I don’t know about you, but I’m not a big fan of stuffy jewelry stores. They tend to be imposing and even a little intimidating, which is not the way most of us want to feel when making a major purchase like an engagement ring. Still, even in the most casual of settings, it’s tough not to feel overwhelmed by all the choices. While any jeweler worth his or her loupe will help guide you through the process, missteps will happen. Here are some of the most common mistakes I see customers make—and my best tips on how to avoid them. see the full article

Q: I’m helping my fiance design my engagement ring, and I’ve decided against a diamond. I love the sparkle of a diamond, but I’d prefer something more socially responsible. I’m considering a white sapphire. What do you recommend?

I love when customers ask me this question because I’m constantly researching and trying out the latest diamond alternatives. And I can see why you’re tempted to go with a white sapphire: It’s a 9 on the hardness scale (diamonds are a 10), won’t cost your fiance an arm and a leg, and it sounds beautiful. But here’s the big drawback:  see the full article

There’s a place for rules, but trust me, a jewelry store is not one of them. In fact, I’m a firm believer that you should check those pesky do’s and don’ts at the door and rely on your instincts instead. After all, unlike a set of arcane rules, your heart won’t ever steer you wrong—especially when it comes to choosing an engagement ring or wedding ring. Here are five of the most common rules you should toss right out the window. see the full article

What Do Custom Rings and the Ringing of a Beautiful Voice Have in Common? 

 

Sapphire Colors for Engagement Rings

The traditional color of sapphire for an engagement ring is a blue sapphire.  The highest quality blue sapphire would be a rich, deep royal blue Ceylon sapphire.  However, blue is not the only color found in sapphire!  Another extremely rare and valuable sapphire is a Padparadscha sapphire, a deep saturated pinkish-orange color.  Not all peach sapphires are classified as Padparadscha sapphire, but a nice peach sapphire is still rare!  Purple sapphire and pink sapphire are close to the top of this list in popularity, and while green sapphire is not often sought after, it can be found in shades of blue, green, and yellow-green, and it can be absolutely gorgeous, surrounded by white diamonds.  see the full article