BRIDES-TO-BE HAVE MORE OPTIONS THAN EVER WHEN IT COMES TO THE RING
It’s more than a ring. It’s the promise of a future filled with love and happiness, tears and joy, all with the most wonderful man in the world. So why shouldn’t your ring be the most wonderful ring in the world, too? And with today’s styles and multitude of choices, there is sure to be a perfect ring out there just for you.
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Many of today’s brides-to-be love the tradition of engagement rings, but they don’t want their rings to look traditional. Many women are opting to make a statement with their bands, opting for a variety of styles: colored stones, classic solitaires, unique cuts, vintage looks or family heirlooms.
Of course, the classic — the round brilliant cut — is always in style.
“Simple, tailored styles are popular and the round brilliant cut fits well in this design, whether in a simple solitaire setting or in a halo ring, which has a circle of diamonds around the center stone,” said Jennifer Lance of Heritage Jewelers.
Brides are also influenced by engagement rings adorning the fingers of popular figures such as Princess Diana and Kate Middleton, both of whom selected sapphires and diamonds.
Colored stones combined with diamonds are popular and make for beautiful and very personal engagement rings.
“People want to do something personal,” said Rebecca Lovette of Forsythe Jewelers, who added that many men love blue stones and combining sapphires with diamonds creates a stylish, chic ring. Also popular, she said, is incorporating the bride’s birthstone into the ring’s design.
And what about mixing metals? Whether in the engagement ring along or adding bands in contrasting yellow or white gold, using a variety of metal hues can make your sparkler truly pop. While white gold is still the metal of choice for engagement and wedding rings, yellow gold is making a comeback. Don’t forget about rose gold; the feminine, rosy color complements all skin tones and is increasingly popular.
Stacked rings also are totally customizable, making for a wider look with the option of mixing metals. “Diamonds can be put into a simple setting, and then you can do something fun with the bands,” Lovette said. “You can also add to or change out the bands later to update the look.”
But in the end, everone is different and jewelers must understand their client’s personal style when helping them select a ring. “The type of ring depends on lifestyle and how much use the ring will get,” said Laurie McKenzie of Forsythe Jewelers.
Vintage-inspired trends means brides can have new rings but still incorporate that Old-World feel. Many families pass diamonds down through generations, simply changing out the setting so each new bride has a custom, personalized ring.
No matter the look you and your fiancé choose, it’s important to do your research and understand the value of the stones you are buying.
“An engagement ring is an investment,” Lance said. “It’s important to be educated about the stone and know what you’re getting for your money.”
