Fall in Love With These Contemporary Knife Edge Engagement Rings

For brides looking for contemporary rings without being over the top, knife edge engagement rings are the perfect choice. These rings take their name from the way the band is crafted. A sharp edge protrudes from the centre of the band, with an angled shape on either side. The result is a band that looks like it’s been chiselled with a knife to create a subtle geometric edge. One of the many things that makes these rings stand out is that they enhance even the simplest styles to add subtle detail. These bands work well in every ring, from classic solitaires and halos to geometric styles.

Wondering whether this engagement ring style is right for your custom ring design? Today, we’re sharing some of our favourite knife edge rings in this inspiration guide.

Modern Knife Edge Engagement Rings to Inspire

Here are just a few examples of knife edge engagement rings…

Gold Oval Pave

Image: yatesjewelers.com

You can never go wrong with a classic oval pave design. The balance of white diamond and yellow gold never dates. This design adds something a little unique, with an East-West oval diamond that sits horizontally instead of vertically. The knife edge band is encrusted with tiny pave diamonds on either side of the edge, giving it plenty of sparkle.

Five-Stone Sunburst

Image: angara.com

Starburst rings are bold and beautiful. This ring combines the pointed halo with tapered baguettes, resulting in a unique five-stone ring. Set in cool platinum or white gold that suits the white diamond, the result is a ring that catches the light every time you move.

Rose Three-Stone

Image: stevenstone.co.uk

Rose gold rings are warm, romantic, and feminine. Although this metal works in just about every style, delicate designs work especially well with a rose gold band. With a knife edge band, this three-stone ring is subtle yet elegant. Three-stone or trilogy rings represent your journey together as a couple – your past, present, and future. They are perfect for brides wanting something symbolic.

Gold Geometric Bezel

Image: markbroumand.com

For brides who prefer more unique rings, on the other hand, this geometric ring is a great choice. Bezel-cut rings are practical, as the stones are set into the band instead of sitting in a prong setting. The geometric shape of the diamond adds to the ring’s modern touch, making it simple yet eye-catching.

Pave Split-Band

Image: allurez.com

Split-band rings remain a popular choice, working well in a wide variety of designs. In this ring, the knife edge band is split close to the centre, with each side of the knife edge encrusted with pave diamonds. The centre solitaire diamond has a simple setting, resulting in a ring that is classic with a contemporary touch.

Rose Marquise Halo

Image: hudsonvalleygoldsmith.com

Halo rings are one of the most popular, versatile styles for many brides. Rather than a round or cushion-cut diamond, this ring features a marquise diamond that is surrounded by a halo of tiny diamonds. The top of the band features a series of small pave diamonds in a gradient, continuing into the centre of the band.

Considering a knife-edge ring for your custom design? Contact Cape Diamonds today and let us help you start planning your dream ring.

Choosing an Engagement Ring That Grows with Your Relationship

For those wanting a deeply symbolic engagement ring, a custom-designed ring is the perfect choice. Your relationship is a journey that starts from the moment you met and continues through many important milestones. Significant dates, personal moments, anniversaries, the birth of children, and events that bring you closer together are all part of your journey as a couple. Choosing an engagement ring that reflects each of these moments offers a way to pay homage to your journey, through the addition of tiny details that go beyond future-proofing.

In this guide, we’ll share some of the ways that you can choose a ring that evolves as your love story continues.

Selecting an Engagement Ring That Evolves with Your Love Story

Wondering how to choose an engagement ring that grows as your love story unfolds? Here are a few tips to keep in mind.

Celebrate Anniversaries

Your ring can be designed to incorporate elements that celebrate significant anniversaries. These can be personal details for the day you met, the day he proposed, the day of your wedding, or any other anniversary. You can also make additions to your ring on future anniversaries. For example, you may add pave diamonds on your tenth anniversary or a hidden ruby on your fifteenth anniversary. Adding details such as this as your marriage continues is a romantic way to adapt your ring and celebrate each important stage of your journey together.

Mark Milestones

Incorporating birthstones for other important milestones such as the birth of children can also be a great way to enhance your ring over time. You could add their birthstones, either as additional stones to make a cluster or as hidden stones set into the underside of your band. Add engravings with dates for your first home. You could add details for any other events that are special to you as a couple – the date of your first kiss or anything else that marked an important milestone that led to your marriage.

Adapt to Changes

Besides milestones and anniversaries, there are also the many changes that you experience individually. This is a ring you wear every day. Over time, you grow as a person. This means that your lifestyle and preferences may change. A ring that can easily adapt to your style is a great way to ensure that you always love your ring, whether you add an extra band, change the stones, change the setting, replace the metal, or make any other small change. You don’t need to completely change the ring, but there are subtle ways to adapt your ring.

Choosing an engagement ring that grows as your relationship evolves is the best way to ensure that is as enduring as your love. This means that you are able to celebrate the past and present as well as the future.

At Cape Diamonds, we design bespoke engagement rings that are designed to evolve with your love story, right from the time you get engaged. Whether you’re looking for something simple that can be easily adapted in the future or one that is already rooted in symbolism and can have small details added over time, we’re here to turn your dreams into reality. Contact us now to find out more about our custom ring design service.

Elegant Asscher-Cut Engagement Rings

Asscher-cut engagement rings have a unique design that features step-cut facets with relatively wide corners. They are a variation of emerald-cut stones – sometimes known as ‘square emerald-cut’ diamonds. The facets run from the corners of the crown and pavilion, creating a pattern often known as the windmill. The result is a stone that is elegant, versatile, unusual and catches the light to add more sparkle than an emerald-cut stone.

All in all, Asscher-cut engagement rings are perfect for brides who love all things vintage, with a glamorous look that works well in a variety of engagement ring styles. If you’re looking for something with Art Deco flare, keep reading to get inspiration for your custom-designed ring.

Asscher-Cut Engagement Rings to Inspire

Thanks to their versatility, Asscher-cut engagement rings can be classic, modern, understated, or bold. Here are some examples of gorgeous rings to inspire.

Halo Milgrain

Image: magdalenepivoine.com

There’s no doubt that halo rings remain one of the most timeless choices for every stone, cut, and style. Halo designs are a great way to maximise sparkle, draw attention to centre stones, add extra detail when coloured diamonds or other stones are used, or make smaller centre stones look bigger. In this design, step facets are balanced by the halo of round diamonds that continue along the pave band, along with delicate milgrain detail.

Split Shank

Image: goodstoneinc.com

Another versatile style, split shank rings help to draw attention to centre stones. These rings can be delicate or chunky, depending on the design and your preferences. This design features a wide yellow gold band with a prong setting, leading up to a solitaire diamond. The balance between the square-shaped diamond and the thicker band makes a bold statement without being too over the top.

Rose Knife-Edge

Image: mcguirediamonds.ie

This ring takes the classic solitaire diamond and gives it a subtle modern twist. Knife-edge bands have a distinctive look, with a raised edge along the top of the band. This creates a sharp, angled, eye-catching look that ensures that light reflects off the metal for maximum shine. A soft metal such as rose gold perfectly off-sets both the band and the centre stone.

Five Stone

Image: artemerstudio.com

Five-stone rings are a gradient style that works well in a variety of settings. This ring features an Asscher-cut diamond in the centre, with baguette-cut diamonds on either side. The bar setting enhances its geometric look, accentuating the main stone as well as the smaller stones on either side. A yellow gold band keeps this ring classic, resulting in a ring that has plenty of retro elegance.

East-West Solitaire

Image: bellisajewellery.com

For brides wanting something a little more modern, East-West designs are a perfect choice. These designs feature stones that are placed at an angle. Square stones are tilted so that the corners face East and West, as the name suggests. The classic solitaire design combined with the softness of rose gold already makes this ring unique. The addition of tiny black diamonds along the band adds to its contemporary look.

Double-Band Halo

Image: bestbrilliance.com

If you love halo designs but want something more modern, a double-band ring will add elegance and make a statement. In this design, the centre diamond is surrounded by a halo. Two pave bands meet at the back, drawing more attention to the halo and the centre stone. The result is a ring that is feminine, bold, and unique.

Ready to start planning your dream ring? Contact Cape Diamonds to find out more about Asscher-engagement rings and let us bring your dream to life.

How Celebrity Engagement Ring Styles Affect Current Trends

Celebrity engagements often make headlines for the engagement rings they choose. While these high-profile styles can significantly influence current ring trends, they can also lead to impulse decisions for those choosing engagement rings. Just as following trends isn’t always the best option, choosing your ring based on the latest celebrity ring can also pose a risk of choosing a ring that may not stand the test of time.

There’s nothing wrong with getting inspired by current trends and celebrity styles, of course. Understanding the role that celebrity rings play in trends helps you make your choices for the right reasons, rather than wanting a ring that is just like those you see on celebrities.

The Role of Celebrity Influence on Engagement Ring Trends

Why do celebrities have such a big influence on engagement ring trends and how can you make a decision that isn’t based on flavour-of-the-month styles?

Celebrities and popular ring styles

Celebrity rings often set the tone for popular styles, cuts, and designs, with rings that are seen by millions of brides all over the globe. When a celebrity flaunts a unique diamond cut or an unconventional ring design, it can quickly become a sought-after style. Jewellers may see a surge in demand for similar designs, and these styles can dominate the market for years. On the other hand, they can also go out of style as quickly as they come into style – especially because many celebrity marriages do not last.

The risk of following trends blindly

The problem with basing your ring choice on what the latest model, actress, singer, influencer, or other famous person is wearing is that trends come and go. What works for a celebrity’s lifestyle and public image might not suit your lifestyle. Celebrities often choose bold, elaborate designs that are not practical for daily wear. They often have rings with large stones that cost a fortune. If you base your design on current trends, there is a big risk that your expensive ring may end up being outdated in a few years, which can increase the risk of ring regret.

Why personal significance is key

Rather than following the latest celebrity trend, consider what the engagement ring will represent for you and your partner. An engagement ring should symbolise your unique relationship and personal style so that it does not have the risk of losing its appeal in a year or two. Choosing a design that has personal significance or a classic design that is timeless, flattering, and suited to your skin tone, finger size, and overall style will be far better than a ring chosen purely for the fact that it is just like one worn on the red carpet.

Considering your lifestyle and activities

You also need to think about how the ring fits into your lifestyle and activities. A ring that’s perfect for high-profile events may not be suitable if your everyday life involves hands-on work or you lead a very active lifestyle. Choosing a ring that matches your daily life will ensure it remains a ring that you can keep on your ring rather than one that you can only wear for special occasions.

Choosing a custom-designed ring

Instead of a one-size-fits-all approach inspired by celebrities, you could consider customising your engagement ring. This allows you to add personal details, ensure the ring fits perfectly, and even integrate aspects of various designs you like, whether they are based on trends, symbolic details, or other elements. This ensures that the ring will be 100% unique.

At Cape Diamonds, we offer custom ring designs that reflect your style rather than the trends doing the rounds. Our goal is to help you create a ring that you’ll love and cherish for a lifetime. Contact us now to find out how we can bring your vision to life with a bespoke engagement ring.

Fall in Love With These Gorgeous Rose Cut Engagement Rings

With their glamorous but versatile style, rose cut engagement rings date back hundreds of years. Unlike brilliant-cut diamonds with multiple facets to maximise sparkle, rose cut diamonds have a flat base and a domed top. This cut takes its name from its shape, which resembles a rose. As they have a flat base, these stones can be used in various ring designs, with shapes ranging from oval to pear, round, and others. While they work well with diamonds, any stone can be used for rose cut rings.

Whether you prefer modern styles or classic designs, this cut is an elegant choice that focuses on shine rather than sparkle. To give you inspiration for your custom ring design, we’ve put together some examples that show you what makes this engagement ring worth considering.

Elegant Rose Cut Engagement Rings to Inspire

From simple to contemporary, here are just a few rose cut engagement rings to inspire.

Vintage Edwardian

Image: andriabarbone.com

If you love vintage styles, this Edwardian ring brings the beauty of rose cut diamonds into a sophisticated design. The addition of small round brilliant cut diamonds and the unique curved channel band adds to the ring’s nostalgic effect, making it the perfect choice for brides who prefer bolder styles that make a statement. While it works especially well in cool-toned metals that bring out the shine of the white diamonds, it would well with any metal. The stones in the band could also be coloured diamonds or precious gems.

Half Bezel

Image: sarahmarti.com

For those who prefer minimal rings, on the other hand, this ring is simple yet sophisticated. Bezel rings are perfect for those with active lifestyles, with a setting that keeps the stone in place with no risk of catching against clothing. This half-bezel design keeps the East-West diamond in place, with glossy yellow gold that helps the stone stand out.

Oval Pave

Image: everettfinejewelry.com

Oval designs are flattering for every hand, working well in any type of design. This ring has an oval solitaire set in the centre, with a series of tiny pave diamonds running along a delicate band. The result is a feminine, classic ring that will never go out of fashion.

Three Stone

Image: brilliantearth.com

Three stone or trilogy rings are romantic and symbolic, representing your past, present, and future as a couple. This style works with diamonds and stones of all shapes and sizes. In this ring, a round diamond sits in the centre, with rose cut diamonds flanking the stone on each side. A simple band helps the stones stand out. This ring would work well in any metal.

Ornate Halo

Image: jared.com

For those who love classic halo designs but want something a little unique, this engagement ring features an ornate halo that surrounds the oval rose cut diamond. A series of tiny brilliant cut diamonds runs along a rose gold band, adding a romantic look that is timeless and elegant.

Delicate Solitaire

Image: josephjewelry.com

Solitaire rings remain a classic choice that will never date. In this ring, a delicate rose gold band and simple setting are combined with a rose cut stone to create a minimal, subtle ring. This ring would work well on a yellow or white gold band, with a white diamond, black diamond or morganite for added warmth.

Floral Cluster

Image: bayco.com

Adding even more floral detail, this engagement ring design features a series of round diamonds that make up a flower cluster. A simple platinum band works perfectly with the white diamonds to create a ring that stands out without being too over the top. If you want something bolder, you could look at replacing the centre diamond with a coloured diamond or warm-toned stone.

Considering a rose cut ring for your custom design? At Cape Diamonds, our goal is to bring your ideas to life, helping you find the perfect ring. Contact us now to find out more about how we can create your dream engagement ring.

How to Deal with Engagement Ring Shopping Fatigue

Shopping for your engagement ring is an exciting process that comes with plenty of anticipation and expectations. Once the question has finally been popped with a resounding yes, choosing your ring is the first step in your journey toward saying your vows. While some brides prefer having a ring chosen by their partner as a surprise, most want to be part of the process. After all, this is the most important piece of jewellery you will ever own, and you want it to be 100% right for your tastes and personality.

Something that isn’t always spoken about is shopping fatigue. Finding inspiration, looking at ring after ring, and considering everything from stones to cuts, metal, designs, and styles can be overwhelming. Needless to say, this can affect the excitement of finding your dream ring. Whether choosing a pre-made ring or having your ring custom-designed, knowing how to avoid shopping fatigue is essential to ensure that you find your dream engagement ring.

Dealing with Engagement Ring Shopping Fatigue

Here are some of the ways that you can prevent the chance of engagement ring shopping fatigue.

Set clear goals before you start

Always start with clear objectives. Know what you are looking for when it comes to general style, metal, stones, and budget before you begin shopping. Making a checklist of your priorities can streamline the process and prevent distractions from the countless options out there. You should also take into account factors such as your lifestyle, whether you have any allergies, and any other factors that will determine your choice.

Don’t try and rush the process

Don’t overwhelm yourself by trying to make a decision too quickly. Instead, start by finding inspiration based on your goals. Try not to get carried away – as tempting as it is to overload Pinterest ideas, having too many ideas at once will make it harder to choose. When considering jewellers and rings in stores, don’t make any rushed choices. Give yourself plenty of time and space out the shopping process over days or even weeks. This will reduce the stress and overwhelm that comes from shopping.

Limit your choices and make a shortlist

Too many options can lead to decision paralysis. Limit your ideas to a select few collections and make a shortlist of jewellers known for their quality and service. Use your initial checklist to make sure that rings on your shortlist meet your budget and goals. By focusing on fewer ring styles, you can spend more time considering each one without feeling overwhelmed by the sheer number of possibilities.

Be wary of trends and social media influence

While it is easy to get caught up in the latest trends or the current styles on social media, remember that your engagement ring should stand the test of time. Be wary of choosing a style solely because it’s trendy now or going with the latest celebrity style. Focus on what appeals to your personal taste and designs that you will love not just now but also in the future. Overloading on inspiration from social media and fashion sites can cloud your judgment and contribute to shopping fatigue.

Get advice from experienced jewellers

If you find yourself struggling to make a decision, consult with experienced jewellers who can provide professional guidance. Their expertise can help you focus on what’s truly important and help you find a ring that meets your goals and budget. Jewellers can also simplify the process by breaking down complex jewellery terms into simple language, giving you a better understanding of things you’ll need to consider when choosing cuts, metals, and stones.

Remember the purpose of your search

When the process seems too overwhelming, remind yourself of the purpose behind the search. You’re not just looking for a ring that looks pretty. You’re searching for a ring that is a symbol of your love and commitment. Keeping this in mind can help you push through the fatigue and focus on the purpose of your search.

At Cape Diamonds, our goal is to help you find your dream ring. With extensive experience and a bespoke design service, we are here to help you choose a ring that will stand the test of time. Contact us today to learn more about choosing the perfect engagement ring.

Contemporary Coffin Cut Engagement Rings

Perfect for brides who prefer unique engagement ring styles, the coffin ring takes its name from its distinctive coffin shape. With a rectangular profile and defined shape, it is similar to cuts such as emerald in its flat cut. Compared to brilliant cuts, this cut has limited facets to maintain its unique shape. While it can be used as a single stone in a solitaire design, it is most commonly used in more complex designs that bring in diamonds to add sparkle. Black diamond centre stones are a popular choice, while non-diamond stones and coloured diamonds are also used. The result is a ring that stands out from the crowd. If you’re looking for something bold, beautiful, and modern, with a hint of gothic elegance, the coffin engagement ring is sure to be a good choice.

Get Inspired by These Coffin-Cut Engagement Rings

Some examples of stunning coffin-cut engagement rings to inspire your custom ring design include the following:

Black Diamond Tiara

Image: blackdiamondsnewyork.com

Coffin stones are often used as part of ring sets, working well with stacking rings that add extra dimension and sparkle. This is a great way to bring in diamonds or other stones in various sizes. This ring features a simple centre stone surrounded by a halo, with a pave band. The matching tiara ring features black diamonds in a gradient. The result is a stand-out ring that is balanced, sophisticated, and unique.

Rose Pink Sapphire

Image: thelordofgemrings.com

For something softer, the combination of pale pink sapphire, rose gold, and diamonds results in a feminine ring with an unconventional touch. The sapphire takes centre stage, with a series of diamonds on each side to create a balanced effect and ensure the ring sparkles when it catches the light. A delicate rose gold band completes the overall effect.

Salt and Pepper

Image: lisajewelryus.com

Salt and pepper diamonds are a popular choice in many designs. In this design, the centre coffin-cut stone is set on a split band ring in white gold, with two small diamonds on each side of the split shank. Delicate milgrain detail surrounds the centre stone, highlighting it without taking the focus off the stone. This ring would work well with any metal. Milgrain could be swapped with a white diamond halo to add more sparkle and offset the mixture of colours in the ring.

Rose Gold Ruby

Image: oveela.com

Romantic and ethereal, the combination of deep red ruby, rose gold band, and small marquise diamonds creating a nature-inspired intertwined leaf effect makes this ring a stunner. Bold gems work well with coffin designs as they add a bold touch. When paired with diamonds and an ornate band, the result is a ring that stands out for all the right reasons.

Yellow Gold Trinity

Image: coffingems.com

Coffin rings don’t always have to be extra bold. A classic trinity or three-stone design is a simple way to bring in a unique cut without creating a more dramatic effect. This coffin diamond has more facets, which helps to maximise the sparkle. The larger stones set on either side of the main stone are also coffin-cut diamonds, while the chunky gold band gives it a timeless look.

Blue Diamond Halo

Image: sapphirestudiosdesign.com

Another ring that works well as a set, this pairing features a timeless halo design with a twist. A blue diamond takes centre stage, with a halo of white diamonds surrounding the main stone. The matching tiara ring has a simple band with a gradient of white diamonds. This ring would work with any stone, but the balance of cool blue diamond and cool metal makes it elegant and classic.

Minimal Gold Solitaire

Image: inchoobijoux.com

Perfect for brides wanting a unique cut in a simple design, this minimal engagement ring features a simple coffin-cut solitaire diamond set on a delicate gold band. Simple, feminine, and understated, this ring would work well in any metal.

Whether you’re considering coffin-cut rings or any other style, Cape Diamonds is here to turn your ring ideas into reality. Contact us today to find out more about our custom ring design service.

Everything You Need to Know About Investment Engagement Rings

As the name implies, investment engagement rings are bought as an investment – especially as a symbol of deep commitment. As they are typically high-value rings, these rings have the purest diamonds, metal, and designs that are more timeless than modern styles. If you are considering investing in an engagement ring that will last for generations to come, this type of ring is the ideal choice. With that said, there is a lot of conflicting information out there that can cause confusion. In this guide, we’ll take a look at investment rings to give you more information on what to consider when buying your ring.

A Guide to Investment Engagement Rings

Here are some of the most important things to know about investment engagement rings.

What are investment rings?

These rings are considered to be the ultimate symbol of commitment. By giving your love a high-value ring, you are showing her that your love will last as long as you both live. Couples that take their vows seriously will often look for this type of ring. Diamonds are usually the stone of choice, but precious gems such as sapphire, ruby, or emerald may be considered, too. Stones such as Tanzanite may be considered as a diamond alternative. Metals such as platinum are often chosen, due to their longevity.

Are they worth the cost?

This point is much debated. Some believe that as engagement rings are purchased without the intent to resell, they may not be the best financial investment. However, as these rings feature high-quality stones and metals, they are made to last. This means that they can be handed down to children, grandchildren, and many generations to come. If you’re looking for a ring that will last not only for your own lifetime but also your future ancestors’ lifetimes, the rings are most certainly worth the cost. You will also have full peace of mind knowing that the ring will not be prone to wear and tear or any other issues, as they are made using stones and metals that are durable.

Are these rings the same as heirloom rings?

These rings are purchased to become heirloom rings. For those wanting a ring that is classic, hand-crafted, and timeless enough to be passed down to future generations, investing in a premium ring is essential. It is important to remember that while contemporary designs have their place – especially for brides who prefer unique designs – classic styles are best for future heirloom rings.

What else should you know?

The most important thing of all is to know that the true value of your ring is not only the diamond. There’s no doubt that diamonds are high in value. But as a symbol of your love, your ring has infinite value that goes far beyond the stone itself. Choosing a ring that reflects that love is the best way to show your beloved that your bond will last a lifetime.

At Cape Diamonds, we offer a range of timeless, hand-crafted rings to suit every taste, along with a bespoke ring design service. Contact us today to learn more about our engagement rings and why they are the perfect investment.

Make a Statement With These Solitaire Engagement Rings

Sophisticated and undeniably timeless, solitaire engagement rings remain one of the most popular ring types of all time. While there’s no doubt that a classic solitaire will suit just about every ring design, those who prefer bolder styles may want to find a way to transform a simple ring into something that makes a statement. Whether that means adding more detail to the band, using a unique ring setting, replacing white diamonds with colourful gemstones, or going for a contemporary design, custom ring design offers a way to create a statement engagement ring that brings in plenty of bold and beautiful style.

Bold & Beautiful Solitaire Statement Engagement Rings

Here are a few rings that will help you find inspiration if you’re considering a solitaire statement engagement ring.

Platinum Antique Filigree

Image: Cape Diamonds

A show-stopper from the Cape Diamonds Antique Ring Collection, the Antique Filigree Diamond Solitaire Ring is perfect for those who are looking for vintage-inspired rings. An ornate band features filigree detail and carefully crafted sculpting. In the centre, the solitaire diamond sits in a four-prong setting. This ring works especially well in platinum, as the cool tone of the metal gives the band and centre stone maximum sparkle.

Pave Pear Wrap

Image: belovedjewelry.com

Wrap-around rings are perfect for brides seeking something modern and unconventional. These rings feature a delicate band that loops around the finger in multiple strands. While a plain band with a solitaire stone at the top or bottom of the band makes the ring unique, the addition of pave diamonds adds to the dramatic look. Yellow gold or rose gold adds the perfect balance between warm and cool.

Floral Pink Topaz

Image: shoptulola.com

Colourful stones such as topaz transform even the most simple designs into something bolder. In the case of rings with details such as carved bands or other intricate features, a coloured stone makes even more of a statement. The balance of pink and gold, set against the unusual band and the classic oval stone makes this ring modern, interesting, and ideal for brides who prefer less traditional styles.

Round Open Set

Image: serendipitydiamonds.com

If you want to turn your solitaire ring into something a little more interesting while still keeping it relatively classic, you can try choosing a setting that makes the centre stone stand out. Tension or open settings twist around the stone, holding it in place between each end of the band. A chunky band would add more to this ring, while a coloured diamond or warm-toned band would also make it stand out.

Bezel Sapphire Kite

Image: oveela.com

Kite rings have a geometric style, with a shape that allows the ring to be worn with the longer end facing up or down. Bezel settings are ideal for this cut, as they ensure that the stone takes centre stage. In this design, the understated metal band and bezel setting lead to a vivid sapphire. The contrast between warmer-toned metal and the brilliant blue sapphire makes this ring bold without being over the top. You can add more sparkle with the addition of tiny pave diamonds (or flush-set sapphires).

Round Twisted Halo

Image: virjewels.com

Halo rings vary from simple to bold, however, most have a typical design with a single, double, or multiple halo around the centre stone and a pave band. This ring takes the design a step further, with a twisted pave band, which leads up to a twirling halo around the round centre diamond. The result is a floral effect, with a series of tiny diamonds that catch the light.

Milgrain Asscher Cut

Image: taylorandhart.com

Another example of a bezel setting, this rose gold Asscher-cut ring has a chunky band and setting. Delicate milgrain detail runs along the inner shape of the bezel, while the larger size of the ring helps to balance the cut of the stone. If you want a bold ring that catches the light without being too flashy, this one will be just right. It would work well in any metal, but rose gold gives it added warmth.

Whether you’re searching for something classic or contemporary, simple or bold, Cape Diamonds is here to help you turn your ideas into reality. Contact us to find out more about our custom ring design service, and start planning your engagement ring today.

How to Explain Your Custom Engagement Ring Ideas to a Jeweller

Planning a custom engagement ring is an exciting process that allows you to create a ring that is unique and perfectly tailored to your style. With that said, explaining your ideas to a jeweller can be more challenging than you may realise. You know what you want and you can picture the ring in your head. Your jeweller may not visualise the ring unless you explain your ideas in a way that prevents any misunderstanding. Besides using words that explain your idea, you also need to give your jeweller some visual ideas that clearly show what you are talking about. More importantly, you also need to do homework on your side so that you can give your input on things like cuts, ring designs, carats, and other things that may apply to your engagement ring style. When you give your jeweller a vague description with no detail, no image inspiration, no specifics on cuts and styles, and no other information that helps the design, it will be extremely difficult to start the process of custom ring design.

Remember, your jeweller cannot see into your head to know what you are thinking. This means you have to be as clear as possible right from the start, explaining in a way that avoids anything getting lost in translation.

Explaining Your Custom Engagement Ring Ideas to Your Jeweller

These tips will help you explain your ideas in a way that helps your jeweller start working on your custom engagement ring.

Start with Inspiration

First things first, start keeping photos, sketches or any other ideas you see in magazines, online searches, or Pinterest. You won’t be copying these designs but they will act as inspiration. Showing visual examples can provide a clear starting point to show your jeweller. Photos give your jeweller a concrete idea of the style, stones, metals, cuts, and details you prefer. You can then discuss what you like about each example, such as the style of certain elements or the combination of stone and metal. Pictures are often easier to explain than words as they are clear and hard to misinterpret. 

Define the Details

Once you’ve given a general idea of the look you’re going for, you can go into specific details about the ring’s design. Discuss elements such as the type of metal you want, the cut and setting of the stone, and any intricate details like engravings or filigree. If you have preferences for certain details or finishes, such as engravings, hidden halos, underside diamonds, or similar, mention these as well. Be as specific as possible about what you want to help the jeweller understand your expectations. It will save you a lot of time to make a list of all the features you like to mention along with the images. Bring this list along with the images. Either print it out or write out details by hand. Thinking ahead will prevent you from forgetting important things you want to mention, too. 

Discuss Practical Details

It’s important to discuss practical considerations, such as your lifestyle. If you lead an active lifestyle, play sports or work with your hands, your ring design needs to have a design that won’t be prone to wear and tear. Share these details with your jeweller so they can recommend appropriate settings and designs that are not only beautiful but also practical and durable. This ensures the ring not only looks good but is also suitable for daily wear. It’s also essential to mention any allergies to metals. 

Use Descriptive Language

When describing your ideas, always use descriptive language that brings across emotions and specifics. Rather than being vague, say things like, “I want it to feel elegant and timeless” or “I prefer a look that’s modern and sleek.” This will provide insight into the style you like. If you’re going for an heirloom ring or you want more personal details, talking about memories you associate with certain designs can also help your jeweller capture the essence of your dream ring. For example, you may love three-stone designs because they represent your past, present, and future. You may want stones for your birth month, the month you met, the month of your proposal, or any other special date. 

Be Open to Advice

While you may have a clear idea of what you want, it’s important to be open to suggestions from your jeweller. They can offer valuable insights into what works best in terms of durability, gemstone settings, and overall design practicality. Their expertise can enhance your original idea, with advice that ensures that your ring is perfect for your tastes, lifestyle, budget, and overall needs.

At Cape Diamonds, our goal is to bring your ideas to life with our bespoke design service. Contact us to start planning your dream ring now.