Maximillion of Austria is said to have started a wonderful tradition over 500 years ago when he gave a diamond ring to Mary of Burgundy to seal their engagement. The Duke made a wise choice - the diamond - proven to be a fitting symbol for everlasting love because of its beauty, hardness and rarity, not to mention its enduring value.

Before purchasing a diamond every couple should understand the Four C’s (cut, colour, clarity and carat). The diamond industry uses the Four C’s to determine the value of a diamond.

The first two are:

Cut:
~ Determines the visual beauty of a diamond.
~ The cut transforms a rough, natural occurring crystal into the faceted, refined gemstone seen in the jewelry store.

Colour:
~ The common diamond is somewhat colourless, usually tinged yellow, brown or grey.
~ Very rare is the completely colourless diamond, thus making it very valuable.
~ Also rare and valuable are “fancy stones”, a diamond with a definite colour such as, red, yellow, green, blue or canary, rather than just a shade or tinge.

This ring is the symbol and token of that special ceremony that is a constant reminder of your love and vows. Traditionally, a man presents a ring when he proposes. Nothing makes a woman’s eyes sparkle more than a diamond engagement ring.

I’ve been a big fan of Gwyneth Paltrow’s newsletter, GOOP. Recently Gwyneth featured some awesome tips from the famous makeup artist Patti Dubroff. There are some great tips for any bride in search of Makeover ideas and some great bath, detox and body scrubs…Enjoy!

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Every bride wants a wedding gown the makes heads turn and hearts pound. There are so many fabulous designers out there, each with their own personal stamp on the gowns they produce. Here are some great bridal trends from some top designers for 2008.