Diamond Engagement Rings With Sapphire Stones

Sonny and Cher, Fred and Ginger, chocolate and peanut butter...some things are just meant to go together. And diamonds and sapphires are no exception. With so many choices, diamond engagement rings with a touch of sapphire stones set can go down in your personal history with as much romance and excitement as Antony and Cleopatra with a much happier ending, of course! It will be the romance of the history.

No need for the blues, with sapphires you can branch out into a variety of melodies. While sapphires are usually associated with the deep blue only a sapphire can exude, sapphires cover a large portion of the rainbow from purples to reds to oranges and yellows. Imagine the glitz and glitter of a brilliant white diamond surrounded by a sparkling ruby sapphire...there's something you'll enjoy looking at for years to come! And if you love the idea of a colored diamond, such as a pink or yellow, you can find the perfect complimentary sapphire to create an elegant sunset on your finger.

On the bright side, if the cost of a colored diamond is too much to consider (at least for now--always keep your options open!), consider a colored sapphire instead. The main attraction could be the yellow or pink sapphire, supported by a brilliant chorus of smaller diamonds, and no one would know the difference unless you chose to reveal your brilliant secret!

Or consider this--if your heart's desire is a pink or yellow diamond, but you're not dating a movie star (for which you may want to thank your lucky stars), you can create the "look" without the price tag. Set a smaller yellow or pink diamond in the center and surround it with the same color of sapphires. This creates the stunning yellow or pink glow you've got your heart set on, but significantly lowers the cost. You can have that 'two million' look without emptying your bank account (or putting yourself in debt that will last as long as the marriage).

Sapphires are pretty study rocks, too--only second in hardness to diamonds, which means you can mix 'em up as much as you want and be confident that your ring will last for years to come, just like your favorite classic tune that never goes out of style.

Need another reason to consider the diamond/sapphire duet? The rocks are gorgeous and can be put in any kind of setting you prefer and still look great. Whether you like to dance to the beat of your own drummer or prefer the classic sounds of Mozart, you can combine your diamond and sapphire choices in a way that will make your heart sing for years to come.

Antique Engagement Rings Gets Better In Ages

Antique engagement rings are a unique and beautiful alternative to a new ring. The tradition of giving separate rings for the engagement and the marriage started in Victorian England. The first DeBeers diamond minds in the late 1800s helped increase the popularity of engagement rings.

The earliest diamonds were not nearly as brilliant as today’s rings. The first mine cut diamonds were not very clear. This improved in the early 20th century with the European cut diamonds. These are often found in rings from the Art Deco period. Diamond cutting continued to improve and evolve into the brilliant cut that is still used today.

Larger stones are found in Victorian rings. While these diamonds don’t have the clarity of newer rings, the stone is generally larger. Rings became smaller throughout the early 1900s and into the Great Depression. Overall, the quality of the diamond affects the price. Clarity isn’t as important in antique rings as it is in new ones. The value depends more on the demand for specific rings.

The most popular vintage rings are from the Victorian Era through the 1940s. Distinct styles, settings and stones can be seen in rings from each period. Victorian rings are generally yellow or rose colored gold. The stone can be a diamond, but pearls were just as common in this time period. Edwardian rings have a filigree design in the rings. Some may have Jewish or Christian designs in the filigree.

Art Deco rings of the 1920s are generally platinum, white gold or silver. Bezel settings are common in these rings. The setting makes the smaller diamond appear larger. Rings became smaller and less ornate in the 1930s and 1940s. Platinum became less common during the war years and yellow or white gold was commonly used in rings. Carvings on the shank and settings helped make the center stone appear larger.

Where to Find Antique Engagement Rings

There are several good places to find antique rings. Antique stores often carry jewelry. Some dealers are more knowledgeable than others about the details and value of rings from each period. In some cases, you ca get a really good deal. Some stores under sell jewelry because they don’t know its true value. The ring may not come with a certificate. If not, have it independently appraised for insurance.

Jewelers sometimes carry vintage pieces. A good jeweler will be knowledgeable about the value of the ring. You may not get as good a deal, but will have the peace of mind of knowing that you have a quality ring. You will be given a certificate for the diamond when you buy from a jeweler.

Estate sales are a good place to find antique wedding jewelry. You can usually arrange to view the items the day before the estate sale. Read about the value and characteristics of antique rings to help determine the value of the ring. Inspect the ring carefully before the sale to decide how high you will bid. You can find information in books at the library or on the internet.
Caring for Antique Engagement Rings

Antique diamond jewelry will retain its beauty for years, if you care for it properly. Before you purchase the ring, have the jeweler inspect the prongs carefully to be sure the stone won’t come loose. You don’t want to lose your diamond. Take the ring to the jeweler for professional cleaning and inspection once or twice a year.

Famous Diamond Engagement Rings Of Famous Celebrities

What better way to show the world that you are in love than by the act of giving and receiving a diamond engagement ring ? With many actresses and other famous women sporting bigger and sparkier diamond rings, celebrity engagements have become a delight for the jewelry lover. The size of the diamond is not necessarily the key as to what makes some of these rings so famous and recognizable, rather it seems to be a combination of the engagement ring itself and the famous lady it is associated with.


Celebrities and other famous people influence the look and style of many aspects in fashion and also set trends. Diamond engagement rings are no exception to this rule. The following is a partial list of the famous ladies and their equally famous engagement rings:

Royalty

Queen Elizabeth II received an engagement ring from Prince Phillip that was made from diamonds from his mother's tiara. Grace Kelly was given a 12 carat emerald-cut diamond engagement ring from Prince Rainier. Lady Diana was engaged with a ring made of an 18 carat blue oval sapphire that was circled by fourteen diamonds.
Actresses

Elizabeth Taylor was engaged to her third husband, Michael Todd, with an emerald cut diamond that weighed almost 30 carats. However, she is more known for her other pieces of jewelry, one more striking than the other: the 39 carat Krupp diamond, the 69.42 carat pear-shaped Taylor-Burton diamond and the 17th century heart-shaped Taj Mahal diamond.

Priscilla was engaged to Elvis with a 3.5 carat diamond engagement ring that was circled by another 21 smaller diamonds and diamond chips.

Sharon Stone was given a three diamond, 3 1/2 carat emerald-cut diamond engagement ring by Phil Bronstien.

Catherine Zeta-Jones promise to Michael Douglas was finalized with a 10 carat antique marquise diamond estimated at almost $2 million.

Pop stars

Madonna received from Guy Ritchie an antique Edwardian three-stone diamond ring with a decorative platinum band. The Neil Lane ring was supposed to represent their family: mother, father and son Rocco.

In the case of Toni Braxton, drummer Keri Lewis designed a stunning 4.5 three-stone diamond ring with an oval-shaped center stone and 2 heart-shaped diamonds on the sides.

Paris Hilton, even though not a pop star but a diva anyway, received 2 diamond engagement rings from billionaire Paris Latsis, a $5 million 24 carat canary diamond ring and a $2.1 million 15 carat white diamond ring.

Britney Spears has two engagement rings also: one that she bought for herself before the wedding, a $40,000 4 carat cushion-cut diamond ring with a platinum pave setting, and one that she received 9 month after the marriage from husband Kevin Federline.

Christina Aguilera became engaged to Jordan Bratman after he presented a $54,000 20-carat diamond engagement ring designed by jeweler Stephen Webster.

Whitney Houston sports a stunning 4 carat oval-shaped center stone with trillions on the sides which she received from Bobby Brown.

Of course there is the very famous pink diamond ring that Ben Affleck gave to Jennifer Lopez. This 6 carat radiant shaped pink diamond quickly caught the attention of the public and has become a highly sought after replica. It is completed with a platinum band as well as three baguette white diamonds on each side. The pink diamond engagement ring is reported to have been purchased for $1.2 million in 2002. The ring, while easily identified is also very feminine and modern looking.



Some replicas are styled as more antique engagement rings. These rings have an everlasting quality and symbolize tradition and heritage. The recent engagement of Camilla Parker Bowles in February of 2005 featured such an antique engagement ring. The platinum ring has an emerald-cut center diamond with three diamond baguettes on each side. This ring originally belonged to the Queen Mother and is believed to be valued at over $1 million.

Secrets Of Buying Your Diamond Engagement Rings

The diamond can be selected first or last, there is no right or wrong order. Some people prefer to choose their diamonds first and then find a setting that will accentuate its beauty. Others choose to pick out the setting initially and then search for a diamond, or diamonds, that will adorn that setting. And there are still others that find it much easier to buy diamond engagement rings that is already finished completely.

Diamonds all look beautiful. Even cheap diamonds can look elegant and classy. If you want your diamond engagement ring to look as elegant as you've always dreamed it would be the most important thing is to locate a fine setting. It's this choice of setting that will determine whether the finished product is a worthy purchase. Your choice of diamonds and setting is very important because ideally you won't get a second chance at choosing your diamond engagement ring.

Many women choose diamond engagement rings that have three stone settings. These rings will usually include one center diamond and two smaller offset diamonds. Three stone settings are very popular and can include either prong or bezel settings which can be made of 14k or 18k yellow gold, white gold or platinum.

Some women prefer classic solitaire settings that may include 4 to 6 prongs, bezel or cathedral settings. There is a wide assortment of solitaire settings. As a general rule the more prongs you have the safer the diamond engagement ring sets. You certainly don't want to lose a diamond because one of the prongs breaks off. So this is something to consider when choosing your setting.

When shopping for a diamond it's important to purchase a certified stone. A certified diamond has been evaluated by an independent expert that will give it a quality rating for its cut, color, clarity and carats. This is the surest way to purchase a high quality diamond. After finding a center diamond and complimentary diamonds to your liking the next step is to find that beautiful setting you've always dreamed of.

Another thing to consider when shopping for a diamond engagement ring is the current trend. Many women will end up purchasing a style of ring that is currently popular only to find out 10 years later that it's no longer in style. You have to remember that this wedding ring will be worn forever hopefully so choosing a classic style may be more to your liking.

It's also smart to consider the practicality of the engagement ring. If you plan on wearing the ring daily it may be wise to purchase a sturdier ring that can withstand the daily rigors of your job or activities. You should determine the amount of wear and tear your ring will endure and select a ring that is up to the punishment.

Other things to consider are the metal your wedding band or engagement ring will be made from. Some women prefer the look of yellow gold while others prefer white gold. Some forego gold altogether and go with platinum, a very popular style these days. Or you can go with a combination, a two-tone gold with some yellow and some white. It's purely a personal preference.

But something to consider is that two-tone gold may be easier to match with other jewelry that you may wear. Another question that brides-to-be often have a hard time deciding is whether or not they should buy a name brand ring or not. It's usually fairly easy to find comparable rings cheaper if you do not go with a name brand. On the other hand it's sometimes nice to be able to flaunt an expensive name brand ring. The choice is yours.

Unique Engagement Rings For You

The most widespread of engagement traditions is the groom presenting his bride to be with a ring. Most frequently, the engagement ring is a diamond ring. Even though diamonds are the most desired by brides to be, diamonds are not the only precious stones used in engagement rings. Today's brides want unique engagement rings and that makes it even harder.

If your choice of engagement ring is a diamond ring, be prepared to spend. The diamond jewelry retail market is a $30 billion market. Over $5 billion is spent on engagement ring in the U.S. market.

To the untrained eye, most diamonds look very similar. Most people differentiate between diamonds based on size, shape, and price. A lower price usually means lower diamond quality, not necessarily a bargain.

Judging diamond quality requires skill and experience, and it involves grading a ring based on a combination of characteristics such as cut, clarity, color and carat weight. The above characteristics are called the "4 Cs". A diamond's weight is measured in carats, equivalent to one fifth of a gram. Usually diamonds range from 0.25 up to several carats. Weight is only one way of valuing a diamond, color is another. Colorless diamonds are the most rare and they are the most valuable. Colored diamonds with a hint of yellow are more common and less expensive.

Diamond colors are coded from D to Z. A D grade is the most valuable and Z is least valuable. Diamonds graded D-F are considered colorless and they are the most valuable. Many reputable jewelry stores do not sell K thru Z grade diamonds.

The most valuable color grades:

D: Absolutely colorless. The highest color grade, which is extremely rare.
E: Colorless. Only minute traces of color can be detected by an expert gemologist. A rare diamond.
F: Colorless. Slight color detected by an expert gemologist, but still considered a "colorless" grade. A high-quality diamond.

Another essential factor determining the price of a diamond is its cut. Just like color, cut, is equally difficult to judge for the untrained eye. The grading certificate that typically comes with the diamond will give you a good idea. Independent testing laboratories, such the GIA, provide certificates with a diamond's grading from excellent to poor. A certified diamond also means a bigger price tag.

The clarity of a diamond simply refers to its purity. Most diamonds have minuscule markings called "inclusions". A flawless (no inclusions) diamond is very rare and valuable, while a diamond riddled with inclusions is less expensive. Clarity is ranked from "flawless" (FL) to "imperfect" (I1 to I2). Most diamonds fall between those with very, very small inclusions (VVS1) to rocks with slightly larger inclusions (S1). If you are willing to compromise on clarity, you can expect to save. To verify a diamond's clarity, examine the laboratory certificate.

If you're on a tight budget, try to stay away from the big name jewelry stores. Brand name usually comes with a larger price tag. Buying wholesale may be an option. Normally the wholesaler's core business is selling diamonds to retailers, but they also sell to the public. Because they do not advertise in the traditional methods, nor are they located in shopping malls, you have to seek them out. Here's one jewelry store that I've found out. It sells in a low price and has an amazing collection of engagement rings. Moreover, if you really want unique engagement rings, then you can design your own and they will get on it. Amazing store James Allen!! Just click the image to see some of their precious collections.

Diamond Engagement Rings - A Symbol Of Love

Your engagement is considered to be one of the most special days. It's a chance to represent your true love and devotion to someone special and to declare it a way that will never be forgotten.

The engagement ring is going to stay on her hands forever, and every time she sees it, it should remind her about that glorious day, and her partner's undying devotion. This is why the engagement ring holds such an important place in a man's life. It is not just an ornament; it symbolizes your love, trust, dedication and the affection you have for your life partner.

If the diamond engagement ring had been a mere ornament, you could always go for the costliest one and the most flamboyant, glossy model to show off your wealth and status in the society. But it?s not just an ornament; it's a token of love and care. So, it has to be chosen in a manner that it would truly and wholly represent you.

A diamond is considered the best choice for the engagement ring, because the diamond is as special as your life partner. It is the purest, and the hardest material available. Above all, nothing can beat the look of a diamond ring. Women are considered as the best creation of nature, so presenting a Diamond Ring is like saying, 'one beuatiful creation for another.'

You can choose whatever look you want in your diamond ring. Vintage, classic, contemporary, or ultra modern; whatever style is desired by your partner. Choosing the right kind and style of diamond depends not only upon the color, texture and the price, but also on the likings and the looks of your partner.

An elongated diamond, such as the Marquise or Oval can make short fingers look sleeker. A diamond is hard in character, extremely good looking, dazzling all through its life, making the person who has it happier, and represents the glitter of love. So there cannot be a more special reason to buy a diamond engagement ring; after all, the right diamond with the right setting is the best thing that can happen in your life, only next to your life partner.

Design My Own Engagement Ring Or Buy?

Most of the “bride and groom to be” always ask the question should I design my own engagement ring or buy? Well, designing your own engagement ring is great but not necessary, if you want to design your ring, then it should be your wedding ring. So just buy an engagement ring. I’ll help you out in finding some vintage engagement rings that fully expresses your feelings.

It is vitally important when choosing an engagement ring that it reflects the wearer’s taste, personality and also meets any practical requirements. Think about the wear and tear the ring will have and chose accordingly.

So, what are today’s styles for engagement rings? Truth is, sometimes women want to sport a brilliant, beautiful diamond engagement rings on their hand that doesn't look like a wedding band, or anniversary ring. Sometimes, women want to wear this ring on their right hand - or even the middle finger of their left to avoid tan lines or to perform some professional duties. These demands are what inspire jewellers to create so many unique engagement rings designs.

Some of the latest design trends for engagement rings are bold, yet feminine - many with an art deco influence. Hallmarks of the hottest engagement ring looks include:

• Geometric, art deco shapes such as diamond circles or squares;

• Wide "band" style engagement rings that are chunky, yet feminine;

• Asymmetrical designs that feature an unusually cut diamond, such as princess cut;

• Coloured diamonds (fancy yellow, cognac, or chocolate brown)

• Mixing round brilliant diamonds with fancy shapes and fancy stones on engagement rings for cheap people who are budget aware.

• The use of open-air space within the ring design (showing diamonds against skin) to give a substantial ring a light, airy, modern look.

Remember that an engagement ring will be a ring you’ll wear for a lifetime so it is worth choosing carefully. Diamond engagement rings are a great choice as they are timeless and compliment any outfit or other jewelry but if you are looking for cheap engagement rings, there still a lot available around. Remember that in the end, it is not the ring that will count but your relationship with the person you’d like to spend your life with.

The choice of perfect ring and jewelry is in your hand. Buy the right ring now.

Romantic Proposals - The List Of The Best

Make your proposal a memorable time for the girl you want to spend your life with. Learn Romantic Proposals With This Romantic Tips For Engagement Proposals and be sure to never hear a "NO".

It comes a moment in life when all of us, men, have to make the big step and ask the question; the proposal in marriage. This should be a memorable and delightful experience so you have to make it perfect.

A brilliant proposal depends on knowing what makes her happy. Whatever it is you are planning, you should be aware that she really likes that and remember, "Women Love Originality". So, surprise your girl with some of this most romantic engagement proposal ideas for you..

-everyone knows the traditional proposal which still works; the man gets down on one knee and gets out a box with a ring before asking her to spend the rest of her life by his side

- if she is hopeless romantic try spelling it out in rose petals, or do it in one of her favorite locations and make marriage proposal poems that you will read to her before you popped out the biggest question of your life.

-if she is the sport type you may ask her from the heights of the mountain after a day of rock climbing; also during a parachute jump, or scuba-diving session. That would be great for her.

-if she likes basketball and goes to all games, a big surprise will be to see on the big screen from the stadium your proposal in marriage; it's a big gesture of love you transmit for her in front of so many people.

-if you know that she listens to the radio at a certain time everyday, making a dedication will work charms with her; but is preferable to call her while the big question is being asked

-by writing it in the sky it's an incredible declaration of love; have a plane fly a banner; do it on a clear day and plan a romantic outside date and she'll be pleasantly surprised

-the beach is perfect for a proposal; barely dressed at the beach, kissed by the sun, that's the setting for a marriage proposal that will be a sexy, sultry experience; arrive at the beach first and build a sand castle that symbolize your intentions.




These are only few suggestions you can choose but there are a lot more. Pick up a memorable place, song or occasion such as where you first met, or first kissed. Be creative, incorporate your personality and make this a special moment. Focus on the moment and on her; think about what you will say to her and express your proposal with love and sincerity. Remember, diamond engagement rings can worth a thousand of dollars but perfect romantic proposals can worth a million to her and make her remember that he loves you.

For more of the best and most romantic proposals you can use. Claim This Romantic Proposals Guide To Popping The Question Now!!