Saturday, May 31, 2008

The Right Hand Diamond Ring

New Personal Fashion Statements: The Right Hand Diamond Ring

The newest hot trend in diamond jewelry is the Right Hand Diamond Ring.

It stands for independence, success, strength, self-assertiveness and freedom.

The right hand diamond ring differs significantly in design. Its design uses open spaces, smaller stones instead of, or combined with, a single solitaire - and in combinations designed to express the personality and individuality of the wearer.

In 2006, an astounding 4.5 million Right Hand Rings were sold. This has come as a complete surprise to many in the jewelry industry. However, women, and some men looking for women's jewelry, want something different in today's world.

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Aquamarine & Diamonds


The Independent Career Woman
The idea was to go with the new wave of feminist thinking stressing upon women's independence wish – married or not, you still have to wear diamonds in your ring to reassess your leading position alongside men! It's a sort of impulse for the women who are generically tired of the role of housewives and feel they can do better with their lives. So, the left hand ring stands for the labors that marriage brings along - while the right hand ring reads as the careless, joyful side of life.



Men Also
Men are also a target for this advertising technique: loving husbands are encouraged to buy a gift for their wives that will flatter not only their need for love proofs but also the thought of being valued and respected as an independent person, and not a nice accessory to men or a house decor item. And not only married men should buy right hand rings, the concept has a wider meaning: it doesn't matter if you are married or not, as long as you are involved in a love relation you should definitely consider buying a right hand ring as a gift!

That they prevail in beauty had been established long ago, but now it is not enough any longer as it is not enough merely being accepted into the social life. The need appeared for women to be recognized as equal in value to men or even surpassing them.

For years, right hand rings have also been a sign of commitment for gay couples.

Working more and earning more than ever before, women choose now to put the idea that we live in a men's world way behind them.

Tuesday, May 27, 2008

Why Platinum Is The Most Costly


What's So Special About Platinum


Whether you’re shopping for a diamond engagement ring, a wedding band, or an anniversary or eternity ring, one of the first things you should think about is the metal it will be fabricated from. If you know you don’t want yellow gold, your next decision is whether to go with white gold or platinum.

The two metals have very different price tags. Typically, a platinum ring can cost twice as much as the same ring in white gold. Knowing the differences between white gold and platinum will help you decide whether the higher cost of a platinum wedding ring is worth it to you.

Why Not White Gold
Some would ask if white gold is the same as platinum and the answer is quite simply, no. Each of these metals have their own properties, which is an obvious reason for what makes them different. However, the largest difference to someone who is shopping for an engagement ring is that the white gold is a mix of white gold and other metals such a palladium and silver.

After the ring is formed, it must be coated with another metal called Rhodium, which is a white chemical coating. This coating must be reapplied every year to year and one-half in order to keep the band looking white. White gold without the coating is quite gray in color, not really white at all. Without regular polishing and re-coating, your white gold ring will take on a yellowish tinge.


Platinum, on the other hand, is normally used in a 95% pure form. It’s naturally white and doesn’t need to be coated over with another metal. Another reason platinum wedding jewelry costs more is that it’s sturdier. Platinum is heavier and harder than gold. A platinum ring is less vulnerable to scratches and can be re-polished to its original condition; a plus for those who tend to wear their jewelry all the time. This natural strength also means that jewels set in platinum are much more secure, giving you less to worry about.

Platinum Stands Up to Time
Platinum jewelry lasts much longer than gold jewelry. Experts say that platinum has a lifespan three times as long as that of gold. Additionally, platinum is rarer than jewelry made in gold, which also drives up the cost.

Sensitive skin and/or tendency towards allergic reactions also lead some people to buy platinum rings. Many people are sensitive to nickel, and nickel is commonly used to whiten gold. The purity of platinum decreases the likelihood of an allergic reaction.

Finally, it’s not accurate to claim that white gold and platinum look the same. Platinum actually has a very slight grayish-tinge to its white, a color that is very flattering to diamonds. Diamonds actually do seem to appear brighter when placed next platinum.

Therefore, platinum is the most flattering metal for diamonds; and you end up paying more not only for its superior appearance but its strength, as well.

The Beauty Within the Platinum Engagement Ring

When buying an engagement ring, it is extremely important to keep in mind the lifestyle of the bride-to-be; the metals of the engagement ring are very important to the lifespan of the ring. For many women, a platinum engagement ring is the perfect choice. Platinum is a white metal that is very dense and very strong.

Generally, platinum is used in an almost pure form. It will not tarnish or lose its color due to its purity. Platinum is ideal for someone with skin allergies as it is hypoallergenic and will not cause skin irritations. Other metals are not used in their pure form as platinum is and cannot make these types of promises because of that fact.

So Why Chose the Platinum Engagement Ring
Platinum, on the other hand, is quite white in color and since used in a pure form, the color remains true for the life of the ring. While, the platinum engagement ring will be much more expensive than it’s competitors for many reasons, these reasons should not deter you from making the purchase. It is true that platinum is very rare, more rare than gold, which will often force the price of the setting to be double the cost of a similar setting made of white gold but the rarity of the metal only increases the value of the ring. In addition, because it is used in a pure form (generally 95% pure), it is extremely durable.


With This Platinum Engagement Ring
Today, platinum engagement rings are very popular because of their durability but also because of their bright true appearance.

The platinum engagement ring is known for it’s breathtaking shine, which reflects the brilliance and sparkle of the gemstones placed upon it.

Platinum is also very long wearing so the lifespan of the platinum engagement ring is one that could span many generations.

Thursday, May 22, 2008

Engagement Ring Trends

New Trends For Engagement Rings: Art Deco and Antique Styling

Need help in finding that perfect engagement ring?

These style-savvy tips will help you find the perfect engagement ring and perhaps give you the inspiration you seek in finding a diamond engagement ring that fully expresses your feelings.

No other jewelry item says “love” more powerfully than a diamond engagement ring. The diamond is a status symbol of forever - enduring love, romance, and commitment.

Choose A Diamond Ring That Reflects Her Tastes
It is vitally important when choosing an engagement ring that it reflects the wearer’s taste and personality. So, what are today’s styles in engagement rings? Sometimes women want to sport a brilliant, beautiful diamond engagement ring on their hand that doesn't look like a wedding band or anniversary ring.



These demands for choices are what inspire jewelers to create so many unique engagement ring designs.




What’s The Latest in Style?
Engagement rings come in all shapes, sizes and styles. There is plenty of opportunity to have a ring custom designed that is as unique as your fiancé is. Some of the latest design trends for engagement rings are bold, yet feminine - many with an art deco antique style of influence.


Trendy designs for the hottest engagement ring looks include:

• Geometric, art deco antique styling;

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

• Asymmetrical designs that feature an unusually cut diamond (such as Marquise(;

• Mixing rounds with contrasting shapes;

• Diamonds in Tension Settings.


Engagement Rings Are Fashionable
Diamond engagement rings are a great choice as they are timeless and compliment any outfit or other jewelry. Think about how it should complement her wedding ring if you buy the engagement ring separately and not within a wedding set. Remember that an engagement ring is one she’ll wear for a lifetime so it is worth purchasing carefully.

Tuesday, May 20, 2008

Modern Wedding Jewelry – Keeping Up With The Times

Newest Styles & The Hottest Looks

The modern jewelry industry is the effort of jewelry designers who have advanced the concept of jewelry as wearable art.

The modern diamond industry has developed coloring techniques and offers customers worldwide an increased variety in styles, shapes and cuts.


Advanced Techniques for Replica Diamonds
The industry is also aided by advanced techniques for the improved development of quality artificial gemstones. The replicas in no way look inferior and even generate a surreal brilliance.

Such techniques have placed fine jewelry within the economic ability of a wider population segment the world over. Today, the modern jewelry industry is catering to the demand for "jewelry as art" and the leading edge of artistic designs affordable by all.

Cultures from all over the world influence today’s wedding jewelry industry. The current market for jewelry caters to the demand for affordable yet fine jewelry.

The variety in wedding jewelry available today is extensive.


More Jewelry Designs Accessible
The symbolism ranges from diamond promise rings, engagement rings to diamond wedding rings and everything in between. The types of jewelry accessible today are varied and manufacturers and designers cater to the demand for innovative designs as well as affordable ones.

Diamond anniversary rings
, diamond eternity rings and other offshoots of wedding jewelry grow in popularity as well. Modern custom designed diamond wedding jewelry is in high demand and is one category of art jewelry where design and creativity are prized more than monetary value.

The wedding jewelry market caters to the many variations that keep coming in and out of fashion. While some prefer simple jewelry made out of a single metal and without gemstones, others prefer flashy designs with colored stones and double metal variations. Just as preferences differ, so are the designs available.

Friday, May 16, 2008

Choices in Men's Wedding Rings

Men's Custom Designed Gold
Wedding Rings

Gold wedding rings are not only chosen by women but also men who like jewelry. Whether plain or embellished with gemstones and diamonds, men’s gold rings are preferred for wedding jewelry. They make great gifts gaining popularity among men everywhere.

Men’s 14k gold wedding rings may consist entirely of solid gold, platinum, or two tone consisting of white and yellow gold. Men love gold wedding rings with diamonds but a variety of other stones like ruby, sapphire, emerald, zircon, and topaz etc. can be substituted for a diamond.



Designs With Much or Little Detail
Usually, men’s wedding rings are larger and less ornately designed than women’s wedding rings. Some men though do like rings with their initials engraved on them. You can also shop for a ring that has raised lettering or have one custom designed. These always appeal to his masculine instincts even if he's the type that doesn't wear jewelry.

There are other choices such as hand carvings and patterns such as leaves or woven braids that intertwine giving the illusion of roads and paths. If he prefers little decoration, select milgrain edging or tiny beads for borders as decoration.




Milgrain Edging









2-Tone w/Woven Braiding




Selecting a Man's Wedding Ring May Take Time
Durability and comfort are just as important to consider besides the ring’s look. The life of a man’s wedding ring depends on the quality of the ring and care exercised while worn. Gold rings should always be removed while performing any sort of physical labor. Also, rings should not be worn during swimming or other sports that may cause the ring to fall off or wear out.


Some men prefer white gold over yellow gold. The purity of gold is measured in karats, the purest gold being 24 karats (100% gold).

The gold used in making jewelry should normally be 14 or 18 karats as these two units render the gold pliable enough, yet not too soft, for designing and fabricating jewelry.

And, always enlist the aid of a local professional jeweler (if you buy off the web) so that repairs, cleaning and maintenance can be routinely adhered to. After all, you do want your wedding rings to last the duration of your marriage.

Friday, May 9, 2008

Gold And Diamond Jewelry

Giving Gold Wedding Jewelry

Gold and diamond jewelry is a special gift that can bring joy for a lifetime to both men and women. We wear wedding jewelry to represent marital status and to symbolize lasting commitment.

Gold and diamond engagement/wedding jewelry shows the one you love how deep your love is.

Diamonds are still the favored stone for engagement rings so buy the best quality you can afford. (There’s an old superstition that the quality of your marriage will equal the quality of the diamonds in your wedding jewelry.)


Women like the biggest & best stone they can get, so not only go for quality but weight also - Size Always Matters!


Fine Gold & Diamond Jewelry
Gold jewelry adds beauty and elegance. White gold is still the metal of choice for most people, is still affordable, and also in demand for fine wedding jewelry. Gold can be worked into nearly any design you want and is easy to work with. White gold is fabricated by using palladium or nickel to coat yellow gold into a white color. White gold with diamonds is suitable for engagement, wedding, and anniversary.

Diamond Earrings & Pendants
Diamond earrings and pendants are also usually given as gifts at the time of the wedding. Normally, the groom will give them to his bride just moments before the wedding.

So, guys -- don't forget the diamond earrings! Or, in the least, buy your wife-to-be a nice pair of diamond studs or a diamond necklace before your wedding day! This will come back to haunt you on your honeymoon; this important purchase is an absolute must.

A diamond pendant or a pair of diamond earrings are actually from the groom’s parents as a gesture of appreciation for their son’s future wife. Though it is tradition for the groom to actually hand them to the bride, not the future-in-laws.

Art Deco Wedding Jewelry Designs
These days it’s highly fashionable to have replica antique jewelry custom designed in white gold and palladium. From the intricate to the simple – whatever the imagination can conceive - can be designed for you. Love an antique ring but can’t get your hands on it? Have one designed specially for you.

White Gold Jewelry Is Inexpensively Luxurious
The use of white gold is widely preferred over almost all other metals for wedding jewelry and the cost is not as prohibitive as platinum.

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Gold is pliable and complements many colored gemstones and won't tarnish like silver or some other metals. However, gold is not hypoallergenic like platinum is but still a great metal for jewelry.

Thursday, May 1, 2008

Appropriate Metals For Custom Designed Jewelry

Which Metal Is The Best Choice For You

Jewelers don't have it easy these days fabricating jewelry designs. Raw materials cost much more making it increasingly difficult to keep the metals you love in stock. The investment is, in many cases, prohibitive.

Then, to make matters more urgent, increased demand for precious metals has risen. Precious metals are a limited resource and rare. The increased worldwide demand drives the price of natural resources even higher.

The Old Style is New Again
And there's a good reason for this - many of the older antique styles are lighter and have thinner widths.

Filigree and pave' designs have recently been making a comeback. The pave' design is many tiny diamond chips which, when laid together, give a look of metal and also reflect your diamond stones better. These intricately woven designs are less dense creating an open flow that consequently uses less metal.



On the downside - more labor and expertise is involved, so don't expect this to lower the cost of your custom designed wedding jewelry.



Many design studios are using copper in their custom jewelry.

Copper has also seen dramatic price increases but is still affordable. Combining copper with white gold takes advantage of their contrasting colors, which can be very attractive.


Of course, engagement rings and wedding rings will always be a necessity. With gold and platinum the metals of choice; higher prices prompt creativity. Innovative design can help keep wedding jewelry affordable by using these limited resources sparingly. More creativity combined with imagination can keep less beautiful.

Despite its strength, platinum is a very supple, workable metal making intricate designs and details far easier to achieve than with gold. Since it is so pure, platinum jewelry is the perfect hypoallergenic accessory for those who cannot wear gold. Part of the reason people cannot wear gold is often associated with the alloys involved in the jewelry making process. Since platinum jewelry contains very little alloy, it is a good choice for those who are sensitive to metals.


When purchasing platinum jewelry, it always pays to ensure you get a guarantee that it is platinum you’re purchasing. Platinum content is invariably expressed as the amount of pure platinum the jewelry contains in parts per thousand, so it shou ld be marked with “950”.

Jewelry that contains only 850 or 900 parts per thousand of pure platinum is marked "Plat". Make sure you ask your jeweler to explain platinum content and markings, if you have concerns about the purity of the metal in your jewelry.


Platinum jewelry, like other types of metal jewelry, can become scratched, but a scratch won't damage platinum in the same way that it damages other precious metals. Platinum jewelry will maintain its color, brilliance and weight even when scratched, while other metals may lose their luster or become blemished or discolored.

Because this metal is so versatile and rare, platinum jewelry makes a very special gift. Many people own gold jewelry, while far fewer boast jewelry made of platinum. If you want to choose something truly unique and exceptional for that special someone in your life, consider platinum.

Platinum is a dense white metal, stronger than gold, and makes an ideal metal for custom designed jewelry.


Platinum jewelry has taken a little change over the past few years, especially since the price has risen along with gold. In order for the industry to keep prices competitive, they have started to classify Platinum Alloys with the 800pt or 850pt marks etc - which is quite acceptable as they are not using the word platinum (which indicates the pure metal).

While that term (800pt) may be a little misleading, especially if it were not brought to the purchaser’s attention, it is never the less quite acceptable. Keep the above in mind when you go shopping for platinum jewelry so you know what you’re buying and its worth.