Some jewellery becomes family heirlooms – handed down from mother to daughter and sometimes given to a son to give to his own bride on their wedding day. Some jewellery is bought just for fun and because it gives you a lift while it completes your look. Engagement and wedding rings can be the most important jewellery you will ever own.
Often you can tell the era of a vintage ring from the moment you lay eyes on it: the stylized lines of an Art Deco design, the traditional statement pieces of the 1950s and the whimsical, modern look of the 1960s.
Which metal?
While the price of gold has increased dramatically over the past few years, the price hasn’t put a damper on the desire for rings to be set in gold – whether yellow or white. But it might make a bride who previously thought platinum was out of reach to take a look at that other precious white metal.
“We’re not seeing any shift away from white metals at this time,” says Trish Spillane of Hearts on Fire. “Gold and platinum are now more aligned in terms of price, so more people will probably choose platinum because of the comparable price point.”
Playing with halos and shanks is a way to customize jewellery. This versatility in design explains why the trend for halos and designed shanks looks as if it’s here to stay – a trend that references the past but puts its own, fresh take on a ring that is uniquely yours.
Current trends
In years to come people will be able to identify a ring from the second decade of the 21st Century by its spectacular halos and shanks.
“The hottest trends in engagement rings include framed designs with spectacular side treatments,” says Roxane Barry, spokeswoman for Zale Corporation. “The halo of diamonds that surround the centre stone creates a larger diamond look and the addition of side diamonds are the perfect complement to create sparkle and timeless beauty.”
Halos and shanks
Rings with halos feature a border of diamonds around a larger centre stone and have the effect of framing the main stone, making it stand out and look bigger.
The shank (the sides of the band) can also be set with diamonds, creating a sparkly effect and allowing you to customize and individualize your ring to make it a unique representation that is personal.
“The trend to having a halo around your diamond won’t let up anytime soon,” says Trish Spillane of Hearts on Fire. “Women love the vintage look it creates and fi nd the bigger look irresistible.”
Individualized looks
Blue sapphires are a classic symbol of everlasting love. Just ask Catherine, Duchess of Cambridge, who has been the fortunate recipient of the late Princess Diana’s engagement ring – that famous sapphire surrounded by a halo of diamonds.
Top bridal designer Vera Wang has incorporated the precious stone into her collection for Zales. The centre diamonds are further emphasized by being framed by sapphires incorporated into the halo or shank to create a truly striking look.
Jewellery by Classic Creations
