Purchasing an engagement ring can be one of the most important decisions you will make in your wedding process. It is also the decision to last the longest – engagement rings often become heirlooms, passed down through generations. The method of researching your options can quickly become overwhelming, but it doesn’t have to be!
Some people may purchase a ring they are drawn to upon walking into a store – we love you for that! Others are meticulous researchers who are curious about every aspect of the process.
Whether you opt for a brand name or an independent goldsmith, there is a multitude of factors – big and small – that you’ll need to consider when shopping for an engagement ring. As with most essential tasks, my advice is always to divide and conquer.
Most of us, regardless of if we are male or female, love rings and appreciate wearing them. However, buying a wedding ring can be quite challenging as your partner’s tastes may be unique, or we may not know what would suit them. They are fantastic for symbolizing eternal love, but you want to be sure that the ring you choose is just right.
We will start by giving you a brief introduction to the anatomy of the ring so you know precisely what we are referring to, then move on to the types of band, settings, and finally, the different kinds of metal you can use.
Anatomy
All rings comprise similar component parts. Every ring will have a shank, commonly referred to as the band. However, some rings will have some other features, and just a few of these are detailed below:
Setting
The setting which can sometimes be referred to as the head is where the main stone will be situated. There are many different setting styles; some are designed to allow maximum light to enter the stone, while others focus more on protection.
Gallery
The gallery is located under the setting and is visible from the side. In some rings, the gallery can be barely visible; on others, it is a prominent feature and can sometimes house another stone.
Shoulders or Accent
The shoulders, also known as the accent, are the sloping sides from the shank to the setting. On some rings, they will remain plain, but often they are adorned with a series of small gemstones.
Prong
Prongs are a series of tiny metal claws rising from the setting, which will hold the stone in place. Typically, there will be four to six prongs, allowing a large amount of light to pass through the stone displaying a gem, such as a diamond’s famous sparkle.
When it comes to diamonds, many people talk learned of shape and cut as though they are the same thing. Confusingly, often they can have the same meaning – after all, things (including diamonds!) are cut into shapes. But when it comes to gemstones, there is a slight – but significant – difference between the two. Let us examine these, before looking at the most popular shapes for engagement rings, and the cuts that are required to achieve them.
What is a Shape?
As it sounds, a shape is the external silhouette of a diamond. For example, a diamond that takes the form of a heart (one of the most popular diamond engagement ring styles) is said to be a ‘heart shaped’ diamond. While you could say that it has been cut into a heart shape, you could not say that it was a ‘heart cut’ diamond.
So, What is a Cut, Then?
The cut, as well as forming the external shape, includes all the facets which are formed on the diamond. These facets (the word means ‘little faces’) give diamonds – in fact, all gemstones – their unique sparkling properties. This is because the crystals from which the stones are made reflect light in certain ways, and the cut can enhance or mute this according to the taste of the cutter.
Adding to the confusion, there are different kinds of cut too. Some words associated with the cut of a diamond: dull or brilliant, deep or shallow, refer to the reflectivity that the finished stone will throw out. So a flat, squared stone will almost always be ‘shallow cut’ because the stone does not have the literal depth for a ‘deep’ cut. The other kind of cut is usually named for the shape of the finished stone, but it refers to the many facets cut all over the stone, not just those used to create the external shape. A good example is the first and most popular shape and cut for a diamond that is to be used in a diamond engagement ring: the brilliant round. Brilliant means that the facets are designed (usually a vertical array) to make the diamond throw off a maximum of light, creating a brilliant sparkle, while ’round’ refers to the shape of the diamond, when seen from the top down. Let us look at popular engagement ring shapes and cuts in more detail.
Brilliant Round
As mentioned above, this stone is round when viewed from above. However, from the side, the diamond will have the traditional diamond shape, with a pointed end widening out to a girdle, before turning in and ending with a flattened top, called a table. When these stones are loose, they can be rested on their tables and examined for flaws, color, clarity and so on. This shape is the most popular as it shows good diamonds off to their very best.
Princess Cut
The second-most popular diamond cut for an engagement ring, not only does this stone have a beautiful name, it has a beautiful and rather unusual shape, being squared, but with those brilliant vertical steps to enhance the sparkle of the stone. If you have a stone that has slight imperfections that might be shown up by the spare lines of a brilliant round cut, a princess cut can be more forgiving, minimizing flaws and enhancing that desirable sparkle and symmetry.
Emerald Cut
An emerald cut is immediately familiar to anyone who has ever looked at emeralds! It is a rectangular cut, often with shaped corners, and lending itself well to flat wide stones – a formation that natural emeralds often appear in. While it is unusual to have diamonds with an emerald cut, it is not unheard of, and some people prefer the more muted hint of inner fire that this cut can give a diamond, rather than the overt sparkle of the traditional diamond cuts. Emerald cut stones have flat horizontal facets cut in steps that can be very forgiving of larger inclusions or clarity issues with a diamond. While it sounds like a ‘cheat’ in fact, diamonds are often improved, with the value increasing dramatically, by using the right cut to obscure faults and enhance the stone’s good points.
Oval Cut
The name is a perfect descriptor, and oval engagement rings look striking, adding to the aesthetics of the hand they are worn upon by making the fingers seem long, slim, and elegant. Again, the cut can be used to disguise flaws in a stone, or it can be used to maximize the carat value of the stone, with the shape being chosen to snip off occlusions, leaving only high-quality gem behind.
Marquise Cut
Always an evocative name because of its association with aristocratic wealth and opulence, a marquise cut stone is shaped rather like a narrow rugby ball: an oval that ends in two points, rather than curving softly. Like the oval cut, a marquise cut engagement ring is strikingly attractive, lengthening the fingers and giving the whole hand an elegant and delicate appearance.
Pear Cut
This unique cut is somewhere between an oval, with one curved end, and one more acute end – something like a tear drop. If the ring is designed so that the tapered end points towards the finger nail, it can create a wonderfully baroque, and yet aesthetically pleasing look.
Trillion Cut
For something distinctive and yet still beautiful, with that evocative brilliant sparkle, a trillion-cut diamond ring is rapidly gaining popularity. This stone is broadly triangular when seen from the top, can boast great depth, if the right size diamond is used, and looks very attractive when set into an engagement ring.
These are just some of the more common shapes and cuts that are used to create diamond engagement rings and hopefully now you can distinguish between a shape and a cut when discussing your own diamond preferences. Do make sure you look for accreditation from GIA and AGS, when buying a diamond: these two institutions are the guardians of diamond integrity in the USA, offering verifiable certification for all stones that pass through their hands. For more information and some extra shapes and cuts, check out this useful guide on diamond shapes from Pricescope, one of the largest impartial diamond and jewelry forums. Consequently, if you are looking for wedding gowns or bridesmaid dresses, check out website at Best for Bride.
Most couples take the traditional route when planning their weddings. After all, practices that have been passed down generations are usually the safest option to ensure your wedding progresses smoothly. The chances for complaints are few when your guests get exactly what they expect. So, you are most likely to receive a thumbs up from the older generation when you stick to the traditional format when planning your special day.
Nonetheless, there is nothing wrong in adding your own unique spin on at least few age-old traditions. What makes this special is that it allows you to still honor the tradition, while adding a personal flavor to your big day. Don’t you think this idea of giving a modern update to something classic is interesting? It will make your wedding memorable, even while you keep the essence of the tradition alive.
If you are wondering how you can do this, we have good news! You can add your own spin on almost any traditional ritual, practice or wedding task. Here are some ideas to inspire you.
Your engagement ring
For a long time now, diamond rings are considered synonymous with engagements! This simply goes on to say how common it is. You can always take this standard route and splurge on an ostentatious solitaire that will be impressive. However, how does the idea of finding another stone that is perhaps even prettier sound?
Visit your favorite jeweler and you are bound to find beautiful a variety of gemstones that are more interesting. Sapphires, rubies and emeralds have the same impact as a diamond. I think that a gemstone like sapphire set within a band of thin diamonds is much prettier than a traditional diamond ring. Don’t let tradition cloud your preferences. Wear it on your finger and see for yourself!
The wedding invitation
It may be too extreme to adopt the paperless route and opt for an e-invite. This certainly doesn’t have the same charm as the hard copy of a wedding invitation sent via snail mail. Instead, switch from the paper stationery on card stock with several sheets of paper to an eco-friendly, yet functional alternative.
There are so many ways in which you can make a unique statement. From recycled paper invitations to plantable papers and even soy-based ink for the print, there are so many choices. This will allow you to invite your near and dear ones to your special day in a special way. Take a look at this article on the Ethical Bride for more ideas.
Almost all brides continue with this practice of wearing something old, something new, something borrowed and something blue as part of their wedding outfit. These are believed to be tokens of good luck. The something new is pretty simple—it could easily be the new wedding dress or accessories.
Traditional brides usually wear heirloom jewelry or veils as their something old or something borrowed and incorporate the blue as their wedding garter.
Now, here are some ideas for modern twists on the “something old, something borrowed and something blue.”
Something old: Forget the old jewelry and heirloom veil. Get creative with your something old. This article on the Bridebox website has some excellent ideas. My favorite is the idea of re-purposing a piece of family jewelry into an entirely different accessory. How wonderful would it be to wear a bracelet of pretty pair of earrings made from an old out-of-date necklace?
Something borrowed: The Borrowed and Blue blog suggests sewing a meaningful cloth or fabric item into the lining of your wedding dress. I find it to be thrilling and exciting. You must visit the link to see how unique you can make this look.
Something blue: Don’t hide the blue in a garter. Instead, show it off! Pick a pair of beautiful blue heels for your wedding shoes. Not only will this be a beautiful accessory that you can use and re-use after the wedding, it will create a statement look for your beautiful bridal feet.
Switch out the white wedding dress
From the time Queen Victoria introduced brides to the white wedding dress, it is the signature wedding dress color for brides everywhere. Many brides occasionally opt for a wild and bold colorful alternative to traditional white. This is easier nowadays. Many designers bring out with wedding dresses in soft, muted hues that do not deviate too far from white every year. So, it is now easy to add a touch of personality to your wedding outfit with a small dose of color. Consider light pinks, blush, blues or even grays for an alternate look. This allows you to avoid a color that is too bright for a bride.
Or wear something other than a dress
If you are a bride who must wear white on your wedding day, your options to shine are still numerous. There are plenty of different bridal attires that are not exactly wedding gowns. There are little white dresses to choose from or even bridal pant suits, which are a big trend these days. While the color remains white, you can choose an attire that reflects your personality and style. Designer collections not only carry dresses with shorter hemlines, you can also find two-piece wedding dresses, well tailored pant suits and even loosely structured jumpsuits.
Unique party décor
Flowers are staple wedding décor. At most weddings, we see everything from the entry to the aisles and centerpieces with floral décor. Although flowers have an exquisite charm and are perfect as wedding party décor, they can be pricey. It is also so common, and your options to make it stand out are few.
Instead choose alternative décor elements, and the entire setting will be more memorable. Seasonal fruits and foliage are an attractive alternative. You can also opt for candles, crystals, statues and other unique décor items to make a statement. Not only are these non-perishable, you can also reuse them in your new home afterwards. And if you must have flowers in your décor, why don’t you replace cut flowers with flower pots? These are a sustainable, yet attractive option. There’s an added bonus—after using them as décor, you can even have them do double duty as party favors for your guests.
Do away with the traditional guest book
If you feel you must have a guest book for your reception, you ought to think otherwise. Instead of a guest book that will later be stashed somewhere in your storage, opt for an attractive which you can display in your home. You can either have your guests sign notes and drop them in a pretty container, or have them share their wishes on a poster, picture or even vintage globe. There are some brilliant guest book alternatives here on the Brides website. From messages on vintage postcards to pretty pebbles, these are unusual ways to create a keepsake with your guest’s wedding wishes.
Skip the bubbly
Champagne is hard on the pocket. However, few people enjoy it despite its expensive price tag. Yet, most couples keep it for their reception. The wedding toast is a tradition that is worth keeping. However, you can do it without champagne. Choose another drink for the purpose.
It is highly unlikely that your guests will miss the champagne, and are more likely to enjoy the switch. Make it more personal by choosing your favorite drink for the toast. Or, you can also make it a prettier option by serving a range of cocktails. Not only will the scenery be visually interesting, your guests are likely to enjoy this drink better than an expensive glass of bubbly.
Creative cakes
The wedding cake is a towering display that serves little purpose at the wedding. Many of the cakes are amazing to look at, but all that fondant and flour do not taste great. In fact, few guests have the appetite to enjoy a whole slice of cake after their main course. So, the bigger your cake is, the more quantity gets wasted. Although a classic wedding staple, I think it is high time brides and grooms chose a better option to end their wedding feast with.
One way to keep the tradition intact is to opt for a scaled-down version of a couture cake to use for the cake-cutting ceremony. Serve a variety of more appealing deserts to the party. The other option is to switch the cake out. Instead, choose from more appetizing deserts. For a whole list of options, take a look at this previous post. I am sure there is something to satisfy every bride and groom’s choice in there.
To have or not to have a different dress for the reception?
Traditionally, the bride dances in the same dress she is wed in. Nevertheless, many brides choose a new look for the reception, both for a change of style and also for practical purposes. Although getting married in a heavy ball gown or mermaid dress looks great, it isn’t the ideal choice for dancing at the reception. The modern update is the two-in-one wedding dress. It features an overlay skirt which you can remove after the ceremony, to reveal a modern slimmer silhouette beneath it. This has to be the ideal wedding dress in terms of budget and functionality.
Skip the garter toss
In the garter toss, the bridegroom removes the brides garter and tosses it at the bachelors at the party. The one to catch it will be the next to marry. To be honest, not everyone is one hundred percent excited about the garter toss. If you aren’t so pleased about it yourself, we think this is one tradition you should skip.
Or if you must toss the garter, how about adding a creative twist? Place it around a soccer ball and throw it instead. That ought to elicit a few laughs from the crowd! Here is a sample.
Same with the bouquet toss
This is the cringe-worthy counterpart of the garter toss. It is highly likely that modern spinsters would not be happy to stand in line to catch the bouquet. Instead, save your wedding bouquet to be preserved as a keepsake and have the ritual with the teddy toss we mentioned about earlier. Or, you can even dedicate the bouquet to somebody special. You can thus follow tradition and give it away. Both options are undeniably more elegant than the throw-and-catch alternative.
Find something unusual instead of the getaway car
The couple must exit in style. Nonetheless, it doesn’t always have to be in a vintage car. There are many other ways in which you can make it more interesting. Be creative and find a way to show off your personal style and fitness. How romantic would it be if your husband were to ride away with you on a bicycle. Deck it up with a flower basket in the front and a “Just married” floating balloon at the back. It will be a picture of perfection.
At Best for Bride, we enjoy both traditions and modernity. Hence our collection caters to brides with a penchant for tradition or modernity. With a vast inventory of wedding dresses of all types, shapes and sizes, finding the right choice for your special day couldn’t be any easier. So, step in to one of our stores and tell us what you seek. Our trusted and talented bridal consultants will help you realize your wedding vision in the dress of your dreams. Or if you would like to preview what choices are available to you, take a look at our website which lists the entire collection we carry in our stores.
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