Engagement Rings

Engagement rings are traditionally known as a symbol of love and proposing. When a man asks a woman for her hand in marriage and in life, this ring is offered. Tradtionally, any ring is usable because the ring itself is a continuous loop symbolizing eternity. But as victims of society, now every man is pressured to use the most expensive piece he can afford, typically a diamond ring. The general rule of thumb is two to three month's salary to show his dedication and sincerity.

Diamond rings became a tradition when the first one was given by Archduke Maximilian of Austria to Mary of Burgundy in 1477. Now it's become a widely practiced ritual by nearly every culture in the world. More than 250 tons of earth is mined before a single 1 carat gem quality diamond is uncovered. The best quality diamonds are usually set into platinum bands for people who perfer the best of the best.

When shopping for an engagement ring in diamond, platinum, or else, there are 3 main steps you should follow:

• First you choose the center stone. Popular choices are diamonds, rubies, emeralds, and sapphires. But depending on taste, some women may enjoy more unique stones that are not widely seen on other people's fingers.
• Choose the shape of the center stone. Popular designs are: round brilliant, princess (square brilliant), emerald cut, marquise, oval, pear, heart, and trillion.
• Choose the precious metal and style of setting. Many settings are created for a certain shape and size of gems. First, study the type of finger jewelry that she wears to get an idea of her style and preferences. Then choose the setting that matches best with the stone. Some women prefer gold jewelry while others enjoy silver, white gold, and platinum - the white metals. If she like silver, you don't want to get an expensive diamond set in silver, so your best choices would be either white gold or platinum. platinum rings are the most durable and expensive in all of ring making, and usually only go with really good quality diamonds and rubies. Emeralds are usually set in yellow gold because they enhance the color of green.