CHOOSING AN ENGAGEMENT RING IS AS EASY AS 1234Cs!

Proposing can be a stressful event, from determining the location, weighing a private vs. public proposal, and trying to drop a hint that they might want to get their nails done without completely giving yourself away, popping the question and end up with you popping a blood vessel.

The last thing you want to be worried about when considering your proposal is if your partner will like the engagement ring. Fortunately, that's why we're here. We'll go over all of the considerations that you'll want to think about when choosing your partner's engagement ring is everything they've ever wanted and more. Read on to find out!

WHY IS SHOPPING FOR AN ENGAGEMENT RING SO CONFUSING?

When looking to purchase an engagement ring it's easy to get overwhelmed. There are so many categories and considerations to consider that it seems like purchasing your dream ring is a near-impossible feat. The idea of giving an engagement ring as a sign of your love is a tradition that has been around for hundreds of years. However, the idea of what makes up an engagement ring is one that continues to evolve.

The modern engagement ring has its origins in ancient Egyptian culture where men would place a band on their wife's finger during the marriage ceremony as a symbol of their union. The Ancient Egyptians were also responsible for popularizing wearing the ring on the fourth finger as they believed that there was a vein there that connected their finger to their heart and called it the vena amoris or vein of love.

Eventually, other cultures began to adapt the wedding band while also adding their own spin. Romans, used ivory, bone, or flint before eventually preferring the more modern yellow gold style we know and love today. In 850, Pope Nicholas I declared the engagement ring as an intent by a man to marry with the gold ring representing a financial sacrifice by the man to marry.

In 1477, the first diamond engagement ring was proposed by the Archduke Maximillian of Austria to Mary of Burgundy. Diamond rings laid relatively low for hundreds of years until the 1940s, when DeBeers launched their iconic, "A diamond is forever" campaign and cemented the diamond in engagement ring history. Today, engagement rings continue to evolve as trends come and go.

Because of its long history, it makes sense that the engagement ring would then have so many qualifying factors and components. After all, there are various components to the ring (the shank, the prongs, the setting, etc.) and each of those components is liable to industry regulations and years of storied existence.

WHAT ARE THE MAIN CONSIDERATIONS TO PAY ATTENTION TO WHEN ENGAGEMENT RING SHOPPING?

Engagement rings are expensive, there's no denying it, and thanks to their history, there's a lot of things you may have to consider when looking to buy one. We've highlighted the key considerations below.

FIRST THINGS FIRST, WHAT DOES YOUR PARTNER WANT?

The most important consideration you need to take into account is that of your partners. They will be wearing the ring for the rest of their life, after all!

So start simple, and ask yourself what you know about your partner's engagement ring desires. Do they want a unique gemstone engagement ring or would they prefer to rock something more traditional that incorporates a diamond? Your partner's wants will determine the choices you make about the engagement ring, so if you haven't had a (sly) conversation about what their dream ring looks like, consider doing so!

PICK A DAZZLING CENTER STONE

Once you have a good idea about what your partner wants you can begin scoping out engagement rings. And, what better place to start than the dazzling, sparkly, shows stoping center stone?

GEMSTONE CENTER STONE

Varied and beautiful, gemstones create a colorful engagement ring that is sure to delight. You have a lot of options when considering which gemstone to select but there are some things to keep in mind. Particularly, be sure to consider the hardness of the stone, often referred to as the Mohs Score. This important score ranges from _ to _ and details how hard (and ultimately durable)the gemstone is.

Why is this important? When you spend a lot of money on something you want to be sure that it will stand up to the test of time. There are some gemstones that, while beautiful, are not as durable, and the likelihood of them chipping or upright breaking increases as they take a beating.

THE MOH’S SCALE

• 10 - Diamond
• 9.5 - Moissanite
• 9.0 - Corundum (AKA Sapphires, Rubies)
• 8.0 - Topaz and Beryl (like Aquamarine, Emeralds)
• 7.0 - Quartz (Like Our Rutilated Quartz)
• 6.0 - Feldspar
• 5.0 - Apatite
• 4.0 - Fluorite
• 3.0 - Calcite
• 2.0 - Gypsum
• 1.0 - Talc

That's not to say that you can't bling out with a low Mohs score ring...it's just saying that if you do, you have to be more careful about how you use your hands. So be sure to consider how active your partner is and the type of activities they do.

If your partner is an avid rock climber that regularly scales mountains, choose a more durable stone such as moissanite or sapphire. Partner more of a Netflix and chill type of person? Feel free to go for softer stones as well like a pearl (not technically a stone but still) or moonstone.

DIAMOND CENTER STONE

A classic for a reason, a diamond center stone is loved the world over for its brilliance and durability. If your partner has their heart-set on a diamond than the next thing you have to consider is whether you want a natural diamond or lab created diamond.

Natural diamonds are just that - natural. They're mined from the earth and have been around for millions of years. They're created from carbon, under intense pressure and heat, which creates the magical rock we all love so much. Because there are more hands that a natural diamond has to pass through before ending up on a finger, they tend to be more expensive than lab created diamonds. However, if your partner wants a beautiful stone formed over millions of years, you can't go wrong with a natural diamond.

In fact, this is the only difference between lab created diamonds and natural diamonds. Lab diamonds have the same chemical and physical structure as natural diamonds, the only difference is that they have been created in a lab instead of deep within the earth. Because of this, they're much better for the environment and are considerably more affordable making lab diamonds a win-win.

DIAMOND OR GEMSTONE, THE 4CS ARE YOUR GUIDING LIGHT

Regardless of whether you want a gemstone or a diamond, you will need to take into account the 4Cs, which are cut, color, clarity, and carat weight. While only diamonds are given grades on each of these, and not always all four, it is incredibly important to know what they are and how they affect your stone. This will help you understand what factors to prioritize while making an informed choice about your stone.

CUT

The cut grade of a diamond refers to the quality of its cut, which affects its brilliance, sparkle, and overall beauty. The cut grade is determined by evaluating factors like proportion, symmetry, and polish. The grading system for the cut grade of a diamond typically ranges from Excellent to Poor. A diamond with an Excellent cut grade reflects light exceptionally well, while a diamond with a Poor cut grade may have compromised brilliance. When shopping for a diamond, it is essential to consider the cut grade as it greatly impacts a diamond's appearance and value. Opting for a higher cut grade ensures a more dazzling and brilliant gemstone.

Only round brilliant diamonds are awarded a cut grade, however, this doesn’t mean that you won’t come across other shapes and gemstones that are similarly graded. Many retailers incorporate a similar grading system for various shapes to reflect how brilliant and proportional the gemstone is. Much of the time, people find the cut grade to be the most important factor when deciding to settle on a gemstone.

COLOR

Diamonds are graded on their color, ranging from colorless to light yellow or brown. The Gemological Institute of America (GIA) developed a grading scale using letters from D to Z, where D represents the most colorless diamonds, and Z represents diamonds with a yellow or brown tint. Fancy colored diamonds, such as pink or blue, are graded on a different scale using hue, tone, and saturation to determine their value.

Similarly, gemstones like emeralds, rubies, and sapphires are graded on a separate color scale. Color is a crucial factor in evaluating a gemstone's value, and the hues, tones, and saturation are measured to determine their quality. For emeralds, the intensity and distribution of green are graded, and rubies are assessed based on their hue, tone, and saturation, with a purer, deeper red being more valuable.

When purchasing non-diamond gemstones, color is a significant factor to consider as it impacts the gemstone's beauty, rarity, and value. The grading scales for colored gemstones allow buyers to make informed decisions and choose gems that suit their preferences while ensuring they receive an excellent value for their investment.

CLARITY

Clarity is an important factor in assessing the quality of diamonds and gemstones. In terms of diamonds, clarity refers to the presence of internal inclusions and external blemishes. The Gemological Institute of America (GIA) uses a clarity grading scale ranging from Flawless (no inclusions or blemishes visible under 10x magnification) to Included (inclusions visible to the naked eye). Certain diamond shapes, especially those with step-cut facets like emerald-cut or Asscher-cut diamonds, should prioritize clarity as these cuts showcase the gem's clarity characteristics more prominently.

When it comes to colored gemstones like emeralds, the approach to clarity is different. Inclusions are generally accepted and even expected in emeralds, often known as jardin or garden. These inclusions are viewed as part of the gem's character and can enhance its authenticity. In fact, some high-quality emeralds are valued for their unique inclusions, which can provide a "garden-like" appearance. However, excessive inclusions that hinder the gem's durability or affect its overall beauty and transparency can still impact its value.

Understanding the clarity grading scales for diamonds and gemstones empowers buyers to make informed decisions based on their personal preferences and budget, ensuring they find the perfect balance between clarity and overall beauty in their desired gemstone.

CARAT

Carat is a unit of measurement used to determine the weight of diamonds and gemstones. One carat is equivalent to 200 milligrams. Besides carat weight, the size of a gemstone is often described in millimeters across, referring to its measurements. It's important to note that carat weight is different from size. While carat weight refers to the mass of the gemstone, size refers to the visible dimensions. Therefore, two gemstones with the same carat weight can have different sizes depending on their shape and cut. Understanding the relationship between carat weight and size is essential when shopping for diamonds and gemstones to ensure the desired appearance and value are achieved.

LET’S TALK ABOUT SHAPE, BABY!

Both diamonds and gemstones come in a variety of shapes. This, you’ll often find is the second major consideration you might find yourself faced with when shopping for engagement rings. In general, you can expect to find the following shapes:

ROUND BRILLIANT

The round brilliant gemstone shape is the most popular and often the most expensive shape for diamonds. Its popularity stems from its exceptional brilliance and fire, as its facets are precisely cut to maximize light reflection. The round shape also offers versatility, allowing it to be paired with various settings. Its widespread demand and intricate cutting process contribute to its higher price compared to other shapes.

Additionally, the round brilliant shape generates the most diamond roughage, meaning that unfortunately, a significant portion of the original rough diamond is lost during the cutting process. This loss of material further contributes to the higher cost of round brilliant gemstones.Regardless, thanks to its unmitigated brilliance and classic appeal, the round brilliant is a diamond and gemstone shape that is going nowhere any time soon….and we couldn’t be happier about it.

PRINCESS CUT

The princess cut is a diamond or gemstone shape that is usually square or rectangular with pointed corners. It is a relatively modern cut, with origins dating back to the 1960s, and is designed to create a square shape with exceptional sparkle and brilliance and is the second most popular diamond shape behind the round brilliant.

Its intricate faceting pattern sets it apart from other square-shaped cuts, such as the radiant and cushion cuts, and is incredibly versatile and can be set into various types of jewelry, including rings, earrings, and necklaces. If you want to feel like royalty you certainly can’t go wrong with the regal appeal of the princess cut.

CUSHION CUT

Looking for a gemstone or diamond shape that is as timeless as it’s romantic? Look no further than the cushion cut shape. The cushion cut is that features a square or rectangular shape with rounded corners, hence the name. It has been around for over 200 years and was a popular cut during the Georgian and Victorian eras.

The cushion cut is designed to showcase the gem's clarity and color, creating a soft and romantic appearance. Its faceting pattern which includes large facets, gives the cushion cut superior brilliance, even in low-light settings.

OVAL SHAPED

The oval cut is a diamond or gemstone shape that is elongated and features a symmetrical oval shape. It is a popular cut that combines the brilliance of a round cut with the unique elegance of an elongated shape. The oval cut has a slenderizing effect on the finger, making it a sought-after choice for engagement rings. Its elongated shape also maximizes the carat weight, creating an appearance of a larger stone. The oval cut is versatile and can be set into various types of jewelry, including rings, earrings, and pendants. It offers a classic and timeless appeal while still exuding a sense of modernity and individuality.

PEAR SHAPED

Looking for a more modern shape? The pear shape may be perfect for you! The pear-shaped cut, also known as the teardrop shape, is a unique and elegant diamond or gemstone cut. It is a hybrid of the round and marquise cuts, featuring a rounded bottom and a pointed top.

The pear shape is known for its versatility, as it can be worn in either direction, with the point facing up or down. Like the oval cut, the pear-shaped gemstone is frequently favored for its ability to create a slimming effect on the finger or neckline, making it a glamorous choice for those seeking a distinctive yet timeless appearance.

MARQUISE CUT 

The Marquise cut is a diamond or gemstone shape that is elongated with pointed ends, reminiscent of a boat or football shape. This unique cut is said to have been commissioned by King Louis XV of France in the 18th century, who requested a diamond cut to resemble the smile of his mistress, the Marquise de Pompadour. Hence, the cut was named after her.

The Marquise cut is designed to maximize carat weight and create the illusion of a larger stone, with its elongated shape visually elongating the finger. Its distinctive shape and historical significance make the Marquise cut a regal and romantic choice for engagement rings and other jewelry pieces.

EMERALD CUT

The emerald cut is a rectangular or square diamond or gemstone shape characterized by its trimmed corners and step-like facets that create a reflective and glassy appearance. Unlike other cuts, the emerald cut emphasizes the clarity and color of the gemstone rather than its brilliance. This cut is named after the traditional shape used for emerald gemstones, but it is also popular for diamonds and other precious gemstones.

When purchasing an emerald cut gemstone, clarity and color should be prioritized. The step-like facets of the emerald cut expose any inclusions or flaws more prominently, so a higher clarity grade is desirable. Additionally, the emerald cut tends to highlight the color of the gemstone, so choosing a stone with a vibrant and desirable hue is important.

The emerald cut exhibits a unique style of cutting known as step cuts. Step cuts feature rectangular or square facets arranged in parallel lines, which create a distinctive and elegant look. These stepped facets, sometimes referred to as a "staircase effect," produce flashes of light and give the stone a sophisticated and classic appeal.

RADIANT CUT

The radiant cut is a popular diamond or gemstone shape that combines the brilliance of a round cut with the elegance of an emerald cut. It features trimmed corners and 70 facets that maximize the stone's clarity and radiance. Compared to the emerald cut, the radiant cut is more brilliant and sparkly, making it a perfect choice for those who desire a lot of sparkle in their jewelry. Additionally, the radiant cut features faceting similar to the round cut, allowing it to reflect more light than the emerald cut, which highlights the color and clarity of the stone instead.

ASSCHER CUT

The Asscher cut is a diamond or gemstone shape known for its distinctive and timeless appeal. It combines the elegance of the emerald cut with a square shape and cropped corners, giving it a unique octagonal appearance.

Like the emerald, the Asscher cut features step-like facets that create a mesmerizing play of light and shadows. It is renowned for its exceptional clarity, as the large facets highlight any inclusions within the stone. Compared to the radiant cut, the Asscher cut has more cropped corners and a smaller number of facets, resulting in a hall-of-mirrors effect and a slightly less brilliant appearance. The Asscher cut offers a vintage and chic look that is both sophisticated and eye-catching, making it an excellent choice for those seeking a refined and captivating gemstone.

ROSE CUT

The rose cut is a unique and antique diamond or gemstone shape that exudes charm and vintage elegance. It is characterized by a flat bottom with a domed top and a varying number of triangular facets arranged in a symmetrical pattern, resembling the petals of a rose. The rose cut is named after its resemblance to the unfolded petals of a rosebud. Unlike other cuts, the rose cut does not have a pavilion or a pointed bottom. Instead, it focuses on maximizing surface area and capturing a soft, romantic glow.

The rose cut is known for its subtle and understated sparkle, focusing more on the stone's color and clarity rather than brilliance. It complements antique and vintage-inspired jewelry designs beautifully, adding a touch of timeless elegance. Additionally, the rose cut's flat bottom makes it easy to incorporate into unique settings and designs, making it a popular choice for engagement rings, earrings, and other statement pieces.

ROUGH CUT

The rough cut is a unique and unconventional style of diamond or gemstone cutting that embraces the natural, unpolished appearance of the stone. Unlike traditional cuts that aim for brilliance and symmetry, the rough cut showcases the raw beauty and organic shape of the gemstone. It preserves the natural texture, imperfections, and rugged edges of the stone, giving it a rustic and unrefined aesthetic.

Some people prefer rough cut stones for several reasons. First, they appreciate the natural and authentic beauty of the stone. The rough cut celebrates the individuality and uniqueness of each gem, as no two rough cut stones are identical. Second, rough cut stones often possess a distinct character and story, as their raw and untouched appearance carries a sense of authenticity and connection to nature. Lastly, rough cut stones can be more affordable compared to their polished counterparts, making them a budget-friendly option for those who still desire a striking and unconventional piece of jewelry.

CHOOSING AN ENGAGEMENT RING IS EASIER THAN YOU THINK

Ok, there’s a lot to consider when considering a ring. This is a two-part series after all! But take it one step at a time and remember that you’ve got this because no one knows your partner as well as you!

For everything else, let Olivia Ewing Jewelry lead the way. Our stunning selection of diamonds and gemstones brilliantly shine and colorfully gleam to create an appealing center stone that is sure to delight. Tune in next week for Part Two and check our rings out!

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Meet the Author: Olivia Ewing