Engagement Rings

Engagement rings are essentially comprised of two parts: a diamond (center stone) and a setting. There are endless possibilities when selecting an engagement ring for your significant other, so it is best to keep in mind that setting and diamond combinations are quite flexible and with the right assistance, you will be able to find the perfect fit within your target price range.

I. Budget

One of the first things you should consider when choosing an engagement ring is your budget. Whether you want to spend two thousand dollars on a ring or twenty thousand, we guarantee you that you will find something that works just right for the both of you. It is definitely best to know what your price range is so that you can decide on the color and clarity of the diamond, as well as the variety of metal types and setting styles that may be of interest to you. Ideally, you want to choose something of great value and quality at a reasonable price.

II. Metals

1. Platinum is an exquisite silver-white colored metal that is considered to be the most valued precious metal due to its rarity and durability. It is usually composed of 95% platinum and 5% other pure alloys. Platinum is rising in popularity and demand for diamond engagement rings because of its tenacity, being highly resistant to damage and discoloration.
2. Yellow gold is a classic choice of metal for engagement rings and is the closest to resembling the natural color of gold. The purity of gold is expressed in karats (k or kt) such as 14k, 18k or 24k. Although 24k gold is the purest gold, it is too soft to be used for jewelry. So gold metal engagement rings are usually only offered in 14k or 18k, and deciding between the two will be largely based on personal preference. 18k gold is composed of 75% gold and 25% pure alloys. 14k is composed of 58.3% gold and 41.7% pure alloys. Both 14k and 18k gold metal bands will be easy to polish and repair, and will be resistant to rust and tarnishing. 18k gold will be richer in color than 14k, but 14k is a lot stronger and durable because of its hardness.
3. White gold is a metal of high value but is less expensive than platinum. Although it closely resembles platinum, it is comprised of mostly the same properties as yellow gold with added mixtures of different metals such as nickel, zinc and palladium. Choosing a white gold band for an engagement ring will enhance the brilliance of diamonds with color grades D, E, F, G, H and I. Unlike platinum, white gold does have the tendency to fade and develop a slightly yellow color since it is composed of 75% yellow gold. Most white gold bands are plated with rhodium, a shiny white metal, to prevent fading. However, over a long period of time, rhodium eventually begins to wear away but re-plating is always possible. White gold is available in 14k or 18k.

III. Setting Types

Bezel Setting

1. Simplistic and durable setting
2. Metal frame (gold or platinum) wraps around the diamond
3. Securely fits every diamond shape
4. Bezel set diamond will appear larger, if used with white gold or platinum metal

Pave Setting

1. Decorative and distinct setting, enhances shine and brilliance of ring overall
2. Multiple small stones set close together, very close to the ring’s surface
3. Stones are locked into place with small prongs
4. Can be combined with other setting styles

Prong Setting

1. Classic and most common setting
2. Lifted up, exposing most of the diamond’s surfaces
3. Secured by 4 or 6 claws
4. Diamond’s brilliance is maximized, while using a minimum amount of metal

Tension Setting

1. Unique and contemporary setting
2. Diamond is secured and held in place by pressure, without the necessity of prongs
3. Metal is spring loaded to exert pressure and has tiny grooves to lock the diamond’s outer edges
4. Diamond appears to be suspended in the air

IV. Style

Choosing the right style of engagement ring for your significant other is relatively easy. The ring should not only be a symbol of your love, it should also be a reflection of her personality.

1. Diamond solitaire engagement rings are simplistic, yet exquisite, focusing on the main diamond or center stone. Solitaires are ideal for women who have appreciated the classics.
2. Pave style diamond engagement rings are perfect for women who like to wear bold and shimmering jewelry. Pave engagement rings are encrusted with small prong set diamonds along the band or surrounding the center stone like a halo.
3. Side stone diamond engagement rings, which feature a pair of diamonds on each side of the center stone, are more contemporary in design. The pair of side stones enhances the overall look of the engagement ring and can be combines with a pave style setting for a more embellished look.
4. Three stone diamond engagement rings, or trilogy rings, are unique, symbolizing the past, present and future of your relationship. Choose this style of engagement ring for your significant other for its meaning, as well as its beauty.