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How to Find a Ring That Suits Your Hand Shape

March 21, 2014 Jennifer

Choosing an engagement ring can be a fun and exciting experience but it can also be a little daunting. We’re here to take the guess work out of it and make sure you make a happy confident choice! We have weekly posts that help you explore all your design options but this week is especially tailored to help you find a ring that’s both beautiful AND flattering! Read these guidelines and learn how to find a ring that suits your hand shape.

Short Fingers

With short fingers the objective is to elongate the line of the hand. Avoid any band that might be too thick or a center that’s very square or round. The best choices to make for short fingers are longer line diamond centers. Marquise, pear shaped or oval shaped centers can be amazing in terms of creating a longer more graceful finger line.

FM30840-18W_front — FM30840-18W, a narrower shank and long marquise diamond elongates the finger.

Long Fingers

Long and slender fingers tend to be the most accommodating when it comes to engagement ring styles, being able to carry many different styles well. That said, it’s important to keep in mind that while you can wear bold styles it doesn’t necessarily mean you have to. Choose a style that complements your personal style. A good note to take is that princess cuts and rounds do look particularly flattering.

NK28085-18W_three_qrtr — NK28085-18W, with a princess cut center and split shank accentuates a long finger well.

Wide/Large Fingers

The important thing here is to avoid rings which could appear too dainty. A very thin band or demure center mounting might make the fingers appear even wider than they are. The best thing to try would be a split shank band, by breaking up the shank and widening the band of the ring it can help break up the finger itself. OR a larger stone, surrounded by a cluster or diamonds like a halo can also help to balance out the width.

nk17707_w — NK17707-W, a wide band with a split shank helps to break up wider fingers.

Large Knuckles

The lovely thing about rings is that it draws the attention away from the knuckles. Choosing a style with a more prominent or ornate style can help guide the eye to the engagement ring itself. If you choose a ring with a thicker, heavier, shank it will by comparison help diminish the appearance of your knuckles.

Small Hands/Large Hands

Proportion is key in any selection you make. Think small hands smaller rings, larger hands larger rings. With smaller hands it’s best to keep the details and elements minor. With larger hands a bolder or chunkier look is appropriate and won’t run the risk of being too overwhelming.

NK25875_NK26251 — NK25875-18W perfect for larger hands. NK26251-18W ideal for petite hands.

Choose the Shank That’s Right for Your Engagement Ring

March 14, 2014 Jennifer

There’s nothing more personal than the diamond ring you choose to celebrate your life-long love. While we place a lot of focus on the diamond center the engagement ring’s shank is what supports your diamond center and makes it stand out. There are a million and one options to choose from but here are just three shanks for you to get the sense which diamond setting is right for yours.

We chose three similar styled Natalie K for Forevermark™ engagement rings to make the distinction even clearer. The top (A.) is a channel set shank, the middle one (B.) is a prong set shank and the bottom (C.) is a sleek diamond less shank. All three present very different benefits and stylistic nuances.

The first shank, FM26961-18W, features a row of channel set diamonds. A channel setting refers to a row of diamond laid between two strips of metal. This setting reveals what an uninterrupted strand of glimmering precious stone. The beauty of this setting comes from its seamlessness. Viewed from every angle the diamonds are always laid flush against the gold. It’s a great option for someone who loves the glimmer of a diamond band but the convenience of sleek band.

The engagement ring’s shank is what supports your diamond center and makes it stand out!

The second shank, glimmering on FM26945-18W, is a prong set diamond band. A prong setting refers to a diamond bound by 3 or more claws that wrap around a diamond in order to secure it to a piece of jewelry. While this may not be the best set band for someone with a job that is taxing on the hands it is perfect for someone who appreciates diamonds that glimmer to their fullest. Unlike the channel setting this setting allows more light to filter and sparkle through your diamonds.

The final ring, FM26930-18w is a sleek and slick polished gold shank. This band features no diamonds but highlights the center mounting. Perfect for someone who prefers the classic look of a solitaire ring. It perfectly plays up a modern or traditional aesthetic.

Which of these three styles would you choose?

How To Buy a Natalie K Engagement Ring

February 21, 2014 Jennifer

Purchasing an engagement ring is not only a financial investment but an emotional one as well. We know a lot of time and consideration go into finding the person you want to spend the rest of your life with, the same should be true of your ring search. It’s a personal and intimate choice you, and perhaps your partner want to make together. We know just how important it is to find an engagement ring that means a lifetime of love to you.

We know just how important it is to find an engagement ring that means a lifetime of love to you.

But with so many choices and styles it can be a little overwhelming. Don’t fret, that’s why we’re here. We want you to be brilliantly happy when you find the one, by helping to make your ring purchase special and painless. While we have a website that gives detailed information on many of our styles and options we are not a retailer. Our designer brand is carried across the U.S. and the world at trusted and expert jewelry stores which are open and waiting for you.

If you’ve browsed our site, scrolled through our Facebook or Instagram feed maybe you’ve already found a ring you love! Your first step is to take note of the style number, which looks a lot like this: NK12345-18W. If the style number isn’t listed with your image feel free to email us with the image at info@nataliek.com or give us a call at 1.800.688.6101 and we can help. But keep in mind we do not provide prices.

For prices or estimates you’ll need to find the store nearest you. Our site offers a store locator to make that step easier, simply type in your city, state or zip code and click submit! Pictures are one thing but finding the ring of your dreams and seeing it sparkle in your hand is incomparable. That’s only one of the many benefits of walking into a store yourself.

Online dealers tend to imply that brick and mortar stores present some kind of challenge. As if you’re only allowed to go in as an expert with an exact idea of what to purchase, but that’s not the case. We’re not all experts, we don’t expect for anyone to enter knowing exactly what they want. Take the time to browse and take advantage of a jeweler’s expertise. Ask questions, and let your imagination run wild, because being in touch with a jewelry store also allows you to customize your ring. From black gold to rose gold, diamonds to sapphires, just go in with an open mind and open heart.

Don’t forget they’re there to help you. At the moment of purchase and in the future. Having them nearby is a great way to check in from time to time for cleanings, fittings and even repairs if necessary.

Take the time and you’ll find the ring you’ve been looking for.

Five Tips for How to Plan the Perfect Proposal!

October 16, 2013 Jennifer

The lights dim, the violins play, suddenly you’re down on one knee and with your heart in your throat and tears of joy in her eyes, you utter the words she’d been waiting for. “Will you marry me?”

Women dream of the moment they get to choke out, between joyful sobs and uncontrollable giggles the word “YES! Of course I’ll marry you.” And we know it can be a bit scary, but the proposal is all about happiness and union. Don’t fret, no matter how you ask, it will always be perfect. And to help, just a little, here are a few tips gathered from the experts.

Ask Dad (or Mom): We know it seems a little antiquated, and probably a bit terrifying (if you’re not on the best terms) but nowadays it’s much more a gesture than a requirement. You’re not asking for permission, but asking them to join in on this very special moment. You’re taking them into account and already bridging the family gap. And while you’re special girl may not have put this on your radar 83% of women would like their dad to be asked beforehand, and 25% would love to have their mothers included too. If you need a little more reassurance check out theartofmanliness.com
Find the Perfect Ring: While there is a vast percentage of couples who collaborate on finding the perfect ring, there is a bit of magic in opening a ring box she’s never seen to reveal the ring of her dreams you chose yourself. It can be a bit daunting, here’s a few fail-safe tips. Play James Bond and snag one of her rings to size her up, sneak a peek at her Pinterest page and scope out her style and if all else fails have her friends do a little detective work on your behalf! (We’ve also got some helpful posts on the 4Cs here)
Make it a Surprise! We cannot stress this enough! The *gasp* moment requires a little romance and a lot of shock and awe! While marriage might be in the cards and she might even be expecting a proposal make sure the moment of is out of left field. 88% of women say that the ‘surprise factor’ is majorly important.
Catch it on Film! Or digital recording device, or Polaroid, get it carved in stone!!! It doesn’t matter how you do it, just be sure there is someone or something there to witness and capture the special moment. Her expression will be priceless and except for her look on your wedding day nothing will compare. We suggest hiring a professional photographer, who can discreetly and candidly capture the moment. They’ll know what they’re doing and know the best angles. Better yet, you can have an impromptu engagement shoot!
Don’t Forget to Ask the Question: Though the ring, fancy dinner, nice suit and wobbly knees are a dead giveaway don’t forget to actually pop the big question. 68% of women say that the actual question “Will you marry me?” is essential and another 29% say it’s not a deal breaker but they’d prefer to hear it.

For some inspiration check out The Knot’s top 50 proposal idea s, How He Asked’s expert advice tab, and The Art of Manliness!

What Diamond Shape is Right for You?

April 30, 2013 Jennifer

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.

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 20^th 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