Protect Your Jewelry on Hot Days

Depending on where you live, the summer season means you and your jewelry are facing numerous hot, humid, and sunny days. While you may love sunshine, too much direct sunlight and heat can damage your precious gemstones. With repeated exposure, UV rays can cause gems such as amethyst, kunzite, and topaz to become significantly less vibrant. Direct sunlight can even bleach delicate materials such as pearl and ivory, or darken amber gems.

Regardless of the UV rays, high heat is dangerous for jewelry. Extreme temperatures or sudden changes in temperature can cause gemstones to dry out, crack, or become discolored. On extremely hot days, it’s often best to leave your best pieces of jewelry at home in a cool, dry place. It may be difficult, but keeping your jewelry’s exposure to heat to a minimum is the best way to prolong its shine.

Plan Ahead When Traveling with Your Jewelry

If you have plans to travel this summer, you’re likely going to bring some of your favorite jewelry pieces along. Before taking off, it’s worth considering what jewelry you need to take—is it essential to bring your diamond necklace and engagement ring, or will a less expensive replica suffice? Sometimes it’s best to pack a few versatile pieces and leave your most sentimental or valuable pieces safely at home. For the jewelry you do travel with, it’s smart to insure it ahead of time or have it covered within your homeowner’s insurance. Then, you can wear what you want on your trip without needing to worry.

When traveling, it’s essential to pack your jewelry properly to prevent it from getting damaged, lost, or stolen. To prevent jewelry from getting scratched, we recommend packing each piece of jewelry in its own case or box. A soft cloth or jewelry organizer provides cushioning and keeps your pieces from getting tangled together or scratched. If you’re flying, pack jewelry in your carry-on bag, since checked luggage is more likely to be handled roughly or go missing. For added security, consider investing in a portable jewelry case with a lock.

Keep Jewelry Away from Chlorine Pools

Hot summer days often mean more time spent at the pool, which can lead to increased exposure to chlorine. Before jumping into the water, always remove your jewelry and put it in a safe spot. Chlorine damages the metals in jewelry, leading to discoloration and weakened gold, silver, and platinum alloys. This can even remove the finish and polish of gemstones over time, causing jewelry to look dull and worn down.

In addition to making jewelry look lackluster, pools and hot tubs can also cause rings to break or fall off. Chlorine wears down jewelry glue over time, causing gems to fall out of pieces that use adhesive. It’s also possible to lose rings while swimming in a pool, since cool water can shrink your fingers just enough for rings to slip off.

Ultimately, it’s best to give your jewelry a break during swim days. If you accidentally wear your jewelry into the pool, there’s no need to panic. Simply take it off as soon as possible, rinse it with fresh water, and dry it thoroughly. If you’re still concerned about potential damage, check out our expert jewelry repair services at Michael Herr.

Don’t Mix Jewelry with Sunscreen and Lotions

Wearing sunscreen in the summer is essential, but fine jewelry and sticky sunscreen do not mix! First of all, it’s best to keep your jewelry dry, since liquids can cause moisture damage. Additionally, liquid products such as sunscreen and perfume typically contain chemicals that can tarnish or damage jewelry. They often cause a film to build up on stones and metal, which causes your jewelry to look dull (or even gross). With continuous buildup, sunscreen and other liquids can cause more serious damage by wearing away at porous gems.

When applying sunscreen, moisturizer, hair spray, perfume, lotion, or any other liquid product, keep jewelry separate until your skin has fully absorbed it. We recommend completing your typical routine, then adding your accessories as a finishing touch.

Be Wary of Beach Day Hazards

Trips to the beach are a classic summer activity, but it’s important to keep an eye on your jewelry. Sand and saltwater are both unforgiving to jewelry stones and metal. Grains of sand can scratch up metal and gemstones or get stuck in the crevices of your ring prongs or necklace clasps, which can cause damage and make cleaning difficult. Saltwater can also harm jewelry by wearing out the finish of gemstones and causing metal to corrode over time. Sterling silver is known to tarnish over time with prolonged exposure to saltwater and sweat, since these salts speed up silver’s oxidation process.

In addition to facing damage, it’s easy for jewelry to fall off during beach activities and get lost in the sand or water. For these reasons, it’s best to leave your prized possessions at home where they’re safe.

Clean Your Jewelry Frequently

With all the buildup that summer elements can cause, regularly cleaning jewelry at home is more crucial than ever. To remove residue from sunscreen, sand, or sweat, use a mixture of warm water, mild dish soap, and a soft toothbrush. Soak your jewelry in the soapy water to loosen any dirt, then gently brush the jewelry. Lastly, rinse with clean water and dry it with a soft, lint-free cloth. Routine cleaning will keep your jewelry sparkling all summer long! For a deep clean, take your jewelry pieces to a professional jeweler like our team at Michael Herr.

Following these practical tips will keep your jewelry in great shape this summer season. If you still experience damage from the summer elements, there’s no need to worry—our expert jewelers at Michal Herr Diamonds & Fine Jewelry are here to help. For jewelry repair, cleaning, or buying a new piece of fine jewelry, Michael Herr is your one-stop shop. Shop our website, contact us, or visit our store today to get started.

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History of Birthstone Jewelry

Various origins and rich histories explain how twelve stones came to represent each month. Biblical sources describe a chest plate worn by Israel’s first high priest. This chest plate had twelve stones representing the twelve tribes of Israel. Eventually, these stones became associated with the months in a year.

Another theory originating from Hindu culture suggests that birthstones were initially associated with celestial bodies and one’s astrological birth chart. Whatever the true origin, the use of birthstones in ancient cultures, including the Greeks, Egyptians, Romans, Persians, and Native Americans, paints a wonderful picture of the purposes of each of these beautiful gemstones.

Best Pieces to Incorporate Birthstones

Birthstones are most commonly added to necklaces and rings but can also be added to other jewelry pieces depending on the occasion or significance. Because they are less traditional, we recommend displaying these personalized stones as an addition rather than the centerpiece. However, you should incorporate birthstones however you like. They’re great options for pieces with birthstones as the main event or as an addition.

Engagement Ring or Wedding Band Addition:

A subtle stone that signifies the birth months of both you and your fiance can be the perfect way to recognize your lifelong commitment to one another. Once you’ve found the right engagement ring diamond, you can personalize it! Depending on personal preference and stylistic choices, you can place the stone on the outside or inside of the band.

Personalized Necklace: 

Personalized gifts are the perfect way to incorporate these precious stones in a piece for yourself or a loved one. Necklaces with stones signifying children, spouses, or pets are widely popular.

Month-by-Month Birthstone Breakdown

January: Garnet

Garnets are widely enjoyed and have a lengthy history. They are most deeply associated with Egyptian culture and have been buried in the tombs of various Pharaohs. Garnets represent love, protection, and friendship.

February: Amethyst

Amethyst is a purple variety of quartz that was once exclusive to royalty and other members of elite society. Today, it is much more accessible, making it a popular stone. This stone represents serenity, calmness, and peace.

March: Aquamarine

As its name suggests, aquamarine has a deep association with the ocean. The stone was believed to protect sailors and keep marriages happy and healthy. It represents honesty, loyalty, and beauty.

April: Diamond

Diamonds are among the most popular gemstones and are often referred to as “the invincible birthstone.” This nickname stems from the stone’s incredible strength, making it the strongest of all the birthstones. Diamonds represent balance, clarity, inner strength, and eternal love.

May: Emerald

Historically, emeralds were used to cure diseases and improve intelligence or wit. Another stone connected to ancient Egypt as it’s believed that emeralds were Cleopatra’s preferred stone. This stone represents consistency and genuine affection. 

June: Pearl

Pearls are considered organic gemstones. This stone, created by a living organism, is rather unique as it requires no cutting or polishing. No two pearls are alike, allowing for a unique personal addition to any piece of jewelry. This stone represents modesty, chastity, and purity.

July: Ruby

Ruby is another popular gemstone often gifted to loved ones. The hue of red in this gemstone can greatly affect how each individual stone is evaluated. This stone represents love, passion, and good fortune.

August: Peridot

Peridot, often confused with emerald, is thought to protect its owner from misfortune and evil spirits. This stone represents dignity, fame, and prosperity.

September: Blue Sapphire

Blue sapphire is popular for its durability and cultural relevance. A-list celebrities are often seen wearing them, and it was once believed that Earth sat on top of a giant sapphire. This was meant to explain the blue tint of the sky! This stone represents truth, honesty, loyalty, commitment, and wisdom.

October: Opal

Opals are often white with an iridescent shimmer but can also come in various colors, including blue or purple. This stone is much softer than others, requiring more care, but its unique and beautiful look is worth the extra TLC. Opals represent hope, purity, and truth.

November: Citrine

Citrine derives from the French word for lemon, which perfectly describes this vibrant yellow quartz stone. It represents abundance, prosperity, and success.

December: Turquoise

Turquoise is successfully formed in the driest places around the world. It is often incredibly unique, with different vein patterns on each stone. Turquoise represents protection, love, and good fortune.

Birthstone jewelry is not just about adding a personal touch to your style—it’s about connecting to a rich history of symbolism and meaning. Whether you choose to wear your own birthstone or gift one to someone special, these gemstones offer a unique way to express love, protection, and the qualities that define each month. So, go ahead and explore the many ways you can incorporate birthstones into your jewelry collection—after all, there’s a world of beauty and significance waiting to be discovered.

The post Birthstone Jewelry: Everything You Need to Know appeared first on Michael Herr Diamonds & Fine Jewelry.

Store Jewelry Properly

It’s essential to keep your jewelry pieces safe when you’re not wearing them. How you store your jewelry can significantly impact its longevity, especially during the colder months. You should choose a storage space that’s cool and dry, such as a drawer, closet, or jewelry box. This will prevent your prized jewelry pieces from getting tarnished or damaged. Adding silica gel packets to your storage area can help absorb excess moisture and keep your pieces safe. 

Additionally, it’s best to use individual pouches or compartments to separate jewelry and prevent scratches. When storing necklaces, consider hanging them or laying them flat. Hanging prevents them from getting tangled, which can lead to wear and tear over time.

Keep Jewelry Dry

One of the most important rules of caring for jewelry is to keep it dry. Winter seasons typically come with a mix of snowy and rainy conditions, which means jewelry owners must put extra effort into keeping their jewelry dry. Water can damage many forms of jewelry, so make sure you remove your jewelry before any activity that involves water. Be cautious about storing your jewelry in damp areas like the bathroom. These areas increase their exposure to humidity, which can cause gradual damage over time. If your jewelry does get wet, be sure to dry it off carefully with a soft cloth before storing it. 

Clean Jewelry Frequently

Regular cleaning is essential for keeping jewelry looking its best, especially during the winter months. To maintain jewelry on an everyday basis, wipe your jewelry down with a soft, lint-free cloth after wearing it. This will help remove dust, sweat, and oils that can dull its appearance. Cleaning pieces with a soft cloth is an excellent way to prevent buildup that can damage jewelry. 

We recommend letting a professional handle delicate or exceptionally dirty pieces. Professional cleaning ensures that your jewelry will be thoroughly cleaned without risk of damage. If your jewelry is suffering from the winter elements and needs a deep clean, we recommend taking it to a trusted jeweler. At Michael Herr Diamonds & Fine Jewelry, our expert jewelers can give your pieces the attention they need to stay sparkling all year long. Check out our professional cleaning services to keep your jewelry looking great all year long. 

Wear Your Jewelry Carefully During Winter Activities

Although jewelry is a wonderful accessory to any winter outfit, it’s best to leave your most precious pieces at home during certain winter activities. This includes ice skating, skiing, and shoveling snow. Extremely cold temperatures can cause your fingers to shrink, which makes it easier for rings to slip off and get lost. Winter weather also often involves wearing thick gloves or mittens, which make it more challenging to keep track of your jewelry. When bundling up for cold weather, be especially cautious with zippers, hats, and scarves. These everyday items can accidentally catch on your jewelry and cause snags, loose stones, or damaged prongs.

Be Mindful of Extreme Temperature Changes

In addition to harsh chemicals, extreme temperature changes can also put your jewelry at risk. When possible, avoid exposing your jewelry to freezing temperatures this winter. Certain gemstones, such as opals, are highly sensitive to extreme changes in temperature. When these jewels experience a rapid temperature shift, they can crack and break. If you visit the slopes this winter, leave your jewelry at home. Wearing jewelry in the cold or keeping it locked in your car may cause damage. We also recommend keeping your jewelry away from heat sources like direct sunlight, fireplaces, and stoves.

By following these tips, you’ll be able to keep your jewelry in good shape this winter. If the winter elements damage your jewelry, don’t worry—our expert jewelers at Michal Herr Diamonds & Fine Jewelry are here to help. If you need a jewelry repair or cleaning, or you’re looking to buy a new piece of fine jewelry, Michael Herr is your one-stop shop. Shop our website, contact us, or visit our store today to get started.

The post How to Care for Your Jewelry During the Winter appeared first on Michael Herr Diamonds & Fine Jewelry.

Art Deco

Art Deco jewelry, known for its geometric and intricate designs, has exploded in popularity. There are numerous ways to incorporate Art Deco into your engagement ring. Some famous examples are using antique-cut diamonds, such as emeralds, baguettes, or trapezoid-cut side diamonds. The Bezel setting, invented during the Art Deco era, is the most popular setting for this style. Art-deco style rings are a perfect choice for those looking for a classic yet unique look for their rings. 

Colored Stones 

Recently, many couples are deciding to opt for colored stones on their ring. These non-traditional gems bring character and unique touch to each ring, as no two colored gemstones are exactly alike. Some couples decide to have these vibrant jewels be the centerpiece of their jewelry, while others add colorful accent stones to highlight the central diamond. A non-traditional stone that has become popular is a salt-and-pepper diamond, as these gems have visible inclusions. So, these diamonds have a dark and smoky look. Colored stones are perfect for couples who want a ring as unique as their love story.

East-West Settings 

The East-West setting allows for a modern yet youthful look that many 2023 couples are interested in. For those unaware, an East-West ring has a stone orientated horizontally instead of the classic vertical setting most people are familiar with. Oval or pear-cut stones look fantastic with an East-West setting style. This ring is best for couples wanting a chic look that will last years. 

Mixed Metal

While many are familiar with sold gold or silver jewelry, some couples are deciding to mix it up with mixed metal rings. This sleek, modern look allows couples to show their commitment to each other without forcing them to commit to a single metal color. This style is perfect for those who like to break traditional wedding rules and have a lot of mixed metals in their existing jewelry collection.

Lab-Grown Diamonds 

As diamond-creating technologies advance, many are opting for lab-grown diamonds instead of traditionally minded stones. Not only are these diamonds 100% conflict-free, but they’re often more affordable than traditional diamonds. Lab-grown diamonds have become popular these past few years, and 2023 has been no exception. These rings are perfect for ethical-minded couples or those looking for a more affordable alternative to traditional stones. 

These engagement ring trends allow couples to show their commitment to each other in innovative and unique ways. Contact Micheal Herr Diamonds & Fine Jewelry if you’re interested in shopping for engagement rings in the St. Louis area.

The post Top 5 Engagement Ring Trends of 2023 appeared first on Michael Herr Diamonds & Fine Jewelry.

Vintage Inspired

Another highly popular trend has been leaning towards vintage inspirations that were all about the details. We see this in repurposed family rings as well as brand new custom-designed pieces that are shoot for an antique feel. Acquiring a vintage look can be done in numerous ways, with the most popular being created with clean, bold lines, stunning geometric patterns, and filigree (metal wire detailing).

S. Kashi White Gold Halo Engagement Ring

S. Kashi White Gold Halo Engagement Ring

Emerald-Cut

Due to growing popularity, many experts expect emerald-cut diamonds to rank near the top in 2020. Many brides have started to shift away from the traditional round-cut diamond to fancier styles like the emerald or oval. The crisp elongated lines on an emerald-cut boast a dramatic finish that sparkles profusely under the light. Another great feature about this cut is it can be dressed up to promote a significant amount of bling or for the more simplistic bride, can easily be redefined to create a more subtle sophistication appeal.

Romance White Gold Emerald Cut Halo Engagement Ring

Romance White Gold Emerald Cut Halo Engagement Ring

Halo Setting

A halo setting is definitely not a new trend, but it is one that seems to be here to stay in 2020. The only difference is that people have been finding new innovative ways to add a twist to this classic style. One of those ways is by combining another 2020 trend – color stones – into the mix. Placing a gemstone within a halo setting instead of your typical diamond has been gaining much attention and doesn’t seem to be losing steam anytime soon. Another alteration to this style that’s been gaining popularity has been a hidden halo. A hidden halo sits just below the primary stone, adding intricate and glamorous detail when observed from the side.

S. Kashi Yellow Gold Pear Shaped Halo Engagement Ring

S. Kashi Yellow Gold Pear Shaped Halo Engagement Ring

Multiple Stones

Whether it’s two, three, or even five – a multiple stone ring has been catching the attention of many brides to be. A three-stone ring that Meghan Markle proudly sports is said to represent the past present and future – giving the ring an even more beautiful meaning. Another great part of a multi-stone ring is the endless number of customizations that come with them. There are several different sizes, shapes, and colors that can be incorporated to create the ring of your dreams.

Kattan Two-Stone Contemporary Diamond Engagement Ring

Kattan Two-Stone Contemporary Diamond Engagement Ring

Sustainability

A shift towards sustainability has been growing steadily as many couples have begun to align their personal values with the businesses they pay patronage to. Owning a ring that comes with an authentic story about where and how to came to be is becoming increasingly more significant.

Color Stones

More and more brides who are seeking a one-of-a-kind ring have been venturing out for stones other than diamonds. Birthstones are a prevalent choice as they connect with the bride on an exceedingly personal level. It should also be stated that not all birthstones are made for everyday wear, so consulting a professional about your stone is a must before making any final decisions. But color stones don’t have to be limited to one’s birthstone; they can be chosen based on the bride’s favorite color or any other factors that may come into play.

Kattan White Gold Classic Pink Enhanced Marquise Diamond Engagement Ring 

Kattan White Gold Classic Pink Enhanced Marquise Diamond Engagement Ring

Rose Gold Metal

Just like alternative stones have been growing in popularity, so have alternative metals – the most popular being rose gold. A considerable appeal rose gold brings is its beautiful pairing with other yellow gold fashioned pieces as well as complimenting every skin town. Along with choosing rose gold to be the metal for an engagement ring, many couples are choosing different metals for their wedding bands. Rather than only choosing one metal, you’ll start to see a white or yellow gold being paired with a rose gold ring.

S. Kashi Rose Gold Round Shaped Halo Engagement Ring

S. Kashi Rose Gold Round Shaped Halo Engagement Ring

If you haven’t noticed by now, owning an unconventional ring seems to be the running theme this year. Brides want their rings to be just as unique and one-of-a-kind as they are, and with these new trends, you can mix and match that goal shouldn’t be too hard to complete.

Give us a call or set up an appointment today with our expert staff to assist you in finding the perfect engagement ring in St. Louis!

The post Engagement Ring Trends for 2020 appeared first on Michael Herr Diamonds & Fine Jewelry.

Heavy Hoops

Hoops are a classic trend that will always be in style –  there are dozens of ways to dress them up or down, and they come in a variety of different designs. This season though, bulky statement earrings are taking over – heavy hoops being a perfect example. Eye-catching earrings are the ideal way not only to bring attention but accent your elegant face as well.

Jewels By Jacob E9900-1Y Earrings

Jewels By Jacob E9900-1Y Earrings

Coin Pendants

Much more than just some spare change, coin embellishments (whether they be on bracelets, earrings, or necklaces) have become one of the most popular and versatile pieces of the summer. You can wear theme solo as a statement piece, or layer them with other pieces. Certainly any way you choose to sport these antique-inspired pendants, you’ll be doing it in style.

Meira T Blue Sapphire Evil Eye Coin Diamond Necklace 

Meira T Blue Sapphire Evil Eye Coin Diamond Necklace

Floral Accents

Flowers of all shapes, sizes, and colors have been blooming all over the runway this year, and no one’s complaining. Probably because you can choose to sport a subtle and delicate flower ring or pair of earrings or go bold and beautiful with large statement pieces.

Meira T Rose Gold Petal Diamond Ring

Meira T Rose Gold Petal Diamond Ring

Suns, Moons & Stars

Suns, moons, and stars are sparkling in more than just the sky lately. Celestial jewelry has started to pop out of the woodwork this season, and it’s got everyone starry-eyed.

Meira T Mini Moon And Star Bezel Necklace 

Meira T Mini Moon And Star Bezel Necklace

Drop Earrings

Another bold statement earring that’s sweeping the fashion world is drop earrings. These sleek pieces of art bring the perfect amount of attention without looking too flashy.

Freida Rothman Rouge Linear Drop Earring

Freida Rothman Rouge Linear Drop Earring

Delicate Necklaces

Simple necklaces are the perfect staple accessory everyone needs in their collection. Delicate necklaces with light chains are timeless – you can wear them with multiple other chains, or alone to just add a touch of elegance and accessorize any outfit.

Meira T Pave Charm Necklace 

Meira T Pave Charm Necklace

Everyone has a unique type of style they call their own, and with these new summer trends, there are a million ways you can wear them – adding your personal flair.

The post 2019 Summer Jewelry Trends appeared first on Michael Herr Diamonds & Fine Jewelry.

The 4C’s of Diamond Quality

The 4C’s refers to the characteristics of the diamonds that are most important when making a diamond purchase. The GIA created the 4C’s to be used as the universal system of grading diamonds. Here is a breakdown of what each characteristic stands for.

Cut

Cut refers to the symmetry, proportion, polish, and brilliance of a stone. Often mistaken for merely its shape, but the cut and shape are actually very different. The cut has the highest impact on how your diamond will appear and the overall cost. It also helps to determine the overall quality of the diamond. The cut grade influences how well the stone will reflect light, meaning the higher, the more shine and sparkle your diamond can produce.

Color

When discussing a diamonds color, the lack of color is considered to be the highest quality. The lower the quality diamonds will have a noticeable pale-yellow tint to them. The color of a diamond is labeled by D, E, and F as colorless. While G, H, I, and J are considered close to colorless. The farther down the alphabet you go, the closer to color a diamond becomes, giving Z a noticeable yellow tint.

Carat

Another characteristic is the weight of the diamond in metric carats. The higher the carat, the heavier a diamond will be. People mainly associate the carat with how large the diamond will be. When deciding on carat size keep in mind the ring wearer’s ring size. A diamond above 1.5ct may look unproportionate on a size 6 ring. While a size 7 ring might make anything below 1.5ct look smaller than it actually is. However, always keep in mind the ring wearer’s personal style as well.

Clarity

Compared to the other C’s, the diamond clarity is most likely the least important of the components. It grades the absence of any inclusions or blemishes. A good cut could help to cover any blemishes that may appear. Some buyers even consider inclusions to be a diamond’s fingerprint, in that it makes yours unique to all other stones.

Picking out the diamond that will complete your engagement ring is a big decision. This doesn’t mean it has to be a stressful decision. At Michael Herr our professional staff will help walk you through the decision-making process of purchasing a diamond. It is our goal to help you make the most educated decision possible to ensure you love the engagement ring for a lifetime! If you are looking for additional resources on choosing an engagement ring we invite you to read our blog or to give us a call to set up your free engagement ring consultation.

The post Choosing the Perfect Engagement Ring Diamond appeared first on Michael Herr Diamonds & Fine Jewelry.

Settings

Before beginning your pursuit of the perfect wedding band, be aware of the different types of engagement ring settings. This will help you understand how your wedding band will sit next to your engagement ring. You should decide if you would like the two rings to fit together without space or if you prefer a space between them. Your jeweler can also suggest great styles based on your tastes and your engagement ring.

Metals

Next, you should decide on a metal for your wedding band. Most people prefer to match the metal of their wedding band to that of their engagement ring, but it isn’t necessary! Mixing and matching can be a great way to add some individuality to your ring combination.

Pairings

Your wedding band represents you and your partner’s unique and eternal love for each other. Thus, it should be whatever style you think is most beautiful. If you’re stuck on what wedding band to choose, though, certain styles match perfectly with specific engagement rings.

Curved Wedding Band

Pairs well with: Solitaire engagement rings

A curved wedding band frames and enhances the center diamond to make it appear bigger and brighter. To ensure a seamless fit between the engagement ring and wedding band, we recommend purchasing a band from your engagement ring designer or having one custom made.

Chevron Wedding Band

Pairs well with: Marquise and Pear cuts

A chevron wedding band is just as unique as your marquise and pear cut engagement ring. The pointed and versatile band will add a modern edge to your engagement ring.

Pavé Wedding Band

Pairs well with: Halo settings and three-stone engagement rings

For an extra pop of sparkle, a Pavé wedding band will perfectly complement engagement rings with many stones. Pavé styles ensure a classic look that will pair well with most types of rings if you’re feeling indecisive!

Twisted Wedding Band

Pairs well with: Oval cuts and plain bands

Some engagement rings have plain, ungarnished bands. While elegant on their own, a twisted wedding band can add visual detail to the plain band. When paired with an oval cut, the design showcases the gorgeous oval shape.

Channel-Set Wedding Band

Pairs well with: Simple engagement rings and channel settings

Similar to the twisted wedding band, channel-set wedding bands add some bling and depth to plain metal bands. For a continuous, blended look, a channel-set wedding band will pair perfectly with a channel-set engagement ring.

Flat Wedding Band

Pairs well with: Bezel settings

Utterly simple and elegant, an unembellished wedding band pairs beautifully with engagement rings with a bezel setting, as it can sit under the raised stone. This is perfect for a minimalistic look!

Baguette Wedding Band

Pairs well with: Emerald, princess, and Asscher cuts

The ultimate glam look! This band, completely encircled by gems, will add even more bling to your engagement ring. Choose a band consisting of baguettes that are the same shape as the primary stone on your engagement ring for the perfect pair.

Ring enhancer

Pairs well with: Everything!

If you really can’t decide on a wedding band, ring enhancers complement any and every engagement ring style! Its gaping style makes it appear as if you are wearing two wedding bands-one on each side of your ring. Ring enhancers can be found in all types of cuts and settings.

Again, your perfect wedding band depends on your unique style and story, so this guide is by no means final! We encourage you to be creative in picking your wedding band and engagement ring pair. Best wishes in all of your wedding planning!

The post How to Pick the Perfect Wedding Band for your Engagement Ring appeared first on Michael Herr Diamonds & Fine Jewelry.

The Gemstone

One of the first decisions you must make when looking at engagement rings is to go with a classic diamond stone or with a less traditional gemstone. The most common of the non-traditional gems is a sapphire, which comes in the anticipated blue, but also other color variations like pink and yellow. If you think your bride will want something more unique or has a strong personal style, there are other options for gemstones. Diamonds and sapphires are safe, classical choices. In general, sapphires are less expensive than diamonds, but both are very hard gemstones, which means they will stand up to everyday wear and tear.

Shapes

The shape refers to the way the diamond or gemstone is shaped when it is cut. The shape of the ring is where there are the most options and area for choice. There are 10 standard shapes for engagement rings.

Round

Round is the most common choice for engagement rings, with up to 75% of engagement rings having this cut. While it is a beautiful and classic option, this also means it is the most expensive.

Princess

This cut is the second most popular choice. Princess cut diamonds are cut into a square shape, which gives the ring many complex angles, allowing a ton of shine. Because of the cut, princess, as well as round cuts, give the most sparkle.

Cushion

The cushion cut is another relatively popular option for engagement rings. This style falls between a round and a square, giving an elegant, rectangular shape. The rounded corners give you the classic circular look with a more unique twist.

Asscher

If you love the princess cut, but it is a bit too dramatic for your taste, another square choice is the asscher cut. The thick cut and stepped sides give the stone a very dramatic, art deco feel. It is perfect for someone wanting a more modern, unique look.

Oval

Another modern choice that is on the rise is the oval cut. The oval is an alternative to the round if you’re looking for a more personalized choice. The cut appears larger than others and also is extremely flattering on the hand, as it gives a look of very slender fingers.

Emerald

The Emerald is not as popular of a choice today, but has been in the past. It doesn’t have the same shine or sparkle, but it is a great choice for someone wanting a modern, art deco look. The long facets down the sides and the flat top also give a stylish look.

Radiant

While the radiant cut is somewhat new and less popular, it gives a very sophisticated appearance. The radiant cut gives the sparkles and shine of a round-cut, while also having the shape of the emerald cut.

Heart, Pear, and Marquise

These three styles are less common, but are the most distinctive and unique. The marquise cut seen above is very dramatic, with a shape similar to the oval, but with striking pointed ends. The pear shape, also often referred to as the teardrop, is common for vintage stones. It can be shortened or elongated from its originally shape for a variety of styles. Lastly, there is the heart, which is exactly what it sounds like- the shape of a heart.

Choosing a Metal

Once you’ve chosen the gemstone and the shape of the ring, you also must decide what metal you want the actual ring to be. The main choices are platinum, white gold, yellow gold, and rose gold. While platinum and white gold are the most common options, it is important to think about which metals your bride-to-be wears the most or if they even care to wear the same metals. Platinum and white gold are visually very similar, but platinum is more expensive and more durable. White gold will start to show it’s true gold color over time, but can be re-dipped to return to it’s white color.

Custom or Antique

While most customers will buy an engagement ring from a  jewelry store collection, there are also other options for purchasing your ring. If your future spouse has a unique personal style or loves vintage items, look into buying an antique ring! These rings often have interesting meaning or historical backgrounds.

If you want a one-of-a-kind ring or are passionate about design, creating a custom ring is for you. We give our customers the ability to custom design every aspect of their engagement ring. Working directly with our jewelry designer, we will help you design the perfect engagement ring.

Overall, there are many aspects that go into choosing a ring. At the end of the day, just think about your future fiancée and their tastes. While there are thousands of options, we would be happy to help you find the perfect ring that fits their style and wishes flawlessly. Contact us to set up an appointment today!

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What is White Gold?

Many people choose white gold because it is durable, high quality, and won’t tarnish. They choose it over sterling silver for these reasons, but are upset when it seems to be changing colors. To make white gold stronger and give it its look, it is actually a combination of other metals, such as nickel, platinum, or palladium. To have the best white gold, you should get something that is between 10 and 18 karats.

When creating different colored gold, jewelers add more or less of different metals to give it a “color” (pink, green, white.) To get the ring to be white, jewelers usually plate it with a white metal called rhodium.

Why is it Turning Yellow?

Like any metal, even extremely high quality, white gold can change colors over time. Here are a few reasons why:

• Natural acids and chemicals in your skin: This cause is just unavoidable! The oils in your skin will cause the parts of jewelry touching your skin to turn yellow quicker, like the inside of rings.
• Salt water, chlorine, soaps, detergents, and lotions: All of these will start to wear off the rhodium plating.
• Rubbing: The more your white gold is being rubbed, the faster it will turn yellow, which is why rings turn yellow quickly.

How Do I Fix It?

Since the “yellowing” is just the rhodium plating wearing away, the simple way to fix it is to get the rhodium replaced. Take your white gold to the store you purchased it, and they will place a thin coat of rhodium over the gold, returning it to the shiny white color you had originally. If you want to take extra precautions, you can avoid letting your white gold get wet, soapy, or dirty when it’s easy. If you take it off before swimming and showering, the rhodium will fade slower.

To summarize, your white gold ring isn’t really “white gold.” Jewelers use rhodium and other metals to give it the appearance that it is white. So after natural wear and tear of about a year, the yellow tint of the gold will start to show. Just bring it in to your jeweler and they should get it looking good as new!

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