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For many couples
considering engagement, a diamond ring is the preferred choice for a
ring. It was the preferred choice for Archduke Maximilian of Austria
who presented a diamond ring to Mary of Burgandy in 1477, and the
diamond wedding ring was first introduced. But there are some who
prefer something different or unique. Fortunately, there are a range
of choices for those who would like to break with tradition and
choose something other than a diamond engagement ring.
The most important
aspect for choosing a ring is the symbolism it represents. Rings have
long represented a bond between two people. Its shape symbolizes the
love and commitment meant to last a lifetime. Rings worn on the left
ring finger are associated with the direct connection to the heart,
which is why it has become the traditional finger for wedding rings.
However, a ring doesn't necessarily have to be a diamond to represent
those sentiments. Take for instance the Royal Family. Sapphire
engagement rings were chosen for the Queen Mother, Queen Elizabeth,
Princess Anne and Princess Diana. Meanwhile, Princess Sarah Ferguson
received a ruby. What means most to a young woman receiving a ring is
the thoughtfulness and caring behind it. A ring should represent the
appropriate symbolism for a particular couple.
There are many
colored gemstones, for example, that have historical associations to
love. Red, the warmest color, has long been associated with love. Red
symbolizes vitality and confidence - the heart and passion. Red
reflects courage and ability to take action without fear of reprisal
- a truly good choice for a man who is confident of his lover's
response. The ruby is a red member of the corundum family of
minerals. Corundum of any color 0- blue, pink, yellow - is called a
sapphire. Rubies may have a purplish undertone and are rated at 9 on
the Moh's scale. Diamonds are rated at 10 while turquoise is only a 5
or 6.
Who could forget
the spectacular engagement ring that Princess Diana chose for
herself? The oval blue sapphire weighed an astounding 18 carats
surrounded by 14 small diamonds. It was purchased for the hefty price
of $65,000. At the time, the rich blue sapphire became an elegant
symbol of the couple's commitment. Blue gemstones, symbolizing
spirituality and purity, are also available at less expensive prices
in the form of blue spinel, iolite and blue tourmaline.
Symbolizing
faithfulness and continuity, green gemstones include not only the
emerald, but green garnet or green tourmaline. The emerald is the
most valuable type of beryl mineral. Ancients prized it as the symbol
of love, rebirth and eternal youth. Some believe that emeralds have
healing powers.
A classic
alternative, pearl engagement rings represent a timeless choice for
couples. When most people think of pearls, they think of a creamy
white, luminescent coloring. However, pearls come in a variety of
colors, including gold, cream, black, blue, pink and green. Many
pearls actually have a main color with a second shade as an overtone
or highlight. A white body with pink hues is one of the most
expensive and popular pearl colors. It is not unusual to see a
natural pearl in an antique or heirloom piece.
The woman who
strives to express her own distinctive personality may be a good
candidate for an optional engagement ring discussed here.
This type of woman
is also one who appreciates the language of jewelry. One of the
guiding principles for wearing jewelry is choosing pieces that convey
the unique personality of the wearer. Pandora Jewelry's charm
bracelets and complementing jewelry capture the imagination of women
who want to create their own style. Each item in the Pandora
collection is a handmade Danish design in 14K gold and sterling silver. |
