, they provide higher amounts that can easily reach ten thousands dollars and they also provide flexible repayment schedules that can last up to five years or even longer. Yet, your choice for an engagement ring may be a bit more expensive. In that case, resorting to a secured loan might be a good idea. Truth is that even for lower price rings (five thousands and up) loans based on equity can provide more advantageous terms like lower rates and longer repayment programs so you won’t have to worry about repayment.
It is a good idea to combine some savings with financing to keep things inexpensive if you have the time to do so. Maybe, saving a couple of months and financing the rest of the price of the engagement ring can do the trick.
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Mary Wise, a professional consultant at Badcreditloanservices.com with twenty years in the financial field, prevents consumers from falling into the hands of fraudulent lenders. In her website you will find more useful tips and interesting financial articles on this and many other related topics.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Mary_Wise

Buying the Perfect Engagement Ring

When it comes to buying the perfect engagement ring, we know that it’s as important as the marriage proposal, and it’s also as important as the wedding reception itself. Since this engagement ring is going to be something that reminds you of something sweet, a cherished moment in your life, the engagement ring should be absolutely nothing short of perfect.
It’s not hard to find an engagement ring of your choice. You can find fabulous engagement rings on the Internet or by visiting a local jewelry store near you, but this is a fact – when it comes to buying engagement rings, it’s not WHAT you know about engagement rings, diamonds and the quality of gold that matters, it’s WHO the engagement seller is and his reputation in the engagement ring sector.
Regardless of how successful the engagement ring seller is, a dishonest engagement ring seller will always try his or her best to fool you about the quality and price of the engagement rings he or she sells. This is to ensure highest possible profit. Even the most experienced and established engagement dishonest ring retailer will try to do this.
However, there’s a handful of honest engagement ring sellers who will give you a fabulous deal even if you know NOTHING about engagement rings. Their focus is not to fool you once-off. But the most important trait that an honest engagement ring seller has is that he or she is trying to give you value for money and build trust and a long-term relationship with you. They want you to take the engagement ring home, show it off to your friends and relatives, and then give good reviews about where you got the engagement ring and what a great deal you got for the engagement ring. It’s in their interest that you buy one engagement ring, and come back for the wedding ring. It’s to their benefit that you trust and have confidence in them that you recommend the engagement ring store to your sister, cousin, aunts and uncles so that they will buy their engagement rings, wedding rings, and jewelry from them.
All jewelers and engagement ring retailers have access to the same pool of diamond and gold resources in the country. The difference is in the seller and how much profit they want to make from you for the sale of the engagement ring.
Finally, be sure to shop around a little bit more before you buy the engagement ring. Most jewelry shops carry the same or similar (if not better) design of engagement rings and you can find different pricing for them somewhere else. And have fun shopping around too!
Dakota Caudilla, journalist, and website builder Dakota Caudilla lives in Texas. He is the owner and co-editor of http://www.engagement-mart.com on which you will find a longer, more detailed version of this article.
Dakota Caudilla, journalist, and website builder Dakota Caudilla lives in Texas. He is the owner and co-editor of http://www.engagement-mart.com/ on which you will find a longer, more detailed version of this article.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Dakota_Caudilla

How To Pick the Ideal Engagement and Wedding Jewelry

Wedding/Engagement Jewelry

Jewelry holds a special place in the celebration of a marriage. Jewelry is used to symbolize a couples love for each other, representing a lasting bond between the two people. Wedding and engagement jewelry is also there to make sure you look great on your wedding day! When planning for your big day, there are three main kinds of wedding or engagement jewelry options that you should be considering.

Engagement Rings

This is the thing that will start the whole process off . The engagement ring, representing the promise of marriage. While alternative gemstones are becoming more popular, you can never go wrong with a traditional diamond engagement ring. If you are a potential groom who wants to present a traditional diamond engagement ring to your significant other, there are three main types to choose from. The simplest, and perhaps most elegant, is a diamond solitaire ring, which is a single diamond set on a gold band. This basic design can be spiced up a bit by adding accents, which are smaller gem stones placed around the main diamond. Finally, a diamond three-stone ring, representing the couples past, present, and future is also very popular and attractive.

Wedding Bands

Wedding bands (or wedding rings) are exchanged at the wedding ceremony to represent the couples life long commitment to each other and the marriage. For this reason, your wedding bands may be some of the most important things you ever buy, since all of your relationships love and respect will be bottled up in them. Wedding bands are usually plain for men and women, although some women will now inset diamonds or other gemstones into their wedding band. The main decision you have when choosing a wedding band is whether you want gold or platinum. Whatever you decide, it is best to keep in mind what the band will look like matched with the engagement ring.

Your Wedding Day Jewelry

To add an extra bit of style and pizzaz on your wedding day, consider getting some wedding day jewelry. This can involve anything from a tiara or necklace for the bride, to new cufflinks for the groom. If you are concerned about costs, given the nature of wedding day jewelry you can likely get away with high quality costume jewelry. After all, you could spend a lot of money on a new tiara and never really find the right opportunity to wear it again.

Picking the Perfect Engagement or Wedding Day Jewelry

There are a few common steps you should take no matter what type of wedding or engagement jewelry you are thinking of purchasing. The most important thing is to take your time, do not just rush into a store and pick the first thing that catches your eye. You are going to be wearing this jewelry for the rest of your life, so you want to make sure it is something you will be happy with. You also want to ensure yourself that you are only buying jewelry of the highest quality, no matter how much you like your piece, if it is of lower quality, it will not last.

Mary Amos has worked with some of the most exclusive jewelres to select engagement and wedding jewelry. Click Wedding and Engagement Jewelry For more on pearls visit our sister site Pearls

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Mary_Amos

The Different Diamond Cuts For The Engagement Ring

You would be surprised how many people do not know anything about the different cuts of diamonds that are out there, and the benefits of each. Most people if you ask what kind of diamond will give you a color and shape, not knowing it is much more than that. Here we are going to look at the various cuts of diamonds, which ones are most popular, and the terms used to describe them.

The most common cut for Engagement rings is a round cut. However, there are more than one type of round cuts. The number one ranking round cut is called a Brilliant cut, but a brilliant cut is only one out of the three main round cuts. A brilliant cut is known best for its many faces, most commonly seen in shapes like triangles and kites. The most spectacular thing about this diamond is that the faces (or facets) are all pointed outwards, which greatly enhances the way the light radiates through the diamond itself.

A step cut, has four-sided facets that are cut beneath the table of the diamond. The table, is the flat edge cut at the top of a diamond. The four facets are parallel to the diamonds girdle. Where the top or the crown of the diamond and the bottom or the pavilion of the diamond meet. In other words, it's the point in between the coned and and the top of the diamond that is visible from an aerial view. There are less facets in this diamond than in a brilliant cut diamond.

An emerald cut is the same type of cut as a step cut, only with the corners removed. They are mostly rectangular shaped but size varies, they can be anything from a lean thin rectangle to a wide bulk square. A mixed cut diamond is cut with techniques from both a step and a brilliant cut. A mixed cut diamond is cut with techniques from both a step and a brilliant cut and are most popular in colored gems.

Kevin Chang has been in the jewelry for industry for over 15 years. He recently launched his own diamond education website Loose Diamonds

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Kevin_Chang

A Promise Should Be Forever: Titanium Promise Rings

While a promise ring can be given for a variety of reasons, they are typically given as a sign that the giver and the wearer will date each other exclusively and that an engagement may come soon. Promise rings are usually less expensive than engagement or wedding rings. Titanium promise rings are a good idea for several reasons. They are less expensive than silver or gold rings, are strong and durable, and can be engraved with special messages.

Since promise rings are less formal than wedding and engagement rings, they are usually less expensive. Titanium promise rings are more reasonably priced than promise rings made of a precious metal like gold or silver. Some people do choose to buy more expensive promise rings that include gem settings. Titanium rings are known for being a good choice for setting a stone.

The strength and durability of titanium promise rings serves several purposes. Obviously, it is a wise idea to buy a ring that will retain its shape and not be scratched or broken. Aside from that, the strength of titanium promise rings signifies the commitment to keeping the promise. A strong promise ring drives home the point that the giver and the wearer are committed to each other. What better way to show devotion and long-term intent than to give a ring that will last a lifetime?

Most sellers will engrave titanium engagement rings with messages of the buyer’s choosing. A customer can have his and his girlfriend’s names etched onto the ring to add sentimental value. The ring could also be engraved with a brief description of the promise being made, or a pattern such interlocking hearts that can drive the point home.

Titanium promise rings are a good value and can have symbolic and sentimental meaning. Their strength and durability makes the promise being made that much more meaningful.

Titanium Rings Info provides detailed information about titanium wedding, engagement and promise rings, as custom, black, and men’s titanium rings. Titanium Rings Info is the sister site of Mens Wedding Rings Web.

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Celtic Jewelry Buying Guide

The traditional crafting of Celtic jewelry dates back for centuries. The intricate designs found on many of these intriguing pieces of art were largely influenced by designs found in ancient Celtic manuscripts and feature symbols representing ideals such as love, loyalty, friendship, and fortitude. Thus, this ancient art of the Celts is not only steeped in history but meaning as well.

The price ranges of these art pieces start from low double-digit dollar amounts for mass-market silver jewelry to several thousand for high-quality, handcrafted Celtic jewelry made with precious metals and precious stones. Like most things, the more unique or rarer it is, the pricier it gets.

A fine jewelry lover can choose from several forms of Celtic jewelry available. One can find popular items in forms such as crosses, rings, pendants, and earrings.

Celtic Crosses actually predate the Christian cross by about two centuries. While the these crosses are believed to bring greater knowledge, understanding and the fortitude to the wearer, the Christian cross, on the other hand, is believed to protect the wearer from harm.

Aside from the enduring Celtic cross, the other popular Celtic pendant design involves the Claddagh design. Celtic pendants may contain precious stones. These make wonderful gifts to friends and is especially popular as Mother's Day gifts.

Another piece of jewelry chosen to match a wardrobe are rings. Celtic rings commonly incorporate the Celtic knot design. Celtic knots are believed to be symbols that represent eternity and undying love Celtic rings are increasingly used as engagement rings and wedding rings since they represent fidelity and commitment. Such rings are also exchanged between friends because they denote loyalty and friendship among good friends.

A specific form of Celtic ring design is the Claddagh. These wonderful rings incorporate a design that is well documented in history. The first Claddagh ring was made over 300 years ago in Claddagh, a small village in Ireland. A fisherman in this village, Robert Joyce, was captured by pirates and was later sold as a slave to a wealthy goldsmith. While working for the goldsmith, he learned the trade and used it to make a beautiful ring for his love back in Claddagh. After being released from slavery several years later, he returned to his old village and presented his handcrafted ring to his beloved. They were married soon after.

Claddagh rings use three important symbols in the design: Two hands representing friendship, a crown representing loyalty, and a heart representing love. The symbolism contained in the ring design makes a popular choice as a Celtic wedding ring or Celtic engagement ring.

Claddagh Earrings - Another great use of the Claddagh design comes in the form of earrings, another great accessory for a discerning woman's wardrobe. Celtic earrings may be studded with precious stones such as Emeralds or diamonds.

Anyone can appreciate and enjoy the beauty Celtic jewelry offers when the meanings and the traditions behind them are clearly understood. These works of art may be purchased online or offline. Specialty brick and mortar jewelry stores will carry a range of the jewelry listed here. You can try them on and see how it looks with your wardrobe. Since designs of some items like rings can be very intricate and sizing may not be available at a retail store, you may try online. You may also find more variety if you are hunting for a specific design or are wanting to customize your jewelry beyond the simple engraving. There are lots of reputable Celtic jewelers that create unique pieces and many will handcraft the jewelry to your needs.

Tim O'Malley writes for Shanore.com, a trusted Celtic jewelry design company based in Dublin, Ireland. Their expert jewelry artisans create unique handcrafted Celtic engagement rings, Claddagh rings, and other popular Celtic jewelry. All jewelry purchased get free FedEx shipping for additional peace of mind.

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The Promise Ring And Its Meaning

A promise ring is a symbol of commitment, usually given to a man by a woman. It is a special piece of jewelry that is often classed as a mans engagement ring. It symbolises a 'promise' of commitment.

A promise ring can also be exchanged between couples as a pre engagement, or even just as a token gesture between a man and women, For younger people it is an updated version of wearing your boyfriends ring around your neck on a chain, it symbolises being together.

That being said, promise rings are also exchanged between friends, for many years rings have been used to seal promises between close friends or family.

A Promise ring can be worn on any finger depending on the type of ring. If the promise ring is given to a man for friendship then it can be worn on any finger or even the thumb. If the promise ring is to symbolise pre engagement or engagement then it is traditionally worn on the left hand ring finger like a traditional engagement ring.

There are many types of promise rings available, if the ring is to symbolise engagement then it is worth considering a diamond promise ring, you can select other stones to sit along side the diamond also, it is a good idea to look at what colours your partner wears when choosing a mixed stone promise ring, have a look in their wardrobe and select a stone that wont clash with their clothes.

If the promise ring is for a man and will be worn on a daily basis then it is wise to choose durable metal, titanium being one of the most popular.

There is also the option to have the ring engraved with your 'promise' this will make the promise ring unique and more meaningful, this type of ring is extremely romantic and a way to share your heartfelt sentiments with the one you love.

Depending on your budget will effect which type of promise ring you purchase whether it be a diamond promise ring, a gold promise ring, a titanium promise ring or even a silver promise ring, the most important thing to remember is to make clear the promise you are making when giving the ring to someone. There is nothing worse than receiving a ring and assuming it is for engagement when it is in fact just a symbol of your friendship. Enclosing a note to explain what the ring s for should clarify things and avoid embarrassment.

Promise rings are also given to children from parents as promises to refrain from bad virtues such as smoking or drinking or even forming a sexual relationship before marriage.

Some religions also use promise rings to symbolise their faith. These rings are usually worn by followers and the promise ring is a commitment to follow the beliefs and teachings of their religion in everyday life.

Vicki Churchill writes for several sites including Diamond And Sapphire Rings and Diamond Rings including what, where & how to buy the perfect Promise Ring.

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Who Cares If It's Real Or Fake If No One Knows the Difference

Cubic zirconias are synthetic gemstones created in a laboratory. Cubic zirconia engagement rings are somewhat less sparkly than diamond engagement rings but project more rays of color. While diamonds typically have flaws and impurities, cubic zirconias are typically flawless. CZs are approximately 70% heavier than diamonds but are also softer and more brittle. Like diamonds, CZs come in a variety of colors. This happens when oxides such as titanium, iron, nickel, etc. are added during the CZ synthesis process.

Cubic zirconia production took of in the 70's, with advancements in the process of growing the crystals in the laboratory. CZ became a household name when Swarovski & Co. began producing these beauties for mass consumption.

The average joe could not distinguish well-designed cubic zirconia engagement rings from authentic diamond engagment rings. It takes a well-trained eye and/or a microscope and additional fancy tools to differentiate quality czs from the ice. Perhaps this combined with the price explains why cubic zirconias continue to rule the diamond simulant market.

A cubic zirconia ring may be appropriate for couples who do not feel as though they have the money for an authentic diamond engagement ring but want to get married nonetheless. In addition, some couples may be able to afford an authentic diamond engagement ring, but prefer to spend money elsewhere and hence, a cubic zirconia will do just fine. One option for couples on a tight budget is to mix in cubic zirconias with real stones and precious metals. For example, the ring metal could be white gold, the center stone could be a cubic zirconia, and the side stones could be small rubies.

If you are going to go the CZ route, it is best to discuss this with your woman in advance. By all means, do not try to pass off a CZ as a real diamond to your potential spouse!!!!! If you do this, I have serious concerns for your safety! God forbid, she tries to get it insured or has it independently appraised years later and finds out the truth.....you will probably need to go into hiding. And above all.....you don't want to start out your lives together based on a lie!!

Diamonique engagement rings sound exotic and mysterious.... in actually, they are a registered trademark belonging to QVC. Diamoniques are really synthetic gemstones otherwise known as cubic zirconias. Because these gemstones are made by man, they can actually outdo nature and provide you flawlessness when it comes to those all important Cs. They are almost as hard as diamonds. Diamonds rate as a 10 on the Mohr's hardness scale whereby diamoniques come in at an 8.5

The rings are set in an array of precious metals including silver, yellow and white gold and platinum. You can basically get any shape diamond you want from traditional round to vintage asscher cut. The rings cost anywhere from around $25 to $350.

Those clucking hens in the office will be oohing and aahing over your diamonique engagement ring, having no idea that the 2 carat zinger costs under 350 bucks or less You could buy 5 diamonique rings and still have spent much less than on the cost of a real diamond engagement ring. You will laugh your head off all the way to the bank.

QVC offers these bad-boys in an array of rainbow colors. You could get a pink J-Lo diamonique ring or a canary yellow Paris Hilton diamonique ring.

Moissanite Engagement Rings gained popularity in the mid-90s with the invention of a lab process to grow the crystals. Moissanite is actually a naturally occuring mineral although it is extremely rare and small in size......hence, making lab-grown moissanite more appropriate for most jewelry pieces.

Moissanite is almost as hard as diamonds and is often as brilliant if not more so. Moissanie can be made into a number of shapes and put in a variety of settings. However unlike diamonds, moissanite often may reflect faint color hues of yellow, green or gray, under certain lighting. In addition, Moissanite is not graded in carat weight but a comparable diamond carat value is usually given to allow the buyer to make useful comparisons

Many experienced jewelers can mistake a high-quaility moissanite for a diamond and sometimes lab instruments must be used to aid in this determination.

Moissanite can be fairly difficult to grow in the laboratory, and high-quality moissanite can be more expensive than low-quality diamonds and are almost always more expensive than cubic zirconias. In general, Moissanite stones cost about 1/8 of what diamonds cost.

The author just celebrated her one year anniversary and sports a beautiful ascher cut ring. She and her husband put together the website: http://www.ultimate-engagement-ring-guide.com to help you find the perfect ring.

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Men's Promise Rings

Even though promise rings are not commonly worn by men, men’s promise rings have their own significance. Promise rings are exchanged between a girlfriend and boyfriend with a commitment to stay faithful to each other.

Men’s promise rings can be worn as pre-engagement rings, friendship rings, or just as purity promise rings. Purity rings are a special category of promise rings, often presented by parents to their children. These rings signify the strong bond of trust between them and indicate a promise on the part of the child to stay away from sexual relationships and practice abstinence, until marriage.

To intensify pre-engagement relations, the design of men’s promise rings is made similar to that of their spouse. Generally referred as promise pair rings, these rings express the couple’s love and care for each other.

The finger on which the promise ring is worn depends on the type of the ring. If men’s promise rings are exchanged as a symbol of friendship, then it is common to wear them on any finger including the thumb on the right hand. The pre-engagement rings and purity rings are mostly worn on the left hand ring finger.

As men’s promise rings are meant for daily usage, they should be made of durable metal. Men’s titanium promise rings are certainly the best choice. Beautifully inlayed gold, silver and platinum men’s promise rings are also of great demand. Some men’s promise rings are marvelously hand-painted while others have an antique touch. Further, some men’s promise rings are inscribed with names, initials, or a brief verbal description about the promise.

Men’s promise rings are cool jewelry pieces which come in a variety of designs. Both handmade and machine cut promise rings are available. The most commonly used designs are Celtic knot rings, Sterling silver rings, Turkish puzzle rings, and Greek key style rings. Men’s promise rings with multi-gemstones and other precious stones are also available.

Mens Rings provides detailed information on Men's Rings, Men's Engagement Rings, Men's Gold Rings, Men's Promise Rings and more. Mens Rings is affiliated with Anniversary Flowers.

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The Engagement Ring

The engagement ring symbolizes a commitment between two individuals who have professed undying love and devotion for each other. Many couples observe this tradition of the man giving an engagement ring to the woman before they marry. It is one type of tradition that is rooted as far back as the ancient Roman times when a betrothal ring, then called a Truth Ring, was worn by couples on their left hand. A truth ring, one shaped in a circle, has neither an ending nor a beginning. It also has the same shape as the sun or the moon, the source of life and light. No wonder ancient people have chosen to make this the symbol of unity and everlasting love. During the Middle Ages, the truth ring was later called a bond ring and for those who can truly afford, the diamond was the ultimate symbolic bond ring.

A diamond stone is believed to be the hardest of all minerals, the perfect symbol to a union that must remain unbroken until death. It is also a priceless piece of jewelry. And in these times, a diamond engagement ring may just be one of the most expensive items you will own in your lifetime, following your house and your car.

Choosing the perfect diamond engagement ring depends on your taste and also some familiarity to diamond jewelry. The difference of a great cut and a good cut may not be easily determined by an untrained eye but the perfect diamond makes a really big difference in terms of its beauty and most of all, its value.

But, an engagement ring can be made from whatever material is most appropriate to you as a couple. Engagement rings can contain both diamonds and other gemstones – this can look attractive and reduce the cost. The cost will vary and there should be no problem choosing a ring that is both suitable and affordable. The most important thing is that you see the ring as a strong and everlasting symbol of your commitments.

Eric Hartwell oversees "The World's Best Homepage" intended to be a user-generated resource where YOUR opinion counts. Anybody can contribute and all are welcomed. Visit us to read, comment upon or share opinions on buying jewellery and visit our associated site articles for free.

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The Origin of Engagement Rings Is Explained So You Know Exactly Who To Blame For Your Visa Debt

The orgin of engagement rings is somewhat unclear so I'll share a few of the most common stories with you

Ancient Egyptians loved their jewelry. They believed that a special love vein ran from the fourth finger of the left hand to the heart....where the engagement ring continues to be placed today. Another reason for the significance of the 4th finger is that in midevil times, the presiding ceremonial priest or groom would place the engagement ring on the first three fingers when saying "the Father, the Son and the Holy Ghost", finishing on the fourth finger where it would then stay.

The Romans wore "betrothal" rings made of iron. Over time, these rings started to be made of gold and embellished. Some early rings also had a carved key to symbolize how a woman could unlock her lover's heart. Another theory suggests that the engagement ring served as a "slave band" in the Roman Republic to indicate that the woman was the man's chattel and belonged exclusively to him.

If you're looking for some specific dudes to single out, look no further. In 860 Pope Nicolas I announced that a ring was a requirement to signify engagement and it was also stipulated that it should be a gold ring - this indicated the financial commitment being made by the groom. Some sources say the origin of engagement rings dates back to 1477 when the Archduke Maximillian of Austria bought his beloved Mary of Burgundy some serious bling.

Consider yourself lucky (or unlucky) depending on your perspective. In Brazil, Sweden, and Germany, both the man and the woman wear engagement rings.

And some men wish they could go back in time to the days of cavemen. The cavemen tied strands of grass around the ankle of their cavechick to claim their respective piece of meat. This was uncomfortable for the cavechick and was ultimately adjusted so that the grass strands were tied around her finger versus her ankle.

A recently married couple tells you how to find the perfect engagement ring. Check our their website at http://www.ultimate-engagement-ring-guide.com

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Antique Diamond Engagement Rings

Presenting a ring to your beloved is a beautiful way of expressing love and devotion. It signifies the commitment between two people who pledge to spend their rest of the lives together. Although the market is filled with various categories of gemstones like sapphire, ruby, and emerald, diamond rings remains the favorite where engagement rings are concerned.

Slipping an antique diamond ring on your lady’s finger is a very romantic way of getting engaged. Dating from the middle of the nineteenth century, vintage jewelry is available to those who love tradition and heritage. Brides are thrilled to wear diamond rings previously worn by queens, ladies of royal families, or other equally enchanting women from yesteryear. Traditional rings are also much in demand because they are unique in style and represent status, heritage, and culture to the people who own it. In today’s hectic world people are looking for some reminder of past, which gives them peace, and a sense of belonging.

Generally, vintage diamond rings are available and affordable in a countries like the United States. Jewelers will willingly assemble your own design, if the ring you want is not available or too highly priced. You can decide the ring’s design, working with goldsmiths and designers. With some intelligent choices you can have an exact replica of the ring worn by Queen Elizabeth or some other person you admire.

Sentiments play a large part in selecting a diamond ring for the engagement. When you choose to give a beautiful antique ring to your fiancée, you are pledging to love her the same way as romantic couples did in the past.

Diamond Engagement Rings provides detailed information on Diamond Engagement Rings, Platinum Diamond Engagement Rings, Diamond Solitaire Engagement Rings, Antique Diamond Engagement Rings and more. Diamond Engagement Rings is affiliated with Diamond Wedding Rings.

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Examining a Princess Cut Diamond Engagement Ring

Some people believe that there is nothing much to philosophize about weddings or engagements because these are just a start of a new endeavor, a new life and a death of singleness. Contrary to these people’s opinion, there is much to philosophize and examine about weddings and engagements—especially the ring.

A cut fit for a Princess Aside from its gemstone, type of metal to be used in mounting it, and the size of the stone, one of the biggest considerations in looking for a ring is its cut.

Among the various cuts in the market today, princess cut diamond rings are most popular ones especially in weddings or engagements. By definition, a princess cut refers to a special diamond cutting process that has a contemporary and modern appeal. Unlike the traditional round diamond cut, a princess cut has a square sparkling cut that highlights sparkling brilliance of diamond.

Aside from exemplifying tremendous allure and sophistication, most jewelers agree that a princess cut diamond engagement ring is becoming a popular choice among future brides because of its 76 facets and uncut corners usually mounted in a four-pronged setting. Here are some information your might need to know in purchasing that precious princess cut diamond engagement ring:

1. Categorically, a princess cut belongs to the class of diamond shapes known as “fancy cuts.” If you’re looking for a princess cut diamond engagement ring, your basic guide are those rings that are cut in square or you may prefer a brilliant cut which is more expensive compared to others.

2. If you are to choose a setting, consider a bezel setting because it is the most ideal among princess cut diamond engagement ring settings. Most jewelers suggest this setting because it makes the stone look larger than its actual size on the ring.

3. Be careful in choosing colors especially that of setting or mount because it can greatly affect the color of the stone or diamond on the ring. The basic rule is match the color of your setting with the color of the stone or diamond on your ring.

If you have chosen a yellow gold in a bezel setting, choose yellowish diamond; if you choose white diamond, consider using white gold or a platinum setting to highlight the color and clarity of your stone. Princess cut diamond engagement rings come in platinum, white gold and yellow gold.

4. Shop around and look around. Although popular jewelry stores are the best and most reliable sources of princess cut diamond engagement rings, try looking around—it can be in less popular jewelry stores or online jewelers—because they can provide you with a product that suits your personal taste, preference and budget well.

5. Have your ring evaluated by a certified and trusted gemologist to validate its grade and quality.

This content is provided by Low Jeremy and may be used only in its entirety with all links included. For more info on Diamond Ring, please visit http://diamond-ring.articlekeep.com

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Antique Engagement Rings

If you want an engagement ring that is unique and classy at the same time, you might consider giving your lady love an antique engagement ring. Nowadays, brides-to-be are showing their unique style and individuality by selecting antique and estate engagement rings. Many couples look at the future brightly by purchasing something from the past.

You may choose that extraordinary engagement ring from many fine collections of beautiful yet unusual and non traditional antique engagement jewelry.

A lot of women choose Art Deco and Edwardian antique engagement rings studded with sapphires and diamonds. Both these pearl and diamond antique engagement rings are evocative of the romantic era of the past. Old-fashioned filigree diamond engagement rings boast of exceptional workmanship and superior quality that makes it look good on any woman’s hand.

Also popular are antique engagement rings with eclectic gemstones, antique rubies and antique sapphires. Does your future bride like nontraditional colors? Then go for an aquamarine antique engagement ring. It is the perfect combination of modern and antique styles.

You should also look at vintage sapphire engagement rings that carry colors that match the skyline with a slightly violet hue. A typical round faceted, mixed cut sapphire gemstone set on an antique band weighs about .70 carats with four diamonds, two baguettes and two single cuts flanking the sapphire, set horizontally.

There are also antique diamond cluster engagement rings that have diamonds in a cluster pattern. The center diamond is usually a round modern cut, while the encircling diamonds are round single cuts.

Before buying the antique engagement ring, you might want to consider your budget and personal preference. It is wise to first visit stores selling these unique pieces of jewelry prior to the actual purchase. You may also visit online stores to save some time looking for that perfect ring to buy.

Engagement Rings provides detailed information on Engagement Rings, Diamond Engagement Rings, Platinum Engagement Rings, Antique Engagement Rings and more. Engagement Rings is affiliated with Bachelorette Party Games.

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The Wedding Engagement: Be Kind To Your Credit Card!

The average cost of an engagement ring = $4,100. The average cost of a wedding reception = $7,400. The average cost of a photographer = $2,600. The average cost for wedding flowers and entertainment = $2,250. STOP!



Don’t feel like contending with $25,000 (the average cost of a wedding) in charges to your credit card upon returning from your honeymoon (by the way, this does not include the cost of the honeymoon)? Then try these money saving tips when selecting an engagement ring and planning your wedding!

• Opt for Non-Traditional Engagement Rings and Wedding Bands – Familiar with the tip "you should spend two months' salary on the engagement ring?" Keep in mind those touting this are the jewelers. For most people, two or three weeks' salary will buy a nice ring. In addition, consider buying gems over diamonds, or find a relative has a diamond or heirloom wedding or engagement ring that is never worn. That relative may be willing to give it to you as a gift.

• Shorten the Engagement Time – The average engagement time is 16 months which provides more time to toggle over decisions and revise previous decisions which can often drive up the cost of the wedding.

• Get Hitched Off-Season or on an Off-Day – Get hitched during the off-season months being January, February, March and November and on any other day of the week other than Saturday. Many wedding service providers offer discounts for off-days, such as a wedding on a Friday or Sunday.

• Reconsider the Necessity of a Wedding Planner – Is this really necessary? If need be, you could hire a wedding consultant to help with specific items such as creating a detailed wedding day itinerary, a checklist of necessary items for the ceremony and reception, and coordinating the vendors. Or, appoint a friend or family member to serve as your wedding coordinator.

• Reduce the Number in Your Wedding Party – If you are covering the cost of the bridesmaid dresses opt to have just a few bridesmaids (the average cost of a bridesmaid dresses is $150).

• Make Your Own Wedding Invitations – There are a number of paper-stationery stores and websites available where you can find ideas for creating your own wedding invitations versus incurring the expense to have them printed. Ordering wedding invitations online or via a mail order catalog tends to be less expensive than ordering them from a print shop. Keep in mind that plain wedding invitations can be jazzed up with a hole-puncher, some ribbon and/or parchment paper to give it a more elegant look. Save money by using reply postcards instead of the usual reply cards with envelopes since postage rates for postcards are much less than the rate for stamping envelopes (remember - you must pre-stamp the reply cards for your guests!) Plus, by using postcards you also save the expense of envelopes. Simply print the response information on one side of the card, and your address on the other side.

Hilary Basile is a writer for http://www.myguidesusa.com. The MyGuidesUSA.com network of sites is the ultimate guide to the USA. Find wedding tips and resources at http://www.myguidesusa.com/weddings.

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A Diamond Solitaire Ring for Engagement

Many couples believe the rings signify eternal love and the unbreakable bond of marriage that’s why more and more people are being meticulous about it. Of all the kinds of wedding and engagement rings available in the market today, one of the most popular and in demand is the timeless diamond solitaire engagement ring because of its timeless and classic appeal. Most women also agree that the simplicity and elegance of the diamond solitaire ring can complement any existing fashion sense out there.

Shopping for that diamond solitaire engagement ring can be quite an adventure/misadventure if you don’t gear up for it. Here are some important details you must bear in mind to lessen the stress during that diamond solitaire engagement ring hunting day.

1. List down what are the things you’re looking for your diamond solitaire engagement ring. Jotting down preferred cut, shape, metal, and cost can help you find that perfect diamond solitaire engagement ring for your fiancée.

2. Surf the net for the latest trends in diamond solitaire engagement ring designs. This kind of ring comes many different beautiful styles, textures, shapes, and colors. Searching for different web sites in the Internet that feature such product will help you determine which ones are valuable. You might even buy online because countless unique collections of every diamond solitaire engagement ring out in the market are also featured there.

3. Since the solitaire ring will exalt the magnificence of the diamond itself, you should examine the stone closely. If you’re on a limited budget, you can purchase the best stone your money can afford and just choose a mount—metal—that is less expensive.

4. Consider the size of the diamond. Make sure that stone size of the diamond should reciprocate the size of the bride. As a general rule, petite woman should wear smaller stones than those full-figured women.

5. Be creative and imaginative. A diamond solitaire engagement ring itself is a traditional style but you can be creative and imaginative about it by experimenting in the shape of the stone and the color of the setting.

6. Consider the cut you prefer. Aside from the size of the diamond stone, the cut or shape of your diamond solitaire engagement ring can set it apart from the rest. The safest and most common cuts are round but you can also opt for princess solitaire or square cut stone, modern heart shape, pear or tear drop shape, oval shape, marquise shape, emerald cut, radiant shape, and asscher shape based on your personal taste.

7. After choosing your stone and its shape, decide on the setting or the metal you want to use. Gold—either white or yellow—is the most common options but you can also choose platinum if you want to be different. The setting can be a four-prong setting that shows off the stone while the six-prong setting offers more of a security advantage.

This content is provided by Low Jeremy and may be used only in its entirety with all links included. For more info on Diamond Rings, please visit http://diamond-ring.articlekeep.com

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Select A Diamond And Sapphire Engagement Ring For Your Beloved

Chocolate and peanut butter are meant to go together and so are diamonds and sapphires. Gifting a diamond and sapphire engagement and wedding ring set to your beloved can certainly add more romance and excitement to your wedding.

When you think of sapphire, the color that first comes to mind is blue. However, sapphires can be branched out into a variety of shades. The shades of sapphires range from purples to reds to oranges and yellows. Also, you can chose to have a combination of a colored diamond, for instance, pink or yellow and a complimentary sapphire to create an elegant set on your finger.

If the big colored diamond surrounded with small sapphires costs too much, you can always opt for a colored sapphire combined with a glittering set of small diamonds. The advantage is that both the combinations will have almost a similar look and nobody gets to know the secret until and unless you reveal it!

However, if you are willing to have a colored diamond for your beloved, then, in order to lower the cost, the best option is a smaller yellow or pink diamond in the center surrounded with the same color of sapphires. This will, no doubt, create a stunning glow that will mark the beginning of your married life. Thus, you need not put yourself in debt just before your marriage. As sapphires are second in hardness to diamonds, it can be guaranteed that your ring will last for years to come and will never go out of style. It will retain its glitz and glitter throughout.

Therefore, if you want to make your heart sing for years to come and add romance to your marriage, get the diamond-sapphire duet for your beloved. The rocks are gorgeous and will look marvelous in any kind of setting.

Check Out More Articles:

Birthday Gift Ideas, Xmas Gift Ideas, Wedding Anniversary Gift Idea, Baby Gifts - Baby Cribs And Bedding

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All About Promise Rings

Available in a wide range of styles, promise rings are given before marriage to symbolize love and commitment. When couples do not feel it’s the right time to get married, but plan to some day, a promise ring can be given to declare one’s true feelings.

Whether you choose a 14k gold promise ring, a white or yellow gold promise ring or a diamond promise ring, it will be a piece of jewelry you treasure forever.

Traditional designs include a heart to symbolize your true love and affection for one another. Other styles that are quite popular among young people are the Celtic knot designs, which can stand for unwavering commitment and fidelity.

Sterling silver promise rings are also available for couples on a budget, and they still look amazing as a true symbol of your love.

Diamond promise rings are also popular, but more expensive. However, small diamonds placed in a setting of yellow or white gold are quite common as promise rings for those who can afford them.

Semi-precious gemstones can also be used as the focal point of a promise ring. For example, if your partner loves a particular gemstone such as opal or tanzanite, you can purchase a promise ring with that gemstone to truly show your commitment.

While promise rings may seem similar to engagement rings, there are quite obvious differences between the two.

For example, typical promise rings tend to have much smaller carat weights than engagement rings. Promise rings also tend to be much less expensive and over the top, featuring simplistic designs and lower quality metals.

The most obvious difference between promise rings and engagement rings is the intent of the giver – it does not symbolize marriage, but rather commitment and love so that one day, marriage might be an option.

However, promise rings can symbolize a variety of things, though commitment between young couples seems to be the most popular use of a promise ring.

Promise rings can also mean religious purity, where people wear a promise ring to remind themselves to remain true to a particular religious path or as a promise of sexual abstinence until marriage.

They can also be used between friends, and are typically called friendship rings rather than promise rings.

However, the intent remains the same no matter what you call them, and are usually exchanged between young people as a promise they’ll remain friends forever.

Though there are a wide variety of meanings behind promise rings, the most popular use is between young couples that are not ready for marriage but want a symbol of their devotion to one another.

Given from the heart, promise rings are the ultimate token of true love and affection.

Denise Sutton recommends Heavenly Treasures if you’re shopping for Promise Rings.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Denise_Sutton

How to Buy a Diamond Engagement Ring

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. Today, the giving of a ring, has become such an established tradition, that in most cases, the woman you plan to propose to, will expect a ring to accompany the proposal.

There is much to consider when purchasing a diamond - especially diamond engagement rings:

1. Determine how much ring you can afford.

Many 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, and you may wish to consider financing.

If you do choose financing, the simplest way to get started is: 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.

2. Now, have your mother, sister, or your girlfriend's 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 is not happy with it!

First published at http://www.guide2diamonds.com/p1_articles_diamond_engagement_ring.php

More diamond articles and information at http://www.guide2diamonds.com/

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How To Select the Best Diamond Engagement Ring

Incredible isn't it? You are now looking for a diamond engagement ring. Did you think this day would come so quickly? Well, it is here and what an exciting time of your life. You are going to be picking out the most incredible gift you will ever give to the one you love. You want it to be unique and special, but you also want to be able to eat after you give it to her. Cost can be a real issue when you are talking about a pricey item such as this.

Well, let's give you some ways to help you save some money but yet, get the best diamond you can find. One that will sparkle in her eyes forever. Do you know what her taste is? What shape of diamond does she like? The most popular is the round or brilliant. The reason these are the most popular are because they tend to sparkle more than the others. And any woman will tell you to look how her ring sparkles!

When looking for the perfect diamond, you want to pay attention to the 4 Cs. The 4 Cs are the Cut, Color, Clarity and Carat weight.

Cut: The cut of the diamond is very important to pay attention to. This is what determines its brilliance, the many dimensions of light it reflects, the way it sparkles and its finish. If you buy the most perfect diamond as far as its color and its clarity, it won't matter if the cut is not right. You want to make sure it is not too deep or too shallow. The cuts are represented as Ideal, Very Good, Good, Fair and Poor. For the best price range in brilliance, you want to choose a diamond with a cut of good or very good.

Color: Color acts as a filter in a diamond. The less color, the more colorful the fire and the better the color grade. The colors D-J are the best, these are colorless or near to it, not able to see with your eye. Diamonds graded K-Z takes away from the diamond's beauty. Try to avoid these.

Clarity: Many diamonds have inclusions (scratches, or anything that will detract from the beauty). Look for a diamond that is "eye-clean", has no inclusions that you can see. These diamonds are much less expensive and the flaws will not ever be seen or noticed.

Carat weight: Larger diamonds are more expensive of course, because they are rarer than the small ones. The value goes up with the carat weight, and when you add the color, cut and clarity, you have a perfect diamond for your engagement ring.

When you are shopping at the jeweler's, don't be afraid to ask the sales person if you can borrow their "loop" for a moment to look more closely at a diamond. The loop is a magnifying glass that is used with one eye, and can magnify the diamond so that you can get a real close up look at it and see if there are imperfections in it.

Now that you know what to look at for your diamond engagement ring, you need to decide what setting you want. The cut will be determined by the setting you choose. And make sure the weight of your diamond will fit and look beautiful in your chosen setting.

You may think you need the biggest diamond, but you need to consider if she is someone who is used to wearing jewelry or not. Observe the kind of jewelry she usually wears, is it small and simple, or is it loud and fancy?

As far as price, the best guideline is to not spend more than 2 months salary, 3 months at the most. This may be the biggest purchase of your life. When you have gone through the steps of the 4 Cs, then you will know what you want. You will have a beautiful diamond engagement ring for that wonderful woman that you want to spend the rest of your life with. She is so worth it.

For more insights and additional information about Diamond Engagement Ring please visit our web site at http://www.diamond-jewelry-ring.com

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Choosing a Diamond Engagement Ring

The process of getting married used to be fairly straightforward. As with many things, they got more complicated over time. Many marriages were arranged in many cultures around the world and some still actively practice it today. An engagement ring was never a necessary part of getting married since the responsibility of betrothal rested with the parents of the future bride and groom.

While it seems like a very long time ago, the tradition of proposing marriage with a diamond engagement ring actually dates back to 1477 when Maximilian I, Holy Roman Emperor gave Mary of Burgundy an engagement ring as an engagement present It was during the 13th century that the practice of giving engagement rings grew to become an essential facet of Christian marriages. It was only when diamonds became a lot more affordable and within reach of their budget that the common people started buying and giving engagement rings as gifts.

Selecting the perfect engagement ring can be daunting because everyone wants to give an engagement ring that will "wow" their future lifetime partner and create the perfect atmosphere for a "yes". Diamonds are now commonly used in engagement rings because of a clever advertising campaign by the diamond company De Beers during the 1940s. There are a variety of ring designs and precious metals to consider in the choice of a ring.

The first step is to narrow the search by choosing the ring design or style. Traditional engagement ring designs range from the simple to complex. Here, it is important to note what kind of lifestyle your partner has. In many cases, this is in-line with your preferences as well. If your partner is casual, a simple yet attractive ring design will do. On the other hand, if your partner dresses more formal most of the time, a more sophisticated design may be appropriate. An active person will prefer a ring that offers daily comfort over a ring that encapsulates a huge cumbersome diamond.

Traditional engagement ring designs, however, do have their limitations. Some tend to be trendy and fall out of fashion in a couple of years. Opt for a more everlasting design that won't fade in its attractiveness over time. Another option is to go with Celtic engagement rings which make excellent rings because of their intrinsic meaning. Celtic rings tend to have an everlasting quality to them and have been around for centuries. Many Celtic designs were derived from ancient manuscripts with each symbol containing deep significance.

Next, consider the day to day accessories already worn by your partner. Does she wear platinum or white gold versus yellow gold? Yellow gold has always been the favorite overall. Just in the last few decades, however, platinum and white gold gained increasing popularity because of its ability to match many clothing ensembles. Platinum also has the feature of being hypoallergenic for most people because of its purity but it tends to be a lot more expensive compared to gold. If budget is an issue, white gold is a great alternative choice. The precious metal chosen is an integral part of choosing the perfect engagement ring and will help ensure that the diamond engagement ring will match beautifully with her existing clothing ensemble.

The third step is to choose the diamond that will be placed in the engagement ring. Since the diamond adds a considerable percentage of the cost to an engagement ring, knowing the rating of the diamond you buy can raise or lower the overall cost significantly. In diamond grading, the "Four Cs" system is used. The first C is carat which is the measure of the diamond's weight. The second C is clarity which indicates the presence of naturally occurring diamond flaws. The third C, color, is the slight tint of the diamond. The fourth C, cut, is the exact cut within the shape of the diamond.

Of course, if you have rough ideas of a design you want but don't see it anywhere and budget isn't an issue, customization will be a route to take. A professional jeweler can translate your ideas into a beautiful design that your partner will love for years to come.

By Tim O'Malley for Shanore.com Let the professional Celtic jewelry experts at Shanore customize the perfect engagement ring. Their Celtic engagement rings and Celtic wedding rings are shipped around the world direct from Dublin, Ireland. Contact them or get a quote on individual ring customization.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Tim_O'Malley

Choosing the Perfect Engagement Ring

Guys, this guide’s for you! So you’ve finally decided to take the plunge and propose to your sweetheart. Now comes the hard part: choosing her engagement ring.

An engagement ring is probably the second-most important purchase you’ll ever make (your house being the most important), so you need to choose wisely. This guide will help you make that choice and will hopefully result in you wooing her with the perfect engagement ring.

One word of caution before we begin: The perfect ring is probably the one she chooses herself. Who has a better idea of what she’s looking for, than her? I know what you’re thinking, it’s not very romantic to give her an “IOU for 1 engagement ring” when you propose, but buying a ring together can be just as romantic as surprising her with one. It’s all in the delivery.

One way to get around this problem is to present her with a stone when you propose. Then once she accepts she can choose the engagement ring setting herself. For more information on choosing the right stone, see our handy guide.

For those of you who’ve decided to do it the old-fashioned way, with a ring on bended knee, the following tips will put you on the right track.

Determine Your Budget: Before you go shopping, figure out how much you can afford to spend. The standard used in the diamond industry is two months salary. Depending on your situation, this may be a reasonable place to start.

Do Some Reconnaissance: Like all good soldiers you’ll need to do some reconnaissance before you go into battle. What color metal does she like? Yellow (gold) or white (silver)? What’s her style of jewelry? Is it modern or classic, flashy or understated? If you’re uncertain, note down the designs of her rings, necklaces, bracelets and earrings. You’ll be able to use these designs to determine her favorite style later.

A creative way to find out what she likes is to go window shopping together. Tell her you’re looking for some earrings for your mom or a new watch and steer her through the engagement ring aisle. But be discreet! You don’t want her to steal your thunder.

Choose the Metal: If she prefers yellow metals, yellow gold is the ideal choice for her. If she prefers silver metals, you have a choice between white gold, platinum or titanium.

If you’ve chosen gold, you’ll need to choose the purity or karat (kt). Gold comes in three purities: 10kt, 14kt and 18kt. 10kt gold contains 41.67% pure gold, 14kt gold contains 58.33% pure gold and 18kt gold contains 75% pure gold. The higher the purity, the more expensive the ring, so you need to factor this into your budget.

Platinum and titanium are 95% pure, so you don’t need to make any choices about the purity of these metals. For more information on the different metals, check out our Guide to Choosing a Metal.

Choose the Stone: A diamond seems to be a no-brainer, but some women these days prefer other gemstones in their engagement rings. Rubies, sapphires, emeralds, tanzanite, tourmaline, and aquamarines can be just as stunning as diamonds and they have the added benefit of costing less. If you're set on diamonds, make sure you check out our Guide on Choosing a Diamond.

Once you’ve decided on the type of gem, you need to select the size, shape and cut. Gems come in all kinds of shapes, including round, oval, square, rectangle, pear, heart, the list goes on. What’s important here is to choose a size and shape that fits with your sweetheart’s hand.

Longer gem shapes work better on longer, slimmer fingers, but a setting that's very delicate will get lost on larger hands, making the ring look smaller. Round and square shapes work better on shorter fingers. An elongated shape such as an oval or marquise make shorter fingers look sleeker but be careful not to overdo the look.

The kinds of gems your significant other wears now will give you an indication of what looks good on her fingers.

Choose the Setting: After you've chosen your stone, next comes the setting. Since you’ve already decided on the type of metal, you’re almost done! Those notes that you took about her favorite jewelry style will come in handy now. If she likes a “busier” look, you might want to go with an engraved band. If she likes a simpler look, go with a simple band. The length of her fingers will give you an idea of how thick the band should be, the longer the finger the thicker the band, usually.

The setting of the gem is the final choice. There are three main settings: the solitaire, which features the single gem set on the band with a number of prongs (the less prongs, the less cluttered the look); a solitaire with sidestones built into the band; or the three-stone setting, which features the main gem surrounded by another gem on either side. The choice of setting is down to the type of style you think she's going to like and how much you're willing to pay.

Determine her Ring Size: There are a few ways to find out her ring size. Does she ever wear a ring on that finger? While she’s not wearing it you could take it to a jeweler to size it, or if you don’t have much time you can trace the inside of it on paper and take that to a jeweler for sizing.

Is she a heavy sleeper? Wrap a piece of paper or string around her finger and measure that. Once you've got the length you can check out our sizing chart to determine the ring size.

Get a Second Opinion: Once you’ve decided on the perfect ring, seek a second opinion from a trusted source. It could be your sweetheart’s mom, sister or friend - just make sure they can be trusted with your big secret. Getting advice from your future mom-in-law is a great way to bond and you’ll be getting premium insider information too!

Buy from a Quality Jeweler: Make sure you purchase from a reputable jeweler who offers a solid return policy. Make some calls, read their customer feedback, ask them a lot of questions. By going with "mom and pop" jewelers and avoiding the big chains you’ll get better service and quality, since many of the big retailers sacrifice quality for quantity.

Plan Ahead: Selecting the ring, ordering it and having it delivered will take time. Saving up to pay for it will take time too. And if you want to have it engraved, you’ll also need to factor that in. Get started early so that you’ll have plenty of time to do it right.

About The Author: Anita Marks from is a writer based in Washington state. She has written numerous articles about topics like online shopping, platinum wedding rings and platinum jewelry.

Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Anita_Marks

Diamond Engagement Rings: Should They Be Appraised And Insured?

An engagement ring is usually a very large investment for most of us. Therefore, it is recommended that the ring be appraised and insured. The appraisal can be done by a competent and qualified appraiser who works in the personal property field. This appraiser does not have to work independently of a jewelry store. They can be employed by a jewelry store and still perform appraisals for customers of the store and non customers. However, they must deliver an appraisal that represents the true market value of the jewelry and not necessarily the price paid in the store. Example: The store gives a customer a 10% discount on an item. The appraiser would then value the piece at the current market value (what a comparable item would sell for in the most common market) and not at the discounted price.

Some jewelers will sell a piece of jewelry for one price and then give you an appraisal for a much higher value. This practice, if not illegal, is certainly unethical and is frowned upon by all appraisal organizations. Anyone receiving an appraisal with a value that is extremely higher than what was paid for the piece should question the jeweler as to why this was done. If you buy insurance based on an inflated value then you will be over paying for your insurance. Most jewelry insurance is for Retail Replacement Value. This means that the insurance company is obligated to replace the item in like kind and quality. This does not mean that the insurance company will write you a check for the value stated on the appraisal. If you have a jewelry loss and choose to cash out, the insurance company will usually only pay you an amount equal to what they can replace the item for through their sources.

Most insurance companies do not require that an appraisal be from an independent appraiser although this is thought to be true by some in the industry. Assuming that you are insuring a diamond engagement ring the important factor for the insurance company is that it be accurately and completely described with the current market value. The appraisal should contain a reference to any Diamond Grading Report that might accompany the diamond, along with a complete description of the mounting into which the diamond is set. The insurance company will decide if they will insure the ring based on the description in the appraisal. Many insurance companies are now requiring that an appraisal be performed by a Graduate Gemologist with additional training in appraisal theory.

Most homeowner’s policies offer a jewelry coverage policy. You should check with your agent and ask what their requirements are. You should find out what they cover, and equally important, what they don’t cover. If you rent your home or apartment, it is possible to purchase a renter's policy which can also include jewelry coverage. It is not necessary to have a homeowner’s policy. If you rent a home you can still get insurance.

Also, Jewelers Mutual offers a jewelry policy. This policy is not connected to your home or your apartment. This company offers Replacement Value only (meaning that they will replace your property with like kind and quality). You can replace your items anywhere you choose, but it's usually done with the jeweler who you purchased the item from. You can speak to this company directly at 800-558-6411 and they will give you all the information that you need. Chubb Insurance Company also offers a jewelry policy. They offer insurance through independent insurance agents and some retail jewelers. Chubb allows for you to cash out with the amount shown on the policy. No deductible. You can get more information by calling 1 908-903-2000.

Jim Greene is a Graduate Gemologist and Master Gemologist Appraiser currently doing appraisals in Southeastern Pennsylvania http://www.diamondmarketwatch.com

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Canadian Diamonds - Why You Should Buy Them Now

The last Northern gold rush occurred in the late-19th century in the Yukon when tens of thousands of prospectors made their way to Dawson City to find their fortunes. Since then, miners and oil workers have continued to seek wealth in the North. In the past decade, history has repeated itself with the discovery of diamonds in Canada's North.

Diamond exploration in Canada began in the 1960s, but major discoveries of diamond-bearing kimberlite ore did not occur until the 1990s. With the discovery of diamonds in the Northwest Territories and Nunavut in 1991, Canada has risen to become one of the top three diamond producers in the world in terms of value, behind Botswana and Russia. Currently, Canada produces 15% of the world's diamonds. According to Statistics Canada, 13.8 million carats of diamonds worth approximately $2.8 billion have been mined in Canada between 1998 and 2002. To put it in perspective, each day Canada produces one 1.5 kilogram bag of diamonds worth $1.5 million. It is hoped that the diamond mines will provide income for decades to come.

In 1991, the first diamonds were found at Point Lake near Lac de Gras in the Northwest Territories, some 300 kilometers northeast of Yellowknife. Soon after the initial find, two diamond mines were opened in this region, the Ekati and Diavik mines. Diavik is approximately 100 kilometres southeast of Ekati. A third diamond mine, Jericho-3, began production in 2005, in Nunavut. A fourth diamond mine, Snap Lake-4 in the Northwest Territories, should begin production in 2007.

The Jericho-3 mine is located near the north end of Contwoyto Lake in West Kitikmeot, Nunavut Territory (NT). It is operated by the Tahera Diamond Corporation, which has been exploring for diamonds in Nunavut for the past seven years. Operations will commence with an open pit mine, and despite the harsh climate, it is planned to operate year-round. It is currently projected that the mine and processing plant will have an 8-year life and employ a total of approximately 125 to 175 employees and contractors.

The majority of shares in the Ekati mine (80%) are owned by the Australian mining conglomerate BHP Billton. The remaining 20% are owned by prospectors Charles Fipke and Stewart Blusson. The Ekati Diamond Mine is the only diamond mine owned by BHP Billiton and produces nearly four per cent of current world diamond production by weight and six per cent by value. The mine is expected to be viable for 20 years.

The Diavik mine, located about 300 km (180 miles) north of Yellowknife, is owned by Britain's Rio Tinto PLC (60 per cent) and Toronto-based Aber Diamond Corp. (40 per cent). It employs 700 workers and produces 8,000,000 carats annually for total sales of $100,000,000 Cdn. The area was first surveyed in 1992, construction began in 2001, and diamond production started in 2003. It provides approximately 5% of world diamond production. The mine is also expected to remain in operation for 20 years.

The Snap Lake mine, owned by DeBeers and operated by DeBeers and AMEC consultants, is starting this year and is expected to remain in production for 20 more years. This mine is located under a lake and will be the first entirely underground diamond mine in Canada. DeBeers also owns the Victor mine, an open-pit diamond mine in a remote area in the James Bay Lowlands of Northern Ontario, approximately 90 km west of the coastal community of Attawapiskat.

Canada's diamond industry has a world reputation for both quality and integrity. In recent years, there have been ethical problems with African diamonds, which can originate in unstable countries such as Sierra Leone and Angola where diamond sales fund terrorism, war and weapons sales. Canadian diamonds are traceable, as each one is etched on the girdle with a serial number as well as a microscopic Canadian logo such as a maple leaf or a polar bear as a trademark. The pictorial logos vary with the companies selling the diamonds.

Canadian diamonds, especially those from the Ekati mine, are high quality and extremely white. They're also fashionable, which was demonstrated when the Canadian teen singer Avril Lavigne attended the 2003 MTV Awards in New York wearing Canadian diamonds worth $50,000.

The mines provide high-income jobs with an average salary of $63,000, many of them permanent, not just the temporary make-work projects for which the Aboriginal communities of the Canadian north are well known. Almost 40% of the jobs are done by aboriginals. For instance, one diamond-cutting operation in the Northwest Territories is majority-owned by the Yellowknife Dene First Nation.

Some of the more specialized jobs, such as diamond cutting, are done by professionals from Armenia, Israel, China and Vietnam who earn salaries of more than $100,000. Many of the diamonds are cut and polished in facilities in Vancouver, Winnipeg, Toronto, Montreal and Matane, Quebec. Between 1998 and 2001, employment in the diamond mining industry in the North increased from 90 to 700 workers, with estimates of more than 2,000 jobs currently. Another 2,000 jobs are created in support industries for the mines and their workers. Diamond mining produces more than just diamond sales. It also funds many other activities such as construction, road-building, Arctic and sub-Arctic surveying and engineering projects.

Diamond fever in Canada's north shows no signs of abating, and an article in the Toronto Globe and Mail in February 2004 reported that prospecting companies have laid claim to more than 70 million acres in the Northwest Territories and Nunavut. The newspaper said the most dramatic increase in diamond prospecting is in Nunavut, where the number of prospecting permits grew to 1,518 in 2004 from just 190 in 2003.

Starting on Dec. 1, 2003, companies were given one month to apply for prospecting permits, resulting in long, round-the-clock lines at offices in Yellowknife and Iqaluit. There is a charge of 10 cents an acre to register a claim, $1.50 to $2 an acre to stake a claim. With 70 million acres involved, the cost of these claims is expected to generate up to $140,000,000 in government revenue even before the mines open. Prospectors desperate to finish filing their claims have even been known to drop claim stakes from helicopters in poorly-accessible areas.

An economic boom is occurring in the north as tradesmen move into the area to fill jobs in the mines. This has raised the cost of living in the north, which was high to begin with due to the cost of transporting food and other necessities to isolated northern communities. In such places as Yellowknife, a basement apartment can rent for as high as $1,500 a month.

In 1998, Yellowknife Mayor Dave Lowell said that the diamond rush might have saved his town from economic decline. "Quite simply, it is our future," Lowell said. "We'd be going into quite a recession if it wasn't for the diamond mine."

Author Bio
K Reimer enjoys writing www.diamonds-now.info
www.diamondzmall.com
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