Introduction
Are you ready to take the next step in your relationship and pop the question? Well, before you get down on one knee, it’s time to find the perfect engagement ring! At Shiels, we offer a stunning collection of diamonds, watches, gold jewellery and everything in between. But with so many options out there, how do you choose the right one? In this blog post, we’ll guide you through the history of engagement rings and provide tips on how to make an informed purchase. Plus, we’ve rounded up some of our favourite designs that are sure to make your partner say “yes”! So let’s dive in and discover what’s trending in 2021.
History of engagement rings
The tradition of presenting an engagement ring to a partner before marriage dates back centuries. In ancient Rome, men would give their betrothed a gold ring to signify the commitment they had made. The circle of the ring was seen as a symbol of eternity and never-ending love.
During medieval times, rings featuring precious stones became popular among wealthy couples. Diamonds were not yet widely available, so sapphires and rubies were often used instead. These rings were often engraved with romantic messages or designs.
It wasn’t until 1477 that diamonds began to be used in engagement rings when Archduke Maximilian of Austria gave Mary of Burgundy a diamond ring upon their engagement. This sparked a trend among royalty and nobility throughout Europe.
In the 19th century, diamonds became more affordable due to increased production from mines in South Africa. This led to the popularity of diamond engagement rings spreading beyond just the upper class.
Today, engagement rings continue to evolve with new trends emerging every year. From classic solitaires to unique designs featuring colored gemstones or alternative metals such as rose gold or platinum, there are endless options for couples looking for that perfect symbol of their love and commitment.
How to buy an engagement ring
Buying an engagement ring can be a daunting task, especially if you have never shopped for one before. Here are some tips to make the process smoother and ensure that you choose the perfect ring.
First, set your budget. Engagement rings come in all shapes and sizes, with varying price tags. Determine how much money you are willing to spend beforehand so that you don’t get overwhelmed by choices outside of your budget.
Next, consider the 4 Cs: clarity, cut, carat weight, and color. These factors determine the quality of a diamond or gemstone. Learn about each of these characteristics so that you can make an informed decision when choosing a stone.
Think about your partner’s style and preferences as well. Consider their favorite metal type (e.g., gold or platinum) and whether they prefer simple or ornate designs.
Don’t forget to ask for help from professionals at reputable jewelry stores who will provide guidance on selecting a ring within your budget range while also taking into account its value proposition.
Ultimately, buying an engagement ring is personal but following these steps will help guide you towards finding something special for your loved one!
The best engagement rings of 2021
The year 2021 has brought some stunning engagement ring trends, with unique cuts and designs that are sure to catch anyone’s eye. Here are some of the best engagement rings of 2021:
First on the list is the classic solitaire diamond ring. This timeless style remains a popular choice for engagements due to its simple elegance. It features a single diamond set in either platinum or gold band.
Next up is the vintage-inspired ring which made a comeback this year. These rings typically have intricate details such as scrollwork, milgrain edges, and filigree patterns that add a touch of romance and nostalgia to any proposal.
Another popular trend in 2021 is colored gemstones instead of traditional diamonds. Sapphires, rubies, emeralds, morganites have all become more prevalent in modern engagement rings giving couples endless options for creativity.
Oval-shaped diamonds were another significant trend this year offering an elongated appearance making fingers appear longer than round shaped diamond settings would provide.
Finally cushion-cut diamonds also became trendy again in 2021 adding more depth and dimensionality than other styles providing faceting pattern alternatives from standard round-shaped stones.
These different variations remain stylish while allowing couples to express their individuality when choosing an engagement ring together thereby leading them down their own path towards forever after!
Conclusion
To sum it up, Shiels offers an exquisite collection of engagement rings, diamonds, watches and gold jewellery that cater to different tastes and preferences. From classic solitaires to trendy halo designs, there is a ring for every style and budget.
When buying an engagement ring, it’s important to consider the 4Cs: carat weight, cut quality, colour grade and clarity grade. These factors affect the price and appearance of the diamond. Additionally, pay attention to the setting style and metal type as they can enhance or detract from the beauty of the stone.
Shiels has been serving customers with high-quality jewellery since its establishment in 1945. With over 75 years of experience in crafting exceptional pieces that capture life’s special moments like engagements or weddings – you can trust them when making your next jewellery purchase!