by Sunaina Joseph

The element of surprise is one that you must never compromise on. So don’t make the mistake of asking your partner what she wants, no matter how unsure you are. The average time taken to pick a ring is between one and two months.

Summary:

The Ring. The Circle. The symbol of unity, perfection and eternity. Like the Sun and the full Moon. It has no beginning and no end. Ever wondered where the tradition of the ring started from? I’ve heard many stories and this is the one that is probably the closest to the truth. It is said that thousands of years ago, the caveman used a woven cord of rushes, grass, reeds and leather to tie the hands and feet of his potential mate so that she could not escape. After a while, he tied it only around her hands. Finally, when he was certain that she would stay with him, he would tie the cord only around her finger. Now, we do it like our forefathers, and their forefathers, hence carrying on thousands of years of tradition. The only difference is that we have a little more trouble choosing our rushes and reeds.

I have a few tips for those on the brink of asking the ‘big question’, but before we get down to the facts and figures, lets make one thing absolutely clear- This ring is bought only once in your entire lifetime, so it must be as unique as the woman you have chosen.

BASICS BEFORE FACTS

The element of surprise is one that you must never compromise on. So don’t make the mistake of asking your partner what she wants, no matter how unsure you are. The average time taken to pick a ring is between one and two months. Don’t rush it. It never turns out right if u do. Conventionally, the two-month salary is the yardstick, but in the end it is entirely up to you. Keep in mind that you will end up spending a little more than you originally intended. The Classic Engagement Ring is made up of three parts-       The Band, the Stone and the Setting. If you make a decision on the type of metal you want, you are definitely onto a good start.

THE BAND

‘The true measure of value is rarity’. Platinum is rare, it is eternal and it should be at the top of your list (if it is within your budget). Any design that you see in a store can be duplicated in platinum. The hallmark of the ring will reveal the metal that makes up the ring. Indications of platinum are: Platinum, Plat, Pt, Pt950, 950Pt, 950Plat, Plat950, 900Pt, Pt900 and 900Plat. Yellow gold is the next best option. It has been popular in jewelry-making since the beginning of time as it bends easily. White gold is not a very good choice as it turns yellow after a while, and has to be replated. Tip: Observe the kind of metal your partner usually wears. Stick to what you think she is most comfortable with.

THE STONE

The stone will account for the major cost of the ring (approximately 75-90%) Here again, beauty, rarity and value are the criteria, hence the diamond has become the choice of the masses over the years. When choosing your diamond, keep in mind the four C’s- Color, Clarity, Cut, and Carat weight. The Solitaire (single diamond) of 1.0 carat is most widely favored among the women, but there is a wide variety of styles that makes the ring more individualized.

You may choose pear shaped or oval stones (though round diamonds are usually preferred by the bride-to-be) For a more decorated ring, side stones and baguettes can be added. This will add to the overall appeal and cost of the ring. The in-thing is diamond laser inscription. You can inscribe a romantic message, poem, symbol or just anything to personalize the diamond. If this is not what you are looking for, remember that diamonds are not your only choice. If you have a tight budget, or your partner is not a fan of diamonds, there are other options. Queen Elizabeth and Princess Diana received sapphire engagement rings. So follow your heart, and some of my advice.

A Ruby, Red Garnet and Red Tourmaline are symbols of the heart. Red is a sign of passion and zest for life. Green symbolizes faithfulness, loyalty and continuity. Hence the Emerald, the Green Tourmaline and the Green Garnet are favored stones. Similarly, the Sapphire, Spinel, Iolite, and Blue Tourmaline are symbols of spirituality and purity. The gem that has been associated with love and marriage the longest is the natural Pearl, which is a great choice if the style of the ring is antique.

THE SETTING

This is what holds the stone in the band, and it is important that you choose the appropriate setting (for aesthetics and practicality)).The most commonly used settings that hold the stone securely are the 4 or 6 prongs(6 prongs are recommended for the security of the stone) and the channel setting . Some stones are held in place with pressure. Style is the next issue to tackle. There are various styles such as contemporary, retro, antique reproductions and classics, to name a few. This, too, can be chosen in accordance with the style of your partner. Find something that will complement the kind of clothes she wears, or take a look at her home dicor. Is it minimalist and sleek? Then go with something simple, yet modern. If she has funky, chic furnishing (the flea market look), then you should opt for something more Art Dicor. If her house is draped with sheer fabrics, dripping with rose petals and smelling of scented candles, then Art Nouveau is the ideal choice. BONUS TIPS Tip1: There are different finger types, and the ring must be chosen to suit the hand of your partner. Think proportional! Do not choose wide bands for short fingers, as they make fingers appear shorter than they are.

Women with long fingers can carry off even a bold style, whereas an extremely delicate ring can be lost on large hands. Tip2: Her lifestyle can determine the kind of jewelry she wears. If her workplace can’t handle fussy jewelry, then make sure you choose something subtle. Tip3: If you can’t get a hold of her ring size, don’t panic. Jewelers can easily resize the ring later. …….. And after all this, if you still cant figure out the ideal combination of metal and stone…. and whatever you do, the stone seems too big or too small for the band… and the band ends up being the wrong color and the wrong size. If you are still as lost as when you started your quest, and are at your wits end, buy a loose stone, ask her the big question, and the both of you can shop together for the perfect ring!

by Nalini Naik

First and foremost you will have to ascertain her taste where jewelry is concerned. Find out whether she likes settings that are simple and sophisticated, or styles that are bold and colorful. Is she partial to any particular gemstone? Then there is yellow gold or white gold for the band to choose from, or even platinum.

Summary:

An engagement ring is a very important piece of jewelry because, it is a symbol of a commitment to care, to love, and to cherish. It is a promise of togetherness for a lifetime. So, the utmost care has to be taken when choosing the ring or this very important occasion. Buying an engagement ring is not one of the easiest of tasks. But, with a little help and guidance, you will be able to acquire a beautiful ring which will bring a sparkle to her eyes. So here are a few guidelines to help you select the ideal engagement ring:

Her choice

First and foremost you will have to ascertain her taste where jewelry is concerned. Find out whether she likes settings that are simple and sophisticated, or styles that are bold and colorful. Is she partial to any particular gemstone? Then there is yellow gold or white gold for the band to choose from, or even platinum. One way of determining this is by the kind of jewelry she already possesses and wears. You can also enroll the assistance of a close friend or close relative. Once you are fairly sure of her choice in engagements rings, the next step is to decide your budget.

Your budget

How much are you willing to spend or better still how much can you afford? With a wide array of diamonds and other gemstones and other gemstones to choose from, the sky is the limit. But if your budget is limited, do not worry. One can acquire beautiful rings made of diamonds, rubies, emeralds and sapphires or even semiprecious stones at a most affordable price. So, you don’t need to set your targets too high. With good taste and a little creativity you can buy a ring which is impeccably stylish and sophisticated. Remember, great style does not always comes at a great price. Once your budget has been decided, your next step would be to make sure you get value for your money. In order to do this a fair knowledge of diamonds and other stones will go a long way in helping you make the correct choice. You will have to know the variety that is available and how to determine their quality. Armed with this knowledge you will be able to get the very best they have to offer, and within your budget.

So let’s begin by making a study of diamonds and their characteristics. Diamonds; they say diamonds are forever. How true! This gem which is called a girls best friend, is known for its durability and beauty. But, all diamonds are not the same. They not only vary in size, but also in their quality. This is what determines their price too. For example solitaires of one carat and more are the most expensive. And as for their quality, this is determined by their cut, clarity, color and carat. To know a little more about the four ‘Cs’ as they are called, lets go into them one by one.

Cut: This important aspect is what gives the diamond its brilliance and fire and sets it apart from the other gems. The light reflecting off a beautifully cut diamond is what adds to it’s sparkle and luster. A diamond that is not so well cut looks dull and lifeless. In fact before you make a final choice make sure the diamond sparkles beautifully in natural and artificial light. Remember, an ideally cut diamond has perfect proportions,

Clarity: The best diamond is the one without any spots and discoloration. It should be absolutely colorless and clear. In fact the value of the diamond is also determined by it’s clarity. The more spotless and clear the diamond is, the more value it will have. Sometimes the spots and discolorations are very visible to the naked eye, but most times they are not. This is why most of the reputed jewelry outlets offer magnifying glasses to their customers. When viewed through a magnifying glass, any spot or discoloration is visible immediately. So take a good look before you make a final choice.

Color: The white diamond devoid of any color or spots is rare and most valuable. These are most favored. Of course there are colored variations available too. But these are not very expensive or popular because of the many impurities present in them.

Carat: The carat or the measure of the size is what makes it more or less valuable. The bigger the diamond the more expensive it is. A solitaire weighing a cart or more is definitely more expensive than cluster of small diamonds adding up to the same carat weight.

Thus, keeping all the above mentioned factors in mind one can make a fairly good choice. But before making a final decision lets learn a little more about the gems. Gemstones like rubies, emeralds and sapphires are quite valuable, though not as much as diamonds. These three varieties are popularly used in celebration rings. These may be used on their own or mixed with other gems and diamonds. The dark green of the emerald, the deep red of the ruby and the mystic blue of the sapphire, all complement each other as well as the diamond, when used along with them. The vibrant colors of these gems has to be seen to be believed.

Rings crafted intricately with these precious stones never go out of fashion. Keep in mind some important points when choosing these gems- the gems should not be chipped or cracked. The color should be even as far as possible. Like diamonds, the cut and clarity is important and their prices vary with their size. All these gems come in various shapes too. The band and ring setting has to be decided on next- the band could be 14k or 18kgold. The gold could be yellow or white, These bands studded wit diamonds and precious stones could take your breadth away. Then there is platinum. Bands made of platinum are best suited for solitaires because they hold the stone much better. Of course, platinum looks god with small diamonds too. As for the setting, a cluster of small diamonds, set in different patterns, can look impeccably stylish. And when mixed with other gems, like emeralds, rubies and sapphires, they look stunning .

All in all, you can get settings from the classic to the contemporary styles. So the choice is very wide indeed. When choosing a pattern, follow your instinct, and you cannot go wrong. But all said and done, if your budget permits, I would recommend a solitaire. It is a once in a lifetime buy, and no woman young or old can resist the allure, the mystic and charm of a solitaire. One last piece of advice. Always buy gems from reputed jewelry outlets. These give you a buy back guarantee as well. Make sure the gems, especially diamonds are certified. Check out with different jewelers before making the final choice. This way, you’ll get the best your money can buy And last but not the least, do not forget to create the perfect ambience and mood , when presenting the ring. Good Luck.

by Seema Susheel

Remember how much you spend on the engagement ring doesn’t make your love more or less for your fianci so don’t go about casually buying an engagement ring paying whatever the cost is without thinking twice. Go for a purchase which gives you value for your money as well as peace of mind.

Summary:

Its your big day, finally you are all set to buy the sparkling engagement ring for your fianci ,the piece of jewellery that will be constantly with her, reminding every now and then that she is so special to you. It’s an emotional event and a lifetime special purchase. So how do you go about buying an engagement ring, here is a quick guide to help you through.

* The best way to go about the whole procedure is to take your fianci along and let her choose the perfect ring for herself. The ring should suite her finger and her lifestyle and she is the best person to choose the ring. But if you want to keep the element of surprise then you have to go about buying the ring yourself. You don’t want her to know about the pricing and payment issues then you have to just put in little thought and buy the ring yourself. Finally when you are all set to choose and buy the ring then there is lot of nuances to take care of. The following are certain points you will have to keep in mind while buying the engagement ring.

* First of all get the ring size. To keep the surprise you will have to get one of your fianci’ rings when she is not looking, even if you can’t and have bought the wrong size many jewelers can alter the ring size later too.

* A ring usually consists of two parts a diamond and a setting, find out what kind of a setting your fianci would love, gold, platinum or silver.

* While choosing the design you can go for a solitaire meaning a single diamond embedded on the ring which could be gold, silver or platinum. You can also get many different shapes and designs or even choose for a plain gold band.

* Once you have decided on the design and the material the next step is to choose the jeweler. This is the challenging part as there are many options available and you have to choose which suites your budget and convenience.

* Price, variety, and expertise are what you should look in a jeweler. Apart from that the jeweler should also offer you diamond certification which guarantees whether the diamond is authentic. You should also be able to return back the ring if there is any problem and the jeweler should accept it without any hassles.

* Do some research. Ask your friends and family who have already bought engagement rings before; they can help you to choose the right shop where you get value for your money.

* If you are looking to buy a diamond ring then you have to be more careful in choosing the right one which is authentic, right cut, color and size.

* Choose a jewelry store with a credible history and reputation having the latest design trends, and varied designs to choose from.

* If the design or the cost doesn’t suite you be prepared to walk out and not get lured by the salesman talk as you might end up paying much more then the actual cost.

* Find out the gold prize, the loose diamond prize and making charges for the ring, then you can go for custom design made to order by you, this will cut down the cost.

* Go for Quality, Beauty, Simplicity and Reliability.

* Remember how much you spend on the engagement ring doesn’t make your love more or less for your fianci so don’t go about casually buying an engagement ring paying whatever the cost is without thinking twice. Go for a purchase which gives you value for your money as well as peace of mind.

* You can even shop for your engagement ring on the internet, many reputed companies have setup their shops on the net wherein you can go through the choosing procedure selecting from varied designs choosing the type – gold, silver or platinum and cut and size of the diamond and place an order through your card. These companies take care of shipping your purchase to your place in weeks. You can be in any corner of the world and still make a good deal. This process is as reliable as buying a computer through net as you don’t get to see what you order for beforehand you don’t need to panic as these sites are very much reliable and lots of purchases are been made day in and day out.

* If you feel comfortable and you have a huge budget for the engagement ring then you can even shop at the superstore. The one with many branches all over. You might not get a lot of variety as jewelry is just one of the many things they sell.

* Beware of imitations as all that is white isn’t milk and all that shines is not a diamond.

* You can even make a purchase in one of the family owned jewelry shops. The shop though small should have a credible family history. These are the people, who have been making jewelry from their grandfather days. They will be having permanent clients who are buying jewelry from them from generation to generations. These shops though small in size and lacking all the grandeur of an up market superstore can give you a much better deal then the superstore itself. These people won’t charge for the rent, the dicor, salespeople’s salary or the gold wastage.

You pay for what you get and what you see and there is a guarantee as these jewelers have been in business from generations and have built a strong clientele because of their trustworthy service. World over hundreds of people regularly buy jewelry from such family owned jeweler shops as they don’t want to be at risk while buying valuables and they might compromise on the design but won’t do so for the price. If you have a design in mind you can approach these kinds of jewelry shops and place an order, they will make you the piece in a week or two, and you will have your engagement ring and peace of mind that you got a good deal.

* When you go for a diamond embedded in gold ring you spend a huge amount of money, it’s an investment lasting for a lifetime and the one that you can proudly pass on to the next generation. Hence you should always make sure you have the authentic certification of the diamond, so that you can get insurance cover for the ring. In case of any theft you can claim back your money.

by Swati K

This buying guide is intended to help you to do little research as & when it becomes necessary and to evaluate all the options before making the final decision of buying the engagement ring.

Summary:

THE EMBLEM OF VOW Rings are the token of love, commitment & togetherness between two people whom God has destined to be one. The romantic traditions associated with rings, dates back to the times of caveman. The Pharoahs of Egypt, are credited to use the ring as a symbol of true bond and eternity.The Egyptians regard the ring as a circle that has no beginning and no end, as the love between 2 people is endless. The origin of this ring in metal “iron” was worn by the Roman brides which symbolizes the strength and tenacity of there relationship. But today, engagement ring is not only a proove of marriage contract but a fashion statement, as it is a piece of jewellery worn by the bride and the groom for the rest of there lives. This buying guide is intended to help you to do little research as & when it becomes necessary and to evaluate all the options before making the final decision of buying the engagement ring. The choice of the ring is very much personal and depends on the indivisual likes and dislikes but one must keep certain basic factors in mind as follows:

1. Buying of ring? : This was traditionally done by the groom, but it is suggested that both the would-be couples should shop for it together. As the choices and likes of 2 people are involved.

2. Ring should be functional and fashionable.

3. Buy from right jeweller you trust or a one who is registered.

4. Lifestyle of your spouse: for eg if he is a sportsperson than Gold is not suggestable as it is a soft material and prone to scratches.

5. Establish a budget: The conventional budget i.e. the 2 months salary of the groom work well. But it complete depends on ones choice.

6. The couple should visit several jewelers to compare & select styles, prices and workmanship.

7. Insurance of the ring is very important. You can find out options to add jewellery to your home owner’s or renter’s insurance. You may be allowed by insurance companies to include your jewellery within your policy. You should read the terms of the policy carefully as some policies limit the value of jewellery items.

8. Before making the final purchase of the ring, the ring should be taken to an independent appraiser for examination. The appraiser will prepare in writing the composition of the stone or material used. The main job of the appraiser is to find out whether the quality of the ring is as per the price quoted. Any discrepancy in this regard can be sorted out before the final purchase.

9. Setting of the ring should be right. A good setting is considered when you can clearly see what is inside.

10. The choice of stone should go with the choice of metal. Whats in?

1. PLATINUM WITH DIAMONDS (WHITE GOLD  AS A CHEAPER OPTION)

2. COLOURED STONES IN VARIOUS COMBOS

3. MIXING WHITE AND YELLOW GOLD

4. CLASSIC BANDS OF GOLD AND PLATINUM

Gemstones for you…

* All you friendly janvary borns – Garnet is the stone for you. This is a dark red gemstone that looks good with both white and yellow gold.

* For all the intelligent Aquarians & pisceans (feburary borns), Aquararine is the stone. This is a blue, greenish blue stone that looks good with white gold or platinum.

* Catstone is for the march people.

* Diamonds for the April borns, to vile away evil spirits.

* Pearl for the June borns symbolizing peace and serenity.

* The symbol of love and fullfillness i.e. Ruby for july borns.

* Onyx for the Augusts.

* Sapphires for good health and fortune for September born people.

* Hope with opal for October borns.

* Topaz for the sharp November born people.

* Turquoise for prosperity for December.

How to know her more ?

How will you know if she will like the ring you pick??? Well here are a few suggestions :

1. Take a good look at the choice of your partner i.e. what kind of jewellery she wears.

2. Is she short or tall or fat or slim, because the kind of jewellery depends on the kind of physical persona of a person.

3. Ask her friends about her likes and dislikes?

4. Is she having tiny fingers? Then she would prefer something delicate.

5. Is she a traditional girl? You can go for something classic. But always remember …. YOU DON’T LOVE A WOMAN BECAUSE SHE IS BEAUTIFUL, BUT SHE IS BEAUTIFUL BECAUSE YOU LOVE HER .

by Dhanya

Depending on the lifestyle one can decide what is more practical and easy to wear. The higher the setting of the gemstone or diamond the more the ring could catch onto things. Like if one works behind a desk all day, then could wear a high set ring.

Summary:

The evening was perfect. The lights were dimmed just right. The ring is in your pocket, your heart in your throat! The food is untouched, and the wine is nervously gulped down by you. Your girlfriend looks like an angel, the aura of her beauty is leaving everyone speechless in the restaurant. Your blood pressure is at an all-level peak and the world around is oblivious to you. Finally you pop the question! The ring? Was it the ‘right’ one? The gemstone you use, the setting and the metal you’ve used makes all the difference! There are five important things to look for when you choose your engagement ring. They include, firstly it has to be easy and practical to wear, secondly it has to withstand everyday wear, thirdly it has to hold its gemstones securely, fourthly the gemstone that is used and finally it should look good.

Let me elaborate.  1.Easy And Practical To Wear: Depending on the lifestyle one can decide what is more practical and easy to wear. The higher the setting of the gemstone or diamond the more the ring could catch onto things. Like if one works behind a desk all day, then could wear a high set ring. But if one works as a pre-school teacher or a hairdresser it would be very difficult to wear a high set ring, a well and low set ring would do well.

2.Withstanding Everyday Wear: The metal used and the way the ring with the gemstone is styled is very important. Especially in work places like factories there is a higher possibility your ring wouldn’t last long. Preferably the rings should be made such that the part between the ring and the crown is made strong. Gold wears off faster when compared to Platinum. Gold can be 18ct, 14ct or 9ct and be either white, yellow gold. 18ct Gold, whether it is white, yellow gold is the best and preferred choice for Gold Engagement Rings followed by 14ct. Platinum is now popular in the rings worn by almost one-third of today’s engaged women.

3.Holding The Gemstones Securely: The Gemstones have to be set well such that they are safe and don’t cause too much of a hindrance while doing anything. Here are a few things you can look out for when buying the right ring:

1. 6 claws hold the gemstone better than 4 claws. 2. A heavier setting is better than a light one. 3. A lower setting is less likely to be damaged than a higher setting. 4.The Gemstone used: Many people like the idea of enhancing a birthstone with diamonds; a very hot trend slowly catching up in the market.

Month: January Gemstone: Garnet Symbolizes: Eternal Friendship Color: Semi-transparent, Dark Red

Month: February Gemstone: Amethyst Symbolizes: Faithfulness And Sincerity Color: Clear Purple Or Bluish Violet

Month: March Gemstone: Aquamarine Symbolizes: Intelligence And Courage Color: Transparent Blue, Blue-Green Or Green

Month: April Gemstone: Diamond Symbolizes: It Is Believed To Protect The Wearer From Evil Spirits and Represents Innocence and Matrimonial Happiness Color: Usually Appear Colorless, Others Offer A Hint Of Color Ranging From Soft Blue To Yellow Caused By A Few Impurities

Month: May Gemstone: Emerald Symbolizes: Domestic Harmony And Success In Love Color: Transparent Deep Green

Month: June Gemstone: Pearl Symbolizes: Longevity And Reflects Health Color: Creamy White

Month: July Gemstone: Ruby Symbolizes: Love And Contentment Color: Red

Month: August Gemstone: Sardonyx Symbolizes: Purity Color: White-and-Brown (Variety Of The Onyx)

Month: September Gemstone: Sapphire Symbolizes: Truth, Faithfulness And Good Fortune Color: Rich Blue

Month: October Gemstone: Opal Symbolizes: Hope Color: Mixture Of Colors Against A Soft, Milky White Ground

Month: November Gemstone: Topaz Symbolizes: Fidelity Color: Transparent Yellow To Yellow-Brown

Month: December Gemstone: Turquoise Symbolizes: Prosperity Color: Blue, Bluish-Green Or Green < /P > < P > The Diamonds You Choose: Lookout for the 4 C’s – Cut, Clarity, Color and Carat. One can choose from a variety of colors – using the letter grading system for classifying the color of diamonds, starting with D for the lightest blue tone to Z for the yellow stones. Higher quality Diamonds reflect more light and have a crisp sparkle. The various types of cuts of diamonds are the main reasons for the range of differences in reflections of the Diamonds. < /P > < P > 5.The Looking Good Factor: If there’s a design that you really like, fits your budget and it complies the above four requirements then what are you waiting for? It is difficult it is to find the perfect Engagement ring for your loved one, no doubt but once you find that special ring for that special Girl (Lucky Girl may I say…) it only symbolizes that rare and strange thing called LOVE, treasure it! “Perfect love is rare indeed – for to be a lover will require that you continually have the subtlety of the very wise, the flexibility of the child, the sensitivity of the artist, the understanding of the philosopher, the acceptance of the saint, the tolerance of the scholar and the fortitude of the certain.” -Leo Buscaglia Best Wishes For a Great Engagement Ahead!

by Theresa Smith

Finding an engagement ring that is special and symbolizes the love and devotion two people share for one another has never been easier. These days – with the help of information-rich websites that allows consumers to not only view up-close images of fine jewelry to suit all tastes and budgets but also provide access to important information about the piece – couples can shop in the privacy and convenience of their home.

A couple’s engagement is a commitment to live a life together in connubial bliss, while the ring itself symbolizes something that is beautiful, rare and precious – like the love they share. The process of choosing an engagement ring that is as unique as the woman who is to wear it needn’t be a daunting undertaking. To my mind, choosing an engagement ring is best done together unless the prospective groom is thoroughly convinced of his fianci’s taste in jewelry. Give her what she wants Knowing what kind of jewelry she owns will give you insight into what to buy for future anniversaries and special events, but when it comes to choosing the engagement ring and wedding band, it is best to let her choose.

Although this may sound less romantic as opposed to immersing a diamond solitaire in her champagne during a romantic candle light dinner, she will value your good judgment to elicit her opinion and in giving her what she wants. Even so, it is valuable to know whether she prefers modern or traditional jewelry. Does she favor white gold, yellow gold, two-tone (white and yellow gold) or platinum (currently the most popular metal for engagement rings)? Finding an engagement ring that is special and symbolizes the love and devotion two people share for one another has never been easier.

These days – with the help of information-rich websites that allows consumers to not only view up-close images of fine jewelry to suit all tastes and budgets but also provide access to important information about the piece – couples can shop in the privacy and convenience of their home. Celebration of individual taste Be prepared to examine many different styles of engagement rings before selecting a few to evaluate individually to make a final choice. Bear in mind that the design of an engagement ring should be a celebration of individual taste – whether she prefers a plain, simple design or a more unusual, distinctive creation.

If what’s readily available doesn’t make your hearts sing, then perhaps you should consider commissioning a jewelry designer to create a custom-made ring for you. For design ideas look at both modern and antique rings for inspiration. Combine different design features you like. Rings can also be engraved with personal messages or names on the inside of the band to add a personal touch. Bear in mind that the choice of a wedding band must compliment the engagement ring. Diamonds, colored gemstones and pearls Most men still believe that their special lady will want nothing other than a diamond engagement ring, however trends have changed and many women combine a color gemstone with a small diamond on each side.

For instance the Queen Mother, Queen Elizabeth, Princess Anne and Princess Diana received sapphire engagements rings, and Princess Sarah Ferguson’s engagement ring was a ruby. The idea is to choose a ring that best symbolizes your relationship and love. There are many colored gemstones that convey personal emotions; for example, red stones – including ruby, red garnet, red tourmaline or red spinel – symbolize passion and a zest for life. Green gemstones symbolize faithfulness and continuity – including emerald, green garnet and green tourmaline. Blue gemstones symbolize spirituality and purity – including sapphire, blue spinel, iolite and blue tourmaline. Another gem that is associated with love is the pearl. Traditional diamond solitaires top the list of popular engagement rings, of which the most favored is round brilliant; others include pear, emerald, oval, heart, marquise and princess.

Other settings that are becoming increasingly popular are clusters and the fashionable three stone ring. Know what you’re buying It is important to know what to look for when purchasing an engagement ring. Experts recommend the ‘Five Cs’ which comprise cut, color, clarity, carat and cost. The cut – tiny planes cut on the stone’s surface – defines the sparkle and the shape which can be a round cut, the emerald, the pear, the marquise, the princess, the oval and the heart shape. Ask to see pictures of all these shapes. Color is an important consideration, as well as the clarity of a stone. The weight of a stone is measured by carat. The average size of an engagement ring stone is between one carat and half a carat. When buying diamonds you should ask for a ‘cert stone’ which is a diamond that has been assessed, graded and coded with a laser by an independent gemological laboratory.

It should be an internationally recognized certificate. Ring size Buying the correct ring size is very important. One could wrap a piece of string around the ring finger to find the diameter and check the number against the table to get the ring size, or one could try different rings on in different sizes to ensure a good fit. When you are ready to order the ring online, know the ring size; on average women wear a size 7, although ring sizes are between 5 and 9. How much to pay? How much you are prepared to spend on an engagement ring is a personal matter. Ensure that a detailed receipt is issued with your purchase in the event of an insurance claim or future repair.

by Apoorva Rangan

Firstly, seek your beloved’s liking. If there is a surprise element attached to it, then take her out on a shopping spree and casually ask her what kind of ring she prefers whether she likes a particular precious stone embedded amidst her ring or does she wish for a simple self gold design.

Summary:Firstly, seek your beloved’s liking. If there is a surprise element attached to it, then take her out on a shopping spree and casually ask her what kind of ring she prefers whether she likes a particular precious stone embedded amidst her ring or does she wish for a simple self gold design.

It is such a magical moment, when two souls slip rings on to each other’s hands and fall into a passionate slumber only hoping how early they will tie the wedding knot. An engagement is a respected ritual written down in the Vedas… the meaning still remains the same- just that the ways of performing it has become flamboyant through the decade. Well this simple guide will help you choose the right ring for your beloved. Firstly, seek your beloved’s liking. If there is a surprise element attached to it, then take her out on a shopping spree and casually ask her what kind of ring she prefers whether she likes a particular precious stone embedded amidst her ring or does she wish for a simple self gold design.

Try to ask your beloved her choice for ring styles and cuttings she finds most appealing obviously, you want to flatter her for a lifetime. Secondly, you should consider whether the colour of the metal will suit the person’s complexion. E.g.: Gold, Platinum, Silver Secondly, you need to know if the particular metal is suitable for your loved one. (Certain metals cause allergies if the skin is sensitive). Determine your budget and how much you have allocated to purchase the engagement ring. Take an opinion from your close ones like your family and friends as buying jewellery from a known seller is reliable and can be trusted in terms of quality and price, thereby giving you a good bargain. If the ring chosen has any precious stone with it then the following aspects have to be looked at:

1) Clarity: If the stone is a diamond which most people prefer the diamond should be clear without any inclusions because lesser the inclusions higher the value of the diamond.

2) Colour: The colour of any precious stone should be it’s natural shade else the authenticity of the precious stone is lost and you can be rest assured that it is an imitation.

3) Carat: Any precious stone is measured in terms of carat. It is the number of carats that determines the weight. The higher the number of carats higher the value of the stone. It is necessary that you decide the weight of the ring depending on the usage. You should discuss with the jeweller how much of the metal is to be used as eventually the ring should be sleek and light to wear on. Essentially, every minute cost should be chalked out on paper to avoid any future complication for example if you are placing an order the making cost, wastage cost etc. Subtly, try to slip in your beloved’s ring or simply sneak away one of her rings from her jewellery box that fits her ring finger perfectly.

Even better if you can take her to select the ring. You need to be careful in selecting the design of the ring: Some of the simple attributes to be considered while selecting an engagement ring are as follows:

1) It has to be convenient to wear.

2) It should be suitable for everyday use.

3) It has to look really good at the first glance.

4) If the ring comprises any precious stone they have to be secured intact.

If you decide to buy a diamond ring make sure you obtain a ring certificate from the jeweller stating the authenticity of the diamond.

by Pragna Prabhu

The Victorians believed that the heart is connected by a vein to the fourth finger: the ring finger. But always the circle remained an obvious choice for the shape of a ring because a circle has no beginning or end, just like true love should be. An engagement is the happiest time in a to-be-married couple’s life. So most men make painstaking efforts to make this event memorable. The choosing of that perfect ring for that perfect woman often becomes a difficult and stressful decision. As most men rarely spend that kind of money on jewelry, this can hurt a little bit.

To many people, of all cultures, an engagement ring is the ultimate symbol of romantic love and devotion. Getting engaged is one of the most exciting times in a couple’s life. A decisive moment in which they consent to a life together. This is traditionally celebrated with a ring, popularly a diamond ring, the most precious stone of all. But first, let us take a walk down history and see how the tradition of proposing with rings came into existence. The tradition of engagement rings started with the caveman and the first engagement symbols were reeds or grasses woven into a cord or even sometimes leather.

True to caveman standards, these cords were used to bind together the hands and the feet of the chosen mate of a caveman! Finally when fully assured that she would stay with him, he tied a cord around her finger. Entertaining, but there is no certainty that this is true. The tradition, as we know it today, was started by the ancient Greeks. Their ring was called a ‘betrothal ring’. Etymology traces the word ‘betrothal’ back to the Anglo-Saxon word ‘troweth’ which means truth. Quite simply put an engagement ring symbolized true love and true friendship. Celtic cultures used their loved one’s hair for their rings. The earliest recorded history of a diamond engagement ring dates back to the year 1477, when the Archduke Maximillian of Hamburg gave a diamond ring to Mary of Burgandy to celebrate their engagement.

Since then, till today, diamonds have remained a popular choice of stone for an engagement ring. The Victorians believed that the heart is connected by a vein to the fourth finger: the ring finger. But always the circle remained an obvious choice for the shape of a ring because a circle has no beginning or end, just like true love should be. An engagement is the happiest time in a to-be-married couple’s life. So most men make painstaking efforts to make this event memorable. The choosing of that perfect ring for that perfect woman often becomes a difficult and stressful decision. As most men rarely spend that kind of money on jewelry, this can hurt a little bit. The final decision as to which ring to buy depends on style, workmanship quality, your fiancie’s preferences and of course, the price. It is also important to keep in mind that though diamonds are traditionally popular, other precious and semiprecious stones can look terrific without burning a sizeable hole in your wallet.

Gems and minerals like topaz, citrine, peridot, onyx, agate, opal, turquoise, beryl, lapis, tourmaline and malachite are iridescent, lustrous and beautiful, their rainbow hues a complement to your fiancie’s personality. A few tips can go a long way in helping you make an educated purchase decision. An engagement ring is a gift of love and should be as special and unique as the bride. Quite a few jewelers offer the option of designing your own ring to make a perfect match for the woman in your life. So if you don’t think its too much hard work, you can build your own ring from scratch. You can also indulge her by allowing her to choose any ring she wants. This is advantageous because what woman is going to turn down a proposal like that? But if you are planning to surprise her, then it’s a good thing to remember that old saying ‘Diamonds are girls best friend’. Diamonds have an enduring timelessness that is symbolic of the constancy of your love.

Sapphires come a close second and then the other precious stones of emeralds and rubies. Now if you’ve decided on the gemstone, the next step is to consider the four ‘C’s’ which stand for carat, color, clarity and cut. A little homework before you hit the shops will stand you in good stead. There is also a fifth ‘C’ and that is the cost. It just comes down to what you like and how much you feel you can spend. It’s for you to decide if you want to go over the top and buy her a ring which will land you up to your eyeballs in debt. Wedding lore suggests a month’s salary is what you should pay for a ring for your bride-to-be. Decide on your top budget and try your best to keep within it. Most jewelry experts would be glad to advise and help you to choose.

Choosing a matching setting is important. Settings come in a variety of metals and styles. Most engagement rings are set in gold: yellow, white, two-toned or the hugely-popular platinum. Platinum is white-hot and in-vogue. Its rich brilliance brings out the fire in a diamond and is an ideal foil for it. Gemstones come in various shapes and cuts: round, princess, baguette, pear, marquise, oval and cabochon, round being the most popular. A general thumb rule to go by the carat weight is that the price increases exponentially with size. So now you know your budget, shape and size. Shop around with various jewelers. An engagement isn’t a time to stint nor is it the time to go into bankruptcy. Accidents can happen so don’t forget to get your insured as soon as possible, just in case. Another point to consider here is that most women wear their engagement and wedding rings together.

Make sure the wedding band suits the engagement ring. For all you old fashioned sort of guys who want to give your mother’s or granny’s engagement ring or a family heirloom, jewelers offer to reset it in a more modern setting and the band adjusted to fit. Traditionally the ring is presented as a betrothal gift by a man to his prospective bride, but it is increasingly common today for a woman to buy her man a ring too. In fact, in Germany both the man and the woman wear engagement rings. So all you free-spirited women who want to pop the question to that special man in your life, wait no further. But it is truly the thought that counts, the intention of love and future marriage and your ring should represent all what you feel for your intended. Whatever decision is made with regard to a ring, it is ideally sealed with a kiss because an engagement ring, has been, is and will be a promise of a fine future together.

by Mathew Abraham

Since you intend to surprise her (although she may have been expecting it) you have to be discreet in searching her heart for that special ring of her desire. You can get a lot of advice and help, but the best way is to use your own heart – along with the following guidelines! There are three fundamental aspects to take into consideration when selecting a diamond ring: the stone, the metal for the band, and the design and setting.

Summary: Since you intend to surprise her (although she may have been expecting it) you have to be discreet in searching her heart for that special ring of her desire. You can get a lot of advice and help, but the best way is to use your own heart along with the following guidelines! There are three fundamental aspects to take into consideration when selecting a ring with diamonds: the stone, the metal for the band, and the design and setting.

DIAMONDS ARE FOREVER…AND SO IS LOVE!
The custom of giving or exchanging engagement rings varies from place to place and from person to person. Some girls even go along with their boyfriends to select the ring. But romantic women have a tendency to fall in love with gifts from their lovers, so the ideal option is for you to present the ring to your girlfriend when you proposes to her. It should be the most precious and unforgettable moment of her life – the moment when you are promising to love her and take care of her eternally. The timing must be perfect; the place must be perfect; the ambience must be perfect; and the ring must be truly exceptional! It should be everything she has ever wanted in an engagement ring – all her dreams come true. It should melt her heart because, once she accepts it, you will both start planning for your wedding, your honeymoon, your family and your future. Since the ring symbolizes everything you feel for her, make sure she loves the ring as much as you want her to love you. Stones like aquamarine, sapphires, emeralds, topaz, tourmaline, etc. are becoming trendy choices for engagement rings. But, unless you’re sure your girlfriend doesn’t like diamonds, go for diamonds – women just love that white fire!
The Perfect Diamond Engagement Ring
So how do you go about finding this perfect diamond engagement rings ? First of all you should become familiar with your special woman’s taste in jewelry. Since you intend to surprise her (although she may have been expecting it) you have to be discreet in searching her heart for that special ring of her desire. You can get a lot of advice and help, but the best way is to use your own heart – along with the following guidelines! There are three fundamental aspects to take into consideration when selecting a diamond ring: the stone, the metal for the band, and the design and setting.
Choosing The Right Stone
The stone is the first thing your girlfriend will be attracted to, so it better be something truly special and impressive. Sparkle is far more important than size. You don’t have to spend more than you can afford but don’t be cheap! Once you give her the ring, your fiancée will be waving her hands all over the place – especially before her family and friends. She wants to show off the ring, to let them see the size and sparkle and hear their “oohs” and “aahs”. She wants to hear them ask, “From where did he buy it?” and “How much did it cost?” So don’t buy a ring that she will be ashamed to display in public. You don’t have to waste your money and make her think you are a spendthrift. Just get her an affordable dazzler from a reputed jewelry store. Use your heart and your head in deciding on the cost. And don’t forget to bargain for a reduction in price.

It is not too difficult to figure out how diamonds are weighed and priced. Diamonds are weighed (or measured) in carats, grains and points. 4 grains make a carat and 25 points make a grain – i.e. 1 carat = 4 grains = 100 points. The cost per carat is calculated something like this: if a 0.5-carat diamond costs $X, a 1-carat diamond will cost about $3.5X, and a 1.5-carat diamond will cost around $6X. While flaws reduce light reflection and sparkle in the diamond, clarity increases both. Look for a stone that really flashes white fire. The cut determines the brilliance in a diamond, and sparkle is what diamonds are about. A well-cut diamond will produce a dazzling effect. The best diamonds have no color – just a brilliant white light blazing out. You can even go for a colored diamond, but they can be fairly expensive. Though white is the traditional choice, you should also take your girlfriend’s taste (and your financial status!) into consideration.
Choosing The Right Metal
Most women prefer platinum, gold or white gold for the band. The choice generally narrows down to 18k or 14k yellow, white or rose gold. Make a careful study of your girlfriend’s jewelry and you will know what she likes. If you can afford it (and she likes it) go for platinum. That’s something she’ll really love.
Choosing The Right Setting And Design
The setting and design should be exquisite as well as sensible. Women may be more romantic than men, but they are generally more practical as well. You must know what suits your girlfriends taste and lifestyle best. There are four points to be taken into consideration in selecting the design: it should be uncomplicated and practical, it will be worn daily and must be suitable for rough use, it should hold the stone (or stones) firmly and securely, and finally it should look really grand and make her feel really great!
The Proposal
Now that you have selected the ideal stone, her favorite metal, a fascinating design and the perfect setting for the diamond, you have to propose to the woman of your dreams and offer her this beautiful token of your love for her. It should be an absolutely priceless and eternal moment, an emotionally charged event that fills her with unimaginable joy and a love that she has never experienced before. Take every care to ensure that all the arrangements and the environment are ideally suited to her special tastes. And don’t forget to kiss her when she accepts the ring and you!
A Happy Ending
So now you have it all. If you follow the above advice, every time your woman sees the stone on her finger she will remember the moment you proposed to her and the wonderful emotions she experienced. It is better to get a smaller stone with good clarity, cut and color than a larger stone with no glitter. Spend your money wisely. Get advice and help from her girlfriends and also from married friends – but make sure they keep it a secret. Buy her that diamond engagement ring she will love forever and her heart will be yours forever.

For affordable Engagement Rings, Diamonds and Ideal Cut Diamonds, visit James Allen

by Sheweta Dhanuka

Ancient history reveals that the bloodstone first occurred when at the time of crucifixion, few blood drops of Christ fell and stained the stone jasper lying down near the foot of the cross. As the red spots were considered to be the blood spots of Christ, the stone was attributed special cosmic, magical and healing power. Thus, after that day people started wearing this gemstone to cure all the blood related diseases. This is the reason why dark green coloured stone with red spots is named as Bloodstone.

Bloodstone is chalcedony quartz. It is also called as Heliotrope. This additional name is derived from Greek words meaning sun as bloodstone with red spots implies reflection of sun in an ocean. It is an alternative birthstone for the people born in the month of March. Unfortunately, it is not an anniversary gemstone.

This semi precious gemstone is closely associated with Christianity. Ancient history reveals that the gemstone first occurred when at the time of crucifixion, few blood drops of Christ fell and stained the stone jasper lying down near the foot of the cross. As the red spots were considered to be the blood spots of Christ, the stone was attributed special cosmic, magical and healing power. Thus, after that day people started wearing this gemstone to cure all the blood related diseases. This is the reason why dark green coloured stone with red spots is named as Bloodstone.

This magical stone is inexpensive semi precious gemstone but still many clever sellers deceive the buyers easily with their tricks. Bottlestone and Fancy Jasper are the misleading terms frequently used in the jewelry market. Thus, this article offers few buying tips that would help the buyer in purchasing the genuine Bloodstone gem and the different jewelry items made using this gemstone.

The main source of Bloodstone gem is India. Thus, it is used in many of Indian ayurvedic medicines. Other countries producing this gem are Australia, Kathiawar Peninsula, Brazil, China, South America and USA (Wyoming). The wide availability of this gemstone makes it quite affordable stone.

Bloodstone is dark green in colour with red spots. The green shade appears due to chlorite content in the composition. The spots present on the surface of the gemstone are usually red and can be brown or multi-coloured too. Traditionally red spots were believed to be the blood drops of Christ but scientifically these spots occur due to the presence of iron oxide in the chemical composition of the gem.

Genuine Bloodstone gem possess bright shining. Bright shine is one of the characteristics to identify the natural gemstone. It is non porous and opaque in nature. As it is opaque the clarity is not taken much into consideration while selecting the gemstone.

It is easily cut into different shapes like round, oval, octagon, emerald, cushion and cabochons. Cabochon is the shape most in demand for ornaments choice. Bloodstone set as cabochon in 18K yellow gold or sterling silver makes amazing jewelry.

Its wide shapes, polished look and low cost make it a popular gemstone choice. Many females like pendent and rings with large size of bloodstone. Brooches made up bloodstone are also preferred. The suitable diameter of brooch can be 2.80 cm or 1.10 inches that can hold pure bloodstone brooch of 11.50 gram (7.39 dwt).

For those who cannot afford large size stone jewelry can select smaller size gemstone jewelry items. For example pendent made up of sterling silver having bloodstone gem size between 18mm to 10 mm. The pendent can hold the gemstone either in prong or mount setting and can be easily worn in 16 inches or 18 inches sterling silver chain. Similarly, earrings in different designs are also available having gems or beads in sizes between 8mm to 12mm. Like females, males too like to wear bloodstone. It is used as a sealstone in male’s signet rings.

Bloodstone is widely used as beads. Beads are also given different cuts like oval, round and baroque shapes. Mostly sterling silver is used for making jewelry from bloodstone beads. Plain necklace with bloodstone beads looks quite attractive irrespective of the shape. Beads of same size or different sizes can be used for making the necklace. 18 inches or 45 cms is the ideal length of the bead necklace. Like necklace, bracelets are also created from bloodstone beads. Beads size between 6mm to 10 mm makes attractive bracelets that cover the full wrist delicately. While selecting the beads buyers should ensure that the entire beads in the necklace together offer synchronized look. It should have similar brightness and colour shade.

It is 7 Mohs on hardness scale. Inspite of being quite hard, it has to be protected from sharp blows and scratches. Household solutions and cosmetics containing harsh chemicals can also spoil the natural beauty of the stone. Also extreme temperature changes must be avoided. Bloodstone needs to be always kept dry else moisture would ruin the polish of the gem.

Bloodstone is the gemstone that fulfills the desire of wearing gemstone jewelry of the people belonging to every age group and price range. Bloodstone gem can be a very good option that makes the wearer beautiful and close to GOD !!