Tantalising Tourmaline Engagement Rings
While diamonds remain the preferred choice for engagement rings (and for good reason, too, we might add), another stone that has a good hardness rating, plenty of impact and an incredible range of colours is tourmaline. This stone falls between 7 and 7.5 on the Mohs hardness scale, making it a durable engagement ring that will last forever. While it is technically classified as a semi-precious stone, tourmaline has become sought-after due to its vast colour range, which often includes two or more colours within the same stone. Certain tourmaline stones, such as the watermelon tourmaline, are especially valued for their unusual properties that make no two stones alike.
Coloured stones are not everyone's choice and should definitely be considered carefully. If you love colour and you are seeking something original and a little off the beaten path for your engagement ring, tourmaline is sure to add all the sparkle and colour you are seeking.
Get Inspired by These Gorgeous Tourmaline Engagement Rings
If you're looking for an eye-catching ring that is sure to be unique and dazzling, this gemstone is well worth considering for your ring. Add a bit of colour to your engagement ring with these beautiful tourmaline rings.
Double Ring
Image: capucinne.com
A ring set that combines your engagement and wedding ring (or two rings layered over each other) can create a rather lovely double ring. This style uses a half circle, tiny pave stones and an emerald cut tourmaline, resulting in a layered effect that has a touch of Art Deco glamour. A set like this would work with any colour tourmaline and any metal. The warm tones of rose gold work well with the pink tourmaline shown here.
Halo Pave
Image: phillipstoner.com
This classic style remains a popular choice for many brides. The bright colour of the aqua tourmaline adds even more impact to the ring, working well with a cool-toned metal such as platinum. Tiny pave diamonds provide extra sparkle, further adding to the beauty of this ring. White gold would also work well with this colour of tourmaline.
Three Stone
Image: riordanjewellers.com
Another timeless engagement ring style, three stone rings are rich in symbolism. The stones are said to represent each stage of your life together – your past, present and future. There are many ways to make this ring shine. You could make all three stones the same, choose different tourmaline stones for each setting or add in a diamond to mix things up a bit.
Rose Gold
Image: madeyoulook.ca
Rose gold acts as the perfect backdrop for a dark green tourmaline that is almost black. The depth of colour in darker toned tourmaline is truly amazing. Although these stones are not known for their clarity, they have a deep, rich level of colour that does not dim or lose any impact. Yellow gold would also work well with this colour.
Watermelon Pave
Image: pavandbroome.com
This stone gets its name from its watermelon-like colour range. The inner part of the stone is a deep pink, spreading out to a delicate pale colour and deepening into a dark shade of green. Dramatic in any type of metal, the addition of tiny halo stones add even more beauty to this unusual ring.
Split Band
Image: thejewelleryeditor.com
Split band rings are another classic style that will never date. In this ring, a deep green baguette tourmaline is set between two yellow gold bands, with tiny pave diamonds added to each band. This style would work with any colour tourmaline and any metal, with or without the pave stones.
Triple Band
Image: donnahourani.com
Triple band rings go one step further, adding an additional band for effect. There are many ways to customise this style, from mixing and matching metals to changing the location of the stone, adding in additional stones, changing the size of the stone or changing the position of the stone.
Marquise Halo
Image: jupitergem.com
In vibrant aqua, this marquise cut tourmaline is enhanced by tiny pave diamonds and set on a simple platinum band. This style of ring is classic and flattering, and also versatile. Change the colour of the stone, add an extra halo or remove the halo and keep the setting simple or add side stones for emphasis.
Considering a bold ring? Read our tips on choosing a colourful engagement ring to learn more. If you would like help in crafting your dream engagement ring in Cape Town, get in touch with Cape Diamonds today.
Before You Get That Colourful Engagement Ring…
Whether you are dreaming of a bright, bold engagement ring with a coloured diamond or you are aiming to surprise your love with a colourful precious stone that you are sure she will love, colourful rings are not always as simple as they seem initially. The trouble with this type of ring lies in the very thing that makes it so special – its bold colour.
While a vivid red and black ring works well now, while you love the colour combination, it may not appeal to you as much in five years, let alone a decade or two down the line. That's not to say that there is no place for colour in engagement rings, however. It simply means being aware of what this type of ring entails so that you can make an informed decision.
What to Know About Colourful Engagement Rings
Some things to consider when it comes to colourful engagement rings include the following:
The colours themselves.
If you are going to add colour, don't choose a colour that you have only started liking recently. Don't look at trends, either. Instead, think about the colours that you have always loved. Think about the colours that you wear frequently (and have worn over a long time frame). Think about colours that go with other colours as well as neutrals, without any risk of major clashes. Even think about your skin tone, eye colour and hair colour and how the colour looks against your skin. If the colour does not work well, you may start to find it less charming as time passes.
The style of the ring.
If you have a simple solitaire style, you could replace the stone or revamp the ring in a few years if you find yourself feeling less enamoured of the colour. If the ring design is more complex, it may not be as simple to make adjustments. Complex ring designs may end up being ruined if any stones are moved or replaced, while simple cuts and designs should allow small changes within reason. That's not to say that you should aim to make changes, of course. If it comes to that, you should be able to have the option, however.
The type of stone.
Another thing to consider is whether you will go for a coloured diamond or a colourful precious stone. If you choose the former, you will be able to ensure a high rating on the Moh's hardness scale – in fact, the very highest rating possible. If you opt for another colourful stone, you will need to do some homework to ensure that the stone you choose has a decent hardness ratio. That will help to prevent scratches, chips and other damage to the stone over time.
If you are looking for beautifully made custom diamond rings in any colour, we are here to help. Contact us with any engagement ring queries and we will do our best to assist however we can.
Dreamy Double Band Engagement Rings
Double band engagement rings have become popular in recent years, offering a modern variation of the split band ring and a shape that is edgy yet feminine. Perfect for those who are looking for something a little bit different from the norm, this ring offers plenty of room for creativity, too. Keep reading to find inspiration on how to plan your dream double band engagement ring.
Get Inspired by These Double Band Engagement Rings
If you are looking for something similar to split band, but with more of a double band look, these gorgeous engagement rings are sure to offer some inspiration.
Pave Pear
Image: brilliantearth.com
Pave stones work well on a variety of different designs, adding plenty of sparkle in a subtle way. For the double band style, these tiny stones work especially well, highlighting the gently tapered pear to perfection. A halo around the centre stone adds even more bling to this design, which would work well in any choice of metal and diamond colour.
Pave Emerald
Image: stephaniegottlieb.com
The same design also works well with an emerald cut diamond as the centre stone. This cut is unique in a number of ways. Rather than having multiple facets, emerald cut stones have a faceted surface that gives a unique glow to the diamond, catching the light in a subtle yet glamorous way. This stone was favoured for many years and has been enjoying a resurgence in popularity in recent times.
Minimal Gold
Image: sofiakaman.com
Ideal for brides who prefer a minimal ring style, this ring is simple and sophisticated. A solid gold double band is dotted with just a handful of tiny pave stones, adding enough sparkle to shine without being over the top or obtrusive. If you love the double band style but don't usually wear much jewellery, this minimal style is sure to appeal to your muted tastes.
Floating Diamond
Image: jrdunn.com
This unusual style has a solitaire diamond that appears to float on the upper band. In classic yellow or white gold with a white diamond, the ring is timeless in its elegance. It would work well in platinum and rose gold, too. Try a coloured diamond in blush or chocolate for added style or try something bolder such as ruby, sapphire, emerald or Tanzanite.
Marquise Twist
Image: gabrielny.com
Another interesting take on the double band style is this twisted band ring with a centre marquise stone. The shape of this stone works well with the crossed double band, adding plenty of interest and balance to the overall design and helping to make the centre stone truly shine. Diamond and white gold or platinum work well in this design but you could choose any metal and stone with equally lovely results.
Rose Gold
Image: capediamonds.co.za
Finally, made by our very own talented jeweller, Joel Graham, this breathtaking rose gold double band ring is elegant, simple and devastating in its timeless design. The centre diamond is highlighted to perfection, with the twin bands helping to add plenty of balance and beauty.
Looking for help in finding your dream ring? Contact Cape Diamonds today and let us know how we can make your engagement ring dreams come true.
How to Upgrade Your Engagement Ring
Upgrading your engagement ring may sound crazy when you have only just gotten engaged. As time goes by, however, you may reach a point where you would like to add some detail, change a stone, change the band or even bring the ring into a new era.
To get the most from your engagement ring upgrade, it is best to speak to a jeweller who is able to help you make the upgrades in a way that works with the current ring design. Not all rings can easily be upgraded but most can to some extent. This ring is too precious to take chances on major changes so it is best to choose just one change to make instead.
Upgrading Your Engagement Ring
Some of the ways that you may choose to upgrade your engagement ring could include any of the following:
Change the band.
If your tastes have evolved from yellow gold to platinum over the years or you have always longed to have a rose gold ring, you could look at adding your stone to a new band. This can instantly change the entire look of the ring for a change that elevates the ring significantly. Other than the cosmetics benefits, another reason to consider making a change is the longevity factor. Over time, as gold is plated, the metal can begin to lose its shine. Platinum does not have this effect and it is also hypoallergenic, as an added bonus.
Enhance ring detail.
You may want to add a bit more detail to your ring without making any major changes. You could look at adding pave stones along the band, adding a halo around a solitaire stone, adding in a tiny diamond alongside your centre stone or even changing the colour of any pave stones you may already have on your ring. Even a tiny detail can make a big difference to the ring's look and feel.
Switch ring styles.
Many people upgrade their rings as a way of celebrating important milestones in a marriage. You could consider changing ring styles for your tenth anniversary, taking a solitaire ring to a three stone ring, for example. You could think about changing a solitaire to a halo ring, too, or switching the band to a split band. This is a symbolic way of bringing in a new era in your relationship.
Insert a hidden stone.
Another way to add subtle detail and celebrate a milestone is to add a secret stone somewhere that only you and your love can see the stone. Hidden stones can be added underneath the setting, as profile detail, on the underside of the band, set deep into the metal or anywhere else that your jeweller advised. You can add a coloured diamond or precious stone that represents the number of years you have been married to add even more symbolism.
Add an engraving.
Finally, another way to upgrade your ring is to add an engraving. This is very simple to do and can be a deeply romantic way to celebrate a special milestone in your relationship. Add a personalised note, a poem, lyrics from your favourite song (or your wedding dance) or get inspiration from our list of romantic engraving ideas.
However you choose to upgrade your engagement ring, always choose a jeweller that is able to make the best decision for your budget and preferences without putting your original ring at risk of damage.
Get Inspired By These Exquisite Hexagon Engagement Rings
Hexagon engagement rings manage to be contemporary enough for today's era while still having enough timeless appeal to make them a favoured choice throughout history. Popular in the art deco era, the rings have a classic yet interesting appeal that makes them extremely versatile. Keep reading to find out how to infuse some geometric engagement ring charm to your ring with a hexagon-inspired design.
Heavenly Hexagon Engagement Rings
If you're looking for a ring that is unusual enough to be interesting and different while still being elegant and understated, hexagon engagement rings are a great choice. Here are some examples of this gorgeous ring style to give you some inspiration.
Halo
Image: heartsonfire.com
The hexagon shape is perfect for the halo design, with tiny pave diamonds added around the six edges of the hexagon in a way that adds plenty of sparkle and shine. A round diamond takes centre stage, accentuating the tiny round stones around the edge. Rose gold adds to the femininity of this ring, but yellow gold, white gold and even platinum would also work well.
Double Halo
Image: gillianconroy.com
The only thing more romantic than a halo is a double halo. In this design, two layers of pave stones surround the edge of the hexagon, with larger stones around the outer age and smaller stones on the inside. A hexagon cut diamond in the centre further highlights the shape of this vintage-style ring. Whichever metal you prefer, this ring is eye-catching and sophisticated.
Blue Diamond
Image: ckfj.com
For something a little different, blue diamonds add even more impact to this design. Five halo hexagons are placed alongside each other in a chain. The inner hexagon shape is made up of tiny blue diamonds that give the ring the look of a flower chain. A halo band surrounds the blue flowers, connecting the chain and adding maximum sparkle. If you favour rings that veer away from conventional, you are sure to love this design. It would work equally well in any metal with just about any colour of diamond or any type of precious stone.
Delicate and Minimal
Image: blueridgenotions.com
Perfect for those who prefer their rings on the minimal side, this delicate ring features a teeny tiny hexagon design with a dainty centre stone. Set on a fine gold band, the ring has just enough sparkle without being over the top. Rose gold would also look lovely, while white gold and platinum would work well, too. Choose a white diamond or try something different such as a coloured diamond, sapphire, ruby, emerald or Tanzanite stone.
Black Diamond
Image: sofiakaman.com
There is undoubtedly something alluring about black diamonds. These rings have a bold yet elegant appeal that is timeless. In this ring, a large black diamond centre stone takes centre stage, with the tiniest of pave stones dotted around the edge and continuing along the band. The band is kept fine to avoid detracting from the stone in the centre. White gold and platinum work especially well but rose or yellow gold would add lots of impact.
Three Stone
Image: thecutlondon.com
Another stunning example of geometric design, the three stone ring design is given a modern edge with two baguette stones that flank the centre hexagon. Round stones would also work, or even smaller hexagons, trillion stones, cushion cut stones or even marquise or pear cut stones. Whichever stones and metal you choose, this ring has plenty of creative choices to offer.
Looking for an exquisite custom-made ring in Cape Town and surrounds? Cape Diamonds helps make your ring dreams come true with beautifully made personalised rings that are made to order. Get in touch to find out more about our hand-crafted engagement rings.
How To Determine Her Engagement Ring Size
If you are planning a surprise proposal, it will help hugely having an engagement ring that fits your love's hand perfectly. One of the biggest mistakes made by hopeful grooms is not being fully sure of the ring size and using guesswork instead. This can end up costing more than you realise in the long run – especially if you have not taken any steps to ensure that the ring is one that will be adored at first site. If the ring is not quite her style and not even the right size, you will have to get it resized and possibly even redesigned.
Make sure that your love is sufficiently wowed from the moment that engagement ring is slipped onto her finger with these surprisingly practical tips.
Getting Her Engagement Ring Size Without Her Knowing
How exactly do you go about figuring out her ring size, then? For starters, you could try one of these simple tips to make sure that you have a good idea of her engagement ring size.
Ask her friends or family.
One of the simplest ways to determine her ring size is to get a bestie or sister involved in the process. Most women have a good idea of ring sizes. A co-conspirator will be able to sneak into her jewellery box and borrow or size a ring, then tell you the size. She may also be able to give you some tips on the type of ring your love would love the most, which will help make your ring quest even easier.
Be smooth.
You could also try a bit of subterfuge and pretend to be trying to find out how ring sizes work for a ring you want to resize for your mom or sister. The upside of this approach is that she will give you her ring size if she knows it or allow you to use a string or cable tie to measure her finger in relation. The downside is that she may well see through the smoothness and know exactly what you are plotting.
Wait until she is asleep.
For those who don't mind a bit of danger, another tactic is to wait until she falls asleep and then very, very carefully tie a cable tie or string around her finger without her waking. This move can be daunting and should only be attempted on heavy sleepers. Make sure that you choose the right finger, too. Getting the wrong hand may make things a bit tricky as most people have a hand that is slightly bigger than the other.
Do a ring trace.
If you are not able to borrow a ring or get outside help, you could also take one of her existing rings and trace it onto a piece of paper when your love is not in the room. Make sure that you trace carefully, enough times to provide a clear outline. You can then take this bit of paper to your jeweller. They will be able to work out the size from there. This should be a last resort however as tracing is not always as accurate as having a ring that is worn daily or having an exact size.
The good news is that you should only need to try one of these moves to get a reasonable idea of her ring size. We suggest starting from the top and taking it from there depending on your success. Once you have an idea of her ring size, you can get onto the fun part... choosing the perfect engagement ring for your love.
Exquisite Asymmetrical Engagement Rings
If perfectly balanced engagement rings are not your cup of tea, you may find that asymmetrical rings offer something a bit more your style. As the name implies, these rings do not follow standard design principles. Instead, they feature off-centre stones, interesting arrangements, off-beat designs, and, very often, unusual details that further add to their charm.
These rings are popular with future brides who prefer a modern bohemian style over a classic style. Keep reading to find out how asymmetrical engagement rings infuse interesting visual detail into their design.
Fall in Love With These Quirky Asymmetrical Engagement Rings
Ideal for those who prefer to colour outside of the lines, asymmetrical engagement rings are proof that rings can be just as beautiful without being symmetrical and balanced. Here are some lovely asymmetrical rings to inspire your ring choice.
Three Stone Twist
Image: rommdiamonds.com
The style is a great choice for any bride-to-be who wants to add just a little asymmetrical charm without going too overboard. The twist style engagement ring is a popular choice in many ring designs. The three stone design is also popular, symbolising your past, present and future. Adding these two styles together creates a visually interesting ring that is still simple enough to be classic and understated.
Delicate Side Stone
Image: artemerstudio.com
If you have a love for delicate rings, you are sure to love the subtly of this design. A round centre diamond is set on a fine gold band, with scattered side stones added to one side that add detail. While this ring looks gorgeous in yellow gold, it would be equally beautiful in platinum, white gold or rose gold. You could further mix things up by choosing coloured diamonds or your choice of stones for the centre and side stones or even add a single coloured diamond to the side for emphasis.
Minimal Clusters
Image: fascinatingdiamonds.com
Another pretty ring in the minimal ring style, this ring uses tiny diamonds that are clustered in an interesting off-centre arrangement. This ring also has a delicate band and very small stones rather than one large stone. Whether kept in cool tones of platinum and white diamond or done in warmer tones such as morganite and rose gold or coloured diamonds and yellow gold, this ring is elegant and feminine.
Ruby and Sapphire
Image: danawaldenbridal.com
This one is sure to appeal to those who adore all things vintage, old-fashioned, and dramatic. A spectacular dark sapphire takes centre stage, with an equally impressive ruby sitting to its side. With a bold setting and a simple gold band, the combination of colours is what makes this engagement ring so eye-catching. This style would work with just about any type of stone and metal, however. Warm toned coloured diamonds, emeralds, white diamonds, morganite, moonstone or even tanzanite would be equally magical.
Infinity Baguette
Image: zejoy.com
Perfect for feminine brides who favour all things ladylike, this delightful ring uses an ultra-romantic infinity sign and a simple baguette to create a sweet ring that is interesting and oh-so-charming. The rose gold metal further adds to the ring's femininity but yellow and white gold would work, too. Tiny pave stones add extra sparkle while a morganite stone as the baguette could be replaced by a white diamond or a coloured diamond.
Modern Twist
Image: shopping.rediff.com
Brides who prefer their rings modern and understated will adore this modern twist ring that includes just two small stones on each end of the twisted band. A desaturated rose gold works especially well for this ring, adding a hint of colour without going overboard. White gold, yellow gold and platinum would also work well. Use white diamonds or add a pop of colour to one or both of the stones to mix things up a bit.
Pink Halo
Image: kwiat.com
Exceptionally girly and unapologetically bold, this halo ring has a band that is set just a little off-centre. This adds interest while keeping the overall ring design classic and timeless. A coloured pink diamond takes centre stage with tiny white diamonds adding sparkle on the halo and the pave encrusted band. This style would work equally well with a white centre diamond or even a precious stone such as emerald or sapphire.
Black Diamond
Image: lpriorijewelry.com
Another dramatic ring, this black diamond ring is set on a dark rose gold band, with a few tiny white diamonds flanking the centre stone. The cut of the centre stone is kept simple, which helps the black diamond stand out to perfection. Although it is the colour of the stone that makes this ring, you could try a stone of just about any colour for a similarly eye-catching effect.
Looking for more inspiration for your engagement ring? Browse the collection from Cape Diamonds or get in touch with our team today to learn more about diamond engagement rings in Cape Town and beyond.
Why is Hardness Important for Engagement Rings?
When shopping for engagement rings, hardness is a topic that will invariably come up at some point or another. Your jeweller will likely explain how hardness works. You may have some idea what the Mohs scale is all about, but it can be confusing to understand exactly why hardness is such an important factor when making your final decision. To help you get a better idea of how hardness works, we have put together some tips on why hardness should always be considered in your engagement ring selection.
The Importance of Engagement Ring Hardness
First, what is the Mohs scale? This scale uses a hardness rating of gemstones to give them a value between 1 and 10. The harder the stone, the higher the rating. This scale is universally used to measure a stones longevity and ability to withstand wear and tear.
Why exactly is the hardness ratio something that you should be considering when choosing engagement rings? Let's take a look...
The harder the stone, the longer it will last.
You've likely heard that saying that diamonds are forever. This is not just a marketing ploy. Diamonds are at the very top of the Mohs hardness scale, with a hardness rating of 10. Diamonds can cut through glass. The very process that turns lumps of coal into diamond makes them the strongest stone available. Due to their hardness, diamonds will not be at risk of wear and tear over the years. You can expect your diamond to look just as good in five, 10 or 20 years as it does when you first get your ring.
Harder stones are an excellent investment.
Due to the hardness of diamonds, they are considered a great investment, as they are sure to last year after year. Similarly, hard stones such as rubies and emeralds have an equally high value. A stone that falls lower on the Mohs scale will not have the same value. One of the softest stones on earth is pearl, for example. Unless it is kept safely in a box somewhere that will not risk any damage, a pearl ring will not maintain its value. That means that your ring may not be worth as much over time. While this is never the only factor to consider when choosing a ring, it is worth noting that your investment may not be as stable with a softer stone.
Harder stones will not require maintenance or fixing.
If you wear your ring daily, there is always a chance of potential damage or wear and tear. Even rings that contain diamonds may eventually need a prong replaced or it may need to be reset at some point into the future. Softer stones are far more at risk of damage, however. Any stone that falls below 7 on the Mohs scale is at risk of scratches, breaks, and a tarnished surface. This can be costly in the long run. It can also lead to you not wanting to wear your run all the time, which defeats the purpose of having a ring.
Harder stones look good, now and later.
Over time, tiny scratches and wear will start to add up. The result is a duller stone that loses its ability to sparkle. Certain diamond cuts will show up wear more than others. A large, flat cut such as a baguette or emerald may start to lose clarity, while a round cut may not have the same shine that it did originally. If your ring is worn with other jewellery, the risk of chips and scratches is increased. You will need to have your ring cleaned more frequently and, even then, your ring may not continue to look as magical as it did when you first put it onto your finger.
Here at Cape Diamonds, we offer a selection of beautiful cut, high quality diamonds that give you all the peace of mind you could ever need. View our full range of engagement rings to find your dream ring today.
Get Inspired by These Delicate Engagement Rings
Delicate engagement rings feature a simple, often minimal design that typically includes fine bands, smaller sizes stones and simple details. In recent years, this style has become very popular – especially among those who favour a minimal style of engagement ring. If your tastes run towards the delicate and dainty, you are sure to find this type of ring the perfect choice for your dream ring.
Delightful Delicate Engagement Rings
Looking for the daintiest, most delicate engagement rings? Get inspired by these oh-so-delicate rings that are subtle, feminine, and breathtaking in their simplicity.
Champagne Pear
Image: sofiakaman.com
Flattering for all hands, pear cut diamonds can be worn with the point facing up or down. The romance and elegance of this shape are made even more beautiful with a champagne coloured diamond rather than a classic white diamond. This continues the warmth of the delicate rose gold band, resulting in a rosy, pink-hued ring that is ultra feminine. As beautiful as this ring is in this colour combination, it would work equally well in any metal with a black or white diamond.
Oval Asymmetric
Image: artemerstudio.com
This modern asymmetric engagement ring is set with a sparkly oval cut diamond in its centre, along with a few additional side stones that add visual detail. The setting of this ring adds more impact to the overall design, giving it a quirky touch that is sure to appeal to modern brides-to-be. Working beautifully in yellow gold, this style would be equally unusual in rose gold, white gold or platinum. For additional detail, you could even add coloured diamonds on the side or as the centre stone.
Tiny Baguette
Image: fascinatingdiamonds.com
A teeny tiny single baguette diamond makes this ring as understated as it gets. For brides who are not big jewellery wearers, this ring is paired down to a simple band with a tiny stone set deep into the band. Additional pave stones could be added to maximise the sparkle. Whichever metal or diamond colour you choose, this ring is dazzling in its sheer understated simplicity, standing out in a sea of bold rings. It would also work well when stacked with additional rings.
Five Stone
Image: stoneandstrand.com
Five stone rings are classic, sophisticated, and beautiful, with a series of stones ranging in size from smaller stones on the outside to larger stones in the centre. The balance of this ring makes it eye-catching and symmetrical. This style will never go out of fashion. Dreamy in yellow gold and diamond, it would work equally well in rose gold or platinum, with white or coloured diamonds.
Pave Twist
Image: bluenile.com
The pave twist design is another classic that continues to be favoured by brides all over the world. The delicate twist of the pave band crosses over, symbolising the infinity of love. This style works well in any metal. In platinum and diamond, it has an elegant, timeless appeal that will never date. This type of ring would be especially great for those who value tradition and classic design.
Deep V
Image: jgoodin.com
Those who favour a more modern look will love this unusual ring. The deep V-shaped design is encrusted with tiny pave stones, adding sparkle in all the right places. A simple rose gold band tapers to a sharp point that can be worn up or down. This style can be made alongside a matching wedding band, layered as stacked rings or kept as is for a dramatic, eye-catching effect.
Classic Twist
Image: capediamonds.co.za
Another classic, this handcrafted solitaire ring from Cape Diamonds has a classic twist with a claw setting and a round stone. Available in a choice of platinum and white gold. The modern twist takes a beloved classic, turning it into a delicate modern ring that is sure to dazzle any bride.
Looking for a custom-made ring that is just right for your budget and preferences? Cape Diamonds offers the finest selection of rings, made in Cape Town. Get in touch today to find out more about our custom engagement rings.
3 Engagement Rings to Avoid at All Cost
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.