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You’ve heard the saying men are from Mars and women are from Venus. We all recognise that there are some serious differences between men and women in all walks of life, and this does not differ when purchasing diamond engagement rings.
For all you ladies out there wanting to understand what makes their man tick and how he is likely to approach the buying of the all important engagement rings, here are some interesting findings.
Martians will have a different perspective on buying diamond engagement rings to you lovely Venetians. When looking at a diamond men think about three main things:
• Will their choice of diamond make you happy?
• Will the diamond be a good investment?
• Will you be disappointed in their choice of diamond or at worst, will you completely reject it?
These three points can send your martian into a complete panic as they are usually entering completely unknown territory and have no idea where to start. You need to bear in mind that a man is driven by a fear of making mistakes. They have a deep pride and desire to please and surprise you that may stop them from asking you for advice on the style and size of diamond you would like to see glittering away on your left hand for the rest of your life. They would rather apply martian logic to this emotional decision.
So, venetians, you need to let you man know in subtle terms what you want on your finger.
At Marlows Certified Diamonds we can offer expert advice on helping you to make the best choice of engagement ring.
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Posted on: November 13th, 2009
Once you have announced your engagement, everyone will want to see your new, shiny diamond engagement ring. This is the moment most women cherish. If you want to ensure you get the engagement etiquette right there is a certain order to who should see the ring first.
It goes without saying that family and close friends should see the engagement rings first. If you were to show the ring to casual acquaintances and colleagues at work first, you may run the risk of family members hearing about your exciting news second hand. This could be very hurtful for them as they will expect to be the first to know.
You should also be sensitive to people around you. For example a woman going through a divorce will not appreciate having your brand new engagement rings thrust under her nose. Some people due to their own personal circumstance may not be pleased for you and may appear negative. Be respectful of their situations if you are aware of the circumstances. Don’t feel like you need to cover up your news though.
When you show off your diamond engagement rings, try to resist the temptation to be overly enthusiastic. Some people are protective of their own personal space so hold you hand up, palm facing inwards towards your chest. This allows you to show off the ring but gives the other person the option of reaching out for a closer look if they want to.
For a wide selection of engagement rings you can count on quality at Marlow Diamonds.
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Posted on: November 12th, 2009
These days, many couples prefer to step away from tradition when buying engagement rings and want to create their own unique design. There are many ways of doing this and you can commission jewellers to create your own diamond engagement rings using your own design. Another effective way to personalise the design is to add some wording or significant dates by engraving the ring.
However diamond engagement rings are something delicate, expensive and beautiful so you want to ensure that only a professional should engrave it. When deciding on the engraving itself, there are some guidelines to ensure you get it right:
• The wording should be simple and concise as you are working with a relatively small space. Long phraseswill appear far too cramped on a ring’s circumference
• Think about the wording you select. It should be timeless and classic. Using nicknames or jokes can be a bad move as they can go out of style. However if you do have a unique idea that means a great deal to you it can still be appropriate if engraved properly
• Always check the engraving wording before it is carried out for spelling and any errors
• Keep a record of the engraving, its style and font and keep the information securely with the ring certificate.
• Keep engravings clean by using a soft bristled brush. This will ensure they remain visible.
At Marlows Certified Diamonds, we can help you select your diamond engagement ring from a wide selection of rings.
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Posted on: November 11th, 2009
Diamond rings come in a variety of styles and variations, but are perhaps best categorised by their traditional use. At Marlows Certified Diamonds, we have a huge range of stunning diamond rings and jewellery. To help you sort your diamond solitaire ring from your diamond eternity ring, here is a quick overview of diamond rings out there:
Anniversary Rings
Diamond anniversary rings are given in the main to celebrate an important milestone such as a long-term marriage or the date of another important event, such as starting your family or launching your new business. The main designs for diamond anniversary rings are:
Three stone rings – the triple diamond ring has three matching diamonds which represent the past, present and future
Anniversary rings – the classic anniversary ring is designed with several diamonds lined across the band creating a simple and elegant effect
Eternity Rings – The eternity ring comes with a full circle of diamonds around the finger and makes a stunning and elaborate anniversary gift
The most iconic diamond rings designs are those of the engagement rings. Although many couples design unique rings, traditional settings hold romance and sentiment symbolising the attributes of a relationship.
Diamond Solitaire Rings – the single diamond represents the complexity of love beautifully
Bridal set – this is a combination engagement and wedding ring. They marry practicality and beauty effortlessly
Heirloom engagement rings – this is when a family heirloom is passed on to another generation
Diamond Promise rings – before a couple decides to get engaged a simple promise ring can represent their growing love
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Posted on: November 10th, 2009
As with the variety of designs for diamond engagement rings, diamond earrings are available in many styles. The classic look is that of the diamond stud, also known as diamond solitaire earrings. You can get diamond earrings in anything from one-quarter carat to above two carat, which is the total weight of both earrings and come in a variety of metals.
Other designs include:
• Figural dangle designs
• Round or oval full hoops with diamonds set around the circumference
• Partial hoops with diamonds set at the front edge of the earring
• Abstract designs including twists, teardrops, clusters or twirls
• Chandelier diamond earrings
The settings of diamond earrings can vary according to the style chosen. A channel setting may be appropriate if using a lot of metal. Prong settings are the most popular setting and keep the diamond secure. A pave setting can be used where an intricate design has been used.
The shape of the diamond can vary depending on the design, however the use of princess shapes and round shapes are most widely used. Elaborate designing can make use of different shapes, and baguette and emerald shapes can be seen as accents.
In addition to diamonds, many diamond earring styles use sapphires, emeralds and rubies to create a stunning accent feature or diamond accents may be used to complement colourful designs using semi-precious gems.
At Marlows Certified Diamonds, we have a wide selection of diamond earrings for you to choose from and can provide you with help and advice to make your choice an easy one.
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Posted on: November 9th, 2009
When you have the engagement ring of your dreams with a certified diamond to die for, it’s only natural that you want to get out there and show this beautiful shiny piece of jewellery off. It’s not just about your friends marvelling at the way your ring shimmers and the size of the diamonds, this ring is a symbol of your relationship and the love and commitment you and your partner have acknowledged towards each other. It is also the first announcement of your forthcoming wedding, so there are some guidelines you can follow to make sure everything goes smoothly.
The biggest faux pas is to show off engagement rings before a proposal of marriage has been made. No matter how excited you are, showing your engagement rings to a friend when window shopping shows bad taste and indicates that the sparkling diamond engagement ring means more to you than your relationship.
Once the announcement has been made, the ring is a glittering symbol of your intention to marry. However you may need to wait a little in certain circumstances if other significant events are taking place. You should never announce an engagement at another event like a wedding, birthday or baby shower. When this happens, you take away the focus and attention from the host. However a family gathering such as an annual reunion or a meal is a great venue for announcing your sparkling news.
Make a few preparations before showing the ring off:
• Get your nails manicured and have clean, well-moisturised hands as they are going to be under some serious scrutiny
• Don’t be too coy about showing off your ring. It’s your event, make the most of it!
• Keep a soft cloth with you to give the ring a quick polish, too
At Marlows Certified Diamonds we have a stunning range of diamond engagement rings and certified diamonds for you to choose from.
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Posted on: November 6th, 2009
Each couple choosing their engagement rings will have different sentiments and parts of their personality they would like to express. Engraving a message is a popular way of doing this and customising rings. When it comes to engraving, there are some tried and tested practices:
• You can choose to engrave the initials of you and your partner
• You can engrave the dates of the first kiss, date or the engagement day
• The line of a favourite poem, song or psalm relating to romance, love or marriage can be a beautiful touch
• Choosing a single word that encapsulates your feelings such as ‘yours’, ‘always’ or ‘forever’ is another idea
Other couples get more creative, choosing to remember a private joke or embarrassing moment. In fact, any memorable event that is unique to them and their relationship can be engraved.
There are restraints when engraving engagement rings. The band must be wide enough to accommodate the text so that it doesn’t appear too small or cramped. The material can also have an impact – gold and silver are good choices for engraving, as is platinum. However, harder metals like tungsten and titanium are not as good and the writing may appear illegible and faint.
Often, men’s engagement rings are engraved to give it some intimacy and personality without having to choose overt styles. A woman’s ring can also be engraved even if there are many style details on the outer ring. By engraving on the inside of the ring you can have the best of both worlds and keep your text as something personal and private.
For more ideas on how to individualise your engagement ring and to view a beautiful selection of rings, visit us at Marlows Certified Diamonds.
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Posted on: November 5th, 2009
When you get engaged, it’s not simply a case of choosing beautiful diamond engagement rings. There are still old traditions and etiquette that should be followed. Although these days we tend to bend the rules of old traditions when it comes to engagements and weddings, it’s still nice to respect these time-honoured rules of conduct.
Before technology hit, the announcement of an engagement followed a certain structure. It was the main way that friends and family were informed about a couple’s engagement and their future plans. Whilst there is still a form of announcement these days, it’s much more relaxed. Etiquette can provide a structure within which to plan your engagement and wedding. Others may find it stifling and want to allow their own individualism to shine through. Whatever you decide, make sure it works for you, your fiancé and your family.
If you do decide to adhere to engagement etiquette, there are some big advantages:
• It provides a tried and tested structure for your engagement planning
• It will ensure you have a smooth and hassle free engagement
• The old traditions are often romantic
• Traditional etiquette will avoid you forgetting certain events and responsibilities
When announcing your engagement, you may want to run a small column in the local paper to inform friends and acquaintances. It is the norm these days that the family has already been notified before this happens.
Other couples may choose to have an engagement party. The notification of the engagement happens as the invitation lands on the doormat.
For more engagement ideas and to view a wide selection of diamond engagement rings, contact Marlows Certified Diamonds today.
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Posted on: November 4th, 2009
Each anniversary year has a traditional gift that should be given. The longer a couple stays together, the more elaborate the gift becomes. Traditionally the 60th wedding anniversary relates to a diamond gift. However, when it comes to diamonds, don’t be dictated to by the calendars. No matter what year your marriage, diamond jewellery will always be a wonderful gift.
For those who perhaps couldn’t afford the diamond engagement rings of their dreams the first time around, now is a great excuse to splash out and get the ring you always wanted. No matter what the occasion – whether you’re celebrating the anniversary of your child’s birth or overcoming a difficult period in your life, diamonds are a great way to celebrate.
A diamond symbolises fidelity, love and commitment making their use in diamond engagement rings, wedding rings and eternity rings make perfect sense. On your 60th wedding anniversary, those sentiments will still hold a powerful meaning for you as a couple.
It is not only diamond rings that make great gifts. There are beautiful and high-quality pieces of jewellery thatmay suit your partner’s personality better than a ring.
Diamond earrings are popular as an anniversary present and can be bought in the same style as the original engagement ring. For style and glamour, choose chandelier earrings or hoops.
Diamond pendants are beautiful pieces of jewellery that can be accessorised to many outfits. There are a multitude of styles to fit all personalities.
For a wide range of diamond jewellery to choose from, contact our team at Marlows Certified Diamonds.
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Posted on: November 3rd, 2009
You would be mistaken if you thought that by wearing your engagement rings when you wash your hands you are adequately cleaning it. It can, in fact, be quite the opposite and detergents and soaps that are used to clean hands can in fact dull and cloud the stones and metal of the ring. To keep that all important piece of jewellery shining brightly you need to clean it properly every week.
The best way to do this is to apply a solution of mild liquid detergent and water. Use a soft bristled brush to remove dirt and dry with a lint-free soft cloth. You can also get soaking solutions from reputable jewellers which can be used for cleaning diamond engagement rings. Solutions containing ammonia are good when applied to yellow gold and will leave a bright finish. However, never apply it to fracture-filled diamonds as the solution can cloud or discolour the diamonds.
If your diamond engagement rings become extremely dirty it can be professionally cleaned. Steam and ultrasonic cleaners are used mainly by jewellers. Another way of brightening diamonds is boiling them in sulphuric acid, but this is an extreme measure!
If you find serious flaws within the stone such as fractures or cracks then make sure you alert the jeweller to them as they can take steps to ensure cleaning does not make matters worse.
Always store your engagement ring from damage and theft in a lockable place. Jewellery boxes are attractive and can be protective, but a burglar will look there first of all. For long-term storage keep your ring in a soft fabric and store in a padded bag.
For more expert guidance on how to care for your engagement ring or to view a beautiful selection of rings, contact us at Marlows Certified Diamonds.
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