Wedding Breeze

What are the Diamond Shapes in engagement rings and their benefits?

When it comes to engagement rings, there are a multitude of style and shapes to choose from. Some affect the hand in different ways. Others have the advantage of making the rock appear to be larger than it actually is. Here is a very brief overview of several engagement ring styles, but be sure to do your research on your own to select the style that is right for you and your bride.

Keep in mind that in addition to the shape of the cut, the depth of the cut is also important in determining the quality of the stone. Make sure that you select a ring that has very nice symmetry and balance, rather than one that is too deep or too shallow.

Round
The round cut is the most popular. Basically, the top of the diamond is drilled in a circle so that it can be round. The benefit of the round cut is that six prongs usually hold it, which decreases the probability of it falling out of the setting.

Princess
The princess cut is the square-top cut that was made popular by Tiffany’s. The major benefit of the square cut is that it is trendy, attractive and full of color. However, because it is held in place using only four prongs, it can be easily lost if any of the prongs come loose.

Oval
The Oval ring is one of the less popular options, as most brides prefer the round cut. However, the benefit of the oval ring is that the length helps to elongate the hand while the softness helps to add a degree of character.

Pear
The pear shaped engagement ring is one of the least-popular options. In fact, it is so frequently not chosen, that many jewelry stores do not even carry it in stock. If you would like a pear-shaped ring, chances are high that you will have to either go online or special order your ring.

Marquis
The marquis shape is an oval with tips. It not only helps to make the hand appear longer and slimmer, but it also makes the diamond appear larger than it actually is. Marquis are a very popular cut, but are not liked by all brides.

When determining which cut is right for your bride, it is probably important to take a good look around at available options. There are plenty of options with engagement rings even if you go the ‘I’ll design my own engagement ring’ route.

What are the Current Engagement Ring Trends?

When it comes to engagement rings, there are changes in trends every decade. There was a time when everyone wanted a pear-shaped diamond. Now, many stores do not even stock the pear-shaped diamond. Once, everyone wanted ornate engagement rings. Now, brides are preferring to have very simple and streamlined designs.

Here is an overview of some of the most important trends in engagement rings.

1. Princess cut
The princess cut engagement ring is a square-shaped diamond that sits within a normal four-pronged setting. Tiffany’s made this cut very popular with young ladies all over the world. The princess cut is very simple because it only requires four prongs, whereas other shapes use six or more to hold the diamond in place.

When purchasing the princess cut, it is important to look at the color and brilliance of the reflection in order to determine rock quality. The clearer the ring, the more fire it will have when reflected in the sun. Spend some time comparing different princess cuts.

2. Princessa
The princessa cut is basically four small princess-cut rocks that are scaled and fit together to give the illusion of being one large princess-cut stone. While this style has increased in popularity among budget-shoppers, it is often perceived as a “cheap” method of purchasing a ring that you cannot afford. Some couples view it as the equivalent of purchasing a fake diamond – even though all of the princess pieces are genuine diamonds. The reason for this feeling is because the larger rock is meant to look like a 1 carat, for example, but is truly the equivalent of being a 1/2 carat. Most people say, “buy what you can afford, not what you want but can’t afford.”

3. Platinum
Platinum is an alternative to white gold and is more durable and will not dent, like gold could. Therefore, many brides would rather have a platinum band than a gold band. When selecting a platinum band, make sure that your bride likes the color silver and that she has no allergies to consider.

4. Six-pronged round diamond
The six-pronged round diamond has long-been a popular choice in rings among brides around the world. The major benefit of the six-pronged ring is that it is strong. The frequency of a diamond falling out of a six-pronged ring is relatively low, so you can be comfortable with the purchase. The style is also a classic and will be popular for years to come.

The Great Engagement and Wedding Ring Stone Debate
If you are a future-groom on a budget, then chances are high that you have spent countless hours looking around for the perfect engagement ring for your future wife. If you haven’t been looking, then it’s time to hit the shops. You will soon discover that there is more to engagement ring shopping than meets the eye.

When you are looking to purchase that perfect engagement ring, there are a multitude of considerations that you must be aware of if you are going to make an informed decision. You have to think about the color of the metal, the shape of the cut, the size of the diamond and the design of the setting.

One of the most important questions that you will take into consideration, especially if you are on any sort of budget, is the size and quality of the diamond. Diamonds vary greatly in price depending on how many carats they are and what the quality of the cut, clarity and color is. Therefore, it is essential that you perform ample research into what options are available before you hit the stored.

So that you are sure to get the exact  engagement ring that your future fiancé will be enamored with, it is important that you spend time finding out what she likes. Even if you do not openly ask her about the engagement ring style, you should have a good sense of what style jewelry fits her taste. Does she like large pieces? Does she like the modern look? Would she prefer something small and elegant?

Many men find that they must choose between purchasing a larger diamond that has less quality and purchasing a smaller diamond that has greater quality. If you are one of these individuals (most people are) then take a moment to head this advice:

1. The ring can be upgraded. Your diamond ring can always be upgraded years down the road. In fact, many men purchase additional stones for their wives for their anniversaries.
2. The stone can be switched out. You can purchase a stone for a ring now, but then make it into a necklace piece later on.
3. The ring is about your love; not the price of the diamond. Therefore, the diamond you select should be the best representation of how you feel about your future wife (it’s up to you to figure out what that means for you in terms of size and quality.)

No matter what diamond you select, it is important to remember that the engagement ring is about you asking your love to become a part of your life in a very special and intimate way. It’s a symbol of a commitment that you will continue to make for as long as you stay together.

What Engagement Ring Material Should I Choose?

There are three basic types of metal to choose from when it comes to engagement rings. Those include steal, gold and platinum. The most popular choice is a classic gold. Platinum is the next popular and steel is generally chosen either when someone has an allergy or when the couple wants to have alternative settings with the engagement ring and wedding band.

Here is a brief overview of these three common engagement ring metals:

Gold
Gold is, by far, the most popular choice when it comes to engagement and wedding rings. Gold rings come in two varieties: white gold and yellow gold. Additionally, you can purchase pink gold and a variety of shades of yellow gold. Gold can be purchased by the carat. The higher the carat is, the softer and more expensive the gold piece will be. 12 carat gold is the most common engagement ring choice, but it goes up to 24 carat for the very fine rings. However, it is recommended that you do not go quite as high because it is important that your engagement ring is durable and will last for generations with out getting dented or bent.

Platinum
Platinum is a popular option for couples that either have allergies to gold or want a stronger metal. Platinum is often more expensive than gold, but it also is more durable and has nearly the same color as white gold (the color is silver). Platinum does not bed as easily as gold. Thus, if you think that the diamond you purchase will be expensive, it might be a good idea to investigate the price of Platinum as well. Platinum has less chance of the setting bending, which would result in a lost stone.

Steel
Most engagement rings are not actually made of steel. However, steel wedding bands are relatively popular among men and women. Steel wedding bands are hypoallergenic and are extremely durable.

Titanium
Titanium is a newer, more expensive wedding band material that some couples enjoy. Titanium has the color of chrome and is stronger than steel. Many couples prefer the stronger metal because they believe that it is an allegory for the strength of a relationship.

While there are a multitude of engagement ring metals to choose from, it is important that you do your research into each type so that you can purchase a ring that is right for you and your future spouse. The ring should be a testament to the bond that the two of you share. As such, make it special!

The Benefits of Surprising her with an Engagement Ring

When you decide to propose to the woman that you love, chances are certain that you have a significant degree of unanswered questions that you are dying to sort out. These questions are as basic as, “will she say yes?” and as comprehensive as, “How am I going to follow through with the proposal?” One of the most important questions that you will likely ask is, “Will I take her ring shopping, or will I go at it alone?”

The answer to this question will be different for different folks. One guy might know that is future wife desperately wants to select the ring on her own. Another guy might not have a clue. Here are some tips to help you sort out the answer to the age-old question: Do I surprise her with the  engagement ring or let her select it?

1. What colors is her jewelry?
This is an easy-to-answer question that can help to narrow down your search results. Some women prefer white gold, while others prefer yellow gold. The difference between the two colors can mean the difference between a future-wife who has matching jewelry and a future wife that has one piece always off. Also, you will want to ensure that she has no gold allergies. In the event that she does, you will have to select a platinum band.

2. What shape does she like?
Diamonds come in a wide variety of shapes – from princess (square) to round and oblique. The shape of an engagement ring is often somewhat important to brides, as it is a matter of personal preference and taste. The shape of the ring is something that you may want to be sure of before making the investment into the ring.

3. How many carats will she want?
Some brides like small engagement rings. Others like large diamonds. Your bride will most likely have a preference, but she may not outwardly tell you because she does not want you to feel obligated to expend lots of cash on her. Therefore, it is important that you ask her friends to investigate the matter. Remember that you can always upgrade the size of the ring to a larger one once you have made the initial purchase.

4. Will she want to be surprised?
Many brides, no matter how in love and particular, enjoy being surprised by their significant others. Therefore, she will not want to know in advance what ring you select. It is important that you know if your future fiancé would rather be surprised or selective before you make your decision.

Purchasing your engagement ring is perhaps the most important decision that you will make in the early stages of your proposal. The engagement ring will be a symbol for your love and commitment and should be something that you are both proud to share together. If you are not sure whether or note she wants to be surprised, then ask either her or her friends. The answer is important.

The Benefits of Having Your Intended Pick the Engagement Ring

If your future spouse is very particular about her jewelry selection, then chances are good that she will want to play a key role in the selection of her engagement ring. Determining what kind of lady your future spouse is will be important when first deciding whether or not you want to involve her in the engagement ring selection process. After all, you know her well, but when it comes to engagement rings, you are both are new territory with each other.

It is important that you ask your future bride if she wants to play a role prior to taking her to the jewelry shop or to keeping her out of the selection process. If you are unsure, then ask her friends what she might like. Next, spend some quality time with her alone in the shop looking at sizes, style and colors. If you have a budget, don’t tell her. Let her look around on her own first, then look for rings within your price range.

If you are unsure as to whether or not your future bride will want to play a role in the selection process, then review these few benefits of having your future bride select the ring on her own.

1. She will get the cut she wants.
Many brides have strong opinions when it comes to the cut of the ring. The cut of the ring is the shape of the diamond and it varies greatly across the board. Some women love the round cut, while others love the idea of having a square diamond. You will not have to bear the guilt or uncertainty of selecting a ring that she will not like if she selects the cut on her own.

2. You know you have the right color.
Just about every woman chooses to wear either one color of jewelry or another. Some women wear silver while others wear gold. Likewise, some women prefer platinum to anything else. When you take your future bride to the shop, she can help you learn which color ring she likes best. Even if she does not select the final ring, at least you will know you have gotten the color right.

3. She will select the size.
Many men are not sure what size they should select for their engagement rings. Some women like big diamonds and others find them to be gaudy. When your future bride selects the ring on her own, she is able to tell you what size she prefers, helping to leave out any room for uncertainty on your end.

There are many benefits to having your future bride select her engagement ring. However, you have to sacrifice and element of surprise when you let her know in advance that an engagement is on the way. Weight the benefits against the downfalls to make a decision that is right for you two.

The reception is traditionally the part of the ceremony that guests enjoy the most. Not just for the eating and drinking, but because they will have the opportunity to mingle with others as well. Also, the reception is technically the first party that you and your fiance will host as husband and wife. You have your heart set on the absolute best place for your wedding.

To determine the right place for your wedding reception, you have to consider the following:

Do you want an indoor or outdoor reception? In order to host a garden reception, it is necessary to consider the weather. Either spring or summertime are the best choices if you are having a garden wedding, as bad weather is less frequent. You could also try renting a roof deck area that can accomodate everyone. Just think of the lovely view everyone will have. If you plan to have an indoor reception instead, there are lots of options to choose from. Almost all hotels and country clubs offer banquet halls and function rooms for wedding receptions, although you have to book early for this.

If you want to cut back on the expense, you can always have your wedding reception in your house, or your partner’s, if it is big enough. You can go through the list of relatives too, as one of them could be pleased to let you use their place for your reception. Imagine the savings that you will have by not having to pay for the venue. Something else you can do to ease the burden on your finances is to balance things according to importance for you. For example, there’s nothing wrong with opting to spend more money on the location of your wedding by spending less on other things. In this spirit, there are many gorgeous yet cheap wedding dresses, cheap tuxedos, and cheap wedding shoes that you can choose from.

Will your wedding be a formal affair? A lot of formal weddings hold the reception inside opulent banquet halls. Formal dress will most likely be best inside. For a more relaxed ceremony, you could opt for a beachfront venue. The relaxed, island vibe to be had on the sand will do better with a casual wedding reception.

Where will your guests come from? If many of them will be coming in from out of town, it will make it more convenient for them if you book a location that is in a hotel where they can stay before and after the event. And as inviting as it may seem to have your wedding in a picturesque Italian castle, it wil only cause problems if most of the people you are inviting are from the United States and will have to spend a great deal to get to the event.

How much do you want to spend? Some couples go so overboard with planning for the dresses and the wedding proper, and neglect to opt for a quality cheap plus size wedding gown or inexpensive bouquet instead, that they forget to provide enough of a budget for the reception. Certain venues feature package deals that include the food and drink, entertainment and decor; and others have you take care of that on your own. To find a location that you can afford, look around the area, flip through magazines, or search the internet. You can find many websites that list places and eateries for you to have your reception in.

Choose unusual locations. Instead of booking the usual banquet halls, you can hold your reception in a local aquarium, inside a museum or planetarium. With a little digging, you’d be surprised at the places that will agree to host your reception, maybe with just a little extra fee.

Is the Quality of the Engagement Ring Really that Important?

The quality of the ring means the quality of the stone, the setting and the band. As with any jewelry, the quality is an entirely subjective consideration and needs to be worked out by individual couples. However, the ring will last longer and be more attractive if the quality is high. Furthermore, many people view their engagement rings as testaments of their love for each other. As such, as ring with a high quality will be a testament to the high quality of the relationship.

Here is a brief overview of the three types of ring quality that you will need to keep in mind when ring shopping:

1. Diamond Quality
Diamond quality is measured by the cut, carat, color and fire of the diamond. The higher the carat, the higher the quality. Likewise, the more color that you have, the better to cut. The idea is to have a very clear diamond – almost so that you can look straight through it without seeing any disruption in the quality.

It is always a good idea to purchase a certified diamond if you want to be sure that you are getting the best diamond possible. Diamond certifications come with an image of the diamond as well as all of the specifications about the diamond, such as the cut, color, brilliance, depth and more.

2. Setting Quality
The quality of the setting is important because it means that your diamond will not fall out if you have a strong setting, therefore, be sure to consult with a certified jeweler to ensure that you purchase the highest-quality setting possible. The setting, of course, should match the band in color. However, you can purchase two different metals for the band and the setting. For example, you can purchase a soft gold for the band and steel for the setting to ensure that the setting is solid, even if you want the classic gold metal for the band.

3. Band Quality
The quality of the band is important because it will help to ensure that your ring not only lasts for generations, but also that your ring continues to look stellar. Gold is the standard when it comes to engagement rings. However, gold is a very soft metal and tends to bend and get dinged up. Therefore, many couples choose to have steel or titanium wedding and engagement bands because they are more durable.

The quality of the ring that you select is entirely dependant upon your personal preference. While many couples prefer high quality engagement rings, if you are on a budget, you might have more restrictions that keep the quality in the mid-level range. Therefore, the decision needs to be based both on your desire as well as your abilities. Remember: you can always upgrade your ring for an anniversary gift years down the line.

Do I Need to Have the Engagement Ring when I Propose?

Believe it or not, a surprising number of men and women propose to their future spouses without having the ring. For whatever reason, the person proposing pops the question without having the ring.

Many times, the proposal comes at the last minute before a long trip, or on a whim at a time when both members are entirely happy with each other. Other times, the man want sot express his desire to marry the women, but wants her to make the ring selection. Still other times, the man simply forgets to bring the ring. For whatever reason, proposals sans engagement ring occur more than you might imagine.

One of the major benefits of proposing without a ring is that your future bride will have the opportunity (and invitation) to select exactly the engagement ring that she likes. She will select the color, size and design that best suits her personality and your budget.

You do, however, run the risk of coming across as unprepared and insincere when you pop the question without a ring. In order to dispel any inclination that you are not entirely sure of the engagement, it is important that you at least have a well-prepared statement to accompany the proposal, such as, “I’m madly in love with you. I know you would want to select the engagement ring, but I desperately want to spend the rest of my life with you. Now come, let’s go purchase the most perfect ring to highlight our love.”

Another major benefit of not having to worry about the ring from the onset is that the focus of the engagement is on the shared love between you two. When the ring is present, it is harder for her to turn down your proposal (which can be either good or bad). However, if you propose without the ring, you are assured to get the most sincere answer on her end. If she is truly unsure about your shared future, then she will have a better chance of turning you down if she knows that you have not gone through the trouble of purchasing a ring.

On the contrary, many women will be insulted if you do not take the time to shop for her. The point of a proposal is that you want your future spouse to feel special and honored to be proposed to. It is important that you ensure your future spouse that you love her and truly want her to be with you. Let her know that it is important to you that she selects the ring on her own and that the lack of a ring doesn’t represent the lack of a strong desire to be married to her.

Can I Upgrade my engagement Ring?

If you are considering purchasing an engagement ring but are on a budget, keep in mind that you can always upgrade the ring at a later time. In fact, most couples choose to upgrade the ring for an important anniversary or milestone that they set.

There are several things that you can do when you upgrade the ring. The first one is to keep the same ring, but add more stones, add a different setting or adjust the stone that you already have. The second thing to do is to purchase a whole new stone. And the third is to convert the ring that you currently have into another piece of jewelry, such as a necklace. Here is some advice to help you make the best decision, no matter which one you go for:

1. Upgrading the same ring:
If you choose to keep the same ring and diamond, then you should know that there are several options for the upgrade. The first option, and the most popular, is to have a jeweler install stones on the band of the ring. You can install just about any kind of stone in any design that you desire. The second most popular upgrade is to integrate the wedding band with the engagement ring. This usually means fusing the two items, but you can also opt to have another wedding band made that adds a level of high design.

2. If you were unable to purchase an expensive stone the first time you gave your wife her engagement ring, then now is the time to take that stone and give it an upgrade. You can keep the same ring and the same setting, but purchase either a larger stone or a stone with higher quality. Purchasing a more expensive stone will increase the value of your ring (so you should also notify your insurance company of the change.)

3. If you upgrade the stone, then many couples choose to keep the old stone, but turn it into another type of jewelry, such as a necklace. If you purchased a three-stone engagement ring, then make the larger stone into a necklace and the two smaller stones into diamond-stud earrings. You can add additional stones and dress the piece up more as well.

The most important thing to remember when upgrading your engagement ring is that the piece of jewelry is a testament to the love that you and your wife share. Take the ownership and upgrading of it as seriously as you take the commitment that you share.