The diamond engagement rings - a timeless expression of love and commitment.
The classic styles available - solitaire and pave, for example - still are popular today, but there are emerging trends of which you, the potential buyer should be aware.
Note: One thing that never changes is what grooms tend to pay for engagement rings - quite a bit! Latest statistics show the average amount spent is $3,000, according to these sources:
• $3,044 (Bride's Millenium Report)
• $2,982 (Bride's Magazine)
• $2,909 (Modern Bride, as cited in Weddings for Dummies)
• $3,576 (Conde Nast Bridal Group)
• $3,165 (Modern Bride Magazine)
• $2,807 (National Bride Service)
Hot ring trends - classic, antique and modern lead the way
For example, classic solitaires are very popular. Many women are choosing a classic-cut diamond solitaire. These are assured of never going out of style and make good heirloom pieces.
However, a traditional solitaire setting is upswept and raises the diamond high. Some people today select settings where the center stone sits low, creating a look that is elegant and ergonomic. Another popular setting is one that is intricately raised, as well as twisted band.
And while the round cut continues to be popular, it is becoming more common to see the oval cut, as well as the emerald.
The pave setting, where the band is studded with diamonds seamlessly, is elegant and is becoming more popular. The idea is that smaller stones are set so close together that no metal can be seen between them.This maximizes the wattage of the ring without pushing the cost too high.
Antique, vintage rings that your grandmother might have worn also are trendy, which combines an historical, period look with current fashion. Look for gold filigree settings, floral accents and gemstone baguettes. The cuts typically are cushion, round, pillow and Asscher , and their larger facets radiate more fire under less light.
Also becoming more popular are modern styles. This type features clean, streamlined designs for a cosmopolitan, chic look. The most contemporary styles feature a bezel-set and designs where the diamond seems to "float," which is a type of tension setting.
engagement rings with colored stones also are an emerging trend, with colored diamonds being quite the rage. Many celebrities, such as Jennifer Lopez, have chosen colored diamond engagement rings and this has cemented their popularity.
For something different, consider new diamond cuts on the market. The Zales diamond cut has more facets than traditional cuts and can increase the stone's fire. Also consider the princess cut - a modified square.
Platinum - hands down the choice today
Regarding the ring itself, platinum is definitely the hot trend. Platinum is popular because its rich luster sets off the brilliance of a diamond like no other metal. This metal is naturally white and will always keep its shine, unlike yellow gold, which may tarnish. Platinum is the strongest precious metal, and is twice as heavy as most gold alloy rings.
Some women want their platinum ring carved with designs or inlaid with gemstones.
A Guide To Antique Engagement Rings
Antique engagement rings are a unique and beautiful alternative to a new ring. The tradition of giving separate rings for the engagement and the marriage started in Victorian England. The first DeBeers diamond minds in the late 1800s helped increase the popularity of engagement rings.
The earliest diamonds were not nearly as brilliant as today's rings. The first mine cut diamonds were not very clear. This improved in the early 20th century with the European cut diamonds. These are often found in rings from the Art Deco period. Diamond cutting continued to improve and evolve into the brilliant cut that is still used today.
Larger stones are found in Victorian rings. While these diamonds don't have the clarity of newer rings, the stone is generally larger. Rings became smaller throughout the early 1900s and into the Great Depression. Overall, the quality of the diamond affects the price. Clarity isn't as important in antique rings as it is in new ones. The value depends more on the demand for specific rings.
The most popular vintage rings are from the Victorian Era through the 1940s. Distinct styles, settings and stones can be seen in rings from each period. Victorian rings are generally yellow or rose colored gold. The stone can be a diamond, but pearls were just as common in this time period. Edwardian rings have a filigree design in the rings. Some may have Jewish or Christian designs in the filigree.
Art Deco rings of the 1920s are generally platinum, white gold or silver. Bezel settings are common in these rings. The setting makes the smaller diamond appear larger. Rings became smaller and less ornate in the 1930s and 1940s. Platinum became less common during the war years and yellow or white gold was commonly used in rings. Carvings on the shank and settings helped make the center stone appear larger.
Where to Find Antique Engagement Rings
There are several good places to find antique rings. Antique stores often carry jewelry. Some dealers are more knowledgeable than others about the details and value of rings from each period. In some cases, you ca get a really good deal. Some stores under sell jewelry because they don't know its true value. The ring may not come with a certificate. If not, have it independently appraised for insurance.
Jewelers sometimes carry vintage pieces. A good jeweler will be knowledgeable about the value of the ring. You may not get as good a deal, but will have the peace of mind of knowing that you have a quality ring. You will be given a certificate for the diamond when you buy from a jeweler.
Estate sales are a good place to find antique wedding jewelry. You can usually arrange to view the items the day before the estate sale. Read about the value and characteristics of antique rings to help determine the value of the ring. Inspect the ring carefully before the sale to decide how high you will bid. You can find information in books at the library or on the internet.
Caring for Antique Engagement Rings
Antique diamond jewelry will retain its beauty for years, if you care for it properly. Before you purchase the ring, have the jeweler inspect the prongs carefully to be sure the stone won't come loose. You don't want to lose your diamond. Take the ring to the jeweler for professional cleaning and inspection once or twice a year.
The earliest diamonds were not nearly as brilliant as today's rings. The first mine cut diamonds were not very clear. This improved in the early 20th century with the European cut diamonds. These are often found in rings from the Art Deco period. Diamond cutting continued to improve and evolve into the brilliant cut that is still used today.
Larger stones are found in Victorian rings. While these diamonds don't have the clarity of newer rings, the stone is generally larger. Rings became smaller throughout the early 1900s and into the Great Depression. Overall, the quality of the diamond affects the price. Clarity isn't as important in antique rings as it is in new ones. The value depends more on the demand for specific rings.
The most popular vintage rings are from the Victorian Era through the 1940s. Distinct styles, settings and stones can be seen in rings from each period. Victorian rings are generally yellow or rose colored gold. The stone can be a diamond, but pearls were just as common in this time period. Edwardian rings have a filigree design in the rings. Some may have Jewish or Christian designs in the filigree.
Art Deco rings of the 1920s are generally platinum, white gold or silver. Bezel settings are common in these rings. The setting makes the smaller diamond appear larger. Rings became smaller and less ornate in the 1930s and 1940s. Platinum became less common during the war years and yellow or white gold was commonly used in rings. Carvings on the shank and settings helped make the center stone appear larger.
Where to Find Antique Engagement Rings
There are several good places to find antique rings. Antique stores often carry jewelry. Some dealers are more knowledgeable than others about the details and value of rings from each period. In some cases, you ca get a really good deal. Some stores under sell jewelry because they don't know its true value. The ring may not come with a certificate. If not, have it independently appraised for insurance.
Jewelers sometimes carry vintage pieces. A good jeweler will be knowledgeable about the value of the ring. You may not get as good a deal, but will have the peace of mind of knowing that you have a quality ring. You will be given a certificate for the diamond when you buy from a jeweler.
Estate sales are a good place to find antique wedding jewelry. You can usually arrange to view the items the day before the estate sale. Read about the value and characteristics of antique rings to help determine the value of the ring. Inspect the ring carefully before the sale to decide how high you will bid. You can find information in books at the library or on the internet.
Caring for Antique Engagement Rings
Antique diamond jewelry will retain its beauty for years, if you care for it properly. Before you purchase the ring, have the jeweler inspect the prongs carefully to be sure the stone won't come loose. You don't want to lose your diamond. Take the ring to the jeweler for professional cleaning and inspection once or twice a year.
Indian Jewelry Has Two Major Trends In The Market
The fact that Indian jewelry tradition dates back to thousands of years proves the description of Shakuntala's Indian jewelry by the great poet Kalidasa. It is interesting to note that both men and women of ancient times wore Indian jewelry made of gold, silver, copper, ivory, and precious and semi-precious stones. The description of the Indian jewelry can be found in the great epics of Ramayana and the Mahabharata and also in the code of Manu that defines various duties of the goldsmith. As a result of this, India has been a leading exporter of gemstones and even manufactured jewelry.
In India the jewelries act as ornaments made virtually for every part of the body. There are jewelries for the head, hair, ears, neck, wrists, arms, fingers, hips, ankles, and toes. Just name it, they have it. The desire to adorn one's self in these jewelries is to satisfy the thirst to beautify one's self. Nevertheless, the Indian jewelry served also as an identity marker, as security, and as a symbol of social contracts. But for Hindus, their Indian jewelry is associated with many of their religious ceremonies.
There are different regions in India that have their own jewelry making styles that are unique only to them. In Orissa and Andhra Pradesh, they are known for their fine filigree work using silver. Jaipur is known for the art of enameling or meenakari. Temple jewelry can be found in Nagercoil, whereas kundan is a trademark of Delhi. Rajasthan, Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh, and Himachal Pradesh are all known for the wide variety of beads they offer.
The Indian jewelry is set with pearls, citrine, amethyst, turquoise, moonstone, peridot, and other stones. The most widely sought after is the diamond. This gem named after a Greek word "Adamas" means unconquerable, suggesting the eternity of love. Thus, diamonds are mostly salable as anniversary gifts, wedding rings, engagement rings, as wedding bands, and so on.
The ability to generate some of the finest designs by the artisans of the past speaks loudly of the unmatched caliber of the artisans. In smaller places, the goldsmith may perform all the processes involved in producing a finished piece. In cities, the different operations are undertaken by separate people—the goldsmith prepares the skeletal framework, the chatera engraves, the kundansaaz or jaria sets the stones, while the meenasaaz enamels it. Today the Indian jewelry has two major trends in the market. The modern look, which is fragile and less ornate and "the back to the Indian look," represented by the old pieces of Moghul and ancient Indian jewelry, or imitations of these in modern mediums. Indian jewelry has even become a passion with most women, especially Indian women as it is an integral part of her life. Though it may not always be made in gold or silver or set with diamonds or other precious stones. Indian jewelry not only preserves its beauty but also increases life!
So what is it about traditional or old Indian jewelry that remains attractive for years, one might wonder! The answer is, "They have shone through to stand the test of time.
In India the jewelries act as ornaments made virtually for every part of the body. There are jewelries for the head, hair, ears, neck, wrists, arms, fingers, hips, ankles, and toes. Just name it, they have it. The desire to adorn one's self in these jewelries is to satisfy the thirst to beautify one's self. Nevertheless, the Indian jewelry served also as an identity marker, as security, and as a symbol of social contracts. But for Hindus, their Indian jewelry is associated with many of their religious ceremonies.
There are different regions in India that have their own jewelry making styles that are unique only to them. In Orissa and Andhra Pradesh, they are known for their fine filigree work using silver. Jaipur is known for the art of enameling or meenakari. Temple jewelry can be found in Nagercoil, whereas kundan is a trademark of Delhi. Rajasthan, Gujarat, Madhya Pradesh, and Himachal Pradesh are all known for the wide variety of beads they offer.
The Indian jewelry is set with pearls, citrine, amethyst, turquoise, moonstone, peridot, and other stones. The most widely sought after is the diamond. This gem named after a Greek word "Adamas" means unconquerable, suggesting the eternity of love. Thus, diamonds are mostly salable as anniversary gifts, wedding rings, engagement rings, as wedding bands, and so on.
The ability to generate some of the finest designs by the artisans of the past speaks loudly of the unmatched caliber of the artisans. In smaller places, the goldsmith may perform all the processes involved in producing a finished piece. In cities, the different operations are undertaken by separate people—the goldsmith prepares the skeletal framework, the chatera engraves, the kundansaaz or jaria sets the stones, while the meenasaaz enamels it. Today the Indian jewelry has two major trends in the market. The modern look, which is fragile and less ornate and "the back to the Indian look," represented by the old pieces of Moghul and ancient Indian jewelry, or imitations of these in modern mediums. Indian jewelry has even become a passion with most women, especially Indian women as it is an integral part of her life. Though it may not always be made in gold or silver or set with diamonds or other precious stones. Indian jewelry not only preserves its beauty but also increases life!
So what is it about traditional or old Indian jewelry that remains attractive for years, one might wonder! The answer is, "They have shone through to stand the test of time.
Design Your Own Engagement Ring, Platinum Or Gold
Platinum or gold? No, we are not talking about the color of your AmEx card here, but the color of the metal you are planning for your engagement ring. The very first decision when designing your own engagement ring will be what metal you will be wanting your ring to be crafted from. Your basic choices are platinum or gold. Gold is available in a variety of colors including white, yellow or rose.
While platinum is certainly a more costly metal it does have a few long term advantages over gold. Firstly, platinum is a harder metal and will not wear down. Secondly, it will not lose its shine or tarnish, whereas white gold that has been rhodium plated needs to be re-plated periodically to maintain its shine. Thirdly, platinum is hypoallergenic.
Platinum can also be used to advantage in settings to help showcase your diamond. The ring setting will be less obtrusive, and the white metal setting can actually make your diamond look a little larger. The high shine of the platinum will enhance the fire and sparkle of your diamond engagement ring.
A platinum engagement ring will certainly last you a lifetime. This ring will be just as shiny in 20 or 50 years as the day he slips it on your finger. Have you ever noticed how worn your grandparent's gold engagement and wedding rings have become over time? Well, with platinum your engagement ring will never fade away.
Platinum is certainly becoming more and more popular with the celebrities. The extremely high shine of the metal does exude a luxurious glamor.
Platinum rings can also look superb with stainless steel wrist watches. As we all know, stainless steel watches are another hard wearing jewelry item, and range in styles from athletic to formal.
Gold may be less expensive initially, but in terms of wear and tear, and repairs over a lifetime, it may well be a case of false economy. However, many girls do like the color that gold is available in. Ultimately it comes down to personal choice. If you prefer yellow or rose gold, then go for it. Perhaps you could have the claws or the setting made from platinum or white gold to highlight the diamond and have the actual band made from the metal of your choice. Or alternatively, have a platinum band that will not wear, and then have colored gold of your choice engraved or filigreed to give you a highly decorative and unique ring.
Yet another alternative is to incorporate both yellow and white metals for more complex designs. This can be a great way to get the best of both worlds or to perhaps keep the price of your engagement ring down. By incorporating both a yellow gold with platinum or white gold in your engagement ring, you will be always able to continue wearing both your yellow and white gold jewelry.
Custom made engagement rings are a fantastic way of ensuring that your engagement ring is absolutely made to your finest requirements. Contemporary designs of engagement rings can allow you a great selection of metals from which to craft your ring. Platinum, gold, or a mix of both, when designing your own engagement ring, the choice is totally yours.
Engagement Ring Trends Favor The Individual
Today's engagement ring trends are leaning heavily towards unique, hand crafted, and individual. Long gone are the days when everyone had a version of the solitaire diamond with a plain gold wedder. The rapid increase in the availability of new metals along with computer aided jewelry design equipment is allowing brides and grooms to select engagement rings that are as personalized and symbolic as they wish.
* Textured bands have become huge. Not only in wedding rings, but also the shanks surrounding the engagement ring setting. Engraving, scroll work, filigree, micro pave, and mil grain working are all favorites. Worked metals can be produced in a variety of finishes and couples are leaping at the wide range of choices.
* Stacked bands are also becoming increasingly popular. Rings can come in a variety of colored metals, or alternatively contain different stones in each band. The beauty of this type of bridal set is the different variations the set of rings can provide.
* Multi-colored metals. No-one has to have a yellow gold engagement ring if thy don't want to. Palladium has become a popular choice for those who like the look of platinum but would prefer a less expensive option. Tungsten and titanium are also becoming more available in a huge range of tinted colors including grays and blacks. Engagement ring settings can be crafted from more than one yellow and white metal together. Some girls who prefer a more traditional look are opting for white and rose gold (think Katie Holmes' engagement ring as an example).
* Colored diamonds are available not just in pink, yellow and black. Think gorgeous earthy tones of champagnes, cognacs, and greens. While some colors are more costly, think pink, green and yellow, other hues are less expensive than a standard white diamond. This can be beneficial for the bride who wants the hardness of a diamond but isn't looking for the traditional blue white look.
* Rose cut diamonds are experiencing a surge in popularity as well. This is probably due to a resurgence in vintage style engagement rings, and possibly the fact that they are visually very different to contemporary cuts offering fire and brilliance. The rose cut was extremely popular during the 16th through 18th centuries. The facets tend to be large. Rose cut diamonds can be found in antique jewelry or through enterprising diamond cutters who are now offering the cut in new diamonds.
* Colored gems are hot on the heels of colored diamonds. Rubies and sapphires are only 1 step down in hardness from a diamond and are hardy enough for a lifetime of wear. The dramatic color of these stones can transform a conventional engagement ring setting into eye catching beauty. Semi precious gems are more cost effective, and as a rule are hard enough for everyday wear. Apart from a significantly smaller price tag, there are many, many hues for a bride to select from.
* All in one engagement and wedding rings are also becoming ever popular. These can be a great selection for those who don't like the bother of having to wear 2 separate rings. These rings are often made with a wider band and and provide plenty of design options. These can also be a great option for women who may have plenty of gems or diamonds lying around in jewelry they no longer wear.
Engagement ring trends are becoming increasingly mindful of individuality and uniqueness. Couples are free to have as intricate or as simple an engagement ring as they desire. Custom jewelers can be a great option for those seeking one-off engagement rings.
How To Buy Antique Engagement Rings
There are as many good reasons to consider purchasing an antique engagement ring as there are reasons for deciding when to pop the question. While modern day jewelers struggle to offer customers something unique and contemporary, the bride-to-be may be more inclined to appreciate the style and inherent charm of an antique. Another perfectly acceptable reason for purchasing antique engagement rings is they often offer buyers a better quality diamond at a lower price than purchasing a new ring.
Before beginning your search for the perfect wedding ring, it is best to ask yourself a few questions.
Do you know about the four C's?
The four C's are the criteria professionals use to determine the value of a diamond.
"Clarity takes into account the number, character, and visibility of flaws within the stone. These are often referred to as inclusions. The fewer inclusions, the better the quality of the stone."
Carat is the size or weight of the diamond. The larger the stone, the higher the cost. An advantage to buying antique engagement rings is that in the 1930s and 1940s jewelers often compensated for a smaller sized diamond by setting it in an intricately designed white gold, square-shaped box. These made the stone appear larger. "Color is a matter of taste. Modern-day standards put a higher value on a clear diamonds, as a rule. In the past, buyers wanted their diamonds to reflect a rainbow of colors, soft pinks, yellow, or green tints. While colored diamonds are still available today, they were considered more valuable in the past. It is also important to note that many of the modern colored diamonds are artificially altered to enhance the color."
Cut is also a matter of taste and another reason antique engagement rings may be the best answer. Over the years, the preference of cut has changed. Additionally, a laser now cuts most diamonds; whereas older stones were normally cut by hand, giving them a more customized, romantic look.
What is the difference between an antique ring and an estate ring?
Antique rings normally refer to rings that are over 50 years old. Rings less than 50 years old and purchased used are considered as estate rings.
What are the styles of different eras?
Victorian Era (1835-1900) - Victorian era antique engagement rings featured diamonds or pearls set in yellow or rose gold. The ring styles varied from simple elegance to intricate detail. Many settings featured rows of diamonds that were cut with an extra facet in the bottom of the stone. This was known as a mine cut.
Edwardian Era (1900-1920) - With the invention of the oxyacetylene torch, platinum became the preferred metal for the period. The wedding bands were often crafted with lacy and pierced shapes, milgraining, filigree detail, and scrollwork. Rose-cut diamonds and sapphires were the preferred stones.
Art Deco Era (1920-1930) - Art Deco antique engagement rings feature a streamlined geometric look. They also reflect Egyptian, Asian, and Native American cultures. These rings were often made of platinum featured colorful, contrasting gemstones as well as diamonds.
Where can antique engagement rings be purchased?
Antique engagement rings can be purchased in a number of places: antique stores, estate sales, pawn shops, auctions, and there select vendors online and larger cities who specialize in the purchase and resale of antique jewelry. No matter where you purchase your engagement rings, remember to get a full description of your purchase in writing and look to vendors who offer a written returns policy. You may also ask if the jewelry comes with a certified gemologists report, which provides optimal proof that the jewelry is as described.
Conclusion
When purchasing an engagement ring, it is important to consider all your options, including antique engagement rings
Silver Engagement Rings
Soft and malleable are some of the attributes that are used to describe silver engagement rings. We believe that wedding bonds are made in heaven. To add special meaning to the moment, have you thought about commitment rings? That is what silver engagement rings are traditionally called.
Why Silver Engagement Rings?
You might be wondering what makes silver engagement rings stand out when the market is flooded with gold, white gold and even platinum rings. So, why should you opt for silver engagement rings?
Silver engagement rings have numerous qualities because silver has unique attributes. Unlike other metals, silver is used to bring out a ring's intricate and finer details. Be it in the shape of knots, filigrees or molds, silver brings out a sheen or patina that adds depth of character in a ring and makes it sparkle like shining light. Perhaps that is one reason why people who have sophisticated taste opt for silver engagement rings.
Tips to Choose Silver Engagement Rings
Here are some simple but effective tips to choose silver engagement rings:
1. Create a budget that is realistic and not necessarily cheap. A common notion is that a silver engagement ring is very cheap. The price depends on several factors though generally, silver is cheap when compared to gold.
2. Depending on the intricacy of design and detailing, silver engagement rings can cost you as much as a gold band.
3. In case you want a diamond which is set in the silver engagement ring and you can't afford it, don't lose heart. You can select a colored stone or a cubic zirconia.
4. When deciding the setting of the ring, your choices include invisible setting, channel setting, star setting, pave setting or elegant grain square setting. These are all settings that let you add stones to the ring's design.
The Style Factor in Silver Engagement Rings
Another important thing to consider is what kind of style you want to see in your silver engagement ring. Do you want your ring to have a feel of symmetry which is a typically conventional choice? Would rotational symmetry add a bit of spice to your conventional taste and catch the fancy of your loved one? Do you think a delicate design or a chunky one may suit instead?
Purchasing a silver engagement ring is no child's play. For quick and safe access, begin your search for the right style, quality, setting and fitting with crazy2shop. No other company offers high quality silver engagement rings at such irresistible prices. Get started right away at crazy2shop.
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