Determine the Occasion

This is a big one up front. The occasion can mean as much as the jewelry, and you want to make sure the occasion and the jewelry match. Unlike wedding anniversaries, where there’s a specific type of gift for every anniversary, dating is a little more nebulous.

Want to give your girlfriend a simple piece of everyday jewelry just to do it? Awesome – love it. That same piece of everyday jewelry may not play as well on your fifth anniversary. Obviously, there’s a bit of subjectivity here, so adjust accordingly based on what you know your girlfriend likes and expects from you.

Start Small…

… Especially if this is the first time you’re buying her jewelry. We respect the courage if you want to take a big swing on the first piece you buy her. However, you may want to start with something a little simpler upfront. Maybe a bracelet or a dainty necklace.

Either way, make sure you buy something reasonably priced, especially when you’re starting out. Why? Well, besides financial responsibility, there’s also a weight to receiving an expensive gift. If your girlfriend doesn’t love what you got her, she’s still (hopefully) going to be gracious and thank you for it. However, who really wants to feel like they have to wear something they don’t like because someone spent a whole paycheck on it? Rein it in there, Mr. Monopoly.

Start with What She Already Has

And by this, we don’t mean buy her the exact thing she has already. That would be amusing from a third-party perspective, but we doubt either of you will be laughing. What we mean here is look at what she already wears and buy something similar. Does she wear a lot of simple gold pieces? We bet she’ll like another simple gold piece. As you continue to date for longer, you can expand your purchases and try new things, but it’s best to play the hits upfront.

Another reason to start with what she has is that it’s probably what looks good on her. Not every piece of jewelry looks good on everyone, so you want to know how to shop with that in mind.

Don’t Overspend

For several reasons, don’t overspend. First of all, that’s financially imprudent at best. Don’t go into debt unnecessarily. Yes, you love her, and you want to get her nice things. That’s admirable, and we’re happy to hear it. However, poor financial choices in gift-giving also impart a burden onto the person receiving the gift. Would you feel comfortable knowing someone spent way too much on a gift for you and put themselves in a hole? Probably not.

You also just don’t have to overspend. You have plenty of great choices in affordable price ranges. The days of spending thousands on a piece of jewelry because you’re pressured into it by advertisers? Those are over.

Don’t Buy a Ring (Unless You Want to)

Okay, let’s break this down. Here’s what we aren’t saying: don’t buy a ring ever. There are definitely occasions, even besides proposals, where it’s fine to do so. What we are saying is that you want to be very deliberate in doing so. If she’s expecting a proposal and you go, “Look at this neat ring I got you,” and go in for a high five, it’s going to go poorly. Are you going to do that? Hopefully not, but just in case.

So, when can you buy a ring besides proposals? Well, if it’s a time you clearly aren’t proposing. That’s kind of vague, but you have to feel it out. If you’re sure she’s not expecting a proposal, you can get her a ring. It’s still a bit of a dangerous game to play.

The safer bet for non-proposal rings is getting her a promise ring. It’s not an engagement ring, of course, but it still symbolizes the next step in your relationship. Do clearly elaborate on what the ring means, though, so no one is confused.

When in Doubt, Ask

You may not want to do this upfront. Early in the relationship that can seem like it ruins the spark and the surprise and all that. However, if you’ve been together a while and you want to make sure you’re getting her something she likes, there’s no harm in asking if there’s anything she’s had her eye on lately.

As long as you buy her something you think she’ll like and you spend a reasonable amount on it, you should be good. Start small and build from there. You’ll be great!

An engagement ring symbolizes the commitment between two people. It is a tangible representation of love and a promise to spend the rest of your life together. With so many options available, choosing an engagement ring can seem overwhelming, but with some research, you can find the perfect ring for your partner.

Diamonds are the most popular choice for engagement rings and have been for centuries. They symbolize timeless love, endurance, and strength. Diamonds come in various shapes, sizes, and qualities, making them a versatile option for any taste or budget.

If diamonds aren’t your thing, many other gemstones have unique meanings and symbolism. Sapphire, ruby, and emerald are popular choices, but there are many options, such as opals, tourmalines, and morganites.

The metal used for the band of an engagement ring is an important consideration. Popular options include yellow gold, white gold, rose gold, and platinum. Consider your partner’s skin tone and personal style when choosing a metal.

The cut of a diamond refers to its proportions and how well it reflects light. A good amount will make a diamond appear brighter and more brilliant. Popular cuts include round, princess, and emerald.

The setting of an engagement ring refers to how the diamond is mounted on the band. Consider the setting in relation to the diamond’s shape and size and your partner’s style and lifestyle. Popular settings include prong, bezel, and channel.

Choose a reputable retailer who can guide you through choosing an engagement ring and answer any questions you may have. Feeling comfortable with the retailer and their knowledge of diamonds and engagement rings is essential.

Consider your partner’s taste and personal style when choosing an engagement ring. Look at their current jewelry collection for inspiration, and take note of any specific preferences they may have. It’s also important to consider the setting, metal, and your partner’s lifestyle. For example, if they work with their hands or are active, consider a ring with a lower profile to avoid snagging or damaging it.

It’s also important to budget for the engagement ring. Work with your retailer to find a balance between quality and budget.

The Proposal

After you have an engagement ring picked out, it’s time to plan the proposal. Think about what type of proposal you would like, whether it be a private, intimate moment or a grand, public gesture. Make sure the location is unique and meaningful to you and your partner. Choose a site that will be memorable, like the beach or a museum. Or you could propose where you had your first kiss or date. The more special the location is to you, the more romantic your proposal will be.

Preparing a speech or a set of words to express your feelings and intentions during the proposal is crucial. Rehearse what you want to say to ensure the words flow smoothly and naturally. Practicing will help you overcome nerves and feel more confident during the proposal.

A surprise proposal can be very romantic and memorable. The element of surprise can add to the excitement and make the proposal even more impressive. Keep the proposal a secret from your partner until the moment arrives. Consider hiding the ring in a particular place, arranging for a unique activity, or planning a surprise outing.

When proposing, it is essential to relax and enjoy the moment. The proposal should not be a stress-filled event but a unique and joyful occasion. Take deep breaths and be present in the moment. Remember that the proposal is about expressing your love and commitment to your partner; it is a moment you will cherish for the rest of your lives.

The Announcement

Once you’ve proposed, it’s time for the best part- sharing your big news. Telling your friends and family that you are engaged is an exciting moment and should be shared in a unique way. Make your announcement unique and personal to you as a couple. Consider writing a special message or creating a photo album to share with your friends and family. You can also make a video or have a special gathering to share your news in person.

Remember to make an official announcement to everyone by sending out save-the-dates of your wedding. Save-the-date cards are a great way to get guests excited about the upcoming wedding and can also reflect the couple’s personality and style. Find cards that match the theme of your wedding so you can get matching invitations, wedding reception program cards, and place cards for your event.

Conclusion

Engagement rings, proposals, and wedding announcements are important aspects of a couple’s journey toward marriage. An engagement ring symbolizes the love and commitment between two people. The proposal is a moment that sets the tone for the rest of their lives together. A wedding announcement allows a couple’s friends and family to share their joy at the next stage of life. It’s essential to choose a proposal idea that fits the couple’s personalities and interests and to make the moment as personal and meaningful as possible. With careful consideration and attention to detail, the engagement ring and proposal can be cherished memory that the couple will treasure for a lifetime.

The Claddagh Ring is a traditional Celtic ring that is beautiful, meaningful, and comes with just a hint of mystery – The perfect combination for that extra special jewelry piece.

Almost uniquely among rings, the Claddagh Ring has different meanings depending on how it is worn. To fully understand the reasons behind this, it is useful and interesting to look at the myths and history that surround the Claddagh Ring.

What is a Claddagh Ring?

We all love a good story, and the myth that surrounds the Claddagh Ring is part of its appeal.

Claddagh Rings the Myth – The myth tells the tale of a young man from Claddagh in the West of Ireland. Captured by pirates, he is sold into slavery. His new master teaches him the craft of goldsmithing, an art that he soon becomes skilled at.

But the young man never forgets his roots and the one true love that he left behind. Over the years, he secrets away enough gold, and he fashions a ring for his sweetheart. Eventually, he makes his way back to his beloved Ireland to find that his sweetheart has waited for him.

Of course, he presents her with the first-ever Claddagh ring, and the myth is born.

This is a nice story, but it is likely an embellishment of the true story. The first real documented ring was designed by a goldsmith from Claddagh called Richard Joyce. The design dates back to the 17th Century when Joyce had a goldsmith shop in Claddagh.

Joyce is known to have sailed off from Ireland in his younger days, so perhaps the young man and Richard Joyce are one and the same.

The Meaning of the Claddagh Ring

The Claddagh Ring is a design that incorporates three components, each of which adds something to the meaning of the ring.

1. The Heart – At the center of the design, and representing love, is a heart.
2. Two Clasped Hands – The clasped hands on the design are there to represent friendship.
3. The Crown – The crown is a representation of loyalty.

It is this symbolism and meaning that marks the Claddagh Ring as something extra-special in the jewelry world. But there is more than just that because the ring is worn differently depending on the status of the wearer.

How do you wear a Claddagh Ring?

One of the other unique features of Claddagh rings is that the relationship status of the wearer can dictate how the ring is worn. This “status symbolism” also has the added effect of making the Claddagh Ring perfect for both engagement and wedding rings.

But single people and those in relationships can also wear a Claddagh Ring. Because as described below, the only thing you need to do is to wear the ring correctly.

Wearing a Claddagh Ring Correctly

Depending on the relationship status of the wearer, a Claddagh Ring should be worn in the following fashion:

• Married – Married people should wear the ring on the wedding ring finger with the heart pointing inwards. This signifies that the wearer has found and married their one true love.
• Engaged – When worn as an engagement ring, it should be won on the wedding ring finger of the left hand with the heart pointing outwards.
• In a relationship – For those in a relationship, the proper way to wear a Claddagh ring is on the right hand. The heart should point upwards, signifying that the wearer is spoken for!
• Single people – For single people, a Claddagh Ring should be worn on the right hand with the heart pointing downwards.

The symbolism, myth, and meaning of a Claddagh Ring are all a part of its enduring appeal. There are very few other jewelry pieces that can boast such a rich tradition and heritage.

But there is more to a Claddagh Ring than just myth and tradition. These attributes aren’t enough to account for its longevity. To have an appeal that lasts for centuries, there has to be more than a story shrouded in the mists of time.

The Final Word on the Enduring Appeal of Claddagh Rings

Claddagh Rings have endured not only because of their meaning and history but because of their beauty.

The design of a Claddagh Ring is a thing of sheer magnificence. And this is the final piece in the jigsaw puzzle that explains why Claddagh Rings have remained virtually unchanged and so popular for centuries.

Great jewelry always means more than its component pieces. And when that meaning and symbolism is shrouded in the mists of time and myth, it adds that little bit of magic and mystique to the ring on your finger.

They are ready to be purchased from the market and one quick search online would lead you to jewelry websites advertising different types of jewelry pieces with the pink colored diamond as its primary stone. One great example of such a website is Astteria where vast selections of colored diamond jewelry are available.

Is A Pink Diamond Engagement Ring Popular?

If you are feeling a little adventurous and would like to stray away from the usual classic clear diamond engagement rings that are often the go-to pieces when proposing, a pink diamond engagement ring might just be the one you are looking for.

It’s reasonable to say that there’s a good reason why pink diamonds are so popular. It will undoubtedly be a striking accent to your engagement ring as its main stone.

Additionally, depending on the shade you select, its remarkable color can be either innocent or strong. Pink diamonds, like other diamonds, contain secondary color tones that have a significant impact on their final appearance.

The beauty of a diamond in this color will astound you, especially when it is attached to a delicate item of jewelry like an engagement ring.

How Is A Pink Diamond Engagement Ring Graded?

Deep within the Earth, volcanic activity and natural processes foster the development of diamonds. The presence of elements such as nitrogen, carbon, and boron in pink diamonds is what gives these jewels their distinctive pink tint.

Each pink diamond is given a color grade based on how intense the color is. Argyle pink diamonds famously employ a scale from 1 to 9, with 1 representing the darkest, vivid color and 9 representing the faintest hint of pink.

What Makes A Pink Diamond Engagement Ring Unique?

Pink diamonds are among the rarest diamonds ever created. Even though they are known to originate from the Argyle Mine, which unfortunately had already closed down since 2020, they can also be found elsewhere.

However, as we mention the renowned diamond mine, it should be known that even though pink diamonds were famously produced there, they barely make up about 1% of the diamond population in the Western Australian mine.

Due to this, pink diamonds are widely valued and in constant demand because of their rarity and their undeniable charm that brings about class and luxury.

What Does A Pink Diamond Engagement Ring Symbolise?

In terms of color shade, a light pink exudes innocence, whereas a more intense pink ignites passion. There is no doubt that the color pink elicits a particular feeling and when worn as an engagement ring, it gives a certain vibe that reflects the character of the person wearing it.

Pink diamonds also exude romance and femininity, which makes them a perfect option for an engagement ring.

Pink is a color that is frequently linked to compassion and love, therefore it makes perfect sense to think about this as an engagement ring. In fact, during the Elizabethan Era, it has been known to symbolize happiness and delight.

Nowadays, pink diamonds are closely associated with love and tenderness and all of these attributes combine really make pink diamonds the best stone to use for an engagement ring.

How Much Is A Pink Diamond Engagement Ring Worth?

The cost of a pink diamond is determined by a number of variables. Naturally, one way is by figuring out if they were produced artificially or naturally, as this has a big impact on their pricing.

But generally, due to their extremely low supply, natural pink diamonds are more expensive. On the other hand, synthetic pink diamonds created in labs cost a little less but are still very valuable as they are quite difficult to tell apart from their natural counterparts.

For pink diamond engagement rings, in particular, the price also heavily depends on how prominent the color of the primary stone is as well as the cut and carat weight.

A good example is a .50-carat cushion cut very light pink diamond ring which is priced at around $9,200 while an astounding 2.41-carat radiant shape very light pink diamond ring costs a whopping $80,000. If the stone on the latter comes in vivid pink, then you can expect it to be even more expensive.

There is also the option to request for a price for a specific pink diamond ring depending on the overall design and several more variables included. Nevertheless, you are guaranteed to elicit tears of joy by popping the life-changing question with a pink diamond engagement ring.

Final Thoughts

Delight the love of your life with a truly unique diamond ring that can clearly translate your affection and devotion.

You have countless options to choose from and are guaranteed to find the best engagement ring to purchase from the likes of bespoke jewelry stores such as Astteria.

You may be sure to find pink diamonds that are distinctive to your taste and are less likely to be found elsewhere given how every piece of pink diamond is unique– making it the best primary stone for an engagement ring.

Check out these tips to learn how to keep your jewelry safe and sound while you’re globetrotting.

Why Pack Jewelry When Traveling?

When you travel, it’s important to organize and pack smart. Especially when it comes to packing your jewelry. The reasons why you should always pack your jewelry when traveling are:

1. To avoid losing it.

When you travel, there’s always a chance that your luggage could get lost or stolen. If you have your jewelry with you, you won’t have to worry about losing it.

2. To keep it safe.

There’s always a chance that your jewelry could get damaged while in transit. Even if your luggage doesn’t get lost or stolen, keeping your jewels with you can be sure it will stay safe and sound.

3. To save space.

If you’re trying to pack light, then every little bit counts. Packing your jewels means you won’t have to take up valuable space in your suitcase with other items.

4. To have it handy.

You avoid worst-case scenarios like being out and about and realizing that you forgot to pack a particular piece of jewelry. You’ll always have it on hand just in case by keeping it with you.

Can the jewels be carried in hand luggage?

And the answer, which might seem obvious, is affirmative. It is possible to put your jewels in hand luggage, but they must be stored in an easily visible place at the time of security checks before boarding.

This caution is necessary to avoid mistaking the jewels with other objects not allowed on board. To avoid getting confused, you can use travel jewelry boxes, which are very useful if we only have hand luggage.

It is best to be a transparent pouch with a zipper and various compartments for storing accessories and jewelry. Such a sachet allows you not to lose all the small objects inside the suitcase. It is a good investment at an affordable price that we can buy in many shops and websites.

Please note that if you decide to wear the jewelry instead of putting it in the suitcase, it is likely that you will have to remove it at the time of security checks. Sometimes they ring under the metal detector, other times not, but why complicate the journey if it is unnecessary?

An alternative could be to store the jewelry in a small case to pack before security checks.

And finally, an essential piece of advice. Remember to close the suitcase with a padlock if you bring jewels or other valuables. This way, you prevent the jewelry from being stolen during trips or holidays.

1. Decide What Jewelry to Bring on Your Trip

Traveling can be tough on your jewelry because it’s easy to lose track of all your finery when you’re on the go. Here are our tips to help you keep your jewelry organized when traveling:

• Start by deciding what jewels you want to bring on your trip. There is no need to bring your entire collection! Just choose a few pieces that will go well with your wardrobe.
• Once you’ve chosen your finery, put them in a small bag or jewelry case to keep them from getting lost in your other belongings.
• If you’re worried about losing your jewels, consider investing in a travel insurance policy to give you peace of mind in case of loss or theft.
• When packing your jewelry, cushion it with soft materials like tissue paper. Packing will help protect it from being damaged in transit.

Following these tips can help you keep your jewels organized and safe while traveling.

2. How to Pack Your Jewels for a Trip

Packing your jewels for a trip can be a bit tricky. You don’t want to leave any of your favorite pieces behind, but you also don’t want them to get tangled or damaged in transit. Here are a few tips for packing your jewelry, so it stays organized and safe while you’re on the go.

Start by listing the jewelry you want to bring with you. You can keep track of everything and ensure you don’t forget anything important.

Once you have your list, sort your jewels into different categories. For example, put all your necklaces in one pile, all your rings in another, and so on. To make it easier to pack everything without things getting too tangled.

Next, choose how you’re going to pack your jewelry. If you’re throwing it in a suitcase, consider using a small jewelry case or pouch to keep everything organized.

You could also use divided sections in a more significant case, like a glasses case or makeup bag. If you’re worried about things getting jumbled, you could invest in special travel jewelry organizers with multiple compartments and zippered pockets.

3. Invest in a good jewelry roll or case

Using a specialized case for your jewelry helps pack for trips because you can choose between soft and hard cases depending on your concern. Compartments can help keep your items together, so they don’t get tangled in the case.

We hope these tips were helpful to you. Enjoy traveling with your favorite jewels.

There is never a definitive way to match your jewelry to your outfit as it can depend on the trend of the moment, what the occasion is and whether you are more of a subtle type or you think the more necklaces the better. From the early noughties’ fascination with chunky necklaces and bangles to the 2022 trend of dainty jewelry being the go-to for all.

This is a guide to some of the dos and don’ts of styling your outfits and enhancing your look in the right way. Jewelry is a personal choice and gives each person to style a piece in their own way and create a completely new look, these rules will point you in the right direction.

When putting your outfit together, it is important to remember to consider the jewelry you are planning to wear as you want to make sure that it is in keeping with the theme of the party and the dress code established by the host.

Match bold prints with simple jewelry

You can’t get more ‘garden party’ than with a bold flower print dress. This design of dress has been the style choice for many years when it comes to garden parties, this style is incredibly vintage inspired and has constantly stayed in fashion.

We recommend floral and bold print dresses like the one below, to choose to accessorize with simple, delicate, and simple jewelry. This can be done with small gem earring studs, a thin necklace, or a bracelet.

With bold prints, it is important to remember that less is more with jewelry when styling floral dresses.

Match The Theme

Most garden parties that you attend will have some sort of theme, whether that be seasonally dependent or chosen by the host.

It is important to notice a dress code or theme listed on the invitation, from this you can determine what style you want to go for and bring together there. If you can see that there is a light blue theme, then it could be a lovely touch to incorporate this color scheme into your jewelry whether that be through a pendant, colorful beads, or earrings.

Keep it Simple

When styling your outfit for an upcoming garden party event, it can sometimes be an overwhelming thought to decide what to wear and make sure that you don’t stick out.  Depending on the theme, it may be better to elect for a more simplistic outfit.

There is a beauty in simplicity and this can be shown through delicate plain gold or silver jewelry, without any gems.

Accessorize Your Outfit

Accessorizing your outfit can completely transform it, the beauty of accessorizing is that you are able to remove elements of it if you decide to throughout the day. It can sometimes be difficult to know what the rest of the guests are wearing and to avoid any anxiety, electing for more bold accessories and keeping an outfit more simple allows you to work with any eventuality.

How To Style Gingham

Gingham dresses are a staple for summer and can be the perfect option for a garden party. These dresses also come in a range of colors, meaning you can choose a brighter color or alternatively go for something more muted.

No matter the color, gingham dresses pair beautifully with chunky jewelry. Whether that be chunky earrings, necklaces, or bracelets, they are perfect for adding that extra element to your outfit and elevating it.

However, in the last few years more and more brides and grooms to be have moved toward unique and stand-out designs that truly represent their personality, taste, and relationship.

If you’re looking for unique engagement ring inspiration, these ideas are certain to get the creative fires burning!

1. Colored Gemstones

Colored gemstones have come in and out of fashion over the years. Sapphires were once a very popular choice for engagement rings and the move away from traditionalism sees the popularity of colored gemstones beginning to rise again!

Sapphires and colored diamonds remain the first choice due to their durability – they are great for everyday wear making them the perfect choice for an engagement ring.

2. No Diamonds at All

In the spirit of love is love, men, women, non-binary and queer people alike are now enjoying the romantic sentiment of an engagement or commitment ring – but with a difference! Twisted or shaped metal bands, stunning ring stacks, or engraved styles have become more and more popular. Less recognizable as ‘an engagement ring’ these pieces of jewelry represent modern love stories and are re-writing the rules of wedding jewelry.

3. A-symmetry

The iconic slanted pear/emerald cut diamond combination is now a firm favorite with jewelry lovers (and even engagement ring designers) as the asymmetrical styles have already made their way to the hands of celebrities. An asymmetrical design is a simple but powerful way to ensure your engagement ring stands out.

4. Something old, something new

Re-purposing a family heirloom or upcycling a vintage ring creates a fantastic starting point for creating an entirely unique engagement ring. Look for a skilled bench-worker or jeweler to help you create the ring of your dreams. The custom engagement rings at Washingtondiamond.com can be created from treasured jewelry of the past, or from something new entirely.

5. Make a statement

Chunkier, large rings aren’t typically associated with engagement – but why not! If you are used to wearing heavy/larger jewelry, there’s no reason why your engagement ring shouldn’t follow your natural style. Cocktail-style rings are an eye-catching alternative to a traditional solitaire.

6. A Personal Touch

Working with a jeweler, you can have a message or symbol placed in your engagement ring. A lot of high end jewellers, like Jacque Fine Jewellery in Sydney are more than happy to make some personal additions to an engagement ring. Popular choices include a small colored diamond representing a child (or loved one), an engraved date or significant coordinates, or even intricate metal work of a symbol – whatever has meaning to you, a good jeweler will be able to include it in your ring.

7. Make it Magic

Whether it’s Harry Potter, Games of Thrones or Lord of the Rings, the relationship between fantasy and jewelry continues to go from strength to strength. Your favorite books or films can add a magical touch to your engagement ring, just like these Disney-Inspired engagement rings.

8. Break the Rules

Ultimately, the rules and conventions surrounding marriage have changed greatly over the past few decades, and wedding jewelry should reflect this! The most unique engagement rings are those which have been chosen with the wearer in mind and defy the usual traditions.

Whether you’re shopping solo or scouting it out with your partner, we’ll cover all of the tips you need to know to find the best engagement ring that your soulmate will surely love.

1. Narrow down the shape

If you already have an idea of what your soon-to-be-spouse is looking for when it comes to the shape of the diamond, it’ll aid you in your search immensely. Every cut will be priced differently, and each one has different prices per carat. If the stone’s size is important to her, you’ll be able to get a much better price by choosing alternative shapes. So before you head out, study up on engagement ring designs for female targets first.

2. Select the metal for your band

Traditionally, wedding bands and engagement rings are all made from white gold, yellow gold, platinum, or silver. Although in the past few years, others have emerged as alternatives, such as rose gold. Some of these metals will damage easier and be more expensive than others, so you must consider your budget and your partner’s lifestyle when selecting one. So don’t overlook this element of your engagement ring. It will make a difference.

3. Get the ring finger of your partner measured

It might sound obvious, but you must get your partner’s ring finger properly measured before making any financial commitments. After all, if you don’t, you could risk the ring falling off or cutting blood circulation off your partner. Also, it needs to be comfortable but snug. If you’re not planning on shopping for the ring together, you can ask your soulmate’s loved ones to find her size discretely.

4. Don’t base your decision on trends

An engagement ring is a classic, timeless symbol of one’s love, so it needs to be personal and match your fiancé’s style. Instead of basing your decision on current trends, look into your partner’s jewelry collection for an idea of what she’ll like. Don’t be afraid to ask her close friends and family members for advice. After all, you’ll only make things harder if you go at it alone. And they can be an excellent source of information and help guide you to the right piece that your spouse-to-be will be happy to wear forever.

5. Size only matters if your partner thinks it does

Going big should never be your mantra when shopping for an engagement ring unless you believe it’s important to your partner. If that’s the case, consider your options. Perhaps emphasizing less on clarity and color and more on size may be worth considering. Even people in the industry have begun to notice this growing trend. Nowadays, there’s little pressure when it comes to owning a showy, over-the-top ring. Instead, it’s the extension of a personal style.

6. Never commit

Unlike your matrimonial commitment, you mustn’t get into binding agreements with your chosen jeweler. However, in the worst-case scenario, you need to be able to trade it for another piece without having to spend a considerable amount of money in the process if your partner isn’t fond of it. So make sure never to commit to a ring until you know that your significant other loves it.

7. Buy certified

Engagement rings are big-ticket items. Therefore, you need to take the time you need to shop wisely. Once you’ve found the perfect ring, ensure that the stone is certified by accredited laboratories like the GIA or AGS. The reason for this is that diamonds certified by other laboratories may have inflated grades, giving an illusion of a good deal when the reality is that it’s a lower-quality stone. It might sound like a lot of additional work, but you’ll be surprised at how much of a difference this can make to your purchase.

Conclusion

There aren’t many moments in life as memorable and meaningful as marriage. Since the ring is arguably an essential item of this celebration, you need to ensure that you can get the right one from the start. With these tips, you should be able to buy the engagement ring that your partner will love and cherish forever.

Presenting a ring to your partner to show your purest intention would never go out of style. But if you’d like your proposal to be beautiful, going with the trend would never hurt. In line with this, listed below are some engagement ring trends in 2022 you might want to consider:

1. Oval Engagement Rings

One of the first things you should look for is the perfect diamond cut when it comes to engagement rings. While going for a round cut would be a classic go-to ring, going for oval engagement rings would help to make the ring look trendier and fashion-forward. This way, you can allow your ring to be up to date and unique.

An oval engagement ring has been getting more popular each day as it’s the perfect combination of classic and trendy. You’ll never go out of style and get a bigger rock on the band with this cut. It also provides great elegance that can act as a formal and classic ring, which would go well with any outfit and events your partner would choose to wear. With this, you can allow your engagement ring to symbolize love while also being a great fashion statement.

2. Emerald Engagement Rings

Some people are skipping the traditional round-cut engagement ring as they want to be more edgy, unique, and sophisticated. To allow your ring to have a great definition and style, purchasing an emerald cut engagement rings would surely help to give lavishness to your partner’s hand, making it look classier and more royal at the same time.

Luckily, emerald engagement rings aren’t one of the most expensive diamond cuts, but they’re cheaper. This will be an excellent choice for your ring if you’re looking for something trendier without breaking the bank. Moreover, you can be generous with the emerald’s size and allow your ring to be spectacular and shine. Additionally, it would also work well with any ring bands, especially if your next thing to decide on would be your wedding bands.

3. Multi-Stone Rings

A traditional engagement ring involves only using one diamond as the center and main attraction of the ring says Varoujan Jewellers. While its design would surely never go out of style, adding more rock to your band would surely help to make your engagement ring look and feel more luxurious and unique. Although it will be an added cost because of the added brilliance, it’ll be worth it as it’ll surely put a smile on your partner’s face once you get down on one knee.

There are plenty of ways to play with multiple stones on your engagement ring. You can use a mix of two shapes, such as pear and heart, or use a center stone and match it with a smaller side stone to create an illusion of a wide stone. Additionally, using a halo effect for your ring would help to make your center stone look larger than it already is. The more rock you add to your band, the more elegance it carries.

4. Eternity Rings

If you’re the type of person who likes to mix classic and modern in a single ring, going for an eternity ring band would be the perfect design. This way, you can retain the look of a single round cut of the diamond while adding more brilliance around the band, giving it more sparkle and shine. This helps you have the best of both worlds without being too extra on the stone’s size.

As you go for an eternity ring, you can play with various center stone cuts. However, if you’d like to keep it classic, going for a round cut would always hit the spot. Moreover, if you’d like to cut some of the cost, you could try going for a half eternity ring, wherein you’ll only have a row of diamonds on the side of the center stone and allow the back of the ring to be plain simple.

5. Colored Engagement Rings

There’s no rule stating that an engagement ring should only use a white diamond. Today, there are plenty of colors that you can choose from, adding depth and personality to your rings. Apart from diamonds, there are plenty of gemstones that you can choose from, such as emerald, ruby, garnet, or tourmaline.

As you decide to go with a colored engagement ring, you can choose to use their favorite color or their birthstone. If they have someone special to them, you can use their favorite color and their birthstone for a great meaning behind it. It’ll surely be a memorable ring that they’ll keep forever.

The Verdict

An engagement ring doesn’t have to be too plain and simple. Nowadays, you can allow your engagement ring to be trendy and be right on the spot. This way, your engagement ring would be unique, beautiful, and go with any outfit simultaneously.

But now that it’s time to put the plan into place and bring the vision to life, stress comes creeping into the picture. You need to make a maddening array of decisions. It can overwhelm, indeed. But you just can’t let the raft of looming decisions wreck all the fun. Just take ’em on one at a time. Today, we’re here to help you work through a critical matter all couples leaning toward an outdoor wedding need to wrangle with early: When should it all go down?

Before we get into it, let’s run down some of the wins you’ve already accrued so you can fully appreciate how far you’ve come: Perfect partner? Check. Unique wedding rings? Check. A bevy of friends and family who can’t wait to celebrate with you? Of course.

It’s clear that you’re already crushing it. So let’s kick the wedding planning into high gear and determine the perfect month for your outdoor nuptials.

Not Too Hot, Not Too Cold, Just Right

If you’re looking for the best answer, sometimes you have to take a peek at what’s most popular. As we all know, you can find wisdom in trends. And when it comes to the most popular months for outdoor weddings, there are trends, indeed.

“Early summer and early fall typically have mild, temperate weather with a lower risk of rain, snow, or super-high heat or humidity,” wedding guru Jenna Miller told MarthaStewart.com. “If you have your heart set on an outdoor wedding, these months are your best bet.”

For a general rule of thumb, that’s good advice to take to heart. But, of course, what’s good for the masses may not be good for your individual circumstances.

Duh — Location Matters

The window for outdoor weddings in Charleston, South Carolina is much wider than the window in Cleveland, Ohio. It should go without saying, but you have to take the climate of your preferred locale in mind. That’s why you can’t simply roll with the national trends.

In a warm climate like Charleston’s, you can theoretically get away with outdoor weddings any time of year. In Cleveland, you’re absolutely playing with fire — or, more accurately, playing with ice — if you schedule an outdoor wedding that doesn’t fall within the sweet-spot window.

Wherever and whenever you schedule, craft a plan for bad-weather contingencies. Tents if it might rain. Heaters if it might get too cold. Cold drinks, fans and shade if the temps could potentially soar.

Weather Isn’t the Only Thing That Fluctuates

You can’t talk weddings without talking money. And when it comes to wedding-related money matters, the basic economic rules apply: Demand pushes prices higher. From venues to vendors, when you schedule a peak-season wedding, you’ll be paying peak prices.

According to figures compiled by The Knot, nearly three-quarters of weddings go down between May and October, with October just barely edging out September as the most popular month. So if you’re booking within that window, you’ll be paying more. Higher prices aren’t the only thing you have to contend with, either. The onslaught of ceremonies also means it’ll be more difficult to book your preferred venues.

An Off-Season Outdoor Wedding

Those factors might make an off-season wedding seem more appealing. That’s an understandable reaction. And, frankly, there’s something cool about throwing a curveball and bucking trends. If you go with an outdoor winter wedding in a cold-weather clime — well, it’s not hard to imagine how magical your wedding pics would look with a thick blanketing of snow as a backdrop.

Of course, you have to think about your guests in that snowy scenario. Sure, they can probably handle the cold for a quick outdoor ceremony — you might even encourage those revelers to get the party started early and stay warm by nipping from a flask — but potentially unfavorable conditions on the roadways could prove perilous or simply impassable.

So, conditions could be hazardous. But an off-season event will probably be easier for guests to fit into their schedules. Who knows how many wedding invitations they’ll be receiving for those peak-season affairs?

There are always pros and cons you need to contend with.

What’s the Conclusion?

When it comes right down to it, is there a hands-down best month for an outdoor wedding? For your individual situation, yes, there might be. Say you have your sights set on a venue right out of your dreams, but it’s only available in June. Well, for you, June is probably the best month to get hitched outdoors then.

But in general, you should absorb the info we just laid out. Use that knowledge and let it guide you toward the best possible option for you and your partner.