Diamond Cluster Settings, the Next Big Engagement Ring Trend?

Diamond cluster settings may just be the next biggest thing in engagement rings, offering an elegant alternative to halos AND saving the average groom-to-be thousands of dollars.

First, let's talk about halo settings. If you follow engagement ring trends at all, it's hard not to notice how hot halo settings have been for the last few years. Surrounding a center stone with a halo of smaller, often pave set, diamonds offsets the centerstone to make it appear larger in contrast. And brides have been jumping on the halo bandwagon because it's just downright beautiful and classy.

Not to get in the way of any bride and her bling, BUT, we have a hunch that the next major engagement ring trend will be cluster settings. Whereas a halo setting features a sizable center stone encircled by much smaller stones, a cluster setting usually "clusters" stones of equal size tightly together, with or without a center stone. The effect of the cluster setting is mega sparkle due to the many more facets of diamonds now reflecting the light in all different directions, as opposed to the halo setting's big center stone plus lots of little scintillation from the mini halo diamonds.

And not that we need celebrity engagements to prove our point (because we certainly can start trends without them), but it's interesting to note one celebrity engagement ring that took full advantage of the cluster setting's sparkle, so much so that people did not know she had a cluster setting. From the picture, it appeared that Real Housewives of Atlanta star Kandi Burress's ring was a massive 2 carat oval-cut centerstone when upon further investigation, I noticed that the ring was actually a cluster setting of smaller diamonds set in the shape of an oval. As I explained in this article, the difference in price is enormous: instead of $40,000 with a 2 ct. high-quality oval-cut diamond, Kandi's actual ring cost about $11,000 since it did not have a multi-carat center stone but rather lots of smaller diamonds clustered together.

And this, my friends, is where the trend gets exciting for you. Not only are cluster settings beautiful, but they can save you a lot of money. If Kandi's fiance Todd Tucker could save almost $30,000, can't the average Joe out there save at least a couple thousand? The concept of a cluster setting can be applied to engagement rings, diamond stud earrings, and pendants, and the end result is that diamond jewelry becomes more affordable for the tight budget. Let's take a look at this.

This diamond cluster setting from James Allen features a 0.76 total carat weight of smaller diamonds clustered together, which provide comparable brilliance and diameter to a 1.50 carat diamond. What is the price tag of this cluster setting? $1,890. In order to compare the price of a 1.50 carat loose diamond with this cluster setting, I searched for a diamond with the same color and clarity as the clustered diamonds, but that was 1.50 carats. The average price I came up with was $12,500 for ideal cuts. That's not even including the ring setting, which would probably run about $1000. If we do the math here, that means a savings of over $11K!

Of course, there are smaller diamond cluster settings, and there are bigger, just like with any ring. Would a rich and famous celebrity cluster together big diamonds? Yes. Does that mean that you need to? No. If the objective of a diamond engagement ring, according to most of the future grooms who write us for diamond advice, is to find a diamond that is big and sparkly, then ladies, why not go for a cluster ring? You can get big and sparkly and pocket the savings for your down payment or honeymoon. Now doesn't that just make a whole lot of practical sense?

I know, practical does not always describe every bride. Some brides really have their hearts set on a minimum number of carats. But if it's possible to suggest this cost-saving and still beautiful alternative, I think it's worth your consideration. And who knows, maybe you'll be the trendsetter with the cluster ring since, ladies; halo settings are becoming so passé.

Original Post: http://www.huffingtonpost.com/ira-weissman/diamond-cluster-settings-_b_4868523.html

Custom Jewelry and Loose Stones

When it comes to getting married creating a unique event is more important than ever.  Brides are creating Pinterest accounts before they can drive.  This is why the push for custom engagement rings has become increasingly important.   Not only is a custom piece is something that is sure to be a sentimental heirloom it is also easier than ever in the world of jewelry today. 

Designing a custom engagement ring or wedding band set is fairly simple now days.  There are multiple ways to go about finding a jeweler that will help create a custom piece that your bride to be will adore.  There are a multitude of online jewelry retailers that will create custom pieces as well as local jewelers.  Designing the ring is relatively simple choosing a loose diamond might prove to be a little harder. 

Choosing a loose diamond really comes down to personal preferences.  Remember when choosing a diamond she will wear it every day. Every time she glances down at her hand you want her to remember how important she is to you and how much she loves her ring. 

Diamonds come in a variety of shapes, sizes and colors.  The shape of the diamond is based solely on what your bride desires.  This might take a bit of effort but paying specific attention to the jewelry she wears or looks at when you are shopping together may help to lead you down the right path.  Many women if given the choice will choose a classic diamond solitaire however this is not always the case so you want to follow your future brides lead here.  She will be wearing this ring for a very long time. 

The size of the diamond you choose may depend more on the budget you have set aside for his purchase.  An old adage used to claim that the engagement ring should cost a total of three months’ salary.  This however is not true any longer.  You need to purchase a stone based on what you can afford and what she will like, not on a lame society standard.  A reasonable budget to set aside for a loose diamond starts at around one thousand dollars. A thousand dollars will but a significant diamond with good color, a decent cut, clarity and a decent carat weight.

A loose diamond on its own should have a certain wow factor to it.  Even smaller diamonds with great color and clarity can have a significant appeal.  Choose a jeweler that offers certified loose diamonds.  This will ensure a few things.  One it will assure you that the value of the diamond has been certified.  This means you have proof of the diamonds value.  The next thing that purchasing a certified diamond does is tells you that the diamond was harvested from an area free of conflict. 

Next is designing the ring to go with the diamond.  You may be thinking that you can go into any store and find a setting to fit this diamond so why bother having a custom ring designed for the diamond to be set into. 

A custom, one of a kind ring stands out from the crowd as does the women you are about to ask to marry you.  Take the diamond you have selected along with several design ideas and show them to a custom ring designer.  They will make several mock ups that take into consideration the diamond you have chosen along with setting styles you appreciate, pulling it all together into one perfect custom engagement ring.  A custom engagement ring/bridal set will be pieces she is sure to treasure for years to come.

Choosing An Engagement Ring Style and Complementary Setting

When it comes to wedding rings and engagement rings the setting that you choose is as important as the diamond or gemstone you choose.  The setting you pick should be based on your style, taste in jewelry and your personality.  This is a piece of jewelry that you will wear every day from now until forever.  To choose something that will bring a smile to your face each and every day you should get a basic idea of the vocabulary that is used when it comes to wedding ring and engagement ring settings.

The first setting we will discuss is the bezel setting.  This setting holds a stone in the shape of a circle, it wraps around the diamond or gemstone.  Some bezels come with scalloped edges but most are smooth and molded into the shape needed to accommodate the diamond.  When it comes to bezel settings the one advantage is that the stone appears larger.

It is also can hide small imperfections in the diamond.  It is important to note that if you do choose a bezel setting with yellow gold it will make the diamond appear less brilliant.  Yellow gold in a bezel setting is perfect for gemstones but if choosing a bezel setting with a diamond it is best to go with white gold or platinum to enhance the shine and clarity of your diamond.

An illusion setting is a mount on a wedding ring that enhances the size of the stone to make it appear larger.  It takes the stone away from the band and sets it higher than the band.  A band with diamonds set in via a channel setting is commonly used with an illusion setting.  The channel setting allows smaller diamonds to be set into the main band while the main diamond is set above the band.  This combination can appear rather glamorous at a fraction of the cost.  Smaller carat diamonds can be used and because of the way they are all set into the diamond it appears grand.

A bar setting is similar to a channel setting.  The difference is that instead of each singular diamond being set into the band the diamonds are set into the band are held by individual prongs.  This is a very classic, contemporary look.  Bar setting usually are done with larger side diamonds then channel settings.  A thin bar connects the individual prongs continuing around the band.

A cluster setting is a beautiful option used to accentuate the main diamond.  A cluster setting is where a bunch of small diamonds is added around the large diamond.  A cluster setting is very pretty.  With the smaller diamonds centering on the main stone it appears if they are giving it a squeeze.  This setting works well for a wide variety of stone sizes.

A classic, undated look that is sure to be around forever is the solitaire setting.  A diamond solitaire is often used as an engagement ring and then transferred into a wedding band setting depending on your desires.  For most men this is a fool proof way to purchase an amazing diamond, in a simple setting, that can be enhanced later on.

Gold Jewelry Is Back In Demand

Gold jewelry demand in 2013 saw the largest volume increase since 1997 as consumers across the globe reacted to lower gold prices, the World Gold Council said Tuesday. Full year demand was 2,209.5 tons, 17 percent above 2012 levels. 

Global gold jewelry demand increased 6 percent to 553.8 tons for the fourth quarter of 2013. It was the sixth consecutive quarter of year-over-year growth with demand 12 percent above the five-year quarterly average, the WGC said in its market report, Gold Demand Trends: Full year 2013 Review. Jewelry consumption saw continuous growth throughout 2013, with the bulk of the increase coming in the first half of the year primarily due to China and other Asian countries whose consumers responded quickly when the price first dropped. However, even during the second half of the year, the volume of gold jewelry demand continued, increasing by 7 percent year-over-year.

Also in the fourth quarter, the US and the UK generated a combined 14 tons of growth. “Although the fourth quarter is traditionally strongest in these markets, due to the Christmas effect, these numbers are significant given their size and direction – the first year-on-year increase in Q4 demand in both markets since 2001,” WGC said in its report.

2013 Gold Jewelry Demand Measured By Value

In addition to jewelry, the WGC report measures gold consumption in technology, investment and central bank purchases. The value of overall annual gold demand fell 28 percent in 2013 to $170.42 billion, from its record highs a year earlier.

However, in terms of value, jewelry demand fell less than 2 percent to $100.24 billion, revealing its strength in volume terms. In terms of value, gold jewelry consumption records were set in India, China and Turkey in 2013 based on local currencies, the WGC said.

Broad Appeal of Gold Jewelry in 2013

The year was also notable because of the increasing preference for higher-karat jewelry, particularly in China (24k jewelry). “This trend became more entrenched as the year progressed, benefitting from the quasi-investment element to jewelry purchases, particularly as the upsurge in demand in Q2 and Q3 led to a shortage of retail investment products.”

In the US, where the high end market segment has been relatively robust, this trend was more noticeable at the lower end of the market, with mass retail brands shifting from ultra-low-karat items to increasing their stock of 14k jewelry, according to the report.

Fourth Quarter Jewelry Trends by Country

“Fourth quarter jewelry demand across eastern markets was likely tempered by the magnitude of buying in previous quarters, which on account of falling prices, had ‘cannibalized’ a proportion of future demand,” the WGC said. “In addition, expectations that prices had stabilized released the pressure on consumers who no longer felt they had to make purchases immediately to take advantage of lower prices.”

India – Fourth quarter jewelry demand fell 2 percent year-over-year to 150.7 tons. “The second half of the year was considerably weaker than the exceptional first half.” 

China and Hong Kong – The WGC is calling the fourth quarter a slowdown from the record numbers during the first half of the year (with the exception of December leading to the Chinese New Year), but demand still increased 10 percent to 150.7 tons for Mainland China for the period. In Hong Kong the growth was even greater at 17 percent to 7.9 tons.

Other Asian Markets – China’s pattern was replicated across the other Asian and Middle Eastern markets with strong demand during the first half of the year, tapering off in October as the drop in gold prices stabilized with growth in December. Fourth quarter results are as follows: Taiwan up 2 percent; Indonesia, up 28 percent; South Korea down 7 percent; Thailand up 17 percent; and Vietnam up 9 percent. No reason was given for the differences within the individual countries.

Turkey –A strike at the Turkish mint between July and September caused a shortage of coins in the market, leading consumers to stock up on gold jewelry. However, once the strike was settled in the fourth quarter consumers went back to gold coins, at the expense of jewelry. For the year, gold jewelry demand increased 8 percent to 7 tons.

Japan –Its 11 percent growth in the fourth quarter was the exception to the regional trend of strong start and weaker finish to 2013, the WGC said. This was because of encouraging economic news and the anticipation of a sales tax increase from 5 to 8 percent in April, leading consumers to make pre-emptive purchases to avoid paying the higher tax rate.

US and UK – Demand among US and UK consumers led to fourth quarter growth at 21 and 26 percent, respectively. As mentioned previously, gold jewelry sales accelerated in the latter months of the year.

Italy – Demand in this jewelry manufacturing center continued its downward trend falling by 10 percent in the fourth quarter.

 Russia – Jewelry demand reached a five-year high in the fourth quarter (up 6 percent), fueled by continued expansion of the middle class, with growth being concentrated in the second half of the year.

Original Source: http://www.forbes.com/sites/anthonydemarco/2014/02/18/gold-jewelry-is-back-in-demand/

Engagement Ring Shopping Simplified

When shopping for the perfect engagement ring or setting it should be anything awful.  Equipped with some general knowledge about what you are searching for along with thoughts of the girl you are about to ask to marry you, finding the perfect engagement ring and setting.  To ensure you are well on your way to finding that perfect piece of jewelry to ask the girl of your dreams to marry you, here is some advice.

 

Become an expert on the terms that come along with shopping for rings of all kinds in particular engagement rings.  The term band refers to the circular segment that encompasses your finger.  The metals that bands are usually created out of are gold, white and yellow, silver and platinum.  Occasionally ring bands can be created out of a combination of metals.  Setting is a term that describes the piece that holds the diamond, or other stone, and is attached to the metal band.  A gemstone is the "rock" or stone, such as a diamond or emerald that is usually the show stopper.  When it comes to engagement rings be safe and stick with diamonds unless you have a darn good reason to deviate from the norm.

 

Speaking of searching for gemstones and diamonds you need to know all about the four C’s; carat, color, clarity and cut. The carat of the diamond refers to the weight. Color ranges from colorless to light color.  Depending on your budget this is one area with a bit of wiggle room. Note that a yellow gold band often times takes away slight imperfections in the color of the diamond.  Clarity is another C when it comes to diamonds that can be played with as well.  Clarity refers to imperfections and blemishes in the diamond.  A FL is a completely flawless gem whereas an I3 is a gem that flaws can be seen, at least to the trained eye. The cut refers to the shape of the diamond.  

 

Another C that is not included in the four C’s but is as equally important is cost.  The more carats, the higher the clarity, the clearer the color and the cut of the gemstone will all way into the cost of the diamond.   The stone is just one piece as the metal will also add to the cost of the rings.  Platinum bands and settings are more costly then yellow and white gold.

 

One of the best pieces of advice that anyone can give a man on a mission to find the perfect engagement ring is to come up with and stick to a budget.  If you have found a reputable jeweler they will be able to find exactly what you are looking for, within your budget considering the two are reasonable.  Again, the best piece of advice anyone can give you is to make a ring budget and stick to it. 

 

Armed with the basics in this article you will be well on your way to find the perfect engagement ring, setting and gemstone to propose to the love of your life.   

Purchase The Perfect Gift For Your Loved One

Christmas is right around the corner.  With holidays comes the stress of what to purchase for your significant other.  This stress is felt by so many couples.  Men tend not to think too deeply and therefore purchase something that is insulting or impractical as a gift.  While women tend to think of items that they would want, this is not exactly what a man wants as a gift.  A gift is supposed to be something impractical that one would not purchase for themselves.  You want to get an item that they will adore, something that shows them how much you think of them and what they mean to you.  

Here is a guide that will help you shop without purchasing an insulting or impractical gift for your lady. 

Appliances

No matter what she says she needs for the kitchen or house in general appliances are a terrible gift idea. Blenders, knives, toasters and mixers are all items that should be bought as a gift to the house not to your significant other.  Items that will be used by both of you are not usually a good bet as a gift to another person, especially when the purchase involves them preparing a meal for you for you or cleaning your joint home.

Cleaning Supplies

This falls in line with the above.  A vacuum, carpet cleaner or window washer is all items that tell your spouse you are unhappy with how clean the house is.  Again, don’t ever bring one of these homes on Christmas, an anniversary or even a hallmark holiday like sweetest day.  They are not meant to be given as a gift to a spouse but rather a gift to your home for both of you to use.  Never tell a woman I bought you something and walk in with a vacuum.  Instead say I bought something that we can both use around the house to make cleaning easier.  Guarantee the results you will see with the second phrase are far better than the first. 

Candles, Lotions and Bath Stuff

Let’s face it, purchasing a candle, lotion or items for the bath basically screams I put zero thought into this gift.  These are everyday items that she will purchase for herself and your home.  This is a cop-out gift.  It tells her you could think of nothing else and were in a last minute bind so you copped out.  

Cheap Perfume

Never is it okay to go into a convenience store to purchase your significant other perfume.  If you are not purchasing perfume from a boutique or department store then it most likely does not need to be purchased.  Women love to smell good which cheap fragrances do not.  A reputable perfume will start at around fifty dollars for a few ounces.  A great way to figure out a scent that you both enjoy is to take her to the mall one day and pass by the perfume counter and test out a few fragrances.  She will never suspect a thing but may get a few ideas of what you like as well.  

Fake Diamonds and Cheap Jewelry

Diamonds and jewelry given as a gift should always be the real thing.  Women can spot a fake a mile away.  Anything fake is best not given as a gift. This is a huge hint men.  Don’t pass off handbags, jewelry or gemstones as the real thing it will come back to bite you.  Holidays are the perfect time to give a gift that you have invested time and money into when it comes to jewelry.  Charm bracelets, watches and necklaces are always a favorite for women. Consider her taste in metal and stones and purchase something from a reputable jeweler that she won’t be able to put down on Christmas morning.  Jewelry that has special meaning to the two of you will be a sure favorite for years to come. 

Consider yourself armed with knowledge now and head on out to find the perfect gift for your spouse this holiday season!  A little thought, a lot of romance and sensitivity equals one well played gift and one lucky gift receiver (and giver).

Everything from the Perfect Ring to the Perfect Proposal

Every engagement ring and engagement ring setting should be as unique as the women receiving it. Choosing a ring, setting and stone option is not easy especially when you are looking for something to encase exactly how you feel about the recipient. An engagement ring is a very personal gift to give and to receive. When shopping for a ring you will want to make sure that you are taking into consideration the likes and dislikes of your soon to be (hopefully) fiancé. When searching for a unique option for your bride to be look at the pieces of jewelry that she already wears on a regular basis. This is a great way to start creating a life together. 

Not only is the engagement ring important, the perfect proposal is sure to solidify a "yes" response from the most important question you will ask in your entire life, "Will you marry me?" As sure as we are that you have some great ideas of your own here are a few more ideas and tips to create a moment and ring that are as unique as she is.

The first step in planning the perfect proposal is the perfect location to make your engagement incredibly special for your bride-to-be. Consider a location that fits her. If she is quiet and shy a public proposal is probably the not best option for you. So even if you are an extrovert and you want a huge hoopla really consider who you are proposing to first and for most. Find a location that suits her and syncs with her personality.

One idea is to think back to the very first moment you met or the minute you knew that she was the one. Those are two perfect locations to start considering when determining the exact location that you will pop the question and begin the rest of your lives together.

For the romantic bride-to-be consider a proposal that centers on a restaurant that you both are fond of. It could be a first date restaurant, a dive you both enjoy, or an elegant restaurant you went to for a special event whatever location you choose make the moment something she will never forget. Plan ahead and make the staff co-conspirators in this life changing event in your lives. 

If your fiancé isn't quite into the restaurant scene yet the two of you share a common hobby or activity that you enjoy together you can integrate them in your proposal. If you are runners, skiers, have a fondness for animals or enjoy playing games together take the idea and turn it into a proposal opportunity she will not forget. 

Not only does the proposal have to be something she will never forget but the ring she will wear everyday from the proposal forward has to be stunning. The ring has to be perfect for her. So when choosing a ring doesn’t consider what anyone else would like only consider her. Express how much you love and care for her when selecting something specific for her. Not every bride-to-be wants a diamond solitaire gold ring. You have to be a super sleuth in the creating a custom engagement ring for her. 

Consider the type of jewelry that she wears every day. If she adores white gold don't buy her yellow gold. That really shows her that you took time to acknowledge her taste in metal jewelry. Diamonds are the typical stone set in engagement rings however; if your bride-to-be is not into diamonds don't think you have to purchase a diamond engagement ring. 

The only thing that matters when it comes to the proposal and ring in any engagement is the two of you and creating your perfect beginning. Make the events of your proposal and her ring something she will want to share with the generations to come.