Image Source: www.mdcdiamonds.ca
The simple diamond engagement ring is the classic choice for the symbol of your love and commitment to your other half. A filigree diamond engagement ring is the one that you pick to show the depth of your love through the symbolism of intricate and airy designs of the filigree. By definition, ‘filigree’ refers to a delicate and ornamental design. A filigree diamond engagement ring, thus have very extensive metalwork, that can be of symmetrical or figural in nature.
The extent of the pattern of a filigree diamond engagement ring depends of the size of the ring whereby usually medium or thick rings have elaborate filigrees. Depending on the intricacy of the design, you would want to pick the ring which has the filigrees that serve to accentuate the beautiful diamond. You do not want the intricacy of the filigree designs to be in competition with the beauty of the diamond.
There are many design variations for filigree diamond engagement rings. Simple filigree pattern is one that is located at a specific part of the ring, such as the arch or surrounding area of the center stone. Simple patterns are less detailed but uniquely wonderful if you are looking for simplicity so that eyes will straight away be focused on the diamond. Complex filigree for your diamond engagement ring involves many integrated patterns which may surround the diamond or completely encircle the ring’s band. This type of filigree diamond engagement ring is much more expensive due to the massive detailed of filigrees.
A multiple filigree diamond engagement ring uses several types of filigree designs in different paces. One pattern may be at the arch while another would circle the stone with another one wrapped at the band. The designs of filigrees often flow from one pattern to the next making it a beautiful expression of art. A multi-tone filigree diamond engagement ring uses contrasting metal to make each part of the design stand out. Platinum and yellow gold are often used for this type of design.
With a filigree diamond engagement ring, the meticulously detailed filigree that has interwoven floral and nature inspired engravings will definitely make your future bride-to-be gasp in delight as she slips on the exquisite ring with its lavish presentation that is topped with a diamond. The delicate, intricate designs of a filigree diamond engagement ring signify the beautiful and complex connections between you and your loved one.
Image Source: www.ringoblog.com
Black diamonds were once considered flawed and of no value, but today they are one of the most sought-after gems due to the extraordinary uniqueness that is attached to owning them. However, not all black diamonds are of equal values and thus careful study of the properties of the stones must be done to ensure that they are of high quality and value.
Generally colored diamonds owe their brilliant hues to chemical impurities that grow within the crystal lattice during the diamond formation phase. With black diamonds, this is not the case at all. The dark smoky coloration that you see in the black diamond is actually contributed by the mineral inclusions of iron oxides like magnetite, hematite and sulphide compounds. When present at very high concentrations, the mineral inclusions cloud the stone thus making it turn grey or black. Since mineral inclusions are the cause of the rich black color of the stone, black diamonds are typically opaque. The most expensive ones are translucent or semi-transparent black diamonds.
Do not confuse genuine black diamond with carbonados which are specific kinds of black diamonds that does not hold any true value in the jewelry industry. Though they may be large, they are often porous in nature unlike the true crystalline diamond which is much more appreciated. Unfortunately, carbonados are easily found instead of the true gem-quality black diamonds and they are often used to cut or shape other diamonds.
As always, before purchasing a black diamond engagement ring, check whether the stone has undergone treatments to enhance its color. Make sure that detailed writings of the treatment are noted in the gem’s certificate as the stone may require special care to avoid future damage. Synthetically grown black diamonds are inferior in quality and they have been exposed to heat to achieve the smoky black coloration. Due to the increase demands for black diamonds, heat treatments are often uses on low-quality stones to induce graphite residue to appear in the crystal tinting the stone grey or black.
Black diamonds make a stunning engagement ring especially when set in white metals such as white gold, silver, platinum or titanium. If you and your bride-to-be love cotemporary styles that appreciate the high contrast between the light metal and the dark stone, this is definitely the kind of engagement ring to go for. Not everybody equates a celebration for engagement occasions with the dark mood of black diamond which often signifies mourning, traditionally. Get an idea of what your other half thinks about it first before deciding to buy the mysterious black diamond engagement ring. For bold, strong personalities who love to break the rules, black diamond engagement ring would be the perfect purchase.
Image Source: www.faycullen.com
Looking for an engagement ring that is reminiscent of the peaceful ocean vibe? Aquamarine engagement ring is the one you are looking for. Without the strong blue hue of a sapphire, the aquamarine is the best choice for the symbol of your love to your bride-to-be. The subtle hue of blue of the gemstone is such a gentle and soothing color to the eye that is perfect for the bride with a gentle disposition and a free spirit.
Aquamarine belongs to the beryl family which is closely associated with the emerald. Its name is connected to the water (aqua) and sea (mare). The lighter blue tone that mimics the blue of the sea is often related to mermaid’s precious jewelry and is a lucky charm for sailors. Aquamarine is suitable for a bride born in March and October. Producers of the world’s aquamarines include Brazil, Nigeria, Afghanistan, Zambia and Pakistan.
When one goes on a search for the perfect aquamarine, close attention must be paid to the color of the stone. The light blue hue of the aquamarine is due to the traces amounts of iron, and the color can range from a light sky blue to a deep ocean blue with hints of green. The clearer the blue, the more it is prized for its value. Greenish or yellowish aquamarines are of less value but still are beautiful and a much economical choice for couples with a tight budget. The stones are usually large to hold the deep color saturation and one finds it hard to find a quality aquamarine in a small stone.
Famous for its clear and transparent appearance, aquamarine engagement ring that you should look for must have a uniform flawless color. Inclusions may be present to make the stone look interesting and unique but not to the extent that it takes away much of the value. As the popular shade is light blue, you are able to identify the inclusions fairly easily. Ask for a magnifying loupe from your jeweler to inspect the details of the inclusions. Dark patches within the aquamarine can indicate serious crack that could be undesirable.
Check with your jeweler to find out what type of treatments that your aquamarine has been exposed to and have that put into writing. All aquamarines have been heat-treated to bring out the brilliant blue tones. Depending on your preference, you can have the stone cut to fit your partner’s taste. Most common cuts are of emerald and oval types. To get the better color tone and clarity, invest in a larger stone that allows you to appreciate the depth of color. It is smart idea to purchase the stone first and add the settings later as you are able to inspect the stone properly.
Aquamarines can be set in a variety of different styles that can be customized to suit the taste of your bride-to-be and budget. Tiny diamond accent stones are often used to accentuate the clarity and elegance of the sea-blue aquamarine, accompanied with a white gold metal of choice. Appreciate your partner’s strong connections to the ocean, and her uniqueness by making aquamarine the choice for your engagement ring, a symbol of your undying love and commitment to her.
Image Source: www.rothemcollection.com
If you are looking something that is very exquisite and extremely unique for your token of love and commitment to your other half, a black pearl engagement ring would suit as the perfect choice for that special someone who is the most unique and important person in your life. Known as the Tahitian pearls, these black precious gems are one of the rarest types of pearl in the world. The pearl’s dark discoloration is only produced by Pinctada margaratifara, a black-lipped oyster. The reason that these black pearl are called Tahitian pearls is because they are mostly found in the coral part of the ocean near Tahiti.
The quality of the black pearl is very much connected to its rarity. Since they are of black and dark grey in color, many imperfections are allowed and slightly elongated shapes are used to be set into rings to hide some malformations that may be present. Undesirable details such as bumps, scratches and indentations should be avoided if there are present at the surface of the pearl. Pay close attention to the dark color of the pearl as it has a distinctive color which is the main indicator of its quality. Find for the highest consistency along the entire gem surface.
When you are thinking of the color of the band to be used to set the black pearl, pick white gold or platinum as these colors provide the best contrast to the dark color of the pearl. You can also choose to place tiny accent diamonds surrounding the pearl to give emphasis to the richness of the black pearl’s color. A minimalist preference would be to choose the simplest type of setting to give a subtle elegance to the pearl engagement ring’s appearance. An engagement ring design that focuses on the yin-yang aspect of life can be achieved by using a contrasting white pearl with a black pearl to symbolize the union of both individuals as a committed couple.
It is difficult to find a black pearl because of its rarity but you may get the help of pearl dealers that have been known to keep a collection of pearl that may have a range of black pearl engagement ring to choose from. If finding the true black pearl not the imitation one is high on your priority list, get a trustworthy gem dealer to check for its authenticity and value. Black pearl engagement ring is a sleek, contemporary kind that shows individuality and sophistication, perfectly suitable to represent the rarity of the new couple’s unique love and strong commitment.
Image Source: www.angara.com
Not every women dream of diamonds for her engagement ring. The classic style of using a diamond for engagement rings has been repeated for so long that it has become a predictable and safe choice when one decides to buy the perfect ring. This does not have to be the case, if you and your partner are the kind of people who appreciate the breaking of the standard norm or tradition. Diamonds are not the only options. Pick rubies as it is of one of the many stones there is to show the uniqueness of your personalities.
A really genuine beautiful ruby can be actually more valuable than the good quality diamond. It is considered as the most powerful gem in the universe which is associated with many astral signs. It is often said that to own a ruby means to be in the experience of contentment and peace. What is more perfect for the symbol of your union with your partner than to have her slip on her finger the best stone that denotes perfect love and vitality.
In order for you to find the perfect ruby engagement ring that are said to be the ring of kings which has been well regarded for ages, invest yourself in a good and trustworthy gemologist. Always check for the intensity of color and the size of the stone. A high grade ruby has an intense red color that is never too dark or to light that you confuse it with pink. The carat size of ruby is equally important because large ones are of the rarest kind. The prices of large rubies are of course of the expensive side. Keep in mind that a value of a particular ruby is also determined by its carat weight.
Just like sapphires, rubies are also affected with inclusions. An inclusion-free ruby indicates a highly valuable stone and of course high in pricing. The clarity of rubies is often not as high as other types of stones which make enthusiasts always on a look out for the perfectly transparent red stone. Keep in mind that tiny inclusions do not minimize the beauty of the ruby. Consistency in the color of ruby is important and always choose one that is free from major cracks or fractures that could compromise the stone’s endurance in the future.
Cuts that are common for rubies are oval and cushion. However, you are allowed to choose some other types such as emerald or heart shape. Like sapphires, the rubies which are the most unique are ones that have the star inclusion. A perfect star ruby has six rays that branch out from the core of the stone to shoot out to the perimeter of the cut.
Beware of imitation ruby engagement rings as it is made of artificial glass. Pay attention to the terms that are used by jewelers that indicate whether they are genuine or fake. The fake ones are usually called the cultured or created ruby and physically they are unnaturally huge with a red color that is too strong. Remember to check for the previous treatments that the ruby has been put through and have them identified on the bill of sale.
Image Source: www.montred.com
Choosing gemstones for your engagement rings over the standard diamond types is becoming a trend mostly because with gemstones, they hold a certain uniqueness and symbolism. There are also ethical issues involved with buying diamonds and if you do not want to be in the mix, the gemstone engagement ring is perfect. The affordable prices make them more appealing too with the poor economy backdrop.
Even though diamond rings are still the traditional type one uses for engagement purpose, many people these days are ready to be different and unique in their choices especially when it comes to a once-in-a-life-time commitment to their partners. When you want to indulge the one of a kind personality of your bride-to-be, the best way is to choose a specific gemstone type with a color chosen to meet the preference of your loved one. A gemstone engagement ring can be one that carries more than one colored gemstones accented with smaller diamonds.
One issue that is eliminated when one chooses a gemstone for an engagement ring is the moral concerns especially when you are unsure if you are purchasing a conflict diamond or a blood diamond. If ethical concern is high on your priority list as you do not want be indirectly fueling the market that works through oppression and violence, the gemstone engagement rings relieve you from such dilemma. Discuss with your partner as he or she may have a high moral stance when it comes to matters such as these.
Not everyone can afford the high amount of money to be spent on diamonds for engagement rings. If you have a specific budget that you would like to stick to, but would want an appearance of a diamond on your engagement ring, cubic zirconia is one option to have this without having to pay a high price for it. Remember though you may have to pay more for a high quality gemstone than you would for a diamond that is of low quality.
Gemstones that are popular more than others are rubies, sapphires, pearls, emeralds and amethysts. Many more types are available if you want to widen your scope of choice. There are peridot, garnet, topaz, aquamarine, opal, turquoise, tanzanite and jade. Always check for the color, carat weight, cut, clarity and flaws before you make your decision. There are no rules to choosing a specific gemstone, find one that speaks of your love to your partner by choosing one that complements his or her essence.
Image Source: www.ememe.net
Estate engagement rings are slightly different from true antique engagement rings. The point where they differ is of the aspect of time. An ‘antique’ engagement ring refers to one that has survived more than 50 years of time duration, while an estate engagement ring may simply refer to a used ring or one that has been previously owned that can be bought just a year back. An estate engagement ring can either be a vintage or an antique.
Typically, these rings follow the styles from the time that they belong to. The periods that these estate engagement rings may come from include, Georgian, Early Victorian, Mid-Victorian, Late Victorian, Arts and Crafts, Art Nouveau, Edwardian, Art Deco and Retro. Prices of these rings range from extremely costly to very affordable and anyone of any financial class can own estate engagement rings.
When couples decide to use an estate engagement ring for their special commitment to their partners, they are actually engaging the uniqueness and charm of these rings that offer delicate craftsmanship which are an instant heirloom. One of the most valued estate engagement rings are the estate ruby rings. They are strongly appreciated for their stunning beauty, durability and rarity. They are found in a wide range of colors, mounted either in platinum or gold, these estate engagement rings are especially perfect for those who are born in July as ruby is the month’s birthstone.
There are many choices and defining characteristics that make one estate ring unique to the next and you are able to have a taste of its timeless elegance no matter which specific style it carries. Generally, when you are out looking for the perfect one, focus on factors such as the diamond shape if you prefer diamonds, its settings, gemstones, and metal of choice that suit the personality of the wearer and of course falls in your budget range.
Estate engagement rings are the best option for couples who appreciate their uniqueness. While it is exciting to get one for your special day, careful inspection to know the specific details of the ring such as a recent appraisal, original certificate and documentation to establish its authenticity and value are of importance so that you are not tricked into buying an inferior quality ring that may contain fake stones with poor workmanship.
Image Source: www.topazery.com
By definition, filigree is associated with any delicate and intricate ornamentation in gold, silver or platinum. For many brides-to-be who want something more complex than just the modern diamond ring, filigree engagement rings offer that in their designs as they carry a physical intricate expression of love and commitment.
The extensive metal work which is frequently seen in these rings is in symmetrical or figural patterns. Medium or thick rings have much elaborate filigree and they may or may not use gemstones in the designs depending on the intricacy. A complex pattern may be unique on its own without the necessity of gemstones. Sometimes, the filigree’s fine details are just what you need to notice without being distracted by the presence of gemstones.
Depending on the couple’s wedding budget, there are many designs for filigree engagement rings for them to choose from. There are simple filigree, complex filigree, multiple filigree and multi-tone filigree. A simple filigree engagement ring uses a less detailed filigree pattern that is located at a specific part of the ring.
Complex filigree engagement rings are quite detailed normally includes various integrated patterns that are surrounded by gemstones. Celtic engagement rings are an example of complex filigree patterns. Multiple filigree patterns uses several filigree patterns in different parts of the ring, where one may be tucked into the ring’s arch while another wraps around the band. Multi-tone filigree patterns use contrasting metals for each portion of the design to make it stand out better than using the same metal.
Whether your bride-to-be adores simple or complex filigree designs on her engagement ring, you will indeed find some unique filigree engagement ring designs perfect for her personal style.
Image Source: www.topazery.com
Edwardian designs use platinum and diamonds to create intricate and delicate filigree patterns that resemble lace. Hallmark of the Edwardian jewelry is light and airy designs. Edwardian engagement rings particularly embrace the romantic and beauty aspects of the era. An antique Edwardian engagement ring is such a unique piece to share with your partner to mark the occasion for marriage.
The styles that one commonly notices of the Edwardian engagement rings include the elaborate filigree patterns, the use of tiny accented stones around the center stone, romantic imagery and simple round diamond shapes. It is hard to find for an antique of such rings but with patience and some hard work, you may find them in estate sales or private collections.
To find them at the estate sales usually is troublesome unless you know a jeweler that deals with estate pieces. Relatives or agents of the estate sale cannot provide you the history of an antique or appraise its value. It is much more convenient to acquaint yourself with someone with expertise in this area. Know what type of setting or metal you prefer, carats, quality and price range that you are comfortable with.
Edwardian engagement rings embody the romanticism of its era with intricate patterns and delicate details that are true testimony to its beauty as a fine jewelry and a symbol of a fine relationship.
