Archive for August, 2009

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Ruby Engagement Rings

August 31st, 2009

Many of us are not able to think beyond diamonds when it comes to engagement rings. The diamond industry has marketed diamonds so well, that everyone thinks of only diamonds as the ideal stones for weddings, engagements and anniversaries. There are many other gemstones which would last at lifetime and they make excellent engagement rings too. Nowadays, people are slowly shifting to buying rubies, sapphires and emeralds for engagement rings.

The Ruby has the unique quality of capturing and commanding a person’s attention. The profound and vivacious hues of the ruby characterize a ruby. A dark red ruby embedded in shimmering platinum band can look absolutely stunning and captivating. This would make a real style statement and the person wearing it would look gorgeous.

Rubies are great ideas for using as gemstones due to their symbolism. Every ruby is different in hue and tone and has undergone many changes within the earth. Every ruby is different from the other and you would not find two rubies matching each other. These are great symbols of love and are truly unique. It is supposed to withstand good times as well as bad times. Every ruby is unique and has its own individual personality. Based on personal tastes and traditions, you could select a ruby.

If you respect your own individual preferences without bothering about societal norms, then ruby engagement ring is the right choice. Ruby also lends an elegant and stylish look and is valued through centuries due to its rarity and also the amazing looks.
 
It is a false notion that ruby rings are red in color. Though traditional rubies may have the color red, there are rubies with shades of purple and orange. In many countries, rubies are thought to protect from the evil and it also warns the wearer from any mortal danger.  If you are July born, then you should think of getting a ruby engagement ring.  Blood rubies are the most popular and sought after shade. Rubies are put through chemical treatments to deepen the color and also hide surface imperfections, if any.

The disadvantage of the chemical treatment is that they reduce the price of the stone. Gemologists and experts would be able to recognize whether the ruby has been treated with chemicals or not. Moreover, while buying ruby engagement rings make sure you go to a reputed jeweler, so that he does not take you for a ride. Make sure the jeweler is able to give.

Since the early years, people have wanted to possess rubies not only because they are beautiful, but there is definitely some lore and mystery surrounding these stones.

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Beautiful Aquamarine Engagement Rings

August 27th, 2009

An Aquamarine engagement ring symbolizes wellbeing, optimism and faithfulness. It is the best engagement ring you could think of. You are right, we are discussing about the exquisite Aquamarine gemstones. This gemstone is right for people who are March borns. They are great conversation starters. Aqua stands for ‘water’ and mare stands for ‘sea’.

The Aquamarine Engagement ring is basically bluish in color and you can choose from a wide range of blue colors. The colors extend from a pale blue color to a sea blue green color. The deeper colors are much in demand and vogue and hence expensive as compared to the lighter shades. Whichever shade you choose, the Aquamarine engagement rings is surely going to be talked about. Many of the Aquamarine stones are heat treated so as to increase the blue coloring. The Aquamarine stone is tough and long lasting and in spite of being subjected to heat treatments, the quality does not suffer. Aquamarine measures to 7.5 hardness scale and hence it can be chosen as a perfect engagement ring and can be worn daily.

If you buy an Aquamarine engagement ring, you can be rest assured about the stone because it is an unblemished and a perfect stone. This shape can be ideally cut into different shapes and facets. It lends a stylish look to the wearer. Moreover, when it is cut into different facets, it lends that extra beauty and sparkle.  The Aquamarine’s blue color makes it ideal for being set either in white gold or platinum. But you could also set it in gold, since yellow and blue are contrast colors and it would surely look amazing and eye-catching.

When you buy an Aquamarine engagement ring, you can vouch for its hardness. It is not a fragile stone like emeralds. Both emeralds and Aquamarines are beryls. The Aquamarine stone is strong and hard. It is also easy to take care of your Aquamarine engagement ring. You need to clean the ring with a simple soap and water solution and then pat dry. This would bring back the stone’s beauty. Make sure you do not subject it to ultrasonic cleaners, household cleaners which have harsh chemicals, rapid temperature changes etc. This could spoil the ring. Hence, make sure you take good care without subjecting it to cruel chemicals. Shopping for Aquamarine engagement rings is not difficult. Many reputed jeweler shops do not have these rings. You could also check out for these rings online. Many jeweler stores advertise online for discounts and bargains. Most of the online jeweler stores are genuine and authorized and sell genuine products. So if you are planning your wedding along the seaside, then what best can you give – you got it right, the Aquamarine engagement ring is the best thing to gift your beloved and have her for an entire lifetime.

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Princess cut diamond rings

August 24th, 2009

There is a plethora of wedding rings to choose from. They come in varied styles and designs. If you are looking out for an engagement ring which is wearable, then it ought to be the princess cut diamond ring. These diamonds come in square shapes and they really sparkle. The shape of the princess cut diamond rings is perfect for being set in a wedding ring.

The princess cut diamond ring is the most popular among engagement rings. They have been in trend since 1970s.

Depending on your budget, you can choose the number of princess cut diamonds to be set on the engagement ring. Some bridal engagement rings look absolutely stunning with these princess diamonds running through the entire ring. Some other designs and patterns include these princess diamonds being placed on the top of the ring.

There are different styles which could be adopted and they look fantastic when secured channel settings and also bezel settings are adopted. The size of the diamonds play an important role and you could either go in for a platinum setting or a white gold setting which would further enhance the look of these diamonds. If you opt for a channel set, the diamonds would be kept low and the engagement ring would look more attractive.

The princess cut rings can be in sets of one or two or even more for extra appeal. Depending on the width of the ring, you will have to identify the number of rows for setting these diamonds.

Other settings like bar settings and prong settings are also adopted for lending a stylish look to the princess cut diamond ring.
Princess cut diamonds rings are ideal for couples who prefer a square shaped ring or who prefer symmetry. This cut is relatively new and women would love to make them a part of their jewellery. These diamonds came into the market in 1980 and they have become increasingly popular in the American market.
They are the right blend of the brilliant cut as well as the classic step cut. There are many facets to this ring and these facets helps in accelerating the sparkle of the diamonds.
Many of the people go in for the princess cut which is set directly to the ring and a channel setting is adopted. Some other styles include having the diamond as a centerpiece with multiple stone settings.

Princes cut diamonds rings are definitely cheaper as compared to other rings, the reason being the flaws can easily be hidden away. The cut does not take extra effort and time and hence you would not have to shell extra for workmanship.

If you use industrial grade diamonds or gemstones, the cost further drops down. These diamonds are available from $ 100 per carat to $ 750 per carat. You could buy a big diamond for lesser price.

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Perfect Engagement Ring – Solitaire Engagement Rings

August 21st, 2009

Solitaire engagement rings have in the recent past been increasingly referred to as the ‘perfect’ engagement rings, with many websites that provide advice on these matters openly endorsing them as such.

But just what, exactly, is a solitaire engagement ring?

As it turns out, the term ‘solitaire’ as used in the phrase ‘solitaire engagement ring’ does not actually refer to an engagement ring brand (as one would be tempted to think on first hearing about the phrase); but is rather a generic term derived from the adjective ‘solitary’ which is used to refer to any diamond ring that is made from a single diamond (with absolutely no addition of other stones to it).

In a way of speaking, then, the solitary engagement ring is described as the perfect engagement ring out of an appreciation of the fact that it is the only variety of engagement ring that is actually made of ‘pure’ diamond. In this line of thinking, the addition of other metals would be said to have the effect of introducing impurities into the ring, even if they happen to be gemstones, because diamond is viewed as the ‘purest of all metals’ as far as engagement ring making goes.

Strictly speaking, then, it would seem that the other metals that are added to other engagement ring types (other than the solitaire) have the impact of ‘impurifying’ the ring, and symbolically speaking, their presence on the ring is the same as the presence of other people – foreigners as it were – in the relationship for which an engagement ring is being bought for, making such other engagement rings (beautiful as they may be) a major turn off to someone who is very deeply attuned to the symbolism of rings.

To the untrained eye, though, the solitaire engagement ring might seem ‘too plain to be attractive.’ After all, the solitaire engagement ring is bereft of all the embellishment and accents that the addition of gemstones to an engagement ring is apt to bring to it. This would potentially lead one to imagine that the solitaire engagement ring would be the very last pick for a person who is not educated in the workings of engagement rings. The true position, however, is that even if the solitaire engagement ring (with all its apparent dullness and plainness) is placed on a table with other gemstone-laden and embellished rings, many people without a very deep understanding of these matters still find themselves opting for the solitaire engagement ring, because true elegance – however simple its presentation – always stands out and appeals to the human psyche in sometimes unfathomable ways; like where you find yourself liking a product, but quite unable to understand what it is that is making you like it.

Having described the solitaire engagement ring as the perfect engagement ring, it is important to mention that not everything which is being marketed as such a solitaire engagement ring is actually the same, as there are some unfortunate counterfeits in the market. But once again, a genuine solitaire engagement ring is one that is made of a single (and simple) diamond, and the diamond in question has to be, of course, REAL diamond for the particular ring to qualify for the term ‘perfect engagement ring’ that is used to describe a true solitaire engagement ring.

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Lovely Heart Engagement Rings

August 20th, 2009

When people are in love, the next step they look forward to is their engagement. Getting engaged is a form of commitment that the couple is likely to get married after the initial courtship. When you are truly and deeply in love, you are committed to spend your life together with your beloved. The very thought of getting separated is unbearable.

How did engagement rings come into vogue?

It is the Romans who were the first to introduce the concept of engagement rings. It is said that the third finger of the left hand carries a vein of love and an engagement ring is supposed to be worn on this finger. The vena amoris that is the vein of love is connected to the heart and this way the couple would love each other for eternity.

What makes diamonds so unique and attractive?

A diamond is supposed to be a thing of the rich and well known. It has been the wealthier class who has always influenced diamonds. Diamonds are expressions of love and they are really symbolical. Many well known personalities and celebrities adorn diamonds and the common people follow their suit.

When we utter the word ‘Diamonds’, the first thing which comes in our mind is that of something genuine, precious, beautiful, rich, expensive, brilliant and desirable. If you visit a jeweler store, you can see for yourself the different varieties and types of diamonds and could pick and choose from the collection. There are round diamonds, oval diamonds and small cut diamonds. The bigger and heavier the diamonds, the expensive it is. Depending on the carat weight of the diamond, the prices vary. Every individual has a personal preference when it comes to selecting the diamonds. But the most popular and sought after diamonds are the lovely heart diamond engagement rings.

A simple reason for the popularity of the heart engagement rings is that it is in the shape of a heart. When two people are in love, they give their heart to each other. Heart is symbolic of love. Hence, heart engagement rings are perfect engagement rings and symbolize romance and sentiments. It would be really thoughtful if you give this type of an engagement ring to your beloved.

It is important that the couple agrees on the shape of the diamond engagement ring. At times, a heart engagement ring would be either too bold or too simple. Hence, make sure you go to a genuine jeweler store and select a ring which looks unique and also carries the shape of a heart. Heart engagement rings are really elegant and a timeless beauty. Heart engagement rings are also available at low costs. Many couples go in for the heart engagement rings, since it represents commitment and unity. Heart engagement rings can be tailor made suiting your budget and requirement. They come in both elongated as well as flat shape.

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How to shop for engagement rings

August 19th, 2009

Your engagement date has been finalized. The next step is to buy an engagement ring and that too the apt one for your beloved. Obviously, you would not want to make last minute errands selecting your engagement ring. Hence, make sure you plan everything in advance, so that you do a right job of selecting the most attractive engagement ring which would look beautiful on your beloved.

Many of you would want to give a surprise to your beloved. For this, you need to consider certain points and make sure you are getting value for your money.

1) Budget

Budget plays a very important role when it comes to buying your engagement ring. Check out on your finances and if the money is inadequate, then you should start saving for buying the ring. After you have identified the engagement ring, the next thing is to start saving either monthly or weekly.

Once you are clear on the budget, it becomes easy to select the ring as well. Doing some research and checking out the rates with the jeweler store would be helpful.

2) Style

You first need to know the style of your beloved. Is she a modern woman or one who prefers a traditional ring? When you go out with her and see her behavior, it would be easy to identify her tastes. Diamond rings are very much in vogue, but gemstones are also becoming increasingly popular of late. The chosen ring should also blend with her personality.

3) Shop Around

Shopping around and checking out prices and designs would be helpful. It is important that you take your time and also assess the different varieties of rings which fall within your price range. Different selections are offered by jewel stores and you could pick and choose your ring.

4) It is better to have company while you shop

Taking someone along with you while you are shopping for your engagement ring is a wise option. You would also have an idea of what you should select.  Preferably take someone who has previous experience of buying an engagement ring. You could take your best friend along with you who would give you genuine advice. It is better to have company so that your friend can give you support if you are confused and not sure on what to buy.

5) Knowing your beloved’s size

It is imperative that you know the size of the ring which you intend buying. You could always take any ring of her size for measurement and buy the engagement ring as per those specifications. If you do not get the perfect size, it is better to go in for a bigger size. The other option is to give an order for the ring to be resized.

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How to Buy an Engagement Ring

August 18th, 2009

If you have fallen in love with someone so deeply that you are considering spending the rest of your life with them, then chances are that you could find yourself shopping for an engagement ring sooner or later; to signify your commitment to the relationship.
The task of shopping for an engagement ring is not as easy a task as it would first seem. It is a highly nuanced process, and your choice of an engagement ring (in terms of things like color, material and shape) is sure to be interpreted in different ways by your loved one, who is surely bound to be someone you would be trying to impress.

In an ideal situation then, it is best to go shopping for engagement rings with your loved one, because this way – if you work at a consensual shopping experience – there will be no risk of the engagement ring you opt for coming to be viewed as ‘your idea.’ Nonetheless, if you cannot manage to be with your loved for your engagement ring shopping, there are still some things you can do to ensure that you get a ring that is as close to the ideal as possible.

The best guide to shopping for an engagement ring for your loved one in their absence is keeping in mind their preferences all along the process. One is bound to ask, on reading this, how it is possible to judge a person’s preferences in terms of an engagement ring when you have never gone shopping for one with them before. But as it turns out, while it is true that you are likely to never have gone shopping for rings with your loved one, chances are high that you would have spend time together discussing your interests, and it is from the information that you would have gathered from such discussions that should give you hints to what your love one’s preferences in terms of an engagement ring would be.

If your loved one, for instance, is someone with a love for history, tradition and classic things, an ‘antique’ engagement ring (like the old mine cut diamond engagement ring) would surely be a good option to thing about. If on the other hand your loved one is a person who has shown preference for things modern – with very little attachment to things sentimental, a more contemporary engagement ring like the oval modern cut or better still the cushion cut would probably be something better to think about.

While still thinking of your loved one’s preferences when shopping for an engagement ring, it is important to make an effort to remember what colors they seem to have a liking for (about which you can get a hint from their choice of clothing, for instance) as well as what material she would prefer, as there is a person who will simply not look at ‘anything less than diamond’ when thinking of an engagement ring choice, with yet another person who will tend to consider such diamond as a bit too extravagant and therefore uncomfortable to ‘flash around.’

Having made up on a choice of an engagement ring, the next step in the shopping process will naturally be to go visiting the various outlets (both online and offline, if you want the widest variety to choose from), where you can get the engagement rings on offer, and get one that is as close to that ideal you have come up with – of course within the confines of your budget. If you opt for a high end engagement ring, ensure you get it from a reputable store to avoid a situation where you end up with an embarrassing counterfeit.

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Posted in Buying Diamond Jewellery, Diamond Engagement Rings

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Emerald Cut Diamond

August 17th, 2009
Emerald Cut Diamond

Emerald Cut Diamond

The emerald cut was, perhaps not surprisingly, initially developed for cutting emeralds and not diamonds. 

The emerald cut is characterised by its stepped, rectangular cut (although it can be more square) and the cropped corners.  The cut was found to be suitable for the Emerald which had more tendency to chip at the edges and corners due to the imperfections occurring naturally within its structure.

For a diamond to be an “emerald cut” it needs to have a higher level of clarity, simply because of the large facets exposing the inner diamond with less reflected light than more traditional cuts (e.g. the round or brilliant cut).

The most classical of emerald cuts has a proportion of around 1.3 to 1.4 in length to width.  Due to the wide open facets a high quality diamond, one  with colour grades D or E and with maybe VS1 or better clarity, produces an especially stunning emerald cut.  The picture shown above is an emerald cut of 7.56 carats, a superb example of just how beautiful this type of diamond cut can be.  But of course you will need substantial financial resources as high quality diamonds of this size are not cheap.

Such is the beauty of the large emerald cut diamond that it has been the choice of many high profile celebrities, here are just a few of them:

  • Camila Parker-Bowles
  • Sharon Stone
  • Jennifer Lopez
  • Paris Hilton
  • Grace Kelly

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How much should you spend on engagement rings?

August 17th, 2009

To help you decide on how much to spend and browse some amazing designs check out our blog page …  Where to buy diamond jewellery

The betrothed couple has to decide how much they are ready to spend for their engagement ring. It is true that in most of the cases, the man decides on the type of engagement ring. The amount is equally shared between the couple and hence it is imperative that they select an engagement ring which is well within their budget.

We have heard so many statements like spending a two months salary for an engagement ring etc. The couple would obviously not want to begin their life by getting into debt just for buying expensive engagement rings. Hence, it becomes vital and necessary to go in for something which is not too expensive. A large diamond encompassed in a precious metal is not definitely a symbol of commitment and great love. Life’s priorities and budget constraints may not always permit us to buy an expensive diamond engagement ring. The other overhead expenses like insurance also need to be taken into consideration when you are going in for a costly engagement ring.

So then, how do we decide the budget for an engagement ring? The average price is somewhere around £3000 to £4000. The cost varies depending on the size and quality. The metal selected for the setting and also intricate designs would cost you more. The range would start from a few hundred pounds and go up to £5000 for a quarter carat diamond which would be set in 12 to 14 carat gold. Platinum is one of the more expensive metals and is also more heavy than gold, a factor to consider in larger designs.

If you are really stinking rich, then you can think of buying a £ 5000 worth diamond. Do not measure your love by the carat weight of diamonds.  We also know what happened to Liz Taylor and Richard Burton. Before proceeding to the jeweler store, be clear about what you are looking out for. Talk with your partner as to the budge and how it is going to be split. You could also speak to friends and relatives who have been recently engaged and the place of purchase of their engagement ring.

Speak to relatives and close associates on how much the budget should be for the engagement ring? This piece of valuable advice could help you save considerable amount of money. You could also browse the net and get an idea on the prices, patterns and designs. There are discounts which are offered by many reputed jeweler stores.

Last but not the least; make the right choice of selecting an engagement ring which suits your pocket. Later you could always upgrade it once you feel you are financially sounder to buy the expensive diamond ring.

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