There’s a popular idiom that says the best things come in small packages. We can only assume whoever first uttered it was referring to jewelry — most likely an engagement ring. Thats because the pint-sized token of love offers significance way beyond its size. Of course, when it comes to the one ring youll wear forever, it better be good. And, with so many options to choose from, you may not know exactly where your predilections lie. These days, shopping for engagement rings is hardly straightforward. With settings ranging from classic diamond solitaires to minimalist metal bands and even colored stones, the wedding-jewelry market is seemingly endless (and maybe a little overwhelming, too). How is one to decide? For starters, we enlisted acclaimed gem experts Erica Weiner and Elizabeth Doyle to school us on eight popular ring settings. Doyle encourages her clients and betrothed shoppers everywhere to try on many different kinds of rings, even ones you dont think you will like. You might be surprised what looks good on you and suits you. Which is to say that zillion-carat canary yellow heavyweight you saw in the pages of People may not actually reflect your personal aesthetic. On the practical side, she adds, make sure the ring you pick suits your lifestyle. Weve collected a gorgeous, diverse array for you to shop, so that you can set your love in stone — literally. Like this post? Theres more. Get tons of style secrets, insider shopping dish, fashion news, and more on the Refinery29 Fashion Facebook page! The Setting: Solitaire Arguably the most classic style, a solitaire ring features one stone (usually diamond) in the center of a metal (namely gold) band. Doyle & Doyle founder Elizabeth Doyle adds that, Nothing says engagement ring quite like a solitaire. They keep the focus on the beauty of your diamond and are so elegant in their simple sophistication. Keep an eye out for styles with beautiful, subtle details around the basket. These details are meant to be enjoyed mainly by the wearer. The most common technique for mounting a solitaire diamond ring is a prong setting, since it shows off more of the stone than other styles do. Others include bezel, channel, and illusion settings, to name a few. (Have we lost you? Helpful ring glossary right this way.) And, dont be fooled by the name — while traditional solitaires stick to one stone, some modern iterations add accent diamonds or sparkle around the band, too. Sarah & Sebastian Diamond Drop Ring, $360.36, available November 15 at Sarah & Sebastian. The Setting: Bar Bar or line rings offer a decidedly geometric feel. Here, a series of stones are set next to each other — either vertically or horizontally — for perfect symmetry. This is a great option for those whod like multiple stones in their ring, but prefer an understated vibe. They also tend to run less expensive than other engagement styles. On that note: One of the first things we ask an engagement shopper is, What is your budget? Erica Weiner told us. This may come off as a bit crass, but it is important to have a figure to work with. Big does not always equal beautiful, and you can actually get some respectable-sized rocks on a small budget. Antique or off-color diamonds, and alternative stones like sapphires or emeralds, can make for spectacular engagement pieces. The Setting: Stone Band A lot of people call these eternity bands if the stones go all the way around, Weiner explains and, in our endless research on this subject, weve seen the stone-encrusted rings become an increasingly popular choice. For the quasi-minimalist crowd, the style still features plenty of drama with a rich variety of stones along the circumference of the band, but doesnt have any one stone singled out (looking at you, solitaires). Bands with colored stones are a great way to incorporate color into your mix, Doyle adds. You can stack with other colors or with diamonds. Simply rearranging your stack gives you a new look without any effort. They provide the option for color without quite the same commitment as colored-stone accents in your engagement ring. This particular style also makes an excellent anniversary gift. The Setting: Three Stone Three-stone rings, sometimes called trinity or trilogy rings, represent a couples past, present, and future — packing a lot of meaning into each stone. Unlike a solitaire style with accent stones, these have three distinct center stones. Some of the best trinity styles also happen to be vintage. If you are going with vintage, Weiner says, know that most of these rings do not come with certificates or appraisals, and that the provenance is unknown. A good dealer will test the metal and stones and do some background research on the era the piece was made, the cuts of stones, and pass this information along to you. Most stores will have a loupe for you to examine the ring, too. Dont worry about trying to ascertain the color and clarity of the stone, because this can be very subtle and actually does require training and special equipment, but DO use the loupe to look for cracks, chips, or inclusions in the stone, missing stones, as well as any potential problems with the mounting (i.e. broken prongs, damaged filigree, or any sort of bending or cracking). Tiffany & Co. Round Brilliant Three Stone, price upon request, available at Tiffany & Co. The Setting: Open Front We cant pinpoint exactly when the cuff underwent its teeny, tiny makeover (were fairly certain Delfina Delettrez had something to do with it), but we know one thing for sure: Open-front rings are no shrinking violets. The unconventional style adds instant edge to your left hand and is great for stacking — with your wedding band, perhaps? Though, Weiner notes that these rings do have the potential to hook onto your clothes and may not be best for those who work a lot with their hands. Food for thought, friends. The Setting: Double Band Double-band rings are perfect worn alone or over a stack of any number. If you appreciate a heavy application of jewels, this is definitely an option to consider; its also very popular right now. Though, Weiner makes an excellent point: I personally think that these are kind of a fad, and theyll look really dated in a few decades. Youll be wearing your ring for your whole life (if youre lucky enough to stay married!). That said, if you love this look, go for it. The Setting: Metal Band Metal bands are so pure in their symbolism: A never-ending circle representing eternal love. You cannot get more traditional, in fact the tradition dates back to Roman times, says Doyle. They work especially well with engraving and are another often less expensive alternative to consider if youre adhering to a strict budget. The Setting: Pavé This is a great option for women who dont want to wear a diamond engagement ring and a wedding band, says Weiner. A low profile means its easy to wear all the time — and no big rock getting hooked on your clothing. Lots of little stones means lots of sparkle for your buck, too. With so many miniature diamonds or other stones in the mix, this style requires its wearer to check often to make sure you havent lost any stones, she adds. If this does happen, its not as devastating as losing the diamond from your solitaire. A jeweler can replace little stones pretty easily and relatively inexpensively. Like what you see?How about some more R29 goodness, right here?The Thong That Made Me A BelieverHow To Shop Alexa Chungs ClosetEveryday Jewelry Thats Worth The Splurge Refinery29 ift.tt/1uFUO6F
Posted on: Fri, 07 Nov 2014 12:29:57 +0000
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