Engagements are one of the most exciting life events - whether it’s you and your loved one, or a much loved family member or friend. Unsurprisingly, many people choose Christmas time to propose, due to the special festivities of the occasion, as well as it being more practical to sneakily buy a ring! Choosing the ring itself is a huge task - not only does it symbolise your love for your partner, but they’ll be wearing it for the rest of their life.
Diamonds Are Forever
Diamond engagement rings didn't become the norm until the early 20th Century, due to one famous American jeweller creating the association ‘Diamonds are forever’ that we know today. Before then, rings were passed down through family generations, or the gem used was the bride’s birthstone. Now, however, diamonds are the focal point of an engagement ring - another gem might be interpreted simply as a very nice gift. There’s still plenty of choice to be had when choosing your ring, from different cuts of diamond to selecting the perfect style. Be sure that your diamonds are ethically sourced, as many ‘blood diamonds’ are sourced in conflict zones, where workers are heavily exploited and underpaid.
Choosing a Cut and Style
Ultimately, the size and clarity of the gemstone you choose affects what kind of cut you can have. If your partner is a little bohemian, uncut diamonds can look beautiful, creating a more translucent gem rather than a shiny one. For a chic look, an emerald or cushion cut highlights the diamond’s brilliance, as well as looking beautiful either on its own or with additional detail on the band. A traditional favourite is the princess cut, which is small enough to be practical in everyday wear, while also cut to be especially sparkly. Pear or oval cuts are very popular on vintage style rings, which really stand the test of time - a bonus is that they direct attention along the finger, elongating the hand.
Making It BespokeIf you’re looking to really match your partner’s personality, take a start by looking at some of their favourite jewellery if you can - get a sense of the sorts of colours and styles they like. After all, if your loved one loves baking bread, a massive ring isn't practical! Mode Diamonds, like many jewellers, have a basic range of rings that you can then customise to your partner’s tastes. From Sapphire engagement rings to a range of bespoke Diamond cuts. Be sure to keep the metal of the band, and the colour of the diamond in-keeping with their existing jewellery so everything goes together. For an extra touch, you can have the band engraved - with how you feel, you and your partner’s names, or a special date to commemorate the occasion.
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Image Source - Mode Diamonds |
Diamonds Are Forever
Diamond engagement rings didn't become the norm until the early 20th Century, due to one famous American jeweller creating the association ‘Diamonds are forever’ that we know today. Before then, rings were passed down through family generations, or the gem used was the bride’s birthstone. Now, however, diamonds are the focal point of an engagement ring - another gem might be interpreted simply as a very nice gift. There’s still plenty of choice to be had when choosing your ring, from different cuts of diamond to selecting the perfect style. Be sure that your diamonds are ethically sourced, as many ‘blood diamonds’ are sourced in conflict zones, where workers are heavily exploited and underpaid.
Choosing a Cut and Style
Ultimately, the size and clarity of the gemstone you choose affects what kind of cut you can have. If your partner is a little bohemian, uncut diamonds can look beautiful, creating a more translucent gem rather than a shiny one. For a chic look, an emerald or cushion cut highlights the diamond’s brilliance, as well as looking beautiful either on its own or with additional detail on the band. A traditional favourite is the princess cut, which is small enough to be practical in everyday wear, while also cut to be especially sparkly. Pear or oval cuts are very popular on vintage style rings, which really stand the test of time - a bonus is that they direct attention along the finger, elongating the hand.
Making It BespokeIf you’re looking to really match your partner’s personality, take a start by looking at some of their favourite jewellery if you can - get a sense of the sorts of colours and styles they like. After all, if your loved one loves baking bread, a massive ring isn't practical! Mode Diamonds, like many jewellers, have a basic range of rings that you can then customise to your partner’s tastes. From Sapphire engagement rings to a range of bespoke Diamond cuts. Be sure to keep the metal of the band, and the colour of the diamond in-keeping with their existing jewellery so everything goes together. For an extra touch, you can have the band engraved - with how you feel, you and your partner’s names, or a special date to commemorate the occasion.
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I've never owned a diamond. Maybe I should put it on my Christmas list!
ReplyDeleteOooh very fancy, fancy! So many shiny sparkles!
ReplyDeleteLiquid Grain
I agree a customised ring has a lot of meaning attached to it. I have a customised ring, and it has great sentimental value to me. I treated myself quite a few years ago to buying a loose diamond on holiday in Amsterdam later I had it created into a ring at Birmingham's Jewellery Quarter.
ReplyDeleteAngela - Garden Tea Cakes and Me
I've not got an engagement ring and the only ring I have is one my partner designed for me and I hate it haha thankfully it wasn't too expensive as it just sits in box now. Probably best to discuss rings with potential new fiancé to make sure they will like what you have in mind ;)
ReplyDeleteMy engagement ring was made using a family diamond and designed by my Fiance. It is beautiful.
ReplyDeleteA bespoke ring is so meaningful x
I wouldn't know where to start in choosing an engagement ring - knowing me I'd just go for something I liked haha. x
ReplyDeleteGreat post dear! Have a wonderful day:)
ReplyDeleteirenethayer.com
I would have loved something bespoke, but I do love the ring the husbeast chose. So I am lucky in that respect
ReplyDeleteVery nice I have to say would not change my rings as do love mine but if my hubby would get me another well I would not mind as they are so nice.
ReplyDeleteI don't think I will ever get married, but I do want a beautiful ring to wear as a sign of commitment
ReplyDeleteSome very pretty rings in your photo there. It seems like engagements are in the air at the moment. Two of my close family members have popped the question recently!
ReplyDeleteHubby chose my engagement ring but we did have our wedding rings bespokely made
ReplyDeleteBeautiful rings and a lovely post. Have a great day
ReplyDeleteSome pretty rings here. I have a platinum diamond ring, but I wish with hindsight that I'd gone for gold as it suits my skin colour better.
ReplyDeleteoh I would adore to be able to make my own i am super picky and even though it love the one i have its not 100%!
ReplyDeleteOoh pretty! I like coloured stones myself, and would love something bespoke as I like things that are a bit quirky!
ReplyDeleteAn engagement ring would be awesome... One like these would be amazing!
ReplyDeleteGosh they are truly beautiful.
I love the diamonds are forever style rings.
Great post hun
Charlotte x
I've always thought the reason men pick Christmas as a good time to propose, is so that they can remember when it was, if anyone asks in the future!
ReplyDelete