Getting prepared for your wedding ceremony is a very stressful job both for the groom and the bride. There are so many details that need to be worked out and as a result, many couples even become disillusioned under so much pressure from their family and friends. If you think about it, you will quickly see that the expenses as well as the effort that need to be maintained are very great. However, one of the more joyful events in preparing for the wedding is buying the engagement ring. It signals a special beginning in the relationship and it signifies a special climax that will be reached over time.
Of course, buying the engagement ring is the responsibility of the groom. He will have to choose an engagement ring that will be well received by the soon “bride to be”. Of course, when the concept of engagement ring is mentioned, most people will automatically think about diamond rings. Traditionally speaking diamond rings have been the first choice for many men buying engagement ring to the women that they love. Of course, diamond rings is not the only choice for grooms, as you can just think of buying a gold ring as an engagement ring. However, it is safe to say that many women will expect a diamond ring as their engagement ring.
Fortunately for you, there are scores of different grades and types of diamond engagement rings that you can purchase for your lover. Of course, when you are out shopping for a diamond ring, there are several important criteria that you need to watch out for. First of all, the value of any diamond ring is determined through the value of its diamond. In order to assess the value of a diamond, you have to understand the factors that affect its value namely: cut, clarity, color and carat weight.
The most expensive and the most valuable diamonds are definitely those that are purely clear and cut properly. The color of the diamond is also an important factor as the most expensive diamonds are those that are colorless. If a diamond has a tint of color in it, it will become less expensive as a result. Of course, totally colorless diamonds are quite rare and they are usually very expensive as a result. However, if you are planning to buy an engagement ring for your “wife to be”, you can easily buy a lightly tinted diamond ring which will be much more cheaper. Usually some yellow tint is preferred in engagement rings.
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.
Both George Meszaros & James Wattvord are contributors for EditorialToday. The above articles have been edited for relevancy and timeliness. All write-ups, reviews, tips and guides published by EditorialToday.com and its partners or affiliates are for informational purposes only. They should not be used for any legal or any other type of advice. We do not endorse any author, contributor, writer or article posted by our team.
James Wattvord has sinced written about articles on various topics from Engagement Rings. James Wattvord is a freelance content writer, specialising in Jewellery diamonds related matters.He has published many articles on diamond industry and diamond engagement ring. James Wattvord's top article generates over 8100 views. Bookmark James Wattvord to your Favourites.
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