October 29, 2015 | Watches & Jewelry
The holidays are primed for romance: cozying up by a fire (or at least a fake one here in LA), holding hands at seasonal events, meeting the family... and engagement season. Before you pop the question, read through these jeweler-approved tips on how to pick the perfect piece of jewelry to symbolize your love.
Zoe Chicco.
“Stacking rings has become a very popular trend that doesn’t seem to be going anywhere. I have found that a lot of our customers lately are looking for several rings to stack together to create their engagement/wedding story. Rather than a middle stone engagement ring with a traditional wedding band, they are opting for multiple bands in different colors (such as yellow, rose and white gold, or platinum) with white and black diamonds that stack together to make a statement. You can move around the order in which you wear them or add to the stack over the years to keep it fresh. I got married 10 years ago, and when my husband designed my rings, he knew I would want to stack—and change—the look as it suited me. It’s a great way to keep your look fresh without feeling the need to update your rings.”
Kathy Rose.
"When we sit with clients to discuss an engagement ring, we treat the meeting with ceremony. An engagement ring represents a promise and a new beginning. So, we start by getting a sense of the couple: their style, personality, and hopes. We get a sense of what they are looking to achieve with the ring and flip through a lookbook of our past designs to show and tell. Our designs are far from traditional and being able to view images helps to conceptualize the organic thought. When a general idea is decided, we go about putting pencil to paper and present a sketch to the client."
Kathryn Bentley.
“Shopping for an engagement ring can feel overwhelming. I am a firm believer in making a connection with the person who makes this symbolic piece of jewelry. Every time I've seen a ring that I really love, there's a story behind a small designer making a special custom ring. Contrary to what most people think, taking the time to work with a designer will most likely get you a better diamond and a more unique ring. Recently we have added some very special rose-cut diamonds to our collection. We also love an emerald Florentine ring or opal organic amulet ring as alternatives to diamonds.”
Mary Kelley and Diane Allen.
“There are more new trends, styles, and possibilities than ever. We love antique and rose-cut diamonds. Organic rough diamonds and gemstones like blue sapphire are back. Whether platinum or yellow gold, rose cut or round brilliant, we love helping our engagement couples purchase or create their perfect ring.”
Liz Kantner.
“Every story is completely unique, so don't feel as though you need a traditional ring. When searching, keep an open mind to metal and stone type. You'll know when you gravitate toward a specific ring—trust your instincts! If you're looking at rings and nothing is speaking to you, think about creating a custom piece.”
Peter Webster.
“Buying an engagement ring can be one of the most important purchases in a couple’s lifetime, but it doesn’t have to be as daunting as one might expect. First, you want to determine the type of diamond your bride-to-be prefers. You should follow the 4 C’s [cut, carat weight, color, and clarity] and determine your significant other’s personal style for both the setting and the diamond. Once you feel you know the style, consult your local jeweler. Whether you bring your partner or you choose to pull off the big surprise, your jeweler will guide you and have fun with it. It’s an experience you will remember for the rest of your life.”
Oded Edelman.
“Pay attention to the details. Design details and quality of finish make the difference. Pick a classic silhouette for timeless appeal. And buy the brand—not only will you get better customer service, but you’re less likely to have problems in the long run. Nothing takes the joy out of a beautiful gift more than having quality issues. Reach into your past. Maybe the best gift to celebrate your love is not shiny and new but a well-loved and time-worn piece that has been passed down from generation to generation. Great grandma’s gray pearl earring could make an incredible centerpiece for a special ring. Scale is absolutely important when selecting your gift. Be sure to consider your or your partner’s individual sizing when you make your selection.”
Suzanne Kalan and Patile Kalandjian.
"We definitely believe that an engagement ring should be classic but with a modern twist, something that you will want to wear forever. We recommend staying away from anything trendy, as you may get bored of it. Focus on the center stone and make sure that it is a good investment. You can always change up your setting, which is much easier and a lot less expensive than replacing the center stone. And finally, keep in mind that this is a piece of jewelry that is meant to be worn every day. If you’re rough with your jewelry, we would suggest picking something more durable."
Phillip Hartwyk.
"The most important part of buying that perfect engagement ring is to fall in love with the ring: the stone, the setting, and the color. It is best to work on the ring together—it offers that first opportunity to really work as a team on one of the first, important decisions effecting your life together."
