When choosing a ring, it is wise to consider what type of wedding band you will wear. Is it part of a matching set? Will you wear it alone? It is important to consider all these factors. Today some brides choose to wear only a wedding band. Most grooms all wear a wedding band. Whatever your choice make sure you’ve done your homework before making this big purchase. It is best to know when purchasing a ring the “Four C’s” Cut, Carat, Colour, and Clarity. In Ring Bling Part 1 Cut and Colour were defined. Here are the following two

Clarity:

• Is the most impressive quality of all.
• The more irregularities there are, the lower the value of the diamond.
• A flawless diamond must show no surface blemishes or interior inclusions when examined at a 10-power magnification.

Carat:

• The weight of a diamond is expressed in carats.
• The weight of a diamond is the most important factor when determining its value - however, a smaller carat diamond with better colour, clarity or cut can easily cost more than a larger carat diamond.

Most importantly, your ring’s cut, setting and stone should all be a reflection of your own tastes, opinions and backgrounds.

Sharpen your sparkler know how before making the big decision!

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.