Keep in mind when selecting a setting for an engagement ring that tradition does not have to dictate this important purchase. A bride and groom are absolutely free to select what their hearts desire. In fact, it is best for the groom to be sure the bride’s personal tastes are reflected in the chosen ring since it will be worn for a lifetime.

There are plenty of ways to make sure an engagement ring is unusual. Some of the options include:

• Going for a distinct cut for the centerpiece stone – Even if a solitaire is ultimately desired, there are ways to make this type of setting distinct. Rather than opting for a traditional round-cut diamond, a pear-shaped, marquise or even a trillion can be used instead. There are many different types of cuts available and each offers its own style and beauty.
• Picking an unusual setting – Just about any type of setting is acceptable for an engagement ring. While solitaires are the norm, there is nothing wrong with opting for a three-stone or multi-stone setting. These settings, in fact, can prove to be particularly stunning if the center stone is offset with other diamonds or gemstones.

• Adding in some color – Diamonds are traditional for engagement rings, but they do not have to be the only stone considered. Other precious and semi-precious gemstones can also be used for the centerpiece or as additional stones in a multi-stone setting. Some brides, for example, like having a diamond for the center stone, but choose rubies, emeralds or sapphires as complements in a three-stone setting.
• Picking a favorite metal – Another way to distinguish a ring is to select a favorite metal. While white gold and yellow gold are standard, platinum provides a distinctly different alternative.
• Designing a customized ring – It is also possible to design a completely distinct ring online. When this option is exercised, the groom and/or bride can personalize not only the stones, but also the setting and metal. This gives rise to a ring that is truly one-of-a-kind.

Design your own ring – Select your setting design and your center stone or browse a large variety of ring designs.

Article Source:http://www.articlesbase.com/jewelry-articles/tips-for-selecting-a-unique-engagement-ring-1734957.html

For buyers in the market for a rare and precious engagement ring, antique ruby engagement rings are a wonderful option. Often found in Art Deco era rings, they are also found in the Victorian and Edwardian eras as well, as a unique twist on a traditional engagement ring.

Why Rubies?

Rubies have been known as the stone of preference for kings. Finding large, clear, deeply colored rubies are difficult to find, so they tend to be quite expensive. A ruby of choice has a deep red color, rather than the pinkish hues you more often see in lesser pieces. Therefore, antique ruby engagement rings are a rare pick, and a perfect choice for a once in a lifetime occasion.

Victorian and Edwardian Eras

The Victorian and Edwardian eras were known for their luxurious stones set in stylistic mountings. In the Victorian era especially, an antique ruby engagement ring would be a ring of choice, since they were more apt to use other precious stones than the traditional diamond. In choosing an antique ruby engagement ring, you are likely to find inclusions, or imperfections, in the stone. This is due to various reasons, technology of the time, misuse over the years or the choice of stone at the time.

Art Deco Era

The Art Deco era also includes antique ruby engagement rings. This era was known for its artistic flair, and the use of centerpiece stones besides diamonds was even more common. The ruby is a brilliant and striking stone, so it often became, if not the centerpiece of an engagement ring, at least the main accent of the piece, being paired with diamonds for a flashy look. The stones of this period are less likely to have the inclusions of the earlier time period due to technology, but each ring has to be carefully viewed for its quality.

Cut of Rubies

Antique engagement ring design guides the process of choosing the cut of the ruby in an antique ruby engagement ring. The most common cuts found in antique rings are oval or cushion cuts since the technology to do the more extravagant cuts found today was not available during those time periods.

Another cut that is very rare in antique ruby engagement rings is the star ruby, which is cut so that the large inclusion in the ruby is perfectly centered so that it looks like a six sided star. Antique ruby engagement rings were also not submitted to heat treatment, which helps rubies today to have a deeper color and luster.

If you love this article, you will also love another article written by this article’s author on laser engraving equipment and used engraver.

Article Source:http://www.articlesbase.com/jewelry-articles/a-wonderful-treasure-antique-ruby-engagement-ring-1702800.html