Diamonds weren’t always associated with engagements or weddings. In fact, America had little interest in diamonds until the mid-20th century, when a successful marketing campaign convinced millions that “I love you” and “forever” could be perfectly represented in a glittering diamond stone. Years later, diamonds are still largely identified with weddings and marriage proposals. Are you thinking of popping a big question to that special someone? Are diamonds required? What kind of diamond should you buy?
Diamonds are not required for a wedding proposal, but truthfully, no woman is going to complain about a diamond ring! These stones have a history of being revered by great warriors of the past and by influential celebrities of modern times. However, the question now becomes what kind of diamond does she want? Usually, it is stated that a diamond should be representative of the person that you are proposing to. Still, it’s hard to define a relationship in terms of color and shape. If it took you five years to propose, should you buy a yellow diamond? If you’re dating a girl that works for Emerald Records should you buy an emerald cut? You see, it’s not so easy to choose a diamond ring that symbolizes your personal relationship.
Another approach to choosing an engagement ring would be to follow some fashionable trends. Some things have changed since your mother first received her diamond ring, and some fashion trends are definitely in while others are burnt out. The new trend in diamond shopping can be summed up with this sentence: More is better.
People who are wearing diamonds these days, from material girls gravitating towards the local malls, to Plain Jane’s in the countryside, to millionaire celebrities, are all showing off more diamonds in the public eye. More is better and the more you give your fiancée, the less she can complain, right?
Trends in Color and Design
For example, colored diamonds are very popular nowadays. Whereas in the past, clear diamonds were the thinking man’s choice, a new generation embraces unique diamond colors, especially for that extra quirky bride-to-be. Celebrities already have a collection of white diamonds, and even middle income brides-to-be have seen the typical diamond color on TV, online, or in print ads. Therefore, just imagine a bride’s joy when she beholds a giant, exceptionally rare colored diamond!
Don’t conclude that the wealthy only buy the purest of white diamonds. On the contrary, fancy colored diamonds are rarer than white diamonds and are usually far more expensive. Many celebrities have been sporting six carat diamonds set in platinum but colored in something wonderfully different from the norm, such as a pink diamond. There are many types of colored diamonds to choose from. Some of these diamonds are colored naturally by adding additional elements into the stone, while others are simply diamonds that reflect light differently because of their design.
Another trend is to incorporate more stones into the ring besides just the centerpiece. Solitaire diamond rings do have their charms, but fashionable trends as of late show that multiple stone designs are increasing in popularity. Singer Madonna’s ring has one center stone which is flanked by two smaller stones. Toni Braxton wears an oval-shaped center stone along with additional side stones in shape of hearts.
Other Designs to Look Out For
Continuing with the theme that more is better, bigger rings are definitely in. Women do like small rings because it’s always the thought that counts, but most would much prefer a larger stone that one doesn’t have to squint to see. Large round diamonds are in, as are marquis, emerald and princess cuts. The raw diamond look is also coming back. About 70% of all engagement rings are yellow gold but new metals such as platinum, titanium and white gold are also on the rise.
One of the most creative trends in recent times is that of the branded diamond. This refers to companies that put their name on the diamond. Ordinarily, this would be a bad thing—after all, no one wants a giant Wal-Mart symbol imprinted on their engagement ring. However, when you’re dealing with rare and beautiful diamonds, official brand names can speak as to the stone’s legitimacy, status and level of quality. It’s the same principle that teaches us a modern woman only buys designer clothes. If you want to be truly fashionable then name status is very important. A branded diamond is as usually handcrafted by a big name in the diamond or jewelry industry. They are often known for their brilliance, sparkle and size.
If you are trying to determine what type of ring to buy, follow your heart for the best results. However, it never hurts to research the market and find out what everyone else is buying. That will ensure that your own engagement ring is truly unique—and fashionably beautiful!