Seeking an exquisite engagement ring and wow-worthy wedding bands? Get clued up on your must-have metals and lust-worthy rocks with Wed's guide to rings...
Confused by carats and cuts? Deliberating diamonds or gunning for gold? The prospect of buying those all-important rings can often confound couples and is something that many fail to properly prioritise.
Rather than carefully choosing the one item that they'll permanently wear as an eternal reminder of their union, they instead rush the rings, ending up with an ill-fitting or bland band that falls flat on stylishly representing their love.
Will Dolphin
You'll no doubt be breathing bespoke into every other element of your day - from favours to flowers and dresses to decor - so it's important to remember the rings with regard to the personalisation process.
Though it may be tempting to opt for the first semi-decent-looking band that fits both budget and finger, the process will be much easier and far more enjoyable with a little thought and expert guidance - and the results will speak volumes long after the dress starts gathering dust.
We've enlisted the expertise of some of the South West's most celebrated jewellers and designers to help you pick a ring that reflects your individual style and bond.
THE STYLE ISSUE
The question of style can be tricky territory, especially for men opting to choose the engagement ring alone. "I would generally advise to keep it simple," says Katie Elvin from Michael Spiers (michaelspiers.co.uk). "Choose a ring that will be timeless as she will be wearing it everyday for the rest of her life."
Ask yourself a series of questions before you start. "What sort of jewellery does she already wear?" asks Matthew Holt of Coopers Couture (cooperscouture.co.uk). "Is she more classical or modern? Do her pieces tend to be simple or ornate? Delicate or chunky? Bearing this in mind will help guide you to the right choices. If you pick something similar to what she likes you can't go wrong."
Will Dolphin
Don't be afraid to experiment and try on a variety of styles of both engagement and wedding rings to see what suits you, as you may surprise yourself and migrate toward more of a stylistic statement. Keep in mind that trends and tastes don't always align, so pick something that you know you'll be happy with decades down the line or can easily modify.
Jewellery designer Mirri Damer (mirridamer.com) has noted brides choosing bolder designs for their engagement rings: "More and more brides are being braver with their choices and realising that a solitaire with claws isn't the only option," she comments. "My fixed bud ring is very popular because it is unusual while retaining some classical elements, so looking dated in years to come won't be an issue."
Jewellery designer Justin Duance (justind.co.uk) has also observed a movement towards highly individual designs for wedding rings: "Brides seem to be buying chunkier wedding rings which make more of a statement and also feel it is important to match their partner's ring in some way. Men are also buying a lot chunkier rings and seem to be making a clear choice or statement rather than accepting the standard wedding band."
Matthew Holt has observed certain styles gaining momentum: "Modern designs such as flat court profiles with satin finishes or grooved patterns are popular with men who want a unique style," he comments.
Beyond the 'wow' factor, wearability is key. "Choose a style that fits in with your lifestyle", advises Anna Winterton from Drakes (drakesfinejewellers.co.uk). "If you're the sporty kind, choose something robust and smooth. If you opt for a diamond-encrusted ring beware - they can be a nightmare for catching clothes and laddering tights!"
Emma Solley
SIZE MATTERS
Spare yourself the potential discomfort or drama of losing an ill-fitting ring by paying special attention to the issue of size.
Considering the weather is a good place to start. "Finger sizes change with the weather," warns artisan goldsmith Ian Hall of Lasting Impressions. "The time of day, physical activity and the seasons all have an effect. The ring that fits wonderfully in the winter may suddenly become too tight in the summer or when you work out - hot, perspiring fingers can expand up to two sizes!" It is worth bearing these factors in mind when selecting your size.
"If you're choosing the engagement ring together, visit a good jeweller to have your ring size measured accurately," suggests Matthew. "This will ensure your ring fits perfectly first time." There are still ways and means of sourcing a well-fitting ring if you're planning a surprise engagement. "The best way to find your future bride's size is to bring in one of her rings that you know fits her third finger on the left hand into the jewellers with you. This way, an accurate size can be taken and you know she can wear the ring straight away."
"I find that even knowing your partner's clothing size can help, and avoids the pitfall of buying a massive ring for a tiny bride!" comments Mirri Damer, who is mindful not to let the issue of size deter a surprise proposal. "I always offer a free re-size on surprise purchases. Men should be able to be romantic without worrying about the hassle of re-sizing."
Sarah Lauren
PRECIOUS METAL
Again, personal preferences are the rule of thumb when it comes to choosing the metal, as Katie comments: "It's really down to personal taste - though 18ct yellow and rose gold are making a comeback. White metal is more popular - a little down to fashion - but mostly because a white metal is ideal for setting diamonds as it shows off their bright white sparkle and doesn't draw any colour into the stone."
Set on silver? Mirri Damer offers a word of warning: "Silver may be popular but it will tarnish and become worn over time. This can make gemstones appear discoloured and they may even dislodge with knocks and bumps," she advises.
The properties of platinum make it a perennial favourite. "Not only is it the rarest and most precious metal but it is the hardest," says Katie. "It's perfect for setting stones and wearing everyday as it will not discolour or wear away and can be re-finished to look as good as new after years of wear. It is also hypoallergenic."
Justin often works with an alternative, more affordable material that is growing increasingly popular: "Couples are buying a lot more palladium than ever before. It is a great choice for people on a budget as it is basically the same as platinum in strength and colour but lighter in weight and a lot cheaper. I have noticed a lot more men choosing palladium instead of the white golds because of its strength and their budget."
"Everyone has their own preference," says Anna. "But here's a few things to
bear in mind when making your decision: 18ct white or yellow gold will be hard-wearing. White gold is coated in rhodium to create that beautiful bright white finish, and rhodium will wear over time so your ring will need to be recoated. Platinum is the best choice. It is the strongest jewellery metal. It is resistant to damage and it will never tarnish."
ROCKS ON
From a frosting of diamonds or a single sapphire à la Kate Middleton to a kaleidoscopic smattering of ornate gemstones, the options for embellishment are seemingly endless. "When it comes to engagement rings, a solitaire is usually the most popular choice and a classic single diamond will never date," says Katie. "A trilogy or three-stone ring is traditional in style and also timeless, and diamond-set shoulders are very popular at the moment for added 'bling', as well as diamond clusters for a more vintage look."
Just ensure you choose gemstones that will stand the test of time. "I would only really advise diamonds, sapphires or rubies for an engagement ring as they are extremely hard gemstones and anything else could be subject to damage, chipping or fracture," she continues.
Mirri Damer is fond of working with sapphires. "Nothing sparkles like a diamond, but sapphires are a fantastic choice. They are hard-wearing, have super lustre and come in a variety of colours," she says.
If you're dead set on diamonds, remember to consider those all-important hallmarks of quality. "If you're opting for a ring that includes diamonds, always remember the four cs: cut, colour, clarity and carat weight," advises Anna.
LOVE MATCH
With so many couples now wishing to coordinate their wedding bands as a his and hers statement, and brides increasingly seeking a wedding ring design that matches their engagement ring, jewellery designers now offer a bewilderingly beautiful range of matching options.
"Finding the perfect match for your engagement ring can be difficult, especially if you have a unique or particularly intricate design. Bespoke wedding rings allow you to create the perfect fit with your engagement ring, and ensure they will not only look wonderful, but will also minimise wear over your lifetime," says Matthew. However, do consider the implications of pairing metals. "Over years, different metals worn together can cause damage and wear to the softer metal, meaning that in time the damaged ring will have to be replaced."
Michael Spiers has responded to demand with a 'shape to fit' service. "A customer who cannot find a wedding ring to fit with their engagement ring can have a bespoke wedding ring made that will fit perfectly, which is ideal for wave shapes or rings with a different setting," says Katie.
PRETTY PERSONAL
Don't forget the finishing touches. Whether you wish to inscribe sweet somethings or add a stone, there is a multitude of ways to make your rings dazzlingly distinctive.
Katie at Michael Spiers suggests adding extra meaning by etching words into the band. "Rings can be personalised with engravings which can be done by hand, such as the date of the wedding, initials or names," she suggests.
Mirri Damer has worked on some brilliantly meaningful designs. "I've set a diamond to symbolise snow inside a groom's ring and a blue sapphire for the sea in the bride's to signify their love of snowboarding and surfing. I've also engraved a meaningful quote," she comments. The creative process itself can lend a personal resonance to the design: "I've even been given a special song to listen to while making the rings to help imbue something of the song's sentiment," she adds.
Your ring design might even evolve with your relationship. "Some customers initially buy a plain wedding ring then add diamonds for each anniversary, which is a lovely way to be constantly updating a ring," says Laura Hoole, shop manager at Erin Cox (erincox.co.uk). "And Erin has been using some gorgeous coloured diamonds recently to add sparkle," she adds.
Superfit rings - Lasting Impressions
DOS AND DON'TS
DO work out your budget. Knowing in advance what you would like to spend will help you and your jeweller focus on the right rings for you, as the choice and variety can be overwhelming. Matthew Holt, Coopers Couture
DO go for the ring you like the most. Jewellery is such a personal thing and it's important that you love your ring for years to come. Katie Elvin, Michael Spiers
DON'T leave choosing your rings until the last minute. Justin Duance
DO enjoy choosing your wedding rings! Choose a jeweller you are comfortable with, who will offer you quality and value for money and, above all, who will make it an experience to remember. Anna Winterton, Drakes
DO remember that plating wears off. Justin Duance
DO meet the designer if you are looking for a bespoke engagement ring together. It can help make the occasion more personal and special. Mirri Damer
DO choose a ring that will last. Showing that you are married and the symbolism of the unbroken band representing everlasting love is really important and a durable band is imperative. Laura Hoole, Erin Cox
Justin Duance www.justind.co.uk
Michael Spiers www.michaelspiers.co.uk
Mirri Damer www.mirridamer.com
words Hannah May
Copyright Wed magazine 2013
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