When shopping for a diamond engagement ring, the question of what metal type to choose will invariably come up. Whatever your choice, platinum ring or 14k gold ring, you will always be a winner. However, there are certain distinguishing characteristics between the two metals that you should know about.
Platinum is one of the most durable and densest of the precious metals, which makes it more expensive than 14k gold. Platinum rings are extremely appealing for the following reasons.
1. Platinum is incredibly durable. 2. Will hold your diamond more securely than 14k gold, which is softer, more pliable metal. 3. Platinum develops a beautiful sheen or patina over time. 4. Platinum rings are hypoallergenic and will resist tarnish better than gold.
Gold rings are much less expensive than platinum rings and have the following characteristics:
1. Gold will not scratch as easily as platinum. 2. Gold is easier to polish and repair. 3. Gold will tend to fade eventually and will require polishing.
For safety, all diamond engagement rings at Diamonds on Fifth are set with the strength of platinum prongs.
Diamonds on Fifth offers a wide variety of engagement ring settings in either platinum or 14k gold. Below is a summary of the various setting styles:
Solitaire Setting The solitaire setting is simple and elegant and the most popular engagement ring setting. Its simplicity attracts more attention to the center diamond. The positioning of the prongs allows the center diamond to catch the most light. With a round diamond, you are given a choice between a four prong setting which shows a bit more of the diamond and a six prong setting which offers a security advantage.
Three Stone Ring The three stone diamond ring is rich in symbolism. The three diamonds represent the past, present, and future of your special relationship. You can create your own three stone ring by choosing all three diamonds and their sizes. In most three stone rings, all three gems are fairly close in size, though the central stone may be larger that the other two. The stone shapes are generally all the same shape with round or princess (square) stones being the most popular. View Diamonds On Fifth Three Stone Rings.
Setting with Side stones A setting with side stones is a lovely complement to the center diamond and adds additional sparkle and color. Setting styles include channel set, pave’ set, bezel set and prong set. View Diamonds on Fifth selection of sidestone settings.
Think Ahead… If you would like a wedding band to wear on the same finger with your engagement ring, Diamonds on Fifth can help you choose settings with wedding bands designed to match. View Diamonds On Fifth settings with matching wedding bands.
Most engagement ring settings involve four or six “claws” that hold a stone firmly in a metal “head” or “basket”. Prongs can be pointed, rounded, flat or v-shaped and act as pockets for a square-cut stone’s corners. When deciding between four and six prongs, know that four prongs show more of the diamond, while six prongs are more secure, but can overwhelm a stone.
Let’s be honest. The best way to buy an engagement ring she will love is to let her pick it out herself. She will wear this ring every day and it must feel good on her finger and suit her lifestyle. However, there is something magical about the element of surprise. If you put some thought into it, you can buy an engagement ring that she will love almost as much as she loves you. Here are a few tips on getting the information you need without her suspecting.
What is her ring size? If she has a few rings in her jewelry box, sneak one away and take it to a local jeweler to have it sized. If that is not possible, put the ring on your finger as far down as you can and mark your finger with a pen. A jeweler will then measure the mark to determine her ring size. Another simple idea is to trace the inside of her ring on a piece of paper, which the jeweler will then measure for size.
What metal would she like? Paying attention to the jewelry she currently wears will help you figure out what metal is best for your partner. Notice if she wears more yellow gold, white gold or platinum. If she loves white gold or platinum, don’t even look at a diamond in a yellow gold setting.
What looks best on her hands? Keep the shape of the wearer’s hand in mind to select the most flattering style. For example, people with small hands and fingers look best with a proportionately sized ring. Stones vertically set will make a hand seem longer; an oversized, broad ring will make it look shorter. Think proportional! Women with long fingers can easily wear bold ring styles. A setting that is extremely delicate could get lost on large hand, over-emphasizing their size and making the ring look smaller.
Another thing to consider in the rings setting is her lifestyle. The higher the setting of the diamond in your engagement ring, the more often it will catch onto things. If you work behind a desk all day you may be able to wear a very high setting. On the other hand, if you are a preschool teacher you may have to wear a safe ring that won’t get caught or scratch the children. Sporty types or those with manual jobs should choose a setting that offers good protection for the stone and a smooth surface to avoid damaging or losing the stone.
Has she ever mentioned her favorite jewelry styles or pointed out engagement rings when you’re shopping together? Maybe she has a friend who was recently engaged.. Has she commented about her friend’s engagement ring?
If you are still stumped, consider buying a loose diamond to show her when you ask the big question. The two of you can shop together later for the perfect engagement ring setting.
