Who Picks the Engagement Ring?
If the groom-to-be wants to surprise his partner with a proposal, he has several options. He can pick out the ring himself or with the help of a trusted friend or family member, he can pick only the central stone and have it placed in a very simple setting, to be changed later, or he can propose without a ring and go shopping for a ring later with his partner. Some people suggest this takes the romance out of an engagement ring, but it does ensure that the bride will be able to pick out a ring she'll be happy wearing every day.Classic Engagement Ring Styles
The traditional engagement ring is a single, brilliant-cut, round diamond on a platinum or gold band, a style that will never go out of fashion. Another classic option is a fancier cut in a similar setting.Some common gem settings are:
- Tiffany setting -- single stone set high.
- Channel setting -- gem set in groove cut into ring.
- Bezel setting -- metal surrounds stone.
- Tension setting -- metal around edges of stone makes it appear to float.
If you want to design your own ring, start by looking at magazines, websites and jewelry stores. You'll end up spending more, but your ring will be unique and very "you." Other current trends in engagement rings include platinum bands (more expensive than gold but more durable), colored stones surrounding the diamond or colored diamond (especially sapphires) and a pave band (set with many little stones)
Picking Out a Diamond
Make sure to educate yourself before picking a diamond -- you'll need to be familiar with the four "C"s:- Color: The more colorless the more valuable, except for fancy colored diamonds.
- Cut: The facet of diamond, otherwise known as how light reaches the eye; rated from Ideal to Poor. Ideal or Very Good are best; those on a budget can consider Good ratings.
- Clarity: The number of flaws or inclusions in the diamond. The fewer, the more valuable.
- Carat weight: The size of the stone.
Classic Wedding Ring Styles
The classic wedding ring is a plain gold band, often engraved with a personal message. You also have the option to include stones, etched designs or different metals. You can select a wedding bands that match each other or match the engagement band or are completely different; your options are open.Some couples even choose a more unique design, such as rings designed to look like bicycle gears or tattooed rings. There's no law that states your engagement ring must be a single diamond on a band or your wedding ring a simple gold band.
Make sure you allow enough time for a custom fit for your ring; usually four to six weeks.
Saving Money on Wedding Jewelry
To save money, consider using a family heirloom if one is available. Wearing your grandmother's wedding band or engagement ring will add a very special personal quality to your event. It's generally not a good idea, however, to use a ring from a previous relationship. Another money-saving option is to wear a costume jewelry necklace or earrings for your ceremony. No one will be the wiser.Other Bridal Jewelry
Although the engagement ring and wedding band are the most important pieces of jewelry involved in your wedding, you'll probably wear some other pieces too. Diamonds and pearls are always a good bet, or gemstones that match your wedding colors. Make sure any necklace goes well with your neckline.Tiaras are another jewelry option, but it's a good idea to keep a tiara understated so you don't look like you're dressed as a princess. Alternately, you could weave strands of pearls or beads through your hair or wear jeweled pins.
North Carolina Jewelers
Brownlee Jewelers: (Charlotte) Fine diamond and bridal jewelry.Ellis Jewelers: (Lexington and Kernersville) Family-owned jeweler.
Kingoff's Jewelers: (Wilmington, NC) Wilmington's leading jeweler.
Wick and Greene Jewelers: (Asheville) Original pieces and popular brands; serving western North Carolina.