Engagement Rings

So okay, engagement rings. How do you pick one when there's so many different styles and cuts and carats and colours to consider? Of course its simple to just go to a jeweller's and try everything on, but why not take some time to know what's what in the sparkling world of rings and diamonds. Some cuts come with their own tale too. Here's a pretty simple summary on the different kinds of diamond cuts. Enjoy. 

Cushion Cut diamonds is an antique style of cut and were only found in antique and estate markets. They are making a come back today and you can tell that a diamond is cushion cut when the base of the diamond is flat and the top has a rectangular or square shape with rounded corners. 

Asscher cut diamonds, or commonly called Square Emerald Cut diamonds, have recently gained popularity.

Emerald Cut diamonds are quite similar to the Asscher cut one but these are more rectangular shaped. Also, inferior colours tend to show more on these rings so pay attention to clarity.

The Princess Cut diamond is also a favourite because it has a modified cut instead of the usual step cut (like the above rings which make the cut on the diamond look like steps).

This is the Radiant Cut diamond. Radiant Cut diamonds have a square or rectangular cut that combines the elegance of the Emerald Cut diamond with the brilliance of the round. 

The Oval Cut diamond are a favourite among women with small hands as the elongated round shape can make a woman's finger appear longer. 

The unique and sometimes rare Old Mine Cut diamond gets its name from the fascinating way the diamond reflects and refracts light, making its overall effect almost like a fantasy.

The Round Cut diamond are by far the most popular and this shape also compliments small hands. 

The Heart Cut diamond is a favourite among hopeless romantics and the skill of the cutter greatly determines the beauty of the stone. 

The Pear Cut diamond also known as the Tear Drop diamond also looks great on small hands. However, this particular shape is considered to be bad luck because it resembles a tear. Then again, it all depends on wearer of the ring. 

The Marquise Cut diamond was supposedly inspired by the smile of the Marquise de Pompadour and is often used as a solitaire. 

(images taken from Samuel David Jewellery)

So there you go. The complete Engagement Ring guide. Ha ha. For me personally, I like the Oval and Round Cut diamond rings, but with inset stones. Not in platinum or white gold though. Gold always looked better on my tan skin. Here's some I like. And oh yes, the rings will have some inscription on the inside too, like maybe my ring will have his name and his ring, my name, or something of that sort :)

This one is my ultimate favourite, but in gold of course =)

This one I like because of the Celtic accents.