Choosing engagement rings can be challenging. Over and beyond looking out for the things that look good, you also need to think about whether or not the ring can be worn day in and day out without causing any issues, breaking or standing out for all the wrong reasons. In this short guide, we take a look at some of the things that you absolutely want to avoid when considering engagement rings.
The Worst Engagement Rings
The absolute worst engagement rings that you most certainly want to avoid at all cost include the following:
1/ Stones that are prone to chips and scratches.
It is always a good idea to familiarise yourself with the Mohs hardness scale before choosing a ring for yourself or for your beloved. Although some stones may look amazing, they may not be practical for a ring that is meant to be worn on a daily basis. The Mohs scale rates stones with a value from 1 to 10. The hardest stones of all are, not surprisingly, diamonds, which have a rating of 10. The softest stone is talc, which is not typically used in jewellery. Pearls have a rating of just 2.5, while opal lies between 5.5 and 6.5. Quartz stones have a rating of 7, morganite lies between 7.8 and 8, topaz has a rating of 8, and rubies and sapphires both have a rating of 9 on the Mohs scale. Every subsequent stone is then judged on whether or not it can scratch or chip the stone just underneath it on the scale. To withstand everyday wear and tear, your chosen stone should be at least a 7 on the scale. This will prevent chipping, scratches and other damage.
2/ Settings that easily catch on fabric.
In addition to the stone you choose, it is also important to think carefully about the setting. A good setting is simple, with no excessive detail that could easily catch on clothing. As pretty as an ornate ring may seem in the box or on a finger, remember that this ring will be worn every day, all day. If the wearer is not able to go about everyday activities without the ring snagging, breaking or getting in the way, it is not a good choice. Things to look out for include side profile detail that may have any obtrusions, settings that have any oversized prongs that stand out, raw stones that may easily snag and any other element that could cause injury or hassle in any way at all. Ideally, the ring should fit on the finger without causing dents or without pressing into adjacent fingers.
3/ Impractical designs that are not easy to wear.
Finally, make sure that the overall ring design is practical and easy to wear. This is a piece of jewellery that should be made to wear in any situation. Very elaborate, eye-catching designs might look good, but they may end up clashing with other jewellery and standing out for all the wrong reasons. In recent years, there has been a slight trend towards huge, over the top designs that almost look fake in their elaborateness. These rings may seem fun now, but a few years down the line, they will quickly lose their charm. These rings are also more obvious to potential jewel thieves, making you an easier target. Many also have side profile details and settings that stick out in all the wrong ways, further adding to their lack of practicality.
We hope that these tips make it a bit easier to find your dream ring. To find out more about custom made engagement rings in Cape Town, contact Cape Diamonds today.