What ring will sing to your heart? Jewelry designer Sofia Kaman has put together her top 10 tips for honing in on your dream ring.
1. Define Your Personal Sense Of Style.
Your rings should reflect who you are! Are you a minimalist who appreciates natural, understated beauty? A vintage romantic with a flair for a touch of drama? Or, do you appreciate modern shapes and clean smooth textures?
2. Band Together.
Think about if and how you’d like to pair your ring with a wedding band. Do you prefer an evenly stacked set? Do you mind if the band doesn’t sit flush against the engagement ring? Or maybe you would consider wearing your engagement and wedding bands on different hands?
3. Consider Your Current Jewelry Wardrobe.
Do you wear yellow gold all the time? Deciding you want to try rose gold for your engagement ring might not be the best idea if the ring doesn’t pair well with all of your other favorites.
4. Go Green.
Ethical and environmentally sound gem and metal sourcing are big considerations for many people. Definitely check whether your favorite jewelry store provides conflict-free diamonds and works with suppliers who abide by the Kimberley Process. If diamonds are not your best friend for ethical reasons, consider colored stones. Ask where the stones are mined from and inform yourself on the types of mining practices of that region. Finally, if your goal is to create as little environmental impact as possible, look into finding a diamond that’s not been newly mined, through a company such as Avilan, and consider using recycled metals as well.
5. Consider Your Lifestyle.
If you have a profession where you work with your hands (medical professional, artist, etc.) choosing a ring with a low profile and bezel might fit in best, rather than something extremely high set with prongs. If you know you are hard on your jewelry but you love delicate vintage pieces, that might possibly require extra care, think about choosing a newly made ring that has a vintage feel. Choosing a ring that fits into your life best will most likely give you the most longevity and happiness along the way.
6. Sentimental Value.
Consider if you or your partner have a family heirloom that could be passed on or repurposed in some way. Sometimes a dated style may possess a beautiful diamond that could be re-set in a new design, giving it new life and creating a beautiful way to pay homage to family lineage.
7. Sparkle Factor!
Are you a diamond diva or an alternative gem type of gal? The type, quality and size center stone contributes the most to BOTH cost and style of your ring. If you truly enjoy sparkle, a traditional round cut brilliant colorless diamond is going to give you the look you want. If you are more interested in having something with a more modest brilliance, consider a rose cut, rustic diamond or even an alternative gem like sapphire or ruby… For the guys, a note about colored stones: if you are considering a colored stone, be sure that she not only loves the color, but that she is comfortable wearing it every day!
8. Prioritize Your Budget.
There are many ways to create or select a beautiful ring by choosing the elements of style in a smart way. If you know you MUST have a two-carat diamond, because anything smaller just looks “tiny” on your long fingers, then consider a beautiful champagne shade instead of completely colorless, or perhaps think about a halo design in the same color as your center stone to create a larger look. Both of these changes will typically give you a larger impact for your money. Don’t think you’ll be a diamond expert overnight by reading everything online; also consult with a trusted diamond or jewelry professional to help guide you in making the smartest choices to get the best value for your investment!
9. A Work In Progress.
Sometimes that dream ring is really that- a distant dream! Whatever your situation may be, understanding that the greater idea in marriage is to be together for the duration, can be helpful. There will always be room for upgrades, times will change, and your life together will change. Don’t forget that your ring can change too!
10. The “Gumball Ring.”
Everyone loves a great proposal story that starts with “a gumball ring.” Designing or picking an engagement ring together can be a romantic process and ensure that everyone is happy with the outcome. And most of all, have fun with it!
What ring will sing to your heart? Visit www.sofiakaman.com to “Discover Your Wedding Style” with their virtual quiz. While you’re there, peruse through their beautifully unique collection of wedding, engagement and everyday jewelry.
As seen in Flutter Magazine, Issue No. 5 | Photography: Kristen Beinke
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