Show How Much You Care With Personalized Gifts
Written by on August 31, 2009 – 11:09 am -| A prevailing aspect of our modern culture is our tendency to stress individuality. This has fueled a surge in personalized gifts, as many try to capture the spirit of a person’s individuality in the form of a gift. The market for jewelry, and in particular, wedding jewelry, is no exception. A wedding ring is perhaps the gift of a lifetime; so much goes into choosing something personalized for the recipient. Unique wedding rings are not restricted to the high end of the market, either, fromthey can be found in any price range.
Stackable rings are a style that is catching fire among both men and women. Two, or perhaps three or more bands that are worn together make a beautiful statement. Stackable rings are often designed in the “eternity” style, where the stones used are place continuously around the band. When you stack a few of these together, it’s a truly dazzling display. The look has an unparalleled flexibility, since they can be paired with an engagement ring or not. Stones might be placed flush with the metal of the ring, called “channel set.” Additionally, the stackable shape of the rings allow for future anniversary gifts. Pavé diamonds have emerged as a major trend in unique wedding rings. The Pavé setting features fully cut, faceted tiny stones that are placed so close together that one cannot easily detect the metal around them. It gives the illusion that the ring itself is “paved with diamonds.” With the Pavé look, there is the suggestion of “bling” but without being ostentatious. Vintage is a style that is a hot trend, but it also has the advantage of being timeless. Vintage rings are gorgeous, timeless, and extraordinarily popular these days. Old European and classic Asscher cuts are usually associated with these rings, but you’ll see other various cuts as well. Vintage rings are typically recognizable by the scroll detailing and the tiny diamonds, milgrain, and filigree. Colored stones are another popular trend in unique wedding rings. Pink and canary yellow diamonds, pink and blue sapphires, and other colored stones are showing up in wedding rings all over. Color is not restricted to modern styles; you can put them in the traditional four prong setting. Placing a colored stone in a vintage setting is particularly stunning. You can choose a personal favorite color, or go more traditional with a birthstone. Choosing a unique wedding ring can be a daunting affair, but armed with the knowledge of the current trends and possibilities, you can make a great choice. |
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The Allure Of Platinum Jewelry
Written by on September 15, 2008 – 8:12 am -Today like no other time in history the choices in metals that can be used to make jewelry especially engagement rings and wedding rings is almost over whelming.
A metal that may be new to many people is platinum, however it does have a rich history with its use in decorative pieces dating back to the 7th century and ancient Egypt. The use in jewelry and decor began its rise in Europe in the 18th century however it was not obtainable to those who were not royalty or extremely wealthy. In 1930′s during the time of the great depression and WWII platinum became a controlled substance therefore its use in jewelry making was almost unheard of.
It has only been in the last ten years that platinum has made a real resurgence. This metal has gained popularity in recent years among the general population however the price makes it an unrealistic choice for most of us. A platinum ring generally costs double the amount of its white gold counterpart therefore it still viewed by many as a symbol of wealth and status.
Platinum is a white metal that is appreciated for not only its beauty but its strength and long wear ability. This is one of reasons many skilled jewelers especially those making high end items like to use platinum prongs in order to set diamonds and gems in their pieces. It is also a desirable choice because it does not oxidize and is hypoallergenic. Another characteristic that makes platinum stand out from the competition is that when it does sustain a scratch this will not cause further damage to your ring, where as if a gold ring is scratched the gold will continue to breakdown in that area.
Unlike gold, high quality platinum has a purity of 95% and is often alloyed with metals such as titanium, copper, rhodium, palladium, iridium, osmium, and ruthenium. Platinum is rated by a 1000 count, with platinum of 950 parts per thousand being used to make high quality jewelry. It is recommended that if you are going to pay the money for a quality platinum piece that you do not buy anything below 850 parts per 1000. High quality platinum will have a mark stating what its count is and it should be and combination of the number such as 950 and the lettering Pt or Plat.
If you ever decided to purchase or even try a platinum ring on the first thing you will notice is the weight of it. Platinum is a very dense metal therefore a platinum ring will weigh approximately 60% more than the same ring made from 18kt gold. As well platinum has a much higher melting temperature then gold, and can be heated over and over again allowing very small intricate pieces to made. Platinum allows a jeweler the flexibility to make pieces that are very elaborate and detailed without losing strength or durability.
Platinum rings may not be for everyone however if the price is out of reach then an option may be to purchase a ring that has its diamonds or stones secured with platinum prongs. Other options can be to go to a simpler design with the added security that your ring will last or do to a ring with a mix of metals.
Tags: engagement rings, jewelery, jewelry, platinum jewelery, platinum jewelry, wedding bands, wedding rings
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