Engagement Jewelry

Rose gold, yellow gold, platinum, white gold--on top of choosing a style of diamond cut, deciding on a metal for your engagement ring will heavily influence the aesthetic of the ring and depends both on the style and complexion of your beloved. Gold is available in different shades that varies based on the purity of the gold (ranging most often from 10k to 18k in fine jewelry) and the alloy metal it is mixed with. While having a higher percentage of gold may sound preferable, the gold will be softer and more liable to scratches. Platinum affords a more durable but less pliable alternative to white gold and may not be a suitable upgrade depending on the engagement ring band style you choose.

Diamonds are both a practical choice and a symbolic one. The first advertisement campaign selling diamond engagement rings dates to 1947, marketing the sentiment of a lifelong union with the slogan “A diamond is forever.” It may only have been a clever advertising strategy at the time, but they got the message across: as the toughest material on earth, diamonds truly are symbolic of a lasting relationship that can weather any circumstances at any time. Not only strong, diamonds are also reflective and prismatic, catching the light and sparkling delightfully. The only thing diamonds don’t have in common with your loved one is that they can be bought - the love you share is priceless.

While diamond rings are the most commonly sought, traditional form of engagement rings, there has been a growing trend in gemstone engagement rings. If you’re looking for something nontraditional, consider a sapphire or ruby engagement ring. Sapphires come in a variety of shades, the most common being hues of blue, but pink, orange, and colorless are all readily available. Deep scarlet rubies are the color of love and are favored by those who love intense hues. When choosing a gemstone engagement ring, consult your jeweler first about the stone’s durability; many lovely gemstones are not good options for rings that will be worn daily because they chip or scratch easily. Sapphires and rubies are harder, durable stones that rival diamonds and are therefore excellent choices.