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Refined Details for a Graceful Beauty

Refined Details for a Graceful Beauty

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NK16964WE-W

NK16964WE-W, from L’Amour Collection, is fit for a princess. An engagement ring with refined details, NK16964WE-W, is perfect for a woman with great poise. A gracefully tapered shank, sparkling with diamonds leads to two striking pear shaped side stones which rest on either side of a halo wrapped center mounting. Let he know you appreciate her delicate grace and propose with an engagement ring which will mirror all of those ethereal qualities you so appreciate in her.

Once she’s ecstatically agreed to spend the rest of her life with you the wedding band which completes this enchanting bridal set will serve as an everlasting reminder of your love. Designed by Natalie K to nestle close to the halo and shank of her engagement ring this wedding band will accentuate the curvature and sparkle of the diamond halo.

Begin your fairy tale with an engagement ring and seal you’re happily ever after with a wedding band from Natalie K.

Choose a Setting That’s Right For Your Ring

Choose a Setting That’s Right For Your Ring

We’ve gone over the Four C’s and discussed shape, you’ve selected your dream diamond, but now you have to figure out where and how it will be set. There are many different setting styles, each offering different advantages and aesthetic qualities. Remember, if you’re opting for something other than a prong-set solitaire the combinations can be endless. To get you started here’s quick glossary.

NK12110WE-W
NK12110WE-W is an example of a prong set center and a channel set band.

Prong: The most popular type of engagement ring settings is by far the prong setting. It consists of 3 to six claws which hold on firmly to the crown and girdle of your diamond. The advantage of such a setting, with such thin wires, is that it allows for the most light to enter the diamond amplifying its sparkle. You will want to consider however whether you want a low or high prong set. Higher will add more emphasis to your center diamond while low is more convenient for day to day activities.

Channel: The channel setting holds a row of diamonds between two channels of metal. The diamonds do not touch one another and have every edge protected against wear and tear. This is a popular choice for wedding bands and can add a striking and modern touch to the shank of an engagement ring.

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NK25814-18W has five bezel set diamonds seen in profile.

Bezel: A bezel set diamond is a metal rim that usually surrounds a diamond completely. While it is one of the most secure settings, protecting the girdle of your diamond from niches and chips, it doesn’t allow as much light to enter and be reflected by the diamond. Not the ideal setting for a center stone, but can create a lovely affect with detail stones or side stones.

Pave: Tiny diamonds are set closely together and have the appearance of a paved street. The diamonds are set within tiny holes and held in place by beads at the level of the surface of the ring. It is a challenging look to accomplish because of the patience necessary to set so numerous and such small stones but offers a dazzling blanket sparkle affect.

Flush: The diamond is set within a hole in the band of the ring, the metal is then hammered around the perimeter to keep it gripped securely and create a completely smooth surface. Elegant for men’s wedding bands.

NK25537WE-W_profile
Tension set side stones add a little edge to a classic.

Tension: A tension setting creates the incredible illusion that the diamond is floating. The diamond is held on two sides by pressure. While this is not the most secure setting and doesn’t offer much in the way of protection for the diamond if your engagement ring will become a special occasion piece it offers a wow factor.

What Diamond Shape is Right for You?

What Diamond Shape is Right for You?

There are so many shapes to choose from when shopping for the right engagement ring center. Don’t be restrained by not knowing your options. Shape, not to be confused with cut (which you can read more about here), is the final form your diamond will be. Here’s a short guide on basic diamond shapes and options.

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Source: Gemstone Buzz

 

  • Round: The Brilliant Round is by far the most popular diamond shape. Versatility puts it at the top of the list. It can look sleek and modern in a minimal setting or chic and elegant on a more intricate design. It is also flattering across the board.
  • Oval: An elongated version of the brilliant round, the oval shape is perfect for girls with shorter fingers. It looks great with side stones and makes a statement as a solitaire.
  • Marquise: The marquise is an elongated oval shape with pointed ends. This is a dramatic diamond; its unique shape is opulent and aptly named after the Marquise de Pompadour. Because of its shape the diamond may actually appear larger than it is and is perfect for wide fingers.
  • Pear: The pear shaped diamond is a cross between the marquise and oval. Resembling a glistening teardrop this diamond is great for average or long hand and can elongate short fingers.
  • Heart: A whimsical choice, although not often use for engagement rings, despite it being the universal symbol of love. A challenging shape to create, the skill of the diamond cutter is tantamount to forming this shape and giving it ultimate sparkle. Like the pear it can be more elongated at the point or wider, so it can be flattering for varying hands depending on the ultimate shape.
  • Princess: The princess second in popularity only to the round offering almost as much brilliance and sparkle. It’s also fairly new to the diamond game, having been introduced in the send half of the 20th century, this ring is great in modern setting but has the same classic effect of other square shaped diamonds in traditional mounting. Universally flattering to all hand shapes.
  • Emerald: A classic rectangular shape with clipped corners, while not as popular for diamonds as other shapes still evokes old world charm. Most flattering for slender elongated fingers.
  • Radiant: This shape has the brilliance of a round but the shape of an emerald with more faucets than a princess. Yet not one of the most popular shapes despite its versatility in flattering many hand shapes.
  • Asscher: Created in 1902, and popularized in the 1920s and 30s this square shape with deep cut clipped corners have a dramatic art deco feel with antique appeal. But it is suggested that when selecting this shape clarity be of the highest grade since it can make imperfections more obvious.
  • Cushion: Otherwise known as a pillow shape has a vintage feel. The soft and rounded rectangular shape is flattering on most hands.

With square cuts of course it is important to compare proportions and orientations of the diamond selected.

There are many opinions on which diamond shape best matches your hand and finger shape as well as personality, but ultimately the most important opinion is your own, fall in love with your diamond.

For more on shape and personality: The Knot and Ebay Shopping Guide

 

A Sparkling Rock for the Rock Star Girl in Your Life

A Sparkling Rock for the Rock Star Girl in Your Life

NK28378-18W_three_qrtr
NK28378-18W

You met each other at an obscure venue and it was love at first site. He charmed you, and for weeks you couldn’t get his smile off of your mind. You spent every spare minute you had together, which led to a passionate romance. Now that you know he’s the one for you, it’s time to celebrate with a unique engagement ring.

From the Belle Collection by Natalie K comes a breathtaking and timeless piece. This engagement ring is for the rock star girl who loves glamour and one of a kind jewelry. The tapered shank is covered in diamonds, beautifully mimicking the large center stone. A diamond halo surrounds the centerpiece that is highlighted by two side stones. Even the side profile is diamond encrusted, giving off high profile shine at every angle.

Your unique relationship deserves to be recognized with a special engagement ring. Let Natalie K provide you with a piece that is sure to take your breath away.