Wedding Rings: Platinum & DIamonds Together

Wedding Rings:

Platinum & DIamonds Together

Some things are a perfect pairing and meant for each other - peaches and cream, wine and cheese, eggs and bacon and ... platinum and diamonds. This perfect pairing combines to create the ultimate in wedding rings.

A platinum and diamond wedding band is a symbol of everlasting and eternal love and commitment. That is very fitting, as diamonds and platinum are two of the worlds most precious and hardest natural substances. They each have a superb hardness, brilliant sheen and white color making them natural partners.

The higher cost of diamond and platinum engagement rings or wedding bands is well justified because, not only will they last forever, they signify that the wearer has reached the top, giving him or her the reward of perfection.

There are an extensive number of possible platinum and diamond ring variations in both engagement rings and wedding bands with each one as spectacular and beautiful as the next. Here are a few of the many beautiful styles available on the market today:

- A traditional or conventional design may be an elegant yet simple platinum wedding band with a milgrain scroll along the edges and a centered, half-carat diamond in the middle. Short rows of smaller diamonds are on either side of the centered larger diamond. This platinum and diamond wedding band is timeless and will always have great beauty.

- A platinum and diamond engagement ring that is sure to be a perfect choice is an elegant but simple platinum, channel set engagement ring with a gorgeous prong set solitaire diamond.

- An exquisite diamond engagement ring in platinum, set with a half carat or carat, round, brilliant-cut diamond centered and flanked by four tapered baguettes is the perfect way to ask for your sweethearts hand in marriage. The platinum wedding band has four straight baguettes.

- A Princess-cut full carat diamond surrounded by six smaller diamonds, set in a platinum wedding band is spectacular, making the woman wearing it feel like a queen.

- A very modern, sleek design for a wedding band that is spectacular is a narrow band of 950Pt platinum. Set in the middle around the entire platinum band is a centered row of round diamonds or baguettes. This ring will sparkle every time you move your finger, making it a spectacular, ingenious platinum and diamond wedding band.

- A wonderful wedding band made of a diamond and platinum that would please any man is a comfort fit platinum wedding band with a quarter carat square diamond set it the middle surrounded by engraving.

Platinum and diamond wedding bands and engagement rings are spectacular to look while still be very functional. Platinum is a very hard metal that does not scratch, nick or bend out of shape and diamonds are the hardest material known to man, so they make a wonderful and beautiful combination. Wedding bands and engagement rings made of a combination of platinum and diamonds symbolize long lasting devotion, love and commitment to each other forever.
by:Amy Carrington

Colored Gemstone Engagement and Wedding Ring Buying Guide

Colored Gemstone Engagement
and Wedding Ring Buying Guide

The allure of colored gemstone in Betrothal rings. Fascination with colored gemstones dates back to the very beginning of civilization. Long before the discovery of diamonds, the blue sapphire evoked visions of heaven; the red ruby was a reminder of the very essence of life. As early as Roman times, rings containing colored gemstones were prized as symbols of power and friendship. In fact, the most powerful; and the most beloved, wore rings o every joint of every finger, reflecting the status of their position!

As betrothal rings, colored gemstones also hold an illustrious position. In addition to the beauty of particular colors, certain powers attributed to certain colored gems made them not only beautiful but also meaningful choices. We see many examples of colored gemstones in engagement and wedding rings, from many centuries ago to the present, used both alone and in combination with diamonds.

Following the discovery of diamonds in South Africa, which made diamonds more widely available and affordable, colored gemstones were briefly ignored during the earlier part of this century. While there always been people who preferred colored gemstones despite the trends, colored gemstone engagement rings have only recently reemerged as a choice for the modern bride. The selection of a sapphire and diamond engagement ring by His Royal highness Prince Charles for lady Diana, followed not long thereafter by his brother Prince Andrew’s selection of a ruby and diamond engagement ring for Sarah Ferguson, sparked a revival of interest in colored gemstones for the bride to be.

While rubies, sapphires and emeralds have historically been among the most coveted gems, particularly for important occasions, there are many alternatives in colored gems for today’s bride, depending on budget and personal connection to bride herself. Keep in mind that most birthstones come in several colors. You may be surprised to learn that the color you associate with your birthstone may be only one of several colors in which the gemstone occurs.

For example, most people think garnet is dark red and are surprised to learn it can be emerald green, mandarin orange, yellow, white, purple; virtually every color in the rainbow except blue. If you have discarded the birthstone as a choice because you don’t care for its color, check out all the colors in which it may be available before making a decision. Some colors in a particular gem may be rarer and less readily available and often costlier than better known colors, but your jeweler can work with you to discover your alternatives. One can combine a birthstone with diamonds, blending the symbolism of diamonds with the personal significance of the birthstone for a lovely, deeply meaningful, and often much more affordable ring.

In addition to birth gemstones, the choice of a particular colored gemstone may be connected to mystical powers, attributes, or symbolism with which the gemstone has been historically identified. There is an almost limitless wealth of information about colored gems, enough to stir the imagination of even the greatest cynic.

- Love rings and “Sentimental” jewelry

Throughout history, colored gemstones set in rings and other jewelry have carried hidden messages. We are seeing similar pieces being produced today. For example, a ring containing diamond, emerald, amethyst, ruby, emerald, sapphire, and topaz, arranged in that order, spells the word “dearest” if one takes the first letter of each word, thus carrying the sentiment that wearer is more dear than any other to the giver; a ring containing pearl, ruby, emerald, and sapphire spells “pres,” which, in French, means “near” and suggests that the wearer is always near to the giver; amethyst, moonstone, opal, ruby, and emerald spells “amore,” which is Italian for “love.” And so on. Such a ring can create a wonderful, “sentimental” engagement ring. Choosing the shape of a gemstone

Today’s bride to be has more choices in engagement ring design and style than ever before. But the first step in creating the look you want is selecting the shape of the gemstone, A shape that is right for you. There are many shapes from which to choose, but it’s important to choose the right shape because it will affect the overall design and look of your ring.

- Modern diamond shapes

1. Round brilliant

2. Pear shape

3. Marquise shape

4. Oval shape

5. Emerald shape

6. Heart shape

7. Princess shape

8. Radiant shape

9. Asscher Shape

10. Cushion Shape

In choosing a design that suits, taste, budget, and personality, one of the first steps is to decide on the diamond shape you want. Today, in addition to classic, round shape, there are many popular “fancy” shapes from which to choose.

As mentioned earlier, there are many exciting shapes, as well as the traditional “fancy” shapes; any shape other than a round, brilliant cut. Some of the new shapes lend themselves to very distinctive designs that would be difficult to create with other shapes; some exhibit unique personalities, not possible in any other; and some can even help you stay within your budget (some appear larger, for their weight, than traditional cuts, enabling you to get the size you want in a diamond that actually weighs less than you might have thought you need). One of the most exciting parts of searching for your ring is discovering what is really available today!

You should keep in mind, however, that fancy shapes, new and old, can be vary in their width and length, and in their basic proportioning, and these differences can result in a totally different look and feel on your hand. For example, an emerald cut diamond that is in a very long shape will look very different from one that is more squarish; a broad shouldered pear shape might look too triangular for the hand, while one with softer, more rounded shoulders might be just what what you want. To some extent, the choice of shape is a very personal matter, and there is no standard “ideal” range that is applied to shapes other than round, but you must be careful that the stone is not cut in such a way that is liveliness and brilliance is reduced or adversely affected.

As you begin to look at diamonds, try on all of the shapes; you may discover you like a shape you might not have considered otherwise! Try them in solitaire style (a single diamond at the center) and in designs that incorporate diamond accents or colored gemstone and diamond accents. It won’t be long before you have a clear idea of the shape that best suits your personal style and taste, the shape that you really like best.

- Popular gemstone cuts frequently used as side gemstone for accent

1. Taper baguette

2. Straight baguette

3. Trilliant shape

In addition to the fancy shapes described above, there are several cuts that are frequently used as side accents. The most popular include straight baguettes, tapered baguettes, trilliant, and princess. There are also “specialty” cuts that are used to create very distinctive rings. These unusual shapes include half-moon shapes, trapezoids, kite shape, and bullets, and can be especially lovely accents with colored gemstones and diamonds.

Baguettes have been popular for many years and create a very traditional look. In both straight and tapered shapes, they are understated and serve simply to lead the eye to the important center stone. Today there are also “brilliant cut” baguettes; both straight and tapered, which some people prefer to use with a “brilliant cut” center gemstone; the overall impression across the top of the ring is then more uniformly brilliant. Tapered or straight baguettes, used creatively, make elegant choices for diamonds or colored gemstones.

The trilliant is a relative newcomer that has quickly become one of the most popular choices to create an elegant and classic look. It is a triangular shape that has been cut with extra facets to create tremendous brilliance and liveliness. The trilliant, because it is cut from a very flat piece of diamond rough, also gives a very large look for its actual weight. It provides an important look to balance a large center stone, within a reasonable budget. They are popular choices to use with diamonds or colored gemstones.

The princess cut is also very popular as a choice for side stones, especially for channel set or bezel set designs. Again, the use of side gemstones to accent a center stone (diamond or colored gemstone), and the shape of the side stone, is a matter of personal choice. In addition to the shapes mentioned here, almost any of the other popular shapes can be found in small sizes and can be used to create an interesting and distinctive ring.

- Popular shapes in colored gems

Colored gems can be found in any of the shapes described for diamonds. In addition, they are often seen in cushion cut, a modified oval. Keep in mind that some gems are more easily found in particular shapes than in others. For example, emeralds are most often seen in a rectangular shape (actually called “emerald cut”) because this is the shape that tends to present emerald to its best advantage. In addition, natural crystal shape of emerald lends itself particularly well to a rectangular shape. Rubies and sapphires are often seen in the cushion cut. This is due in part to the shape of rough rubies and sapphires, but also to the fact that this cut seems to reveal the rich, lush color of these gemstones more fully than other cuts. Thus, it may be very difficult to find a sapphire or ruby in an emerald cut. Once again, your choice is very much a personal matter, but be aware that it may be very difficult, or impossible, to find certain types of gemstones in certain shapes.

The article above can be used on your web site or newsletter.

When it is published, May I request that you include my name and resource box (the bio., contact and copyright information that follows the article. I would also appreciate if you could send me an e-mail of notification along with a complimentary copy of publication.

Bijan Aziz is the owner and Web Master for The Jewelry Hut.
(sourceby: Bijan Aziz)

Wedding Ring Selection Tips

One of the most important parts of the wedding ceremony is the exchanging of wedding rings. It is emblematic of the magnificence of your love for each other. The rings symbolize the true and unending love the couple is vowing to each other. Moreover, the wedding rings are the one very special token from your wedding that you will preserve for a long period; even longer than the gifts you receive during your wedding, which will be there for several years! The initial step for getting a perfect fit is to decide wearer's ring size. The best thing is to take along with your to the shop, the person for who will wear the ring, and select from the available collection of rings. Though in many such cases, the surprise factor of giving the gift will be absent, it will help you see that the ring fits well on the finger of the wearer.

Wedding rings come in silver, platinum, white gold and yellow gold. These types differ in their costs. First determine the type of metal you prefer in accordance with your budget and naturally, as per your sweetheart’s choice. When the metal is chosen, you need to decide the stone to be engrafted in the ring. Decide the size, shape, color and type of the stone that befits your budget. Diamonds are the best choice but you can also prefer colored stones like rubies, emeralds and sapphires, which are having some astrological grandeur.

Silver wedding engagement rings are very in many parts of the world. Very much like gold and white gold, silver is a very popular precious metal used to make wedding rings of different shapes and styles. Where did the wedding ring come from? And why this treasured metal holds the key to so many souls? By custom, the bride’s ring used to be silver while, whereas the bridegroom’s would be gold. Today nearly any kind of metal can be used for making the wedding ring of both the bride and the groom. Silver wedding rings are usually worn on the ring finger of the left hand. This tradition goes back many years as far as medieval era.

For matching the wedding and engagement rings, it is essential to use the same cherished metals. For instance, you may not want one ring to be silver and the other one gold, as they would appear really odd jointly. Another important thing to note is that the gems on both rings require to be the same. Many people like to have diamonds on the engagement ring and birthstones on the wedding ring. But when placed together the wedding and engagement ring set looks tacky, so only select one gemstone for both.

In case you or your sweetie engage in some physical labor, it is advisable to look for a heavier, broader ring. This can minimize damage to the wedding ring and it will be able to last long. It is also better in this case to have a smooth stone that fits well in to the ring. In case there is some risk of the stone getting caught somewhere, there is a possibility of losing the ring and so a smooth surface is always better here. Many of us love an etched wedding ring. If you and your partner were among such people, a more classic type ring would be desirable. This gives much room for inscribing.

Seeking other alternatives in place of wedding rings is not at all a way of discouraging wedding jewelry completely. Actually, there are some people who disapprove wedding rings owing to their religious, cultural or financial conditions. Wedding jewelry is meant for those who like to wear them and find solemn symbolization behind the custom. Purchasing wedding rings need not have to be a forced custom. Rather, you should take decisions in accordance with what works best for you.
Submitted by:Anna Bloggy

Diamond Engagement and Wedding Rings Buying Guide

Diamond Engagement and Wedding Rings Buying Guide

Becoming intimate with Gems

The major cost of the engagement ring is often the sparkling diamond or shimmering colored gemstone that you select to adorn it. To avoid costly mistakes, it is very important to learn as much as possible about the stone you are considering. The best way to take the risk out of buying a particular gem is to familiarize yourself with the gem. While the average consumer can’t hope to make the same precise judgments as a qualified gemologist whose scientific training and wealth of practical experience provide a far greater data base from which to operate, the consumer can

learn to judge a gemstone as a “total personality” and learn what the critical factors are; color, clarity (sometimes referred to in the trade as “perfection”), sparkle and brilliance, and weight, and how to balance them in judging the gem’s value.

Learning about these factors spending time in the marketplace looking, listening, and asking questions before making the purchase will prepare you to be a wise buyer more likely to get what you really want, at a fair price.

Selecting a Diamond

The diamond engagement ring has emerged as the universal symbol of love and commitment between two people. Not only is it the formal beginning; visible “announcement” of your your engagement, but the centuries old symbolism surrounding diamond reflects both the preciousness of the moment and commitment made by two people in love to cherish each other forever. While some woman prefer other gems to diamond, or opt for the special significant of a family heirloom, a diamond is the overwhelming choice of today’s bride.

Some brides to be have no doubt been taken by surprise with the unexpected presentation of an engagement ring, but it is probably safest to go about the task of selecting the ring together. While the element of surprise is very romantic, keep in mind that the engagement ring is meant to be worn for a lifetime. So it is especially important that the bride-to-be really loves it; that it reflects her personal taste and style. If you are a die hard romantic who wants to surprise her, we suggest placing a photo of a ring you like inside the “tiny black ring box” and presenting her with this instead; it combines romance with practicality, and you are sending another important message: not only do you love her, but you understand the importance of working together on such important decision!

The previous and following articles, we will give everything you need to know to purchase a diamond with greater confidence; whether you are shopping for an engagement ring, wedding or anniversary band, or simply a beautiful piece of diamond jewelry to commemorate an important moment. The greater your awareness of the elements that determine diamond quality, the better chances of knowing what you want, getting exactly what you are after, and deriving lasting pleasure from it.

- What is diamond?

Chemically speaking, a diamond is the simplest of all gemstones. A diamond is plain, crystallized carbon; the same substance, chemically, as the soot left on the inside of a glass globe after the burning of a candle; it is the same substance used in lead pencils.

The diamond differs from these in its crystal form, which gives it the desirable properties have made it so highly prized; its hardness, which gives it unsurpassed wear-ability; its brilliance; and its fire. (But note that while diamond is the hardest natural substance known, it can be chipped or broken if hit hard from certain angles, and if the “girdle” has been cut too thin it can be chipped with even a modest blow.)

The transparent white colorless) diamond is most popular variety, but diamond also occurs in colors. When color is prominent it is called a fancy diamond. Diamond is frequently found in nice yellow and brown shades. Diamond color such as pink, light blue, light green, and lavender occur much more rarely. In diamonds, the colors seen are usually pastel. Deep diamond colors in hues of red, green, and dark blue are extremely rare. Historically, most colored diamonds have sold for more than their colorless counterparts, except for light yellow or brown varieties. Yellow or brown in very pale shades may not be fancy diamonds but off color stones that are very common and sell for much less than colorless diamonds or those with true “fancy” color.

In addition to natural color diamonds, “fancies” that have obtained their color artificially, through exposure to certain types of radiation and heating techniques, are readily available. The bill of sale (and any accompanying certification appraisal, etc.) should specify whether the color is natural or induced. If induced, the price should be much less, although the gem will often be just as beautiful as one with a natural color.

- The four factors that determine diamond value Diamond quality and value are determined by four factors. These are called the “Four C’s.” If we were to rank then based on their important in determining the value of a diamond, we would list them as follows:

- Color (body color)

- Clarity (degree of flawlessness)

- Cutting and proportioning (often referred to as the make)

- Carat weight (which affects the size)

In terms of determining beauty, however, we would rank them in a different order:

1. Cutting and proportioning

2. Color

3. Clarity

4. Carat weight

Tips on getting the diamond you really want, within your budget

If you have an unlimited budget, you may feel it’s important to have a large stone of the finest quality available; a “D” flawless with an ideal make. But for most of us who must work within a limited budget, selecting the correct ring is a matter of learning how to juggle, and discovering what factors will best meet our needs, emotional as well as financial.

- In diamonds, go for color and sparkle first

If you have a limited budget, you have to compromise on something; either the size, color, clarity (flaw grade), or liveliness. Of these four factors, one can see size, color, and liveliness. In terms of what most people notice on the finger, the clarity is the least important in our opinion. Personally, on a limited budget we would choose a stone with the best possible color and liveliness personality.

What most people don’t understand is that even in SI2 diamonds, flaws are not really noticeable when the diamond is being worn and, in most cases, can’t be seen at all without using a magnifier. In fact, if you take a well cut one carat D-color and FL (Flawless)-clarity diamond and hold it nest to a well cut one carat D/SI2 diamond, you will not see any difference with the naked eye. Contrary to what many think, it is not the clarity grade that determines how lively an brilliant a diamond will be, But its cut and proportioning. And you may feel much more sparkling yourself if you can spend $7,500 for a diamond, D/SI2, that could look like a $36,000, D/IF, diamond to anyone without a magnifier!

The diamond brilliance and liveliness is as important as its color. After all, that’s what sets the gem apart from glass and cheap imitations. A well cut diamond has more sparkle; more brilliance and “fire,” than any other gem. But the key to the sparkle is in its being well cut. We have seen diamonds that were so badly cut that they had no life at all. In fact, one might just as well be looking at a piece of glass.

For this reason, we prefer diamonds with very fine makes. Diamonds that are cut to look a little larger than they actually are can also be pretty, but when they are cut too spread, they will be lifeless. In our opinion, we’d rather buy a diamond that’s cut exceptionally well; a diamond that really dances before the eye, even though it costs more. Because it does cost more, we would consider lowering the color grade a little in exchange for the best possible “make,” or coming down in size a little. As you shop around, be sure to pay attention to the way a diamond is cut. Ask to see diamonds with “ideal” makes. You’ll soon be able to spot differences in brilliance and liveliness. Then your eye will help you find the right balance for your own budget.

- A small difference in points can make a big difference in dollars.

The cost of a diamond increases significantly when it reaches the full, 1 carat weight. However, try to find a diamond that weight 90 points (or 9/10 of a carat). When set, few can see the difference between a 90 points diamond and one that is a full one carat diamond. The difference, however, is very noticeable in dollars. Where a fine one carat diamond (G/VS1 quality) might sell for $9,800, the same quality diamond weighting 90 points might cost only $8,500. The money you save could pay for a beautiful diamond studded wedding band!

A word of caution: Be careful that you aren’t sold a diamond that is too “spread” (a term used to describe a diamond that is cut to look larger than its real weight). We’ve seen diamonds weighing 90 points that are actually LARGER in dimension than 1 carat diamond that is cut well. These diamonds usually lack the brilliance and sparkle of a well made diamond. You may be pleased with with their size, but make sure you are pleased with the sparkle. After all, if you are paying for a diamond, you deserve a stone that show its full beauty.

- What to consider when selecting the color grade.

D-color is the rarest and most expensive color in white diamonds. There are very few diamonds that receive this very high grade. Diamonds graded from D through H on the GIA scale are graded in the “white” by other grading systems and, when mounted, will appear white. I and J colors are colored “slightly tinted” by other systems and you may see some yellowish or brownish tint in the stone body color. K and L may also be called “tinted white,” and you can more easily see the tint. M through Z may also be called “tinted color” or “off white” and appear yellowish or brownish white.

The difference in cost between D and E color, however; even though both considered “white” diamonds, can be significant.

It is important to remember that when a diamond is set, it is extremely difficult to tell the difference between D, E, and F colors without comparing them immediately nest to each other. For those on a budget, selecting a diamond with E, F, or G color rather than D might enable you to bets meet all your expectations; a “white’” diamond with lots of sparkle in a pleasing size.

- The color of your setting can make your diamond appear more white.

If you are on a limited budget, keep in mind that if you feel you can’t afford a diamond as white as you would like and still have the size and sparkle that’s important, setting the stone in a white gold or platinum may make the diamond appear more white than it really is. Less white diamonds (L through M colors) can actually look more white in a white gold or platinum setting; the whiteness of the metal is reflected into the diamond and masks the yellow, making the diamond appear more white. Yellowish tinted diamond ( M - Z Colors) usually look more white in a yellow gold setting, where the contrast with with the bright yellow of the setting masks the yellowish tint of the diamond and often makes it appear more white.

- Flaws may mar the beauty of your diamond ring less than you think.

On a budget, they may add beauty! As discussed previously, flaws cannot normally be seen in a mounted diamond with the naked eye until the classification I1 clarity! And even in diamonds classified as “I’” flaws are not immediately visible when the diamond is set, especially when worn. So, while it’s important to know what the flaw grade is to be sure you are paying the correct price, this is the factor you can stretch the farthest without affecting the beauty of the diamond you select. It’s one area in which juggling can dramatically affect the budget while not affecting the sparkle. Therefore, we normally recommend trying to meet your personal preferences regarding the other three factors first. The price difference between Flawless and Internally Flawless, and each successive grade, can be dramatic. Looking at the diamonds without using a loupe, the D/SI@ would look like the D/IF!

- Consider shapes other than round.

While the round brilliant cut diamond is considered by most to be the cut that best reveals the diamond’s maximum beauty, it normally looks smaller than diamonds cut in other shapes. Today women are showing an increased interest in other shapes. In comparison to the round, pear shaped diamonds and marquise shaped diamonds look larger.

- Consider a design that uses several small stones than one large diamond.

As we discussed in greater depth in previous articles, may beautiful designs use several small diamonds rather than one large diamond. These designs offer a beautiful way to keep the budget down. The smaller the diamond, the lower the price per carat. For example, a one carat round brilliant cut diamond set in a solitaire ring more than a ring containing three diamonds having a total weight of one carat (each diamond weighing 1/3 carat). A solitaire, while it is the most popular ring style among new brides-to-be, is also the most expensive.

Look for the innovative designs available in multi gemstone rings. These offer an alternative that can create a very important and individual look.

- Illusion settings.

Certain settings create an illusion that diamond is larger than it is.

- Bold designs in gold and platinum add importance and distinctiveness to smaller diamonds.

New designs reflecting today’s more independent woman have had a major impact on the engagement ring and wedding band market. Using wider, innovative designs in metal can create a very impressive look, using a smaller diamond (less that one carat) as well as larger diamonds.

- Listen to your heart as well as your head.

The most important consideration in the selection of your engagement ring is how you feel about it. You want to feel a thrill; you want to feel excited; you want it to be your choice. If you really prefer yellow gold, don’t let someone talk you into platinum; if you really prefer the pear shape diamond, don’t let someone talk you into round shape diamond. One of our clients was torn between two diamonds; one had the finest possible color D and she knew it was the “better” diamond.

The other was a little larger and it was not quite as white, F color, but it had a magnificent make and the sparkle was really dazzling. She decided on the slightly larger diamond, even though it was F color, because she was honest with herself and her fiancee; she really preferred a diamond that was a little larger, she was constantly drawn back to that diamond because of its “personality.” The other diamond was a “rarer” stone, color-wise, which made it more expensive on the per carat basis, but it was not the one she really felt excited about. She made the right choice in going with her heart and not her head!

Diamond Grading report (certificate)

Today, few fine diamonds over one carat are sold without a diamond grading report (or certificate, as they are also called) from a respected laboratory. Reports issued by the GIA, Gem Trade laboratory, are the most widely used in the United States and in many countries around the world. A grading report does more than certify the diamond’s genuineness; it fully describes the stone and evaluates each of the critical factors affecting quality, beauty, and value. The information they contain can provide verification of the facts as represented by the seller and enable one to make a safer decision when purchasing a diamond. Another important function of the reports is to verify the identity of the specific diamond at some some future time. Also for insurance purposes, the the information provided on the report will ensure replacement of the lost or stolen diamond with one that is truly compatible quality.

The availability and widespread use of these reports can, when properly understood, enable even those without professional skills to make valid comparison between several diamonds and more informed buying decisions.

The article above can be used on your web site or newsletter.

When it is published, May I request that you include my name and resource box (the bio., contact and copyright information that follows the article. I would also appreciate if you could send me an e-mail of notification along with a complimentary copy of publication.

By Bijan Aziz

Cheap Wedding Rings

Cheap Wedding Rings

Just because you go for cheap wedding rings, doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice quality, beauty or style. There are hundreds of rings available to suit any budget and finding cheap wedding rings within your budget is easy. Just follow these tips:

Choose your metal wisely
Platinum is the metal of choice for many brides at the moment, but it’s also the most expensive of all the jewellery metals. (It’s about twice the price of gold).

If you’re after a silver look, why not try white gold? You get the durability of gold, with the look of platinum but half the price. Yellow gold is very popular and rose coloured gold is also gaining in popularity too.

For really cheap wedding rings, silver is the way to go. After all, it’s not the metal that counts – it’s what the ring symbolises.
Titanium wedding rings are also very cheap, ultra light and very hardwearing, making them another perfect solution for those on a low

Weight is important too
Metals are priced by weight, so the thicker you go with your wedding band, the higher the price will be. Cheaper wedding rings are obviously those that are thinner.

The best advice is to match the ring to the width of your engagement ring, that way the two rings will sit well together. For your partner, try different sizes that suit his hand.

Having a fancy design is becoming more and more popular. It's a great way to be individual but it sometimes comes with a cost. Stick to your budget
When shopping around, be clear to tell the shop assistants what your budget is. Ask to only see rings within that budget. Don’t be tempted to try on other rings, you can always upgrade later in life, when you’re not spending a fortune on a wedding!

Buy direct for the best prices
I found that buying direct from suppliers was the only way to get the best prices. When I was looking for cheap wedding rings, I found Wedding Rings Direct – a small company based in Brighton that specialises in wedding rings. They were the cheapest prices I found online and they track the price of metal on daily basis, so you know you’re going to get the best price.

They offer a great service, one-to-one advice and no pressured selling. You can even try all the rings you like before buying them.

Other sources for cheap wedding rings
If you don’t fancy buying online, then there are several good places in the real world where you can find bargains. First of all, I’d suggest shopping around to compare prices. Then when you know you’ve found the best deal - strike.

Some good areas to look are Hatton Garden in London, where you’ll find independent jewellers giving wholesale prices on wedding rings, diamonds and other jewellery.

The Jewellery Quarter in Birmingham also offers some great deals or if they’re too far to travel to, try a local independent jeweller on your high street.

The independent jewellers are much more likely to give you a discount if you ask, so don’t be afraid to try your hand at negotiation, especially if you’re buying all your rings at once!

My final suggestion would be to exchange your food shopping vouchers for your wedding rings. Tesco have teamed up with Goldsmiths and you can now redeem your Clubcard vouchers for jewellery. So start collecting your points now.

Trik memilih Cincin Kawin (WEDDING RING)

Trik Memilih Cincin Kawin (Wedding Ring)

INDONESIA LANGUAGE SERIES


Cincin adalah symbol ikatan cinta sepanjang masa dan berlaku universal. Ia menjadi penanda awal sebuah hubungan dan menjelaskan status pemakainya. Cincin di jari manis kiri seolah bicara : hey leave alone, I’m with somebody.

Tradisi cincin kawin sudah berlangsung ribuan tahun lampau. Memang tak ada data pasti kapan cincin mulai digunakan untuk perkawina. Tapi sejumlah literature menyebutkan pada jaman romawi kuno banyak pasangan menggunakan lempeng besi sederhana sebagai tanda ikatan.Mereka percaya lingkaran cincin sebagai symbol cinta abadi.
Berabad-abad kemudian tradisi ini diadopsi dunia barat.Cincin dianggap sebagai symbol cinta dan kepercayaan yang menandai hubungan pria dan wanita.Kadang diberikan sebelum perkawinan, dikenal dengan engangement ring atau cincin pertunangan, bisa juga saat upacara perkawinan dikenal dengan wedding ring atau cincin kawin.

Symbol dalam cincin
Dalam perkembangannya bentuk dan desain cincin – cincin berevolusi. Pada jaman romawi kuno, misalnya ada yang dikenal sebagai cincin model kunci terbuat dari kuningan, perunggu, atau besi. Cincin ini sebagai symbol untuk masuk kerumah suami dan boleh menggunakan harta miliknya. Cincin kunci model tertentu digunakan untuk membuka kotak perhiasan. Pada abad 15 batu permata mulai dipakai untuk mempercantik cincin kawin dari emas. Batu-batuan ini mewakili symbol-simbol tertentu dalam masyarakat. Ruby adalah symbol cinta yang agung. Emerald (zamrud)menyiratkan harapan dan berlian sebagai batuan yang paling kuat merupakan lambang keabadian. Pada periode ini berlian pada cincin berbentuk piramida.

Cincin berlian mulai marak dipakai dalam pertunangan mulai abad ke 18 dieropa, ada beberapa alasan yang membuat berlian menjadi begitu popular, yaitu kecantikan yang dipancarkannya, kekuatannya dan banyak ditemukan tambang berlian di Brasil.

Kaum wanita bangsawan biasanya menggunakan berlian besar untuk anting,tiara, kalung, dan gelang. Tapi untuk cincin mereka memakai berlian kecil atau halus yang diikat silver pada cincinnya yang terbuat dari emas adalh Queen Charlotte, istri dari king George III dari inggris yang disebut pertama kali memilih cincin bertabur berlian untuk perkawinannya. Sang ratupun dikenal sebagai Queen of Diamond.

Ditemukannya rancangan Tiffani (Tiffani setting) dianggap sebagai tonggak sejarah yang mengubah cincin berlian selanjutnya. Sang penemu, Charles Lewis Tiffany merancang cincin emas bertahtakan berlian ditengah – tengahnya lingkaran yang memancarkan kilau mempesona. Rancangan semakin menegaskan symbol kemegahan pemakaiannya.

Memilih cincin
Pada masa kini, beragam cincin kawin tersedia dalam berbagai model dan
bahan yang sangat variatif. Tapi cincin kawin paling umum digunakan adalah menggunakan bahan dasar emas atau platinum. Emas ini muncul dalam beragam warna seperti kuning, merah muda atau putih seperti platinum. Kadar karat yang umum dipakai adalah emas 18 karat.Emas murni 24 karat kurang cocok dijadikan cincin kawin karena sifat logamnya lunak sehingga mudah berubah akibat pemakaian sehari-hari.

Pilihan lainnya adalah platinum berwarna kemilau putih keperakan bergaya
klasik. Seperti halnya emas, nilai cincin ini ditentukan kadar campuran logam lainnya seperti iridium dan ruthenium. Untuk harga,cincin berbahan dasar platinum relative lebih mahal ketimbang emas.

Desain cincin kawin umumnya simple. Banyak pasangan memilih desain polos karena praktis untuk pamakaian sehari-hari.kalaupun ingin lebih special, pilihanya adalah dengan memberi sentuhan permata pada cincin emas atau platinum. Berlian masih menjadi pilihan paling popular sampai saat ini.

Dalam memilih cincin kawin yang cocok ada beberapa hal yang bisa dijadikan
panduan. Seperti :

1.ANGGRAN (BUDGET)
Berapa anggaranya? Harga cincin kawin biasanya ditentukan oleh jenis bahan,kadar karat dan beratnya. Serta tambahan hiasan sepert berlian. Untuk cincin kawin berlian bersertifikat, misalnya harganya pasti lebih mahal ketimbang cincin biasa. Bila anggaran terbatas bisa disiasati dengan mengutak –atik berat,kadar, serta model yang sederhana. Untuk harga logam mulia patokanya umumnya sama. Anda bisa berhemat dengan mencari ongkos pembuatan yang lebih murah.

2.MODEL (STYLE)
Cantik tidaknya cincin biasanya menjadi pertimbangan pertama dalam memilih.Anda bisa memilih langsung ditoko cincin atau mencari referensi model dan minta dibuatkan khusus. Dalam memilih model anda perlu ingat,berbeda dengan cincin lainnya, cincin kawin akan dipakai selamanya (idealnya). Jadi pertimbangkan juga bentuknya, apa tidak mengganggu aktivitas, apakah desainnya akan bertahan lama dan tidak cepat basi.Jangan lupa pertimbangkan berdua agar cincin terlihat cantik ditangan anda.

3.BAHAN (MATERIAL).
Ini tidak hanya berhubungan dengan budget atau selera, dalam menentukan pilihan bahan, perlu juga dipertimbangkan aspek kesehatan. Apa anda alergi terhadap bahan – bahan tertentu. Pada sejumlah kasus,keringat seseorang bereaksi secara berbeda terhadap bahan tertentu.

4.UKURAN (SIZE)
Jangan membeli cincin tanpa mencobanya. Cincin harus terasa nyaman dan melekat dengan pas dijari, jangan sampai kesempitan, kedodoran, atau warnanya tidak match dengan warna kulit anda.Tradisi jari manis kiri Jari manis tangan kiri adalah tempat yang biasa dipakai untuk cincin kawin. Tak ada aturan baku mengenai hal ini tapi tradisi ini begitu popular dan berlaku secara universal konon tradisi ini berasal dari kepercayaan romawi kuno yang menyebut bahwa pada jari manis kiri terdapat vena amoris yang berhubungan langsung kejantung.Alasan praktis yang juga sering di kemukakan, jari manis tangan kiri dianggap sebagai paling sedikit digunakan sehingga cincin relatif aman dipakai. Ringkasan lain tentang Trik memilih wedding ring

Daftar Pustaka
(SOURCE=Trik memilih wedding ring oleh emma chick 2007)

How To Choose The Perfect Wedding Ring That Fits Properly As Well

How To Choose The Perfect Wedding Ring That Fits Properly As Well

The kind of ring you are wanting and the inventory of the jewelers will help you in choosing the perfect wedding ring. As you may already know, wedding rings come in many different metal types, platinum, white gold, or yellow gold, the choice is yours. When choosing the perfect ring, of course you want it to look perfect. However, you will also want it to feel perfect. When you have picked out the perfect one for your wedding, you will need to have it sized to ensure the fit is perfect as well.
When it comes to sizing a wedding ring, it could be a little tricky. You also need to schedule enough time to adjust the size if necessary. The following are a few tips that you should follow in order to get the perfect fit your ring.

The best situation for sizing your wedding ring is to ensure that the atmosphere is comfortable in regards to temperature and climate. Any variations rather too hot or too cold could increase or decrease your actual ring size. It is suggested that you do not size the wedding ring directly after purchase. The ring needs time to adjust to your finger; many people find that sizing is not necessary after wearing it for a few days. Temperature, climate, and activity all determine how well the ring will fit your finger.

If the ring you want must be sized, you can determine your ring size by visiting your local jewelry store, purchasing a ring sizer, or even using a string in your home.

It is possible to measure your own finger for ring size, however, it is best if you leave it to a professional. The string technique is not always accurate, therefore, should never be relied upon. Jewelers will often have their own trained employees and professional ring sizers to do this for you. This will ensure that you obtain the right size for your wedding ring. After all, the perfect wedding ring is not so perfect if it does not fit.

It is ultimately important that the ring sizer fit comfortably onto your finger, prior to authorizing the jeweler to make your wedding ring of that size. Have a fitting ring will ensure that your ring will not fall off or hurt your fingers because it is too tight. After proper sizing, the ring you have chosen will be completely perfect and you will feel confident in wearing in and in your choice.
(sourceby:GreggHall)