Blog, Conflict-free Diamonds, Diamond alternatives, Engagement Rings, Wedding
What You Should Know About Placeholder Rings
Aug
Few events are more exciting than the proposal of a lifetime together with the love of your life. You want everything to be perfect, from a breathtakingly romantic setting to a rush of exhilaration heightened with an element of surprise. The magic of presenting a custom engagement ring at the proposal must be balanced with selecting a ring that will be an enduring symbol of your love. One of the hottest trends in recent years is the concept of a placeholder ring. This ring provides the perfect balance between the magic of the moment with collaboration that values input from both parties. Explore the concept of the placeholder ring as you make plans for this momentous event.
The Benefits of a Placeholder Ring
Because a custom engagement ring is one of the most meaningful purchases you will make, its selection deserves time and research. There are numerous advantages for including a placeholder ring in your wedding plans:
- More and more couples are shopping together to select a ring set that reflects their union, tastes and dreams. No longer does one spouse feel the weight of making a significant decision alone that will last for decades.
- The placeholder ring overrides the practical considerations of shopping for and saving for a ring, allowing passion and commitment to rule the proposal.
- This choice also can allow a custom ring to be made that is a culmination of designing and creating together.
- A placeholder ring reduces the risks of traveling with highly expensive jewelry.
- The process of choosing an engagement ring together enriches the commitment to making joint decisions and determining financial priorities.
- The engagement does not have to be planned based on the cost or design of the ring.
- The proposing future spouse reduces the risk of disappointing their one and only, thus eliminating what can be a very awkward situation.
With all of the benefits of including a placeholder ring in the wedding plans, it is no wonder that the number of couples choosing this route increases every year.
Selecting the Ideal Placeholder Ring
Placeholder rings must never be seen as a less valuable substitute for a custom engagement ring. In contrast, this ring plays a vital role itself. It should be selected after careful consideration of all factors.
In selecting a perfect placeholder ring, consider these guidelines:
- Choose wisely. Take time to test several rings and note their distinctive features.
- Go simple. Select a ring that is neither too big nor too small. The ring should appear natural to all those who share the enthusiasm of seeing the ring for the first time.
- Experiment with elements of the design. Have fun with this season. You may choose a ring that reflects your shared interests and history or hints at the ring to come.
Once you have a clear picture of the placeholder ring’s role in your proposal and engagement ring selection, you are ready to determine the materials that will make up your selection.
Creating the Perfect Placeholder Composition
One of your primary considerations in selecting a placeholder ring is choosing the right metals and stones. You might save costly platinum and dazzling multi-carat diamonds for the engagement ring and enjoy a greater selection for the placeholder design.
Metals should be durable and attractive. Consider some of these excellent choices:
– Gold is durable and comes in a wide range of colors and broad price range, depending on purity and fineness. The term “karat” indicates the proportion of gold to alloys of other metals. Pure gold is measured in 24 karats. Any ring that is either 14, 18 or 24 karat gold is an appropriate basis for a placeholder ring.
– Sterling silver is also a fine choice of metal. Many individuals prefer silver over gold tones. This metal is usually less expensive and is equally durable.
– You may choose edgier, more modern looks, such as steel, titanium, tungsten carbide and other alternative metals.
What Stone Should You Choose?
Stones are also a vital part of the design. In choosing the right stone, consider the following:
- Small diamonds are an appropriate alternative for a larger diamond to come. Melee diamonds weigh less than ⅕ carat (ct)–this article outlines the specifics of what a melee diamond is. They are often cut into tiny, round diamonds and set around a center stone on the band. Cluster rings of melee diamonds maximize sparkle and give the illusion of a large, single diamond.
- Diamond simulants, such as cubic zirconia, moissanite or colorless sapphire, look like real diamonds but do not have the same chemical, physical and optical properties. These alternatives allow you to choose a larger stone with much of the same dazzle as a true diamond without breaking your budget.
Colored gemstones are an option. Morganite, topaz, amethyst, emeralds, rubies and pearls are all excellent choices. You may choose a birthstone or one that honors an event or favorite color. The options are endless.
Your engagement should be a time of passion and joy, not stress and worry. The placeholder ring allows you a creative way to focus on the moment while giving you and your future spouse the opportunity to plan and dream together. Strike the perfect balance of the season with a precious placeholder ring.