A symbol of eternal love and devotion, the diamond ring remains the centrepiece of a woman or man's jewelry collection. Because of it value, both sentimental and financial, selecting the ideal ring can be a daunting task. By following a few simple steps, you can however narrow your selection down and make the wisest decision possible.
The first step to selecting the ideal ring is choosing the shape of the stone. A few of the most popular shapes today are: round-cut, emerald, square, baguette, heart-shaped, pear-shaped and princess-cut. Many people prefer a solitaire diamond ring as their engagement, or promise ring and channel-set diamonds in their wedding band. Traditional engagement rings typically have round-cut or princess-cut solitaires, but if you are looking for something out of the ordinary, emerald-cut diamonds or pear- and heart-shaped diamonds must be just the trick for a unique solitaire ring with flair.
Once you determine the shape of the diamond ring you are looking for, you should consider the setting. Do you prefer a channel setting or a prong set ring? Do you prefer a solitaire ring or a cluster setting? Recent trends indicate the growing popularity of channel-set baguette diamonds with a larger (half carat or more) princess-cut or round-cut diamond in the center. Another popular diamond setting is the cluster setting which incorporates several diamonds in a flower, heart or square shape for a bold, sparkling statement, usually at a lower cost than an engagement ring with a solitaire diamond of the same size.
You should also consider the metal that you would like the setting to be in. Do you want a silver or gold colored ring? White gold and platinum are common choices for women who usually wear Silver Jewelry . Yellow gold is suitable for women who typically wear gold jewelry.
The next step is to determine the quality of diamond that you want to purchase. Certified diamonds come with papers that describe the color, carat-size, clarity and cut of the diamond(s) you are purchasing. The combination of these four factors also determines how expensive a diamond is. Higher carat-weight and better clarity are characteristic of the most expensive diamonds, while a diamond with high carat-weight, but lesser clarity can be significantly cheaper.
Colored diamonds (aka fancy color diamonds) are also a uniquely elegant choice for the woman or man who wants something out of the ordinary. Black diamonds create spectacular jewelry and truly unique rings, earrings, necklaces and bracelets. Pink and yellow diamonds are also very popular and have one-of-a-kind style and sophistication.
Once you have determined the shape, color and setting of the diamond that you are looking for, you are ready to starting shopping. Shopping online can offer a wider selection and often more unique diamond designs than shopping in a traditional jewelry store. It allows you to see more variety and to compare more easily the rings that you have to choose from. Because of this you can make more informed choices. Just remember to take your time in deciding and to choose your new diamond ring according to your tastes and habits. After all, diamonds are forever!
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