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rings_lge.jpg

rings + jewellery

The exchange of rings is the most traditional expression of your love for one another. The engagement ring is given to mark the announcement of your forthcoming wedding and the exchange of wedding bands during the ceremony marks the confirmation of the wedding.

Photo: Shane Craswell Photography

The engagement ring
Remember when selecting the engagement ring it will be worn for the rest of your life so think carefully about your investment. The prime thing to remember is that it should reflect your personality and your individuality. The white diamond is still the most popular and traditional choice of gem but if you like some colour you can choose any gem. It is also a lovely idea to incorporate your birthstone as part of your engagement ring. When selecting the stone, particularly a diamond, the four most important characteristics to look for are the cut, colour, clarity and carat weight.

Cut refers to the arrangement of a diamond’s facets, whatever its shape. Most diamonds are cut with a full 58 facets, and different cuts will reflect light differently. A well-proportioned cut will reflect light between the facets and up through the crown. The shape of the stone is a matter of personal preference. The round (brilliant) shape is the most popular, with shapes like the emerald (rectangular), the marquise (oblong with pointed ends), the pear, the oval, the princess (square), and the heart shape offering some variety. The cut is the only one of the four qualities determined by man.

When you choose your diamond, choose one as close to colourless as possible; this allows white light to pass through and be dispersed as dazzling rainbows of colour on top. Very few diamonds are truly colourless, with most having a barely distinguishable brown or yellow tint. Clarity is determined by the number, size and position of inclusions (an inclusion is a trace of non-crystallised carbon). A diamond free of inclusions is very rare and therefore very valuable. The actual weight is measured in carats with each carat divided into 100 points. So the weight of a diamond of 25 points is 0.25 carats, or 1/4 carat.

  Settings show off the brilliance of the ring and set the style. A complementary, innovative, and professional design and ring setting will ensure their natural beauty is highlighted. The most popular settings include:

  • Bezel set - diamond is set in a secure frame of precious metal;
  • Channel set – a number of diamonds set side by side within a band of precious metal;
  • Claw set – a solitaire diamond is held in place by four or six metal prongs that bend over it;
  • Pavé set – many small diamonds are placed closely together and held in place by individual grains of gold; and
  • Tension set – a modern version of the classic solitaire, the diamond is suspended in a gap in the actual band.
While yellow gold has traditionally been seen on Australian brides, the popular European trend of using white gold is now coming to the fore. Some jewellers say all diamonds should be placed in platinum or white gold, as it can make the diamond look larger and brighter. However, yellow gold, rose gold and silver are still very popular. It is also a myth that 9-carat gold is stronger than 18-carat so choose what is right for you. Some couples choose a style that combines one or two of the options. A combination of yellow and white gold best enhances semi-precious and precious stones. Pearls, amber, amethyst, and opals can be adapted to more unusual design styles.

The wedding ring
The wedding ring is the ring you exchange with your partner at the wedding ceremony. The wedding ring symbolises the eternal continuity of an unending and unbroken circle, and is worn on the third finger of your left hand - the same finger as your engagement ring. Therefore, you should ensure they complement each other. Your wedding rings can be yellow gold, rose gold, white gold, silver, platinum, or a combination - whichever you prefer. In Australia, the wedding ring has traditionally been a simple gold band, particularly for men.

However, now they are more often set with a diamond or two, or another precious stone and are tending towards more patterns, twists and turns in a chunkier style. Many couples are choosing specially designed matching wedding bands that feature engraving or you could inscribe a simple yet poignant message on the inside of the band. Remember to check that neither of you react to your choice of metal. While platinum is very popular, white gold is a less expensive choice yet looks very similar.

 

  When selecting your wedding rings consider these questions:
  • Will the engagement ring style easily accept
    a wedder and eternity ring as companions?
  • Will the rings date when fashions change?
  • Is the style practical for long term use?
  • Are the rings comfortable to wear?

Caring for your rings
Rings that are worn daily, such as your engagement and wedding rings, should be cleaned regularly. A few times a month should ensure that they continue to sparkle as brightly as the day they were placed on your finger. A simple way to cleanse your rings is to place them in a bowl of warm water with some washing up liquid. After they have sat in the liquid for a couple of minutes, brush them softly with a soft toothbrush. This will help remove the grease, oil, and dirt that can build up on your rings, and tarnish their shine. If you prefer, a variety of professional jewellery cleaners are available. These are specifically designed to clean precious jewellery, and will certainly keep your most precious pieces looking beautiful.

When wearing your rings, try to avoid harsh cleaners and chemicals, as they can damage or tarnish your rings. You should also avoid everyday chemicals such as those found in hairsprays and perfumes as they can put a dull coating on your diamond. At least once a year put your rings in for a ‘check-up’ with the jeweller. They will professionally clean your rings and check the settings to ensure that their stones are still firmly in place. You will also need to get white gold rings rhodium plated regularly to ensure they stay white and bright.

Other considerations
Your jeweller will be able to help you with many of your questions about choosing and caring for rings. Deal with a reputable firm because unless you really know jewellery it is your only guarantee of quality. Reputable firms will not risk their business name by selling inferior quality gems. Be very cautious of ‘bargains’, especially when buying overseas or privately. Remember to ask for a valuation for your rings so you can organise insurance. Although you may not be able to retrieve the emotional value of a lost or stolen ring, insurance gives you the peace of mind of knowing you will be able to create something similar, at minimal financial cost. Other jewellery you choose to complement your wedding gown, fabric and theme will play an important part in completing the picture. Finally, when you are at the jeweller’s, think also of your bridal party. Your jeweller will be able to suggest some lovely gift ideas to thank them for their help.

 
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