Choose a Setting That’s Right For Your Ring

Posted on May 8, 2013 by Jennifer

We’ve gone over the Four C’s and discussed shape, you’ve selected your dream diamond, but now you have to figure out where and how it will be set. There are many different setting styles, each offering different advantages and aesthetic qualities. Remember, if you’re opting for something other than a prong-set solitaire the combinations can be endless. To get you started here’s quick glossary.

NK12110WE-W is an example of a prong set center and a channel set band.

Prong: The most popular type of engagement ring settings is by far the prong setting. It consists of 3 to six claws which hold on firmly to the crown and girdle of your diamond. The advantage of such a setting, with such thin wires, is that it allows for the most light to enter the diamond amplifying its sparkle. You will want to consider however whether you want a low or high prong set. Higher will add more emphasis to your center diamond while low is more convenient for day to day activities.

Channel: The channel setting holds a row of diamonds between two channels of metal. The diamonds do not touch one another and have every edge protected against wear and tear. This is a popular choice for wedding bands and can add a striking and modern touch to the shank of an engagement ring.

NK25814-18W has five bezel set diamonds seen in profile.

Bezel: A bezel set diamond is a metal rim that usually surrounds a diamond completely. While it is one of the most secure settings, protecting the girdle of your diamond from niches and chips, it doesn’t allow as much light to enter and be reflected by the diamond. Not the ideal setting for a center stone, but can create a lovely affect with detail stones or side stones.

Pave: Tiny diamonds are set closely together and have the appearance of a paved street. The diamonds are set within tiny holes and held in place by beads at the level of the surface of the ring. It is a challenging look to accomplish because of the patience necessary to set so numerous and such small stones but offers a dazzling blanket sparkle affect.

Flush: The diamond is set within a hole in the band of the ring, the metal is then hammered around the perimeter to keep it gripped securely and create a completely smooth surface. Elegant for men’s wedding bands.

Tension set side stones add a little edge to a classic.

Tension: A tension setting creates the incredible illusion that the diamond is floating. The diamond is held on two sides by pressure. While this is not the most secure setting and doesn’t offer much in the way of protection for the diamond if your engagement ring will become a special occasion piece it offers a wow factor.

A Classic Ring to Carry on the Legacy of Your Love

Posted on May 1, 2013 by Jennifer

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You saw her from across the lawn, her nose was buried deep in a book, but you saw her eyes and your heart stopped. Your gaze met and you both knew it was meant to be. You’ve spent hours discussing your plans for the future and realized you’re both looking for the one to spend the rest of your life with. Your college years were the ones to remember, and they’re made all the more special because you were able to share them together. It’s been years since graduation but she’s still the one you love.

Princess cut side stones and brilliant bezel set diamonds glimmering in the gallery add an elegant sparkle to a ring with a classic air. NK25815-W from the Classique Collection by Natalie K is the perfect ring for a classic love. It has the perfect presence and will carry all the sentimentality to be passed on through the generations, from your future children to theirs. Not only will they carry on the legacy at your old alma mater, they’ll carry on the legacy of your love through theirs with this beautiful diamond engagement ring.

What Diamond Shape is Right for You?

Posted on April 30, 2013 by Jennifer

There are so many shapes to choose from when shopping for the right engagement ring center. Don’t be restrained by not knowing your options. Shape, not to be confused with cut (which you can read more about here), is the final form your diamond will be. Here’s a short guide on basic diamond shapes and options.

Source: Gemstone Buzz

Round: The Brilliant Round is by far the most popular diamond shape. Versatility puts it at the top of the list. It can look sleek and modern in a minimal setting or chic and elegant on a more intricate design. It is also flattering across the board.

Oval: An elongated version of the brilliant round, the oval shape is perfect for girls with shorter fingers. It looks great with side stones and makes a statement as a solitaire.

Marquise: The marquise is an elongated oval shape with pointed ends. This is a dramatic diamond; its unique shape is opulent and aptly named after the Marquise de Pompadour. Because of its shape the diamond may actually appear larger than it is and is perfect for wide fingers.

Pear: The pear shaped diamond is a cross between the marquise and oval. Resembling a glistening teardrop this diamond is great for average or long hand and can elongate short fingers.

Heart: A whimsical choice, although not often use for engagement rings, despite it being the universal symbol of love. A challenging shape to create, the skill of the diamond cutter is tantamount to forming this shape and giving it ultimate sparkle. Like the pear it can be more elongated at the point or wider, so it can be flattering for varying hands depending on the ultimate shape.

Princess: The princess second in popularity only to the round offering almost as much brilliance and sparkle. It’s also fairly new to the diamond game, having been introduced in the send half of the 20^th century, this ring is great in modern setting but has the same classic effect of other square shaped diamonds in traditional mounting. Universally flattering to all hand shapes.

Emerald: A classic rectangular shape with clipped corners, while not as popular for diamonds as other shapes still evokes old world charm. Most flattering for slender elongated fingers.

Radiant: This shape has the brilliance of a round but the shape of an emerald with more faucets than a princess. Yet not one of the most popular shapes despite its versatility in flattering many hand shapes.

Asscher: Created in 1902, and popularized in the 1920s and 30s this square shape with deep cut clipped corners have a dramatic art deco feel with antique appeal. But it is suggested that when selecting this shape clarity be of the highest grade since it can make imperfections more obvious.

Cushion: Otherwise known as a pillow shape has a vintage feel. The soft and rounded rectangular shape is flattering on most hands.

With square cuts of course it is important to compare proportions and orientations of the diamond selected.

There are many opinions on which diamond shape best matches your hand and finger shape as well as personality, but ultimately the most important opinion is your own, fall in love with your diamond.

For more on shape and personality: The Knot and Ebay Shopping Guide

A Sparkling Rock for the Rock Star Girl in Your Life

Posted on April 27, 2013 by Jennifer

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You met each other at an obscure venue and it was love at first site. He charmed you, and for weeks you couldn’t get his smile off of your mind. You spent every spare minute you had together, which led to a passionate romance. Now that you know he’s the one for you, it’s time to celebrate with a unique engagement ring.

From the Belle Collection by Natalie K comes a breathtaking and timeless piece. This engagement ring is for the rock star girl who loves glamour and one of a kind jewelry. The tapered shank is covered in diamonds, beautifully mimicking the large center stone. A diamond halo surrounds the centerpiece that is highlighted by two side stones. Even the side profile is diamond encrusted, giving off high profile shine at every angle.

Your unique relationship deserves to be recognized with a special engagement ring. Let N atalie K provide you with a piece that is sure to take your breath away.

A Guide to Color

Posted on April 24, 2013 by Tracy

Source: Natalie K

Found the right person to spend the rest of your life with? Check. Decided to propose? Yes! Chosen the perfect engagement ring? …Not so sure there? Choosing the right engagement ring can be a little overwhelming, especially if you’re not a jeweler and haven’t given much thought to the selection process. There will be countless options but the best thing to do is relax and read up on some basics. The color of the diamond ring is one of the things to consider. Diamonds, because they are a naturally occurring formation appear in countless variations, in nearly every color of the spectrum.

The most widely used scale for measuring the tint and color of a diamond is the GIA scale. The scale goes from D to Z; D being the highest on the scale, indicating the most “colorless” stone while Z indicates the most yellowed. The higher the diamond is on the scale, the rarer it is to find and more desirable it becomes, which of course also means, more expensive. Even though the scale goes all the way to A, diamonds are graded starting at D because a diamond clearer than that has not been found yet.

Source: GIA USA

The break-down:

D-E-F: Absolutely colorless. E and F’s color can only be detected by a keen trained professional’s eye under magnification. Prepare to empty your piggy bank for these sparkling stunners.
G-H-I-J: Nearly colorless. Even under magnification diamonds in this range appear white, and to the naked eye there’s no difference. A good alternative for the bride who wants top quality but isn’t prepared to spend top dollar.
K and beyond: Once in this range the color can be seen even by an untrained eye.

Source: Hyde Park Jewelers

We can’t forget the fancies, of course! These open up a completely new realm of possibility. While many focus on the pristine look of a colorless diamond they overlook the uniqueness of a colored diamond. You can find diamonds in any color: pink, blue, red and even black. The value for fancies is not decided in terms of the GIA scale but instead is decided by the color intensity, from the very light to most intense or “vivid.”These, because of their rarity, can be even more expensive than D grade diamonds. However, these fanciful colors can add a new dimension and inimitable quality.

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Convinced your center stone has got to be a fancy color?? We’ve got your eclectic tastes covered with our Le Desir Collection. Our fancy yellow diamond rings are all made specifically for the fancy color center stone intended for them. Stunning pieces like NK17470FY-WR are made to order with all your custom specifications.

For more help: Diamond Helpers and About Engagement Rings

Practicality and Charm

Posted on March 25, 2013 by Tracy

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She’s independent and precise, consistently proving herself to be at the top of her game. Give her a token of your fervent admiration with a ring that reflects her practicality and charm.

From the Princesse collection, this white gold split shank band twists into a unique design, giving off a radiant shine from every angle. The diamond encrusted band showcases the center, square-cut diamond in a stunning fashion that is sure to please. The side profile is glamorous and radiates precision and beauty flawlessly. The rich embellishment makes this ring a proper reflection of high profile love.

Make her weak in the knees with an engagement ring by Natalie K that is as prestigious as she is.

Never Ending and Cannot Be Broken

Posted on March 24, 2013 by Tracy

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Her consistent love captured your heart forever. Show her she’s your angel with an ethereal engagement ring that is sure to make her melt.

From the Eternelle collection, this white gold ring is a brilliant way to display your never ending love. It’s center stone is surrounded by white diamonds, creating a marginally bigger effect. A halo of diamonds cover the band and are complimented by delicate milgrain detailing. The effect is angelic, making this ring a brilliant way to promise her your heart.

The circle is never-ending and cannot be broken. It is a symbol of eternity, representing the everlasting love you share. It will serve as a reminder of the promise you’ve made to one another, giving this ring lasting, sentimental value.

Give her the tangible promise of forever with this one of a kind, timeless piece by Natalie K.

A Passion For Adventure

Posted on March 23, 2013 by Tracy

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For you luxurious lovers with a passion for adventure, a traditional wedding band seems dull in comparison to your love story. A yellow diamond engagement ring is the perfect piece for your colorful love, shining in a brilliant and unique way.

From the Le Desir collection, this ring boasts a radiant yellow diamond, surrounded by two trapezoid stones. A row of white diamonds surround this piece, adding extra glimmer and showcasing the brilliance of the unusual yellow stone. Everyone is sure to notice this showstopper and ask about the way you met. She’ll love to tell your fun story again and again.

“Wow” the woman in your life with a ring that adequately displays your playful attitudes towards love and marriage.

Unbreakable Bond

Posted on March 22, 2013 by Tracy

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Life has tested your love and proved it lasting. Sharing in trials and in joy is a trademark of a strong relationship. This unbreakable bond should be honored with a meaningful engagement ring that properly portrays the breadth and depth of your bond.

From the Trois Diamants collection, this three stone diamond engagement ring represents the past, present and future of your relationship, giving this style a romantic appeal. Two pear shaped, white diamonds frame the centerpiece and a diamond encrusted band marks the binding promise to love and cherish one another, wrapping her ring finger in a brilliant shine.

You’ve been through everything, and your long term relationship deserves to be marked with a unique and gorgeous engagement ring. This style will make the romantic heart swoon, proving it the perfect piece to celebrate your forever love.

You are My Dream

Posted on March 21, 2013 by Tracy

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“You are, and always have been, my dream”– The Notebook

From the moment you first met, you saw forever in her eyes. Give her the promise of your love for a lifetime with a hand crafted diamond ring.

From the Renaissance collection, this vintage inspired engagement ring is a beautiful symbol of your undying affection and strong commitment. Two glimmering white diamonds showcase the center mounting in this timeless piece. This ring’s side profile is marked with intricate detailing, making it truly one of a kind.

Your relationship rivals famous renaissance romances, revolving around a deep love and respect for one another. This ring was made for the lover of old-world romance and beautifully represents an old school attitude towards love and marriage.