Gemstone Engagement Rings

Blue sapphire engagement rings have been known to be preferred by royalty because the blue sapphire stone is even more rare than a diamond and is almost as hard. This is a nice factoid to share with your number one queen as you slip a blue sapphire engagement ring on her ring finger. Blue sapphires come in a range of shades from a light to deep blue. The blue color is due to the level of titanium in the stone: the more titanium, the richer the color. However, too much color can actually create a dull black effect, reducing the price of the stone. Most blue sapphires are found in Sri Lanka, Burma, and Madagascar. Burmese sapphires tend to cost more than those from Sri Lanka and Madagascar due to their brilliant color. Kashmir blue sapphires are the most rare and expensive of all as the supply found in a remote region of India was exhausted around a 100 years ago, thus escalating price and demand. Prices for blue sapphires depend on whether or not they've been treated (with untreated costing much more) as well as color, cut, tone (lightness or darkness of stone), saturation (degree to which hue is hidden by other shades), and clarity. One carat blue sapphires can range from a few hundred dollars to several thousand. Buy your ruby engagement rings with pride! Don't let anyone tell you that diamonds are better as engagement rings. Only you and your potential spouse should decide what fits in with your style, taste, and budget........not popular opinion.... or your future mother-in-law. Besides, you can always tell the nay-sayers that large rubies are even more rare than diamonds. Rubies belong to the corundum family. Any other color besides red from this family is considered a sapphire. Rubies are almost as hard as diamonds. Diamonds are considered a "10" on the hardness scale while rubies come in at a 9. Rubies have somewhat less clarity than other gemstones and tend to have at least some small inclusions. Most rubies are heat-treated to improve their color, but stones in their natural form do exist. Cushion cut and oval rubies are the most common shape. Burmese rubies are considered to be the most desirable. You may be able to save money by purchasing a ruby with a slightly off-shade i.e. a little bit lighter or darker than what is considered ideal... a vivid red color. You can also save some dough by purchasing synthetic versus natural rubies. Rubies belong to the corundum family. Any other color besides red from this family is considered a sapphire. Rest assured that buying opal engagement rings for your partner will not bring them bad luck but perhaps even the opposite. Concerning the opal gemstone superstition, some still feel that it is bad luck to purchase an opal for oneself, but good luck if someone else gives one to you. Throughout history there have been negative connotations associated with opals. Interestingly enough, it is said that the diamond dealers became nervous in the 18th and 19th century about the beatiful gemstone stealing away diamond customers and further perpepuated stereotypes of the opal to prevent this from happening. The powers that be tried hard to defeat this bad luck urban legend when huge amounts of opals were found in Australia. I personally love opal engagement rings. With their rainbow hues, I just think opals are some of the prettiest stones around. The rainbow shades are oftened referred to as a "play of color." Most of the opal supply come from our Aussie friends in Southern Australia. Here's the science behind the opals. Opals are a noncrystalline form of the mineral silica which are formed from amorphous "balls" or "lumps" of silica. In other words, water in the ground carrying dissolved silica seeps through sand and dirt, where the silica particles are deposited in cracks. As the water evaporates, the silica particles cement together to form the opal. The color is caused by the diffraction of light. Where the tiny spheres of silica are of a similar size and arrangement, the light reflecting from them is divided into its spectral colors, and the stone appears to contain all the colors of the rainbow. Where the spheres are larger and less uniform, the range of color is more limited. One of the major downfalls of opal engagement rings compared to diamonds is that opals are a much softer stone. While the diamond is considered to be a 10 on the Mohs hardness sclae, the opal rates between a 5 and a 6. This means that over time, it is possible for the opal to break and you must be careful to treat it with care and look for a ring setting that best preserves its integrity (i.e. semi-bezel is a good choice). Opals exhibit an impressive color range. They can be white, pink, green and blue, gray, or black. Australian boulder opals are the most durable of opals as well as the most robust in color. As a result, they are considered to be valuable and are pretty pricey Black opals are actually the most rare and expensive. They have a dark backdrop with a rainbow colors or deep blue-green hues. Fire opals, which have any color backdrop but exhibit an unusual amount of red color play are also fairly rare There are a thousand legends and stories related to the opal gemstone. The Ancient Greeks believed opals fell from heaven during flashes of lightning and provided individuals with the ability to see into the future. The Romans thought that wearing opals made one more lucid in thought and spontaneous in action. Can you believe this? In his play "Tweltfh Night," Shakespeare made use of the gemstone to make an analogy between the opal's changing colors and the ever-changing moods of a woman. Hmmmmmmmm.......not sure if I like the comparison.
About The Author
Julie Shields 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. Feel free to distribute the article so long as you make mention of the ultimate engagement ring guide website below.

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.
About The Author
Julie Shields 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. Feel free to distribute the article so long as you make mention of the ultimate engagement ring guide website below.

Who's Who in the World of Jewelry Designers for Engagement Rings?

Tiffany & Co. was founded by Charles Lewis Tiffany in 1837 and is considered one of the world's finest jewelry companies. It is famous for its wide array of ultra high quality jewelry and its trademark little blue bag. The Tiffany & Co store on 57th avenue in New York City which appeared in the 1961 movie Breakfast at Tiffany's is quite popular with tourists. To be honest, I must admit that Tiffany & Co. makes my knees weak. I don't think I'm alone in this. There's something about getting one of those little blue bags that seems to set off a joyful chemical reaction in women's brains. I really can't explain it...it just happens. Vera Wang got her start in the fashion industry working for fashion elite such as Vogue and Ralph Loren. She eventually went out on her own selling high-end, fashionable wedding dresses. However, she has expanded her business to include other items and more recently moved into designing engagement rings for Bailey Banks and Biddle. Barry Verragio studied at the reknowned Fashion Institute of Technology in New York City. He worked for several years in the jewelry industry prior to proposing to his current wife. In order to make her ring, he invented a new technique which suspended the diamond above the ring. The engaged couple received so many compliments on the rings, that Barry decided to start his own company based on the ring he designed for Tanya. Many years later, the couple as well as the Verragio jewelry company are still going strong. Haig Tacori came to America in 1970 and has developed a reputation for exceptional platinum jewelry designs. Tacori rings have been featured on the popular television series, The Bachelor. Scott Kay led the resurgance in popularity of platinum engagement rings. He is known as one of America's most popular bridal jewelers. His affordable designs are within the reach of most consumers. Ritani engagement rings are all about style and comfort. I particularly like the look of the rings from the Endless Love Collection. With a host of classy styles and a range in pricing, Ritani is sure to win over many fans.
About The Author
Julie Shields is sporting a beautiful ascher cut engagement ring. She and her husband put together a website to help you find the perfect engagement ring: http://www.ultimate-engagement-ring-guide.com Use the article as you wish but make mention of the ultimate engagement ring guide website as listed.

Any Guesses as to What are the Most Popular Engagement Rings Available?

Without further ado........the most popular engagement rings have a solitaire diamond. A solitaire diamond is a diamond that is set alone as a single stone elevated above a band. It prominently displays the diamond but does not overpower it. Also currently popular is a solitaire diamond that is surrounded by smaller diamonds (i.e. baguettes or round stones). Three stone diamond engagement rings have become increasingly popular due to marketing efforts by DeBeers. Three stone diamond rings are said to represent the past, present, and future of your relationship to your beloved. The most popular engagement ring band metals are gold (both white and yellow) and platinum. While platinum is the stronger than gold and can withstand more physical abuse, it tends to scratch more easily. Since platinum is much rarer than gold it tends to be much pricier. To the inexperienced, naked eye, platinum and white gold look similar. However, over time, white gold will revert back to its original yellow color, since white gold is man-made and it must then be re-plated. My personal preference is for white gold since it is more in vogue than yellow gold, but less expensive than platinum. The round diamond is the most popular cut available. It displays the most fire and brilliance out of all the shapes available. The princess cut, which has a square shape, is next in line in the popularity contest as it also has a lot of brilliance. You can never be too rich, too thin or have too many diamond carats. Big engagement rings are becoming more and more common these days. Americans have a tendency to think bigger is better (i.e. mcmansions, SUVs,, etc.) and engagement rings are no different. The days where one carat engagement rings were considered substantial are long gone. Nowadays it takes a 2 or 3 carat ring to elicit some jaw-dropping and gasping. My preference for engagement ring carat size is 1.0 to 1.5 carats- I want people to look at my face/eyes when they talk to me rather than gawking at the size of my bling. My ring has a 1.25 carat diamond and I've had a few people comment on how large the diamond is (although I do have extremely small hands which also makes the diamond seem larger). A decent quality 2 carat ring will set you back about $12,00 - $14,000 bones while a 3 carat ring will probably exceed about $20,000. FYI...The carat is about the weight of the diamond and not the size. The heavier the diamond the more carat size it has If you want the look of a large diamond but can't quite afford the price, here are a few tips: Avoid buying round diamonds. While they are the most brilliant of all the shapes, they also tend to look the smallest. Oval and marquise shapes tend to look larger then their round shaped diamond equals as they are longer, creating an illusion of greater size. A bezel setting is a good choice for making a diamond look larger. A bezel setting is where the diamond has precious metal wrapped around it, emphasizing the circumference. Consider a 3 stone engagement ring versus a solitaire. A 3 stone engagement ring can add up to the weight of a solitaire, look just as large and in charge, but cost much less. This is because larger diamonds are more rare and therefore cost more than smaller diamonds which add up to the same carat weight. Also, tiny accent side-stones that surround a center stone, can accentuate the center diamond.
About The Author
Julie Shields is sporting a beautiful ascher cut engagement ring. She and her husband put together a website to help you find the perfect engagement ring: http://www.ultimate-engagement-ring-guide.com Use the article as you wish but make mention of the ultimate engagement ring guide website as listed.

Finding Out Statistics on Engagement Rings Can Help Make Your Way Through This Confusing Process

Finding out statistics on engagement rings and what other men and women are thinking and doing, should hopefully be of help to you. The following statistics on engagement rings were collected by Clerical Medical in 2004, an investment company in the UK: 70% of women did not want their partners to propose until they had saved enough money to buy the ring of their dreams. 48% of women prefer their partners to use their initiative and propose spontaneously rather than on a specific holiday such as Valentine's day or a Birthday. Over two thirds of women expect their suitors to ask their fathers for their hand in marriage before proposing. (I think this was probably the scariest part of the whole process for Joel... talking to my parents to ask them for my hand in marriage.......it's one of the few things he's ever been nervous about........fortunately they said yes). 28% of women would turn down a proposal if the ring wasn’t to their taste. Now that's scary! It reminds me of an episode of Sex in the City where Carrie throws up when she searches through Aiden's gym bag and sees the ring that he is going to propose to her with. I would hope that most women would say yes to the man of their dreams, even if the ring is not totally up to their status quo. After all, the ring could always be exchanged or modified. Over half of men prefer to have their fiancé with them to choose the ring. 17% of men are prepared to work overtime to pay for a ring. I knew one guy who worked three jobs in order to save up enough. Poor slob. Nearly 50% saved money from the wages each month, 15% took out a loan or extended their overdraft. The luxury Fairmont Hotel Company did an informal survey of their guests regarding statistics on engagement rings and proposals and found that: 54% of the guests surveyed chose to drop on one knee when they proposed to their loved ones, and to help celebrate the engagement a romantic 59% made sure to have a favorite bottle of wine or champagne on hand. 45%, or most of those surveyed, dated one to three years before they decided to propose. 54% chose to pop the question locally, while the remainder chose to pop the question on a specially planned trip. 55% believe in love at first sight. 59% consulted with friends when planning the proposal, while 21% planned everything on their own. 54% were confident that their partner would answer with a resounding “yes,” while 46% were unsure.
About The Author
Julie Shields is sporting a beautiful ascher cut engagement ring. She and her husband put together a website to help you find the perfect engagement ring: http://www.ultimate-engagement-ring-guide.com Use the article as you wish but make mention of the ultimate engagement ring guide website as listed.

Moissanite Engagement Rings.....Yay or Nay?

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. Moissanite 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. So should you consider buying a moissanite engagement ring for your future wife? It comes down to whether: - you have the money to purchase a diamond or whether you'd rather save money and buy a moissanite ring - whether you care if the ring is an authentic diamond or if this a non-issue - your significant other's input......after all...she will hopefully be wearing the ring for the rest of her life
About The Author
Julie Shields is sporting a beautiful ascher cut engagement ring. She and her husband put together a website to help you find the perfect engagement ring: http://www.ultimate-engagement-ring-guide.com Use the article as you wish but make mention of the ultimate engagement ring guide website as listed.

Irish Engagement Rings are Steeped in History and Romanticism

In case you're wondering, Irish engagement rings can be worn by those who are not Irish. Many non-Irish couples wear Celtic, Claddagh, or Emerald rings due to their unique beauty and rich symbolism. Celtic Engagement Rings: These rings will often consist of designs such as intertwined ribbons or lines which are representative of the eternity of interconnected lives and the unending nature of a love that binds a couple together in marriage and a new life together. Claddagh Engagement Rings : The first Claddagh ring was made over 300 years ago in a tiny village in Ireland named Claddagh. Robert Joyce was a fisherman who lived in this village. His boat was overtaken by pirates and he was held captive and then sold as a slave to a wealthy goldsmith. Robert longed for his lover back in Claddagh. As he worked for the goldsmith, he was able to learn the trade, and made a beautiful ring for his beloved. He was released from slavery after several years and he returned to his village and presented the ring to his woman. They were married and lived happily ever after. The Claddagh ring typically has different design variations of two hands holding a crowned heart. The hands represent friendship, the crown represents loyalty and fidelity, and the heart symbolizes love: All of the qualities necessary for a successful marriage. Emerald Engagement Rings: Emerald rings have a connection to Ireland due to their brilliant green color. Emeralds have less obvious symbolism than Claddagh or Celtic rings but are a way to maintain a link to Irish culture, nonetheless. Some couples prefer to combine emerald stones with a Claddagh or Celtic design.
About The Author
Julie Shields is sporting a beautiful ascher cut engagement ring. She and her husband put together a website to help you find the perfect engagement ring: http://www.ultimate-engagement-ring-guide.com Use the article as you wish but make mention of the ultimate engagement ring guide website as listed.

Design Trends: Diamond Engagement Rings

From the grace of halo to the sophistication of micro pave, design trends in diamond engagement rings and wedding band settings are changing, reflecting today's busy lifestyles. Ergonomic designs reign supreme in today's market, no longer does pure panache determine the design that leads to 'I Do.' "Some brides prefer an ergonomic design that can comfortably be worn day in and day out," says Brian Gavin, Executive Vice President of Whiteflash.com. "Others look for added style in an intricate or trendy setting; which, unfortunately, can be limiting when it comes everyday wear," adds Gavin. Whiteflash.com is an e-jewelry boutique specializing in Hearts & Arrows diamonds and custom-designed engagement rings. Here's a peek at the up-and-coming trends in engagement rings according to the boutique's jewelry designers: Myth: solitaires stand tall Not true of today's diamond solitaire settings, says Gavin. "Solitaire settings are traditionally upswept, raising the diamond to make a very bold statement," he adds. "However, people are also choosing settings where the center diamond sits down low, creating a look that is extremely elegant and also ergonomic." With the diamond down in the setting, brides-to-be are able to wear the engagement ring in everyday work and play situations long after they say their "I Do's. Halos make a comeback The likely reason for that comeback, according to Gavin, is that the halo-style diamond engagement ring makes the center diamond appear larger than it really is. "And the appearance of a high carat weight in the center stone is extremely important for many who are headed to the altar," says Gavin. Whiteflash.com has introduced several halo designs to its line of diamond engagement rings in the past year, including one with beaded diamonds along the shank as well as around the center stone, Increased sales prove the design's resurgence and staying power. A toast to the 'Champagne' setting One design stunning even to the most fashion-savvy is the diamond 'Champagne' setting. "Those who desire this setting know exactly what they're looking for...and that's something unique," says Gavin. "The Champagne style of setting has an unmistakable following." The designers at Whiteflash.com deserve a toast of the bubbly for their interpretation of the Champagne-style bubble design in their U-prong Champagne engagement ring...among others. Gavin says the company's Champagne fashions have produced a great deal of spin-off custom-design work, much of which incorporates Whiteflash.com's exclusive 'A Cut Above' (ACA) melee diamonds. "The design of the Champagne diamond setting intermixes several components...it's these combined features that really draw[s] people to it," he says. "Often people ask us to replicate one aspect or another of the Champagne design into a custom project, and of course we don't hesitate to do so." According to Gavin, the U-Prong, domed shank and accent diamonds are examples of features that can be applied to any custom piece. "Our 'A Cut Above' (ACA) melee diamonds have been adopted into thousands of projects, and are a stunning complement to any setting style," comments Gavin. Delicate pave and micro-pave designs The old debate: Delicate versus complex, which is better? According to the designers at Whiteflash.com, this season the style leans more heavily towards delicacy rather than complexity. The diamond pave setting is widely admired for its refinement. To give the setting its simplistic, yet exquisite appearance, beads of metal are raised to create secure channels where the diamonds sit securely in the ring. According to the craftsmen at Whiteflash.com, the raised metal of the band (or ring) is used to create the tiny prongs that hold the petite diamonds in place. Center stage: Eternity bands The pave and micro pave diamond engagement rings come into play when customers are looking at smaller diamond settings like the eternity band. According to Gavin - who is also a fifth-generation cutter from the world's largest diamond center (South Africa) - there has been a recent push for smaller diamonds in settings. "In some cases even solitaire engagement rings are being replaced with semi, and even full diamond eternity bands," he says. The trend is likely a response to the aforementioned movement towards dainty-looking styles and those that offer daily wear. Eternity bands traditionally are set with diamonds anywhere from one to three points (carats). Brides trade up The 'trading-up' trend will never fade into obscurity. "We've found that it makes a difference in the design process if the bride-to-be is involved up front," says Gavin. "If the groom chooses to go it alone, he typically gravitates toward a simple design with a smaller-than-desired diamond. And what happens next? The bride-to-be upgrades the size of her diamonds, even adding side stones, and looks for a setting more suited to their tastes." 'Trading up' need not always be done up front. Many couples consider upgrades for important milestones like anniversaries, birthdays and holidays. "While her diamond engagement ring was [current] as a newlywed, many years later she might change or modify her setting to reflect transition in her own life or to keep up with current jewelry trends," says Gavin. "Even if she keeps the setting forever, there is a chance that down the road she may require a larger diamond. We have many repeat customers who upgrade their diamonds with us," he finishes. Whiteflash.com anticipates change as a constant and has made it simple for customers to upgrade with a unique guarantee: Every certified diamond sold at Whiteflash.com comes with a lifetime trade-up option. The company will accept the return of any original purchase and extend full credit in the amount of the original purchase price. The credit can be used to purchase a different diamond. "Marriage is a lifetime commitment," Gavin says. "When you choose Whiteflash.com, we'll be there for a lifetime with you." About Whiteflash Whiteflash.com is the first company in the U.S. to offer an exclusive brand of Hearts & Arrows diamond and bring the sheer beauty of "super ideal cut" to the Internet. Brian Gavin, a 5th generation diamond cutter, and Debi Wexler, a computer entrepreneur, together founded Whiteflash.com in 1999 bringing an expansive selection of loose diamonds to the Internet, including an exclusive brand of Hearts & Arrows diamonds. 'A Cut Above' (ACA(TM)) is unmatched in its brilliance, fire and sparkle and remains the only Hearts & Arrows diamond sold online with advertised standards and a "true patterning" guarantee. Whiteflash.com also offers original, handcrafted platinum and gold settings, diamond engagement rings and wedding bands, custom diamond ring designs and specialty jewelry.
About The Author
John Pollard is Director of Consumer Education http://Whiteflash.com - a company specializing in Diamonds, http://www.whiteflash.com/Engagement-Rings/1.htm and http://new.whiteflash.com/golden-wardrobe/whiteflash-design.aspx

The Women You Love Deserve the Perfect Diamond Engagement Rings

You've finally decided to take that giant step and propose to the woman you love. You're trying to decide where, when and how to propose. Proposing for marriage is a precious moment, and you want to make sure everything goes just right. But there's just one problem - you haven't a clue as to the type of diamond engagement ring you should buy for your future bride! There are so many colors, styles and shapes to choose from with diamond rings, so we've put together this helpful guide for choosing diamond engagement rings - just for you. What's Her Style in Diamond Jewelry? Observe her diamond jewelry tastes for a while. Does she like contemporary ring styles or more traditional rings? Engagement rings have taken on many designs in recent years, but some women prefer the traditional solitaire diamond engagement ring that has never gone out of style. The cut of the diamond engagement ring is also important. There are princess cuts and round cuts. For the diamond shape, does she like elongated shapes such as oval or marquise? Or, does she prefer round, pear-shaped or square? The number one choice of brides is round diamonds, but times are changing! There are even heart-shaped diamonds and other unique shapes. Clusters of diamonds are also available as opposed to the solitaire diamond ring. Consider the size of her hand and fingers as well. If she has small, short hands a bold style or wide band could make her hands look even smaller. Color Choices for Diamond Engagement Rings There are several colors to choose from when shopping for a diamond engagement ring. Yellow gold, white gold and silver are the most popular diamond ring metals. Again, observe the jewelry she wears on a daily basis to get an idea of the type of jewelry she likes. Also, find out if she has any skin allergies to certain metals. If you're still not sure, buy a diamond engagement ring that would blend well with her other favorite jewelry such as bracelets, earrings, pendants, necklaces, etc. The Matching Set: Diamond Engagement Rings and Wedding Bands Many diamond engagement rings come in a set with a matching wedding band. Buying the set is a good idea because you might save money. Also, buying her a wedding band along with her diamond ring shows your dedication and commitment to go through with the marriage. It might not seem important to you at the time, but to her it will mean everything! Get the Right Size Be sure to find out her left ring finger size before buying the ring. Maybe you can ask her the ring size at a "non-serious" moment, but be careful. She might get suspicious. Or, you could ask a friend or relative to find out for you. Don't forget to swear them to secrecy! Get a Practical Diamond Engagement Ring Be sure to choose a diamond engagement ring that's practical for everyday living. Consider her lifestyle and the type of work she does with her hands. Does she wear gloves in winter? A tall stone with prongs could snag her clothing (or your clothing). A fussy ring could annoy her after a while. So, keep it simple. Remember, she will wear this ring every day for many, many years to come! Buying any jewelry such as diamond engagement rings, anniversary rings, etc. can be stressful if you're not sure what to buy. Use the tips above to choose a diamond engagement ring she'll adore for a lifetime.
About The Author
Chris Robertson is a published author of Majon International. Majon International is one of the worlds MOST popular internet marketing and internet advertising companies on the web. Visit their main business resource web site at: http://www.majon.com To learn more about subjects like diamond engagement rings please visit the web site at: http://www.diamondocean.com For more information and informative related articles and links about this subject matter and content, please visit Majon's Jewelry directory: http://www.majon.com/directory/Jewelry

Design Trends: Diamond Engagement Rings

From the grace of halo to the sophistication of micro pave, design trends in diamond engagement rings and wedding band settings are changing, reflecting today's busy lifestyles. Ergonomic designs reign supreme in today's market, no longer does pure panache determine the design that leads to 'I Do.' "Some brides prefer an ergonomic design that can comfortably be worn day in and day out," says Brian Gavin, Executive Vice President of Whiteflash.com. "Others look for added style in an intricate or trendy setting; which, unfortunately, can be limiting when it comes everyday wear," adds Gavin. Whiteflash.com is an e-jewelry boutique specializing in Hearts & Arrows diamonds and custom-designed engagement rings. Here's a peek at the up-and-coming trends in engagement rings according to the boutique's jewelry designers: Myth: solitaires stand tall Not true of today's diamond solitaire settings, says Gavin. "Solitaire settings are traditionally upswept, raising the diamond to make a very bold statement," he adds. "However, people are also choosing settings where the center diamond sits down low, creating a look that is extremely elegant and also ergonomic." With the diamond down in the setting, brides-to-be are able to wear the engagement ring in everyday work and play situations long after they say their "I Do's. Halos make a comeback The likely reason for that comeback, according to Gavin, is that the halo-style diamond engagement ring makes the center diamond appear larger than it really is. "And the appearance of a high carat weight in the center stone is extremely important for many who are headed to the altar," says Gavin. Whiteflash.com has introduced several halo designs to its line of diamond engagement rings in the past year, including one with beaded diamonds along the shank as well as around the center stone, Increased sales prove the design's resurgence and staying power. A toast to the 'Champagne' setting One design stunning even to the most fashion-savvy is the diamond 'Champagne' setting. "Those who desire this setting know exactly what they're looking for...and that's something unique," says Gavin. "The Champagne style of setting has an unmistakable following." The designers at Whiteflash.com deserve a toast of the bubbly for their interpretation of the Champagne-style bubble design in their U-prong Champagne engagement ring...among others. Gavin says the company's Champagne fashions have produced a great deal of spin-off custom-design work, much of which incorporates Whiteflash.com's exclusive 'A Cut Above' (ACA) melee diamonds. "The design of the Champagne diamond setting intermixes several components...it's these combined features that really draw[s] people to it," he says. "Often people ask us to replicate one aspect or another of the Champagne design into a custom project, and of course we don't hesitate to do so." According to Gavin, the U-Prong, domed shank and accent diamonds are examples of features that can be applied to any custom piece. "Our 'A Cut Above' (ACA) melee diamonds have been adopted into thousands of projects, and are a stunning complement to any setting style," comments Gavin. Delicate pave and micro-pave designs The old debate: Delicate versus complex, which is better? According to the designers at Whiteflash.com, this season the style leans more heavily towards delicacy rather than complexity. The diamond pave setting is widely admired for its refinement. To give the setting its simplistic, yet exquisite appearance, beads of metal are raised to create secure channels where the diamonds sit securely in the ring. According to the craftsmen at Whiteflash.com, the raised metal of the band (or ring) is used to create the tiny prongs that hold the petite diamonds in place. Center stage: Eternity bands The pave and micro pave diamond engagement rings come into play when customers are looking at smaller diamond settings like the eternity band. According to Gavin - who is also a fifth-generation cutter from the world's largest diamond center (South Africa) - there has been a recent push for smaller diamonds in settings. "In some cases even solitaire engagement rings are being replaced with semi, and even full diamond eternity bands," he says. The trend is likely a response to the aforementioned movement towards dainty-looking styles and those that offer daily wear. Eternity bands traditionally are set with diamonds anywhere from one to three points (carats). Brides trade up The 'trading-up' trend will never fade into obscurity. "We've found that it makes a difference in the design process if the bride-to-be is involved up front," says Gavin. "If the groom chooses to go it alone, he typically gravitates toward a simple design with a smaller-than-desired diamond. And what happens next? The bride-to-be upgrades the size of her diamonds, even adding side stones, and looks for a setting more suited to their tastes." 'Trading up' need not always be done up front. Many couples consider upgrades for important milestones like anniversaries, birthdays and holidays. "While her diamond engagement ring was [current] as a newlywed, many years later she might change or modify her setting to reflect transition in her own life or to keep up with current jewelry trends," says Gavin. "Even if she keeps the setting forever, there is a chance that down the road she may require a larger diamond. We have many repeat customers who upgrade their diamonds with us," he finishes. Whiteflash.com anticipates change as a constant and has made it simple for customers to upgrade with a unique guarantee: Every certified diamond sold at Whiteflash.com comes with a lifetime trade-up option. The company will accept the return of any original purchase and extend full credit in the amount of the original purchase price. The credit can be used to purchase a different diamond. "Marriage is a lifetime commitment," Gavin says. "When you choose Whiteflash.com, we'll be there for a lifetime with you." About Whiteflash Whiteflash.com is the first company in the U.S. to offer an exclusive brand of Hearts & Arrows diamond and bring the sheer beauty of "super ideal cut" to the Internet. Brian Gavin, a 5th generation diamond cutter, and Debi Wexler, a computer entrepreneur, together founded Whiteflash.com in 1999 bringing an expansive selection of loose diamonds to the Internet, including an exclusive brand of Hearts & Arrows diamonds. 'A Cut Above' (ACA(TM)) is unmatched in its brilliance, fire and sparkle and remains the only Hearts & Arrows diamond sold online with advertised standards and a "true patterning" guarantee. Whiteflash.com also offers original, handcrafted platinum and gold settings, diamond engagement rings and wedding bands, custom diamond ring designs and specialty jewelry.
About The Author
John Pollard is Director of Consumer Education http://Whiteflash.com - a company specializing in Diamonds, http://www.whiteflash.com/Engagement-Rings/1.htm and http://new.whiteflash.com/golden-wardrobe/whiteflash-design.aspx

Diamond Rings for your Engagement – know what she likes

Diamond Rings for your engagement is the most fitting Gift to show your love you have for your fiancée. It is natural on your part to gift her something that is priceless as your love to her. Your idea of presenting her with a Diamond Ring for her engagement is the best decision and it seems to you that your Love is as priceless and unique as a diamond born millions of years ago. From olden days engagement Rings have continued to make the statement for unity and everlasting love between a man and his Woman. Now the time has come to buy your fiancée that special engagement Ring that will captivate her Heart. Many tools are available to help you avoid the pitfalls when shopping, and show you how to make use of the knowledge that made possible to educate you, and guide you on your quest. First you must know what she likes and to know this take your fiancée to the Mall or Jewelry store in your local area, on some pretension and watch her glide across the other side of the Shop where the Diamond Rings are being displayed. Allow her to feed her curiosity, and/or try on a Ring or two, or three and keep your Ears open to the Jeweler's lingo, listen for clues like Ring size and the style of Diamond she admires, whether that be brilliant round , emerald cut, Pear, Oval, Heart, etc. You must also know whether she likes a solitaire Diamond Ring, or a three stone diamond ring? After walking away from the Jeweler you should have gathered enough info on what type of Diamond your fiancée desires. Most of the Women want a large diamond; remember that a larger diamond that creates the illusion of Power, Wealth and Influence. But to some women that may not be comfortable to wear. So it is always better for your fiancée to be humble with a smaller diamond which will not clash with her persona, something she may feel at ease wearing that is more humble to her soul. This will avoid a gaudy yet risky to wear engagement ring also in fear of having it stolen. The size of the Ring has to be decided as per the size of the finger also, and bigger the finger the bigger the diamond, the smaller the finger the smaller the diamond otherwise the ring may once again look overawing unfit to her beautiful finger.
About The Author
John Gibb is the owner of diamond ring sources, For more information on diamond rings check out http://www.Diamondrings-information.info.

Tips On Buying The Perfect Engagement Rings

Buying an engagement ring can often be a daunting task, as making the right choice from the range of engagement rings available is crucial. As with wedding rings, there are many different choices available. You can select from different precious metals such as gold, silver, platinum, and even titanium. You can also select from a range of precious gems, such as sapphire, emerald, the classic diamond, and many others. You will find a choice of rings to suit a range of budgets, although the carat of the ring will be determined by the amount that you can afford to spend. This item of jewelry is one that will hopefully be cherished by the recipient for the rest of her life, so whether you go for a traditional ring, a beautiful antique ring, a Celtic ring, or any other type of ring, you should make sure that you put plenty of thought into it before you make any firm commitment on your purchase. Factors to consider when buying engagement rings Unless your loved one has already pointed out which ring she wants you may have your work cut out in order to determine which ring you should get. Firstly, you need to take into consideration your budget, as this will determine the type of ring you can get. Most jewellers offer rings to suit all sorts of budgets, so you don’t have to be a millionaire in order to get a beautiful ring that she is certain to love. One thing you should try and determine is what type of precious metal and gem she most likes, as you can then select the perfect ring. There are a number of ways in which you can do this, from observing the type of jewelry she normally tends to wear to asking close friends for their advice. By finding out these details you can ensure that the ring you buy is one that she is certain to love. You will also need to know the size of her finger, and you could do this by sneakily taking one of her rings and hoping she doesn’t notice or by asking a close friend who, with any luck, may know the size or even have the same size finger. Buying your ring – getting a good deal Although there are many high street shops that sell some beautiful wedding bands and engagement rings, it has become more and more popular to purchase these items online. This is because you can enjoy a far wider choice and you can browse under on virtual roof from the comfort of your own home. You will often find that you can also get better deals online because there are no overheads for sellers to worry about, which means that you can either save a little money on the cost of your ring or you can stick to the budget and get a better ring for your money. The excellent choice available online makes it easier for purchasers to find the ideal ring at a more affordable price.
About The Author
Erica Bosworth reveals for the internet site http://www.engagement-rings-tips.com. The writer is specializing in tips on engagement rings.

Pearl Engagement Rings: Here's A Secret-Do the Tooth Test to Determine Whether the Pearl is Real

Pearl engagement rings are a classy alternative to diamond engagement rings. And speaking of classy, let me tell you about the tooth test, which involves rubbing the pearl up and down your front tooth to determine if the pearl is real. Cultured and natural pearls will feel rough against a tooth, while imitation pearls will feel smooth. The process of how a pearl comes to be is pretty cool, if I do say so myself. Pearls are created when an object such as a small rock enters an oyster or mussel. The oyster/mussel than covers the object with something called nacre and a pearl is eventually created. The amount of the nacre coating is dependent on the mollusk, the water composition, and the length of time that the irritant is left inside to develop. As nacre thickness increases, so does the quality and durability of the pearl. Natural pearls are fairly rare and typically the whole process is helped along by man.... resulting in cultured pearls. The only difference between natural and cultured pearls is that with cultured pearls, the external irritant such as a small rock is purposefully added into an oyster/mussel by man, thus triggering the pearl creation process. The only other difference is that natural pearls are more expensive since they are more rare. Another way to categorize pearls is whether they are freshwater pearls or saltwater pearls. Saltwater pearls are more rare and hence, more expensive. When people think about pearls, they typically visualize small, white round beads. Yet, unbeknownst to many, pearls come in a wide variety of sizes, colors and shapes. For instance, there are some pearls that are large, green and possibly even tear-drop shaped. One of the downsides to a pearl engagement rings, is that pearls are definitely more delicate and fragile than other gemstones and need a lot of TLC.
About The Author
Julie Shields 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.

High End Jewelry Designers for Engagement Rings

Nothing spells out class quite like Harry Winston Engagement Rings. I've never stepped foot inside a Harry Winston Store but truth be told, I might be a little intimidated. Winston may be most famous for once owning the Hope diamond which he donated to the Smithsonian Museum in DC. I've seen the diamond firsthand and it is awe-inspiring! Harry Winston established his company in 1932. He apparently had a love affair with diamonds....feeling immense joy when acquiring a new bauble and deep depression when selling one of his pride and joys. Harry's son Ronald Winston is currently chairman of the company. Unlike other jewelers, Harry Winston is hands on from start to finish with their pieces. The whole process of cutting, polishing, designing and creating the finished jewel is conducted in the Harry Winston 5th Avenue building in NYC. Their jewelry and engagement rings are like no others when it comes to quality, craftsmanship, and prestige. Image has always been of the utmost importance to Harry Winston. Harry Winston has draped some of the world's biggest celebrities in diamonds. Who could forget Bennifer's enormous pink diamond engagement ring. Ben Affleck loved Harry Winston jewelry enough to also present Jennifer Garner with a 4.5 carat Harry Winston ring. Paris Hilton briefly sported a canary yellow Harry Winston diamond, when engaged to a man with her same namesake. You may have heard of the Taylor-Burton diamond, a 70 carat pear shaped rock? Hands down, the celebs love Harry Winston. Perhaps this is because Harry Winston covers celebrities in diamonds for some of the largest, most glamorous red carpet events like the Tonys, the Emmys, and the Academy Awards. And their prices are high enough to keep most of the riff-raff out of their stores and from the majority of commoners from wearing their designs. From what I've heard, entry level pricing for 1 carat Harry Winston engagement rings begin at around $15,000. And forget about buying a little token item. Most everything in the store sells for over $10,000. If you are dead-set on a Harry Winston ring and are a "want champagne on a beer budget" kind of individual, consider getting a local jeweler to make a replica ring. Don't be disappointed but you won't find a Harry Winston store located at your local mall. There are only a handful locations in Switzerland, Japan, France, Hawaii, Nevada, California, Florida, and New York. Cartier engagement rings start in the affordable $4,000 range and skyrocket to the millions. Thus, allowing for both Joe Schmo down the street and Joe Millionaire alike to be able to purchase a bauble from Cartier. Still too steep? At least everyone can afford to become a member of the Cartier Club. ...all it takes is signing up on their website http://wwww.cartier.com to receive their free newsletter....... hmm...sounds a little more exclusive than it actually is, huh? Cartier is a long time player in the jewelry industry. They've been around since the mid 19th century. Cartier's roots were planted in Paris by founder Louis-Francois Cartier. The famed NY branch on the oh so fancy fifth avenue, was established in the early 20th century. Cartier's creations have been worn by royalty and celebrities across the globe. Legends such as Elizabeth Taylor and Marilyn Monroe have donned Cartier jewels. They are known for their outstanding quality and design and their name is synonomous with luxury. Go to the Cartier website and take a look at Cartier's regular jewelry collection. Specifically, find the rings in the trinity collection: They are so cool and sleek. They feature three intertwined rings of various precious metals and diamonds. (I'll put these on my birthday wish list). I don't think these classic pieces will ever go out of style. Under the bridal collection on the Cartier website, they offer "classic," one-stone rings ranging from .5 carat to many many more. All engagement rings appear to be made out of platinum although they may offer more choices at their store sites. They also offer "creative" engagement rings made of platinum which are significantly more embellished. The same "classic" and "creative" classification system is used for their wedding bands which are presented on their website in platinum, white gold and gold metals. Custom wedding bands can be created within fairly short notice...... most likely for a sweet price. Their rings appear to be a well-balanced mix of modern and antique combined together for a contemporary look. Cartier jewelry stores are located in major cities across the U.S. and abroad. To find out more about Cartier engagement rings, they recommend that you go to their website and schedule an in-person bridal consultation. You can also order a bridal catalogue to be mailed to your home address. In addition to jewelry, Cartier sells novelty items, fragrances, watches, leather goods, and accessories.
About The Author
Julie Shields 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.

What Girl Wouldn't Love To Wear A Blue Diamond Engagement Ring

Blue diamond engagement rings are as rare as the men who are willing to shell out the bucks to purchase one. The closest I ever came to a blue diamond was at the Smithsonian. The Smithsonian houses the Hope Diamond which is one of the most well known blue diamonds throughout the world. If you ever get the chance to go to the Smithsonian in DC to see the Hope Diamond, I highly recommend it. It's awe-inspiring...even for those who aren't particularly interested in precious gems. Blue diamonds either get their coloring from minute traces of boron within the diamond's composition or by large amounts of hydrogen. The blue shade can range from just a hint of color to a deep royal-blue.
A solid pink or blue diamond engagement ring can cost anywhere from 10 to 50 times more than a similarly sized white diamond engagement ring. It's not unusual for a blue diamond to cost hundreds of thousands of dollars or even into the millions. While regular diamonds usually don't go up in value over time and depreciate from their retail value, the moment they leave the store, natural colored diamonds seem to fair better as an investment.
Stones with deep, solid blue color are considered the most desirable. These "fancy diamonds" are also more expensive – a shade that is multi-colored will be less expensive since it indicates the presence of more than one mineral impurity in the gem.
The interest in colored diamonds increased in the 80s and began to reach a frenzy in the 90s and millenium. This can be attributed to the media and celebrities bringing colored diamonds into the public eye.
While natural colored diamonds are out of the price range of most, there are still ways that the average joe can get their hands on a colored-diamond. For example, diamonds can be color-treated by a process involving irradiation and intense heat, resulting in affordable, yet beautifully colored diamonds in a range of hues. Also, Synthetic stones can be grown in a lab with the same impurities that comprise natural blue stones. This process involves inserting carbon dioxide into hot plasma which mirrors the high temperature conditions under which natural diamonds form. You should know that color treated or synthetic diamonds have little resale value.
Also, you can always pair white diamonds with a colored gemstone as an alternative to colored diamonds. If you can't settle for anything less than a natural blue diamond engagement ring yet have limited cash flow, you could always consider colored diamonds for sidestones.
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

Choosing The Perfect Engagement Ring

Choosing a ring isn't really as simple as pointing to the one in the window that looks prettiest. Jewelry, especially a diamond is a major investment just like buying a house or a car. There are a few things that you need to know so that you get a stone that is not only beautiful to look at; it is also a true gem of value beyond sentiment.
Just like you may need the assistance of a good mechanic to help you check out a car before you buy it, you may need the help of a good gemologist or an honest jeweler to help you find your special gemstone from among the many pieces out there. Like any industry they have their own jargon. You don't need to learn all their terms but you do need to become familiar with the four C's of a diamond's quality.
Cut is the first and most important C in choosing diamonds. There are two aspects that determine a diamonds cut. The first of which is the shape of the stone. This aspect is quite literally the geometrical shape that the artisan has chosen for the stone in order to bring out the most of its inner beauty. The stone can be shaped into your basic round or into fancy ones such as the oval, marquise, pear, emerald, princess, asscher, radiant, heart or triangle.
The artisan creates facets as they shape the diamond. The facets are flat faces that reflect light off of each other, creating the sparkle that women love, which jewelers call brilliance. If you're lady is one who looks for brilliance, check out the round, princess or radiant pieces.
As the artisan shapes the stone, his skill shows the quality of the gem. A truly skilled artist will bring out the true beauty of the piece with precision and careful crafting. The highest grade given is ideal. Next is very good then good then fair and lastly poor. The difference in the grades translates to thousands. Unless you are filthy rich, you can actually select a stone ranked good that will look as beautiful as an ideal to your lady; the difference after all isn't visible to the naked eye.
Next C is Clarity. Every diamond has imperfections. Imperfections are called inclusions if they are within the stone and blemishes if they are on the outside. The fewer imperfections there are in the stone, the higher its grade. The rarest are the flawless (FL) diamonds which have no imperfections whatsoever. Aside from flawless diamonds can be internally flawless (IF), very, very slightly imperfect (VVS-1 or VVS-2), very slightly imperfect (VS-1 or VS-2), Slightly Imperfect (S-1 to S-2) down to imperfect (I-1 to I-3).
To see the imperfections, you need to use a 10x loupe, a tool that your jeweler should have ready just for this purpose. Finding a gem without any imperfections is not only difficult, it's expensive. You can get a VS-1 and save yourself a lot of money and still have a rock that your girl will love.
Most ladies like the pale colored diamonds, the kind they've always seen in the movies. Lately though, thanks to Hollywood celebrities, there is a demand for diamonds in pink, red, even blue. The real question here is: what would your lady like? Is she a traditionalist or a non-conformist or a fashionista? That may tell you what shade to get.
Generally speaking though, the more colorless the stone the more expensive it will be. Gemologists grade the color by letter, the highest being D. The differences in color of stones that are graded from D to H are barely noticeable to the naked eye. Again, you can have major savings from getting a lower grade.
Now, they say bigger is better. In diamonds, this may not always be true. Each diamond is weighed in a metric system called Carat - the 4th C, which is measured by 100 points. This is the least important of the 4C's. No matter how big a stone is if it isn't well cut, it will still be less beautiful and less valuable than a diamond of lower carat but better crafted and more brilliant. The most popular is still the one carat diamond. After all, not everybody needs to have a ring like Catherine Zeta-Jones' 10 carat gem :-)
Lesley-Ann Graham runs WeddingTrix.com - a valuable wedding planning resource with articles, tips and advice to help you plan your perfect wedding. The Bride, Groom, Best Man, Bridesmaids and Groomsmen can find it all at http://www.WeddingTrix.com
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Lesley-Ann_Graham

5 Tips for Buying an Engagement Ring

The quest for finding the perfect engagement ring can be a very stressful time. There is never more pressure to succeed or more chances for failure at buying jewelry than there is with the engagement ring purchase. It has to be perfect because this is the piece of jewelry that will show her how much she means to you.
Rather than becoming overwhelmed with the task of finding the perfect ring, you should accept it as a challenge and look forward to the experience. The perfect ring is out there, and you will find it if you follow these five tips for buying an engagement ring:
Never buy a ring unseen. Purchasing jewelry online or at auction sites can be a gamble. Always purchase jewelry that you can hold in your hand and inspect rather than rely on pictures that might be staged or brushed up.
Do not be afraid to take your intended with you. This will give you an opportunity to see what she likes and what she doesn't like. Remember, not all women love to wear a huge rock their hand, and styles of rings vary greatly. Having her input may save you from buying a ring that she hates.
Always make sure that the ring is sized correctly. While this may be a challenge if the ring is to be a surprise, purchasing a ring that fits perfectly will show your intended how much thought you put into the purchase of the ring.
Do not get stuck in the traditional diamond rut. There are many kinds of precious stones that make beautiful engagement rings, and if you want to buy a ring that is truly unique, buying a rare stone might be the way to go.
Make sure that the ring that you purchase is boxed and wrapped beautifully. Remember, the presentation of the ring makes as much of an impression as the ring itself.
When buying an engagement ring, also be sure to purchase the ring from a jeweler that you trust. It is extremely frustrating to receive a flawed piece of jewelry when you were expecting perfection. Having to return a flawed or incorrectly sized ring may also result in having to postpone your plans to ask the big question.
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Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Kurt_Howard

How Much To Spend For A Diamond Engagement ring

Purchasing a diamond engagement ring should be approached with a sense of reason just like any other major purchase.
How much you spend for an engagement ring should depend on many factors, including your current employment status, your general credit standing, and your current financial status and how much discretionary income you possess.
The ring itself is a symbol of your relationship, not the size of the diamond it contains. If the lady you are planning on spending your future years with thinks otherwise, then maybe the relationship needs some rethinking.
Diamond facts-know what you are shopping for:
Before shopping for a diamond, know something about them and what you should be looking for in a diamond so you do the best for the money expended.
Diamond weight is measured in carats or points. A carat is equal to 200 milligrams and a point is 1/100th of a carat. In other words 25 points would be 1/4th of a carat.
Good color in a diamond is colorless. Most diamond engagement rings contain colorless diamonds. There are also colored diamonds called fancy diamonds, but they are usually in other types of jewelry pieces.
Clarity refers to the transparency and the lack of flaws. Many flaws are not visible unless seen under magnification. Flaws are often overlooked by consumers as long as they are not a hazard to the structure of the diamond, and are unseen by the naked eye.
Cut is another factor to consider and should not be confused with shape. The cut of a diamond, if good, will reflect more light and brilliance in a diamond.
There are a number of shapes to choose from. Currently the round brilliant is the most popular and is a good choice because it nicely displays the fire and brilliance of a diamond. But there are other shapes that are also popular. Round, princess, oval and pear are some of the popular diamond shapes. Shape is just a matter of personal preference.
Diamond money saving tips:
If you are watching your budget when purchasing a diamond engagement ring then perhaps buying a ring with three smaller stones is an option you might choose. Often you can get more by buying multiple smaller stones with a combined weight that is equal to the weight of only one stone, and for less money.
Another thing to look at is points. If are shopping for a ring with a single stone and one carat is what you want, consider purchasing a ring on points. If a stone is close to a carat, but not quite close enough to qualify as being labeled as a carat it could cost considerably less, and yet have the appearance to the naked eye of one carat.
Another budgeting option is the setting. Choosing white gold rather than platinum can also stretch your dollars when shopping for a diamond engagement ring.
Consider some of these tips, make an informed buying decision, and don't overburden yourself when making the purchase. Save some of your financial resources and enjoy your life together.
More practical information on shopping for diamond gemstones or diamond engagement rings .
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Illa_Maden

The History of Engagement Rings and Wedding Bands

These days, many people take wedding bands and engagement rings for granted, and although they give these beautiful items of jewellery with integrity and love, they are often given with no real knowledge of the meaning behind them.
Both wedding bands and engagement rings are very special items of jewellery; in fact, they are more than just jewellery - they are the symbols of many emotions and promises such as:
Love
Commitment
Fidelity
Eternity
Honour
But where - and why - did these popular and sentimental pieces of jewellery stem from?
The History Of Wedding Bands
These items of jewellery have a history that spans many centuries and passes through many countries from all around the planet. Below, you will find a brief history of the wedding and engagement ring, as reported from country to country.
EGYPTIANS
The now-famous wedding band is thought to have originated in Ancient Egypt, where it is said that plant sections were fashioned in to circles to signify never-ending and immortal love. It was thought that the fourth finger (which we now know as the ring finger) contained a special vein that was connected directly to the heart, and therefore this became the official finger for the wedding band.
ROMANS
The Romans also agreed with the Egyptians with regards to the wedding ring finger and its meaning, but rather than offering wedding bands as a symbol of love, they awarded them as a symbol of ownership. Roman men would "claim" their woman with the giving of a ring.
ASIANS / ARABS
Puzzle rings were a complex type of jewellery that were once popular in Asia, and these jewels had the charming knack of being able to fall apart and put back together again - if you knew how to do this, of course. Wealthy Middle Eastern men then began to use these rings as wedding bands for their wives, who were often forced to wear a puzzle ring when their husband was away. The husband would know upon his return whether any of his wives had been disloyal by removing the ring whilst he was away, because the ring was designed to collapse upon removal and could only be put together again if you had the skill and knowledge required.
EUROPEANS
Several centuries ago, the Europeans became rather taken with what we would class as an engagement ring, but was then called a Poesy Ring. This ring was given to a loved one as a form of promise, and signified fidelity and love. The Poesy Ring was offered as a pledge of eternal togetherness, much as today's engagement rings are offered as a promise of eternal marriage.
AMERICANS
During Colonial times, all items of jewellery in America were prohibited due to their apparent moral worthlessness. Instead, a more practical thimble was given as a token of love and as a pledge of eternal togetherness. However, after they were married, the women tended to remove the bottom of their "engagement thimble" to form a type of ring.
History Of Engagement Rings
The engagement ring of today also has its own varied and interesting history, some of which is explored below. Engagement rings have been known by many different names, have symbolised a variety of different things and have not always been made of precious metals and stunning gems!
GREEKS
The ancient Greeks are thought to have been the forerunners in the rising of the traditional engagement ring. Given as a token of care and affection, the rings used by the Greeks were known as betrothal rings and were given before marriage. However, the giving of these rings was not always a pre-requisite to marriage and was often given in the same way as a friendship ring might be given today.
ROMANS
As seen by their use of the wedding ring, ancient Romans weren't the most sentimental of people, and the early version of their "engagement ring" were thought to have carved keys on them. It has been debated that this could have been to symbolise the woman's right to access and own half of everything following marriage. However, the more sentimental like to think that the key may have been a key to her husband's heart.
ROYALTY AND THE AFFLUENT
Engagement rings as we know them today - stunning gems encased in precious metals - became popular in around the fourteenth or fifteenth century, when the affluent and the royals began to exchange and wear these jewels. However, these items were so expensive that nobody other than the royals and the rich could afford to exchange them. It was to be many centuries before these engagement rings would become more popular or traditional.
Why a ring?
The purpose of engagement rings and wedding bands is to convey deep emotions of eternal love, eternal happiness, eternal commitment, and eternal togetherness. In fact, these rings signify eternity - between the giver and the recipient. A ring, of course, is a complete circle with no break and no end or beginning, which means that it just goes on and on - it is eternal.
And, since folklore has it that the fourth finger of the left hand has a vein leading directly to the heart, it is only natural that both engagement and wedding rings would be worn on this particular finger, which was once reputed to be a direct route to the heart.
Summary
In short, it is clear that the giving of a ring in honour of a union, betrothal, and marriage has been going on since ancient times, and although it may not always have been as glamorous and romantic as it is today, it was still a way of exchanging a contract of betrothal or marriage.
Thankfully, today's wedding bands and engagement rings are not made of hair, grass, plants or twine as they may have been in ancient times, but of beautiful metals set with stunning gems, such as platinum, titanium, white gold, gold, sapphires, diamonds, rubies and emeralds. These incredible items of jewellery are likely to remain as popular as ever as the centuries go by, and even as the rest of the world advances in to a futuristic and technological age, it's hard to imagine a day where a beautiful diamond engagement ring doesn't melt the heart of its recipient.
About The Author:Reno Charlton is an award-winning author and freelance writer from the West Midlands, England. She has written many articles providing consumer information on such topics as jewelry boxes, and promise rings.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Reno_Charlton

Gemstone Engagement Rings

Blue sapphire engagement rings have been known to be preferred by royalty because the blue sapphire stone is even more rare than a diamond and is almost as hard. This is a nice factoid to share with your number one queen as you slip a blue sapphire engagement ring on her ring finger. Blue sapphires come in a range of shades from a light to deep blue. The blue color is due to the level of titanium in the stone: the more titanium, the richer the color. However, too much color can actually create a dull black effect, reducing the price of the stone.
Most blue sapphires are found in Sri Lanka, Burma, and Madagascar. Burmese sapphires tend to cost more than those from Sri Lanka and Madagascar due to their brilliant color. Kashmir blue sapphires are the most rare and expensive of all as the supply found in a remote region of India was exhausted around a 100 years ago, thus escalating price and demand.
Prices for blue sapphires depend on whether or not they've been treated (with untreated costing much more) as well as color, cut, tone (lightness or darkness of stone), saturation (degree to which hue is hidden by other shades), and clarity. One carat blue sapphires can range from a few hundred dollars to several thousand.
Buy your ruby engagement rings with pride! Don't let anyone tell you that diamonds are better as engagement rings. Only you and your potential spouse should decide what fits in with your style, taste, and budget........not popular opinion.... or your future mother-in-law. Besides, you can always tell the nay-sayers that large rubies are even more rare than diamonds. Rubies belong to the corundum family. Any other color besides red from this family is considered a sapphire. Rubies are almost as hard as diamonds. Diamonds are considered a "10" on the hardness scale while rubies come in at a 9. Rubies have somewhat less clarity than other gemstones and tend to have at least some small inclusions. Most rubies are heat-treated to improve their color, but stones in their natural form do exist. Cushion cut and oval rubies are the most common shape. Burmese rubies are considered to be the most desirable.
You may be able to save money by purchasing a ruby with a slightly off-shade i.e. a little bit lighter or darker than what is considered ideal... a vivid red color. You can also save some dough by purchasing synthetic versus natural rubies. Rubies belong to the corundum family. Any other color besides red from this family is considered a sapphire.
Rest assured that buying opal engagement rings for your partner will not bring them bad luck but perhaps even the opposite. Concerning the opal gemstone superstition, some still feel that it is bad luck to purchase an opal for oneself, but good luck if someone else gives one to you. Throughout history there have been negative connotations associated with opals. Interestingly enough, it is said that the diamond dealers became nervous in the 18th and 19th century about the beatiful gemstone stealing away diamond customers and further perpepuated stereotypes of the opal to prevent this from happening. The powers that be tried hard to defeat this bad luck urban legend when huge amounts of opals were found in Australia.
I personally love opal engagement rings. With their rainbow hues, I just think opals are some of the prettiest stones around. The rainbow shades are oftened referred to as a "play of color." Most of the opal supply come from our Aussie friends in Southern Australia.
Here's the science behind the opals. Opals are a noncrystalline form of the mineral silica which are formed from amorphous "balls" or "lumps" of silica. In other words, water in the ground carrying dissolved silica seeps through sand and dirt, where the silica particles are deposited in cracks. As the water evaporates, the silica particles cement together to form the opal. The color is caused by the diffraction of light. Where the tiny spheres of silica are of a similar size and arrangement, the light reflecting from them is divided into its spectral colors, and the stone appears to contain all the colors of the rainbow. Where the spheres are larger and less uniform, the range of color is more limited.
One of the major downfalls of opal engagement rings compared to diamonds is that opals are a much softer stone. While the diamond is considered to be a 10 on the Mohs hardness sclae, the opal rates between a 5 and a 6. This means that over time, it is possible for the opal to break and you must be careful to treat it with care and look for a ring setting that best preserves its integrity (i.e. semi-bezel is a good choice).
Opals exhibit an impressive color range. They can be white, pink, green and blue, gray, or black. Australian boulder opals are the most durable of opals as well as the most robust in color. As a result, they are considered to be valuable and are pretty pricey Black opals are actually the most rare and expensive. They have a dark backdrop with a rainbow colors or deep blue-green hues. Fire opals, which have any color backdrop but exhibit an unusual amount of red color play are also fairly rare
There are a thousand legends and stories related to the opal gemstone.
The Ancient Greeks believed opals fell from heaven during flashes of lightning and provided individuals with the ability to see into the future.
The Romans thought that wearing opals made one more lucid in thought and spontaneous in action.
Can you believe this? In his play "Tweltfh Night," Shakespeare made use of the gemstone to make an analogy between the opal's changing colors and the ever-changing moods of a woman. Hmmmmmmmm.......not sure if I like the comparison.
The author just recently celebrated her one year anniversary and sports a beautiful ascher cut diamond on her ring finger. She and her husband put together http://ultimate-engagement-ring-guide.com to help you find the perfect engagement ring.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Julie_Shields

Engagement Ring Trends in 2007

Engagement rings with pave diamonds are named for pavement- as in, pave diamonds are clustered so closely together they appear akin to glittery-shimmering cobblestone pavement. So you don't look like a fool when you go to buy one of these bad boys, pave is pronounced ... pah-vay. Pave diamond bands look expensive because all you see are rows of diamonds, but surprisingly, they don't have to be. Pave diamonds are just small diamond chips and thus they typically maximize a ring's beauty, but not the cost. An even cheaper alternative is to use a non-diamond gemstone.
Pave settings are constructed by drilling small holes into the ring shank, which the stones are inserted into. The diamond chips used are all approximately the same size and luster. After the stones are placed into the band, minute amounts of metal are molded over the edge of each diamond chip, holding them in place. Pave bands typically use tiny prongs to hold diamond chips in place. This helps to make the row of diamonds stand out while minimizing the appearance of the metal. The most popular metals for pave bands are platinum and white gold, as the pave setting in general, has a very contemporary look.
There are two different kinds of pave settings. The first type is a single band with a row of diamonds. The band can be thin or wide. The thin band accomodates small chips while the wide band is suited for larger diamond chips, and will cost more. The other pave design has a wide band with several clustered rows of diamonds set at slightly different angles to each other. Pave diamond bands without a center stone are referred to as eternity rings or anniversary bands.
Old miner cut diamond engagement rings preceded the invention of the light bulb. Hence, the diamonds were designed to be seen under candlelight rather than electric light. These stones would sparkle even in a dim candlelit atmosphere. Many find the soft glow of antique diamonds to be quite appealing.
Miner cut diamond engagement rings, as with other early gemstones in the 18th and 19th century, were cut and polished by hand. As a result, no two diamonds were alike, each having variations in shape and facet size. Today, thanks to technological advances, machines do all the work, sacrificing the character derived from old methods of cutting for perfection. However, antique diamonds often possess incomparable life and uniqueness. This has resulted in the price of old cut diamonds skyrocketing in recent years.
Old mine cut diamonds are often seen in Georgian and Victorian jewelry. Miner cut diamonds date back to the 1830's and maintained their popularity till the end of the century. The cut has a round shape, high crown, and faceted culet. Often the facets come together at the bottom of the diamond and leave a small flat surface.
When evaluating antique diamonds such as the miner cut, they cannot be judged by modern standards. Antique diamonds were cut to maximize carat weight, not brilliance. Often times the proportions of antique diamonds vary dramatically from modern diamonds.
The old mine cut diamond is the earliest form of the modern brilliant cut. The modern cushion cut diamond resembles the old mine cut, but the cushion cut gemstone is more rectanglur shaped.
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

The Three Stone Diamond Engagement Ring - What Does It Mean?

The three stone diamond engagement ring, is an exquisite, artfully designed diamond ring. This ring showcases three round brilliant diamonds set in 14 carat, 18 carat, or platinum gold. The diamonds can vary in size with the center stone being the largest. The two side stones act as accents showcasing the center large stone. It really is no wonder why the three stone diamond ring is such a popular and high demand ring.
This ring can be given for several occasions. The most popular and traditional ring would be the three stone diamond engagement ring. Reasons one might might give it would be an engagement, anniversary present, renewal of vowels, or as just a simple reminder that the one that you're with will remain in your life for the future. This ring is a symbol of love, compassion, and an acknowledgment that one is truly loved and thought of on many occasions.
The three stone diamond ring is truly a timeless piece. It is without prejudice towards any other sentimental piece of jewelry that one might have, and really can be treasured from now until forever. This diamond ring encompasses everything that one woman might want in a fine piece of jewelry. It's filled with class, sophistication, and truly is a piece of romance and aspiration of love. The three stone diamond ring is truly a keepsake that one should treasure and when looked at be reminded of the love that was given with it.
It is with these timeless keepsakes that keep love and romance alive. It keeps distant relationships close, and should spark a new journey in one's love life. This ring with no further ado should have the presence of thoughtful thoughts, loving memories, and build a relationship one step at a time. It is said that one should be reminded at least once a day how much they are loved, with the three stone diamond rings you can be reminded three times. With this ring I say "I do, I love, I am forever yours."
For additional information, please contact:http://threestonediamondrings.totaldiamonds.comGeorge Barrows800-909-4018
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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

Gemstone Engagement Rings

Blue sapphire engagement rings have been known to be preferred by royalty because the blue sapphire stone is even more rare than a diamond and is almost as hard. This is a nice factoid to share with your number one queen as you slip a blue sapphire engagement ring on her ring finger. Blue sapphires come in a range of shades from a light to deep blue. The blue color is due to the level of titanium in the stone: the more titanium, the richer the color. However, too much color can actually create a dull black effect, reducing the price of the stone.
Most blue sapphires are found in Sri Lanka, Burma, and Madagascar. Burmese sapphires tend to cost more than those from Sri Lanka and Madagascar due to their brilliant color. Kashmir blue sapphires are the most rare and expensive of all as the supply found in a remote region of India was exhausted around a 100 years ago, thus escalating price and demand.
Prices for blue sapphires depend on whether or not they've been treated (with untreated costing much more) as well as color, cut, tone (lightness or darkness of stone), saturation (degree to which hue is hidden by other shades), and clarity. One carat blue sapphires can range from a few hundred dollars to several thousand.
Buy your ruby engagement rings with pride! Don't let anyone tell you that diamonds are better as engagement rings. Only you and your potential spouse should decide what fits in with your style, taste, and budget........not popular opinion.... or your future mother-in-law. Besides, you can always tell the nay-sayers that large rubies are even more rare than diamonds. Rubies belong to the corundum family. Any other color besides red from this family is considered a sapphire. Rubies are almost as hard as diamonds. Diamonds are considered a "10" on the hardness scale while rubies come in at a 9. Rubies have somewhat less clarity than other gemstones and tend to have at least some small inclusions. Most rubies are heat-treated to improve their color, but stones in their natural form do exist. Cushion cut and oval rubies are the most common shape. Burmese rubies are considered to be the most desirable.
You may be able to save money by purchasing a ruby with a slightly off-shade i.e. a little bit lighter or darker than what is considered ideal... a vivid red color. You can also save some dough by purchasing synthetic versus natural rubies. Rubies belong to the corundum family. Any other color besides red from this family is considered a sapphire.
Rest assured that buying opal engagement rings for your partner will not bring them bad luck but perhaps even the opposite. Concerning the opal gemstone superstition, some still feel that it is bad luck to purchase an opal for oneself, but good luck if someone else gives one to you. Throughout history there have been negative connotations associated with opals. Interestingly enough, it is said that the diamond dealers became nervous in the 18th and 19th century about the beatiful gemstone stealing away diamond customers and further perpepuated stereotypes of the opal to prevent this from happening. The powers that be tried hard to defeat this bad luck urban legend when huge amounts of opals were found in Australia.
I personally love opal engagement rings. With their rainbow hues, I just think opals are some of the prettiest stones around. The rainbow shades are oftened referred to as a "play of color." Most of the opal supply come from our Aussie friends in Southern Australia.
Here's the science behind the opals. Opals are a noncrystalline form of the mineral silica which are formed from amorphous "balls" or "lumps" of silica. In other words, water in the ground carrying dissolved silica seeps through sand and dirt, where the silica particles are deposited in cracks. As the water evaporates, the silica particles cement together to form the opal. The color is caused by the diffraction of light. Where the tiny spheres of silica are of a similar size and arrangement, the light reflecting from them is divided into its spectral colors, and the stone appears to contain all the colors of the rainbow. Where the spheres are larger and less uniform, the range of color is more limited.
One of the major downfalls of opal engagement rings compared to diamonds is that opals are a much softer stone. While the diamond is considered to be a 10 on the Mohs hardness sclae, the opal rates between a 5 and a 6. This means that over time, it is possible for the opal to break and you must be careful to treat it with care and look for a ring setting that best preserves its integrity (i.e. semi-bezel is a good choice).
Opals exhibit an impressive color range. They can be white, pink, green and blue, gray, or black. Australian boulder opals are the most durable of opals as well as the most robust in color. As a result, they are considered to be valuable and are pretty pricey Black opals are actually the most rare and expensive. They have a dark backdrop with a rainbow colors or deep blue-green hues. Fire opals, which have any color backdrop but exhibit an unusual amount of red color play are also fairly rare
There are a thousand legends and stories related to the opal gemstone.
The Ancient Greeks believed opals fell from heaven during flashes of lightning and provided individuals with the ability to see into the future.
The Romans thought that wearing opals made one more lucid in thought and spontaneous in action.
Can you believe this? In his play "Tweltfh Night," Shakespeare made use of the gemstone to make an analogy between the opal's changing colors and the ever-changing moods of a woman. Hmmmmmmmm.......not sure if I like the comparison.
The author just recently celebrated her one year anniversary and sports a beautiful ascher cut diamond on her ring finger. She and her husband put together http://ultimate-engagement-ring-guide.com to help you find the perfect engagement ring.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Julie_Shields

Celebrity Engagement Rings - Famous Wedding Jewelry

Everyday we hear about the up and down lives of celebrities. We want to know about their lifestyles and love-lives. We are intrigued by celebrity couples weddings and her engagement ring. Celebrities will always be major trend setters for jewelry. Who can forget J.Lo's 6 carat radiant cut pink diamond engagement ring. It's part of a Hollywood trend that suggests "bigger is better". Catherine Zeta-Jones said yes to a beautiful antique design, horizontal set marquise diamond ring. And socialite Paris Hilton's received a huge 24 carat canary diamond ring, and also a large 15 carat emerald cut diamond ring. There are many celebrity engagement rings incorporating the elegant design of antique rings. Like Reese Witherspoon's antique 1920's style 4.5 carat asscher cut diamond engagement ring. Prince Charles also offered an art deco antique style platinum emerald ring with baguette diamonds to Camilla Parker Bowles. For some celebrities one diamond is not enough, choosing the three stone engagement ring. The stones representing the past, present and future. Guy Ritchie gave Madonna an exquisite three stone platinum diamond ring. Sharon Stone can also be seen wearing her lovely emerald cut three stone diamond ring. Seeing celebrity engagement rings shows us what an endless budget can acquire. Although, it is possible for you to choose a celebrity inspired ring at a reasonable cost. A jeweler can custom make you an engagement ring utilizing the styling cues and design of your favorite celebrity ring. Many online jewelry retailers offer rings that resemble most celebrity rings. Offering you a taste of the style and elegance of the rich and famous.
Guillaume Lafond is a successful author and regular contributor to www.quality-diamond-engagement-rings.com. A site dedicated to providing ressources and information to consumers on diamond engagement rings and jewelry.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Guillaume_Lafond

Inexpensive Engagement Rings

Do inexpensive engagement rings exist or do they all cost an arm and a leg? The first thing most guys want to know is how much they should spend on the eye candy. Here are some interesting factoids:
- According to a study in 2002 by the Conde Nast Bridal Group, publisher of Bride's and Modern Bride, the average cost of an engagement ring is $3,576.
- There is the popularized jewelry industry mantra which dictates spending "two months salary" (no one is sure if this is before or after taxes)
You should spend what you feel comfortable with. Society sends us many confusing messages about love and marriage. They emphasize the timeless and unconditional nature of love whilst simultanteously encouraging us to show the extent of our love by purchasing the biggest diamond we can afford. Just something for you to keep in mind.
The reality is that for some, two months salary is $500 while others pull in $10,000 a month or more. You do not want to blow so much money that you don't have anything leftover for other important expenses such as a down-payment on a house (or groceries for the next week). Whether you purchase an inexpensive engagement ring or one that is more pricey, it is best to have a pre-set ring budget. This way, you may be less tempted to spend more than you can really afford. One thing to consider is that you can always upgrade the ring down the road by adding extra stones, purchasing an additional band, etc.... this has become a very popular thing to do (much to my husband's dismay...and my delight).
Others who have limited funding but still want to purchase regardless may look into loans for engagement rings. My husbance purchased my ring at Blue Nile one of the best online jewelry stores out there, which has received a lot of positive press. Their website storefront is highly interactive and you can mix and match different stones and settings to create your own ring.
Another great place to buy rings is at Mondera which has won "Best of the Web" award by Forbes. A few weeks ago, one of my good friends got engaged. Her man purchased a ring from Mondera and both of them are ecstatic. She loves the ring and he thought the price and the customer service were excellent. And let me tell you, customer service is important when your plunking down those Gs.
Here are some factors that will impact the cost:
• Carats- the heavier the stone, the more moolah
• Color- the less of it, the more expensive.
• Clarity- the more of it, the more expensive. Small inclusions and flaws will bring down the price.
• Cut- Emerald and princess cuts cost less because they follow the shape of the stone. Heart-shaped, oval, and pear cost more.
• Retail Store, Online stores, or Online Auctions- Online stores can often price their rings at around 30% less than retail stores because they don't have to pay as much overhead.....thus, the savings are typically handed over to the customer. When purchasing online, be sure to review whether proper certification and appraisal information is provided. Make note of the terms of the return policy, should you need to return or exchange the ring. Online auctions such as on ebay can also offer signficant savings although precautions must be taken to avoid being taken advantage of.
•Ring Setting- Yellow gold, white gold, silver and titanium metals are less expensive than platinum
• Authentic diamond vs. cubic zirconia engagement rings or moissanite engagement rings I think you know which of these cost the least
Interestingly enough, two rings that appear fairly similar to the naked eye, can have vastly different prices depending on the quality of the diamond.-- Consider this as you are pulling out your credit card.
Check out http://www.ultimate-engagement-ring-guide.com for more tips on inexpensive engagement rings.
The author has a beautiful ascher cut engagement ring and has been married for just under a year. She designed the website http://www.ultimate-engagement-ring-guide.com to help out those in search of the perfect engagement ring.
Article Source: http://EzineArticles.com/?expert=Julie_Shields