Choosing the Right Engagement Ring

With so many trends in jewelry taking place over the past several years finding the perfect engagement ring can  prove challenging.

A colored diamond may be the perfect choice for those who prefer to be unique. Colored diamonds are much rarer than white diamonds, occurring in only one in every 10,000 stones. The colors available are yellow, pink, and blue. The rarest colored diamond is the pink stone, which is why it is also the most expensive. Yellow diamonds have the lowest price tag as they are also the most common. You want to still look at the 4 Cs when purchasing a colored diamond, and expect to pay an additional 25 to 50% over a traditional white diamond.

Another popular trend these days is larger diamonds. Nowadays it is fairly common to see a three to five carat engagement ring as opposed to the standard one carat of days past.

There are also new and creative ideas when it comes to diamond settings. While the princess cut diamond remains popular the most popular is the solitaire diamond. Other settings that are gaining in popularity include the bezel set in which the diamond is surrounded by metal instead of elevated and the tension set diamond in which the diamond appears to float.

The three stone ring is another current trend. This includes one large stone accented by two smaller stones of the same cut.

You could try an antique or heirloom engagement ring if you are looking for a very unique piece. Diamonds that were cut by true craftsmen from long ago can be taken from these rings and placed into more modern settings. Another option is to place a new stone into the antique setting for a one of a kind look.

The metal that surrounds the stone is another important factor. Platinum is not only beautiful but hypoallergenic as well. Other advantages of platinum are that it will never tarnish, and is heaver and stronger than gold. Some of the more modern rings make use of two or three different metals for a dramatic effect.

Some people abandon tradition all together and opt for alternative gemstones including rubies, emeralds, and sapphires.

People on a really tight budget may want to consider getting other gemstones such as cubic zirconia or moissanite which look like diamonds. While you can expect to pay about $6,000 for a one carat diamond ring you will spend only around $500 for a one carat moissanite ring.

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