Men’s engagement rings

It’s becoming increasingly common for men to wear engagement rings.

In the past men have generally only worn a wedding ring, though today, more men are choosing to wear an engagement ring also.

Men’s engagement ring designs

The distinction between the design of a men’s engagement ring and men’s wedding ring is far less obvious than it is for ladies rings.

However, one popular determining factor when considering the actual design of the rings is that men’s engagement rings will often feature a diamond.
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That’s a common question when it comes to choosing a diamond. We can provide guidance in this regard, though at the end of the day, choosing a diamond is a matter of personal preference.

The value of a diamond is determined based on several factors, which are commonly referred to as the 4 Cs - which stands for colour, clarity, cut and carat. The combination of all four factors affects the value of the diamond.

If any one of the four factors is changed, the value will change.

When it comes to choosing a diamond, this is how I would personally approach the selection process.

Personally I feel that the colour and carat are the two most important factors to consider - however, that is provided a good standard is met for the other two factors - the cut and clarity. If the cut and clarity are not good, the whole diamond’s appearance and value will suffer.

I’ll start with the clarity and cut, and then outline the colour and carat.

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Platinum engagement ring

The earliest known use of platinum dates back to 7^th Century BC, when it was used to craft caskets in Egypt. Its use for this purpose shows that even the earliest civilizations valued platinum as an important and precious metal. Today, platinum is one of the most demanded metals in the bridal market. It’s popularity is beginning to surpass white and yellow gold in engagement rings, and is growing increasingly favoured as the metal for both men’s and lady’s wedding bands.

But what is it about platinum that makes it so popular, and also so expensive?

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Diamond ring

Diamonds are the hardest known natural material in the world.

The scale used to measure the hardness of natural materials is called the Mohs scale. Diamonds are measured as a hardness level of 10 on Mohs scale of mineral hardness. That’s the hardest there is and the top of the Mohs scale!

Diamonds are very precious, not only for their beauty, but also because of their practicality.

Diamonds are popular for jewelry pieces worn daily such as engagement rings, wedding rings, earrings and pendants.

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Diamond engagement ring on the ring finger

Engagement rings are traditionally worn on the left hand, on the 4th finger, the on the finger, next to the pinkie finger.

It was the ancient Romans who began placing the engagement ring on the left ring finger. They believed the left ring finger contained the vein of love which connects directly to the heart.

The tradition of presenting a diamond engagement ring is believed to have been started in 1477 when Archduke Maximillian gave one to Mary of Burgandy.

Before that, engagement rings were plain metal bands. Gold and silver where used among the wealthy and iron among the commoners.

Wide diamond engagement ring

The Tiffany style isn’t for every bride-to-be.

And that’s hardly surprising is it.

After all, if we all had the same taste in design, we’d all be driving the same model of car and wearing the same shoe design.

Although the traditional diamond solitaire engagement ring is still popular, the classic design doesn’t suit the desires of every lady.

The solitaire isn’t always practical for all lifestyles either.

When looking for alternatives, it’s not always an easy process to find different designs.

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Emerald cut diamond engagement ring

The round diamond is the traditional choice for engagement rings, though today a range of beautiful diamond cuts are available.

Emerald cut diamonds are now becoming one of the more popular choices for engagement rings.

Emerald cut diamonds have a rectangular diamond shape.

The glow of an emerald cut diamond is different to that of a round brilliant cut diamond. The emerald cut diamond has a shine that can be described as elegant.

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Men’s engagement ring with diamonds in white gold

Should a man wear an engagement ring?

This is a common question that grooms-to-be ask.

A man traditionally gives an engagement ring to his bride-to-be once the marriage proposal is accepted. Should the lady give the man an engagement ring too?

Traditionally men did not wear an engagement ring.

However, this has changed over the years and it is now common for men to wear an engagement ring too!

There’s no right or wrong answer to this question.

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Ruby and diamond wedding ring

Red rubies are the preferred choice of many ladies for their engagement rings and wedding rings today.

Red rubies are stunning, so it’s not surprising that they’re popular, though there’s a highly practical reason for choosing a red ruby for your rings.

Red rubies are particularly well suited to engagement and wedding rings.

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Unique engagement ring designs

Choosing your engagement ring design can be a daunting prospect.

The engagement ring is an enduring sign of a couples love for one-another. It’s a ring that will be worn everyday for eternity.

A ring of such significance needs to be a ring that the bride-to-be loves, a ring that reflects her personality and style.

Having a wide variety of engagement ring designs to choose from will help you to identify the right design for you.

This is where the new engagement ring gallery by Gillett’s Jewellers will help you to choose your engagement ring design.

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