Antique Modern Rings,1

Rings To Celebrate Your Marriage

For centuries, rings have been used as symbols of betrothal and marriage. Early rings were not always made of metal, such as when one would be woven of grass or reed to signify an engagement. Engagements in those days were often quite brief, so the rings usually lasted until the marriage ceremony. At that time, they were often replaced with a plain iron band. As time passed, gold and silver replaced the iron, and with even more time, gems were sometimes added. Seldom, however, were diamonds used, since they were so rare that the expense meant that royals were about the only ones who could afford them. With the discovery of large diamond fields in the 1800s, the supply increased even with the tight regulations enacted by diamond mining companies.

Antique engagement rings sometimes reflect cost and rarity of diamonds. Sapphires, amethysts, and rubies were often used instead. Settings, however, were often very ornate, and jewelers mastered the technique of creating rings with delicate, intricate filigree. An antique can be a half century old or a half a millennium old, so there will be a great variance in styles and the gemstones used. As such, there is no true ‘standard’ antique ring.

How a diamond is cut is often the factor most enticing to a prospective bride. Most of the common cuts feature tops that are flat. Round cut stones are quite popular, particularly for a solitaire. The sides have facets that increase the sparkle of the stone, regardless of size. Princess cut engagement rings are also quite popular. This is a stone cut in a square, which is then either mounted as a solitaire with prongs bent over the corners or flush mounted into the metal.

Whenever possible, try on both the engagement and wedding rings together or purchase as a set. Mismatched rings can sometimes become tangled or scratch each other. Jewelry designers solve this problem by creating sets that are meant to be worn together. They have also designed interlocking sets that may be joined be swirls in each band.

At some point in your marriage, you might choose to replace your wedding band, engagement ring, or both with an eternity ring. These are bands with diamonds or other gems set flush in the metal. The gems often circle the entire band, although there are also styles that only have stones on half of the band. Diamonds are commonly used, but they are sometimes alternated with other gems, such as the birthstones of the children. These rings are often purchased to mark a milestone in the marriage, which may be a silver anniversary or any other special occasion. If the styles are compatible, all three rings can be worn together.

Many women never remove their rings, so proper fit is important. It is not difficult for a jeweler to size rings, and it is typically free if you purchase the rings at the same store. Even if you must pay to make heirloom rings fit, it is not expensive to have it done. Rings that have stones all the way around cannot usually be sized. To do so would necessitate the removal of one or more stones, marring the symmetry of the ring.

When shopping for an engagement ring, consider whether you plan to wear it all the time or only for special occasions. A large, elaborate ring can prove troublesome when performing normal activities during the day. Having to remove it many times daily can not only be annoying, but could lead to loss. A less ornate mounting may be preferable for a ring that will seldom be removed.

Antique Italian Mid-Century modern armillary globe with

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