How to Choose Your Bridal Set
The long, sparkling tradition of giving engagement rings dates back to ancient Rome, where women were presented with simple rings, often crafted from iron to symbolize the strength of their commitment to their betrothed. The custom of giving a diamond engagement ring can be traced to 1477, when Archduke Maximilian of Austria presented Mary of Burgundy with a diamond ring, sparking a trend among European aristocracy. This custom was furthered in the 20th century by De Beers’ iconic marketing campaign, "A Diamond is Forever," which secured the diamond engagement ring as a symbol of eternal love and commitment.
At King’s Jewelry, we’ve been celebrating love for over 100 years. Find the perfect bridal jewelry set in our expansive collection today.
Find The Perfect Engagement Ring
Selecting the perfect engagement ring is a big decision, often guided by a combination of tradition, personal style and budget. Here are some key considerations:
The 4 Cs: Understanding the four Cs—Cut, Color, Clarity and Carat—is crucial. The cut affects the diamond’s brilliance, the color grade ranges from colorless to yellow, clarity measures internal flaws and carat denotes the diamond’s weight.
Metal Type: The choice of metal for your ring setting can have a significant effect on the ring’s overall appearance. Popular options include platinum, known for its durability and hypoallergenic properties; white gold, which offers a similar look to platinum at a lower cost; yellow gold, which has a rich color and classic appeal; and rose gold, which offers a romantic, vintage vibe.
Setting Style: The setting not only secures the diamond but also enhances its beauty. Prong settings allow maximum light exposure for brilliance, bezel settings offer a sleek and secure option and halo settings add extra sparkle by surrounding the center stone with smaller diamonds.
Personal Style: The ring should reflect the wearer’s personality and lifestyle. A classic solitaire might suit someone with timeless tastes, while a more intricate vintage-inspired design could appeal to someone who loves antique jewelry. Explore a large selection so you can find what appeals to you.
Budget: Set a realistic budget and stick to it. This will narrow down your options and ensure that you’re comfortable with the amount you end up spending. Remember, the most expensive ring is not necessarily the best; the sentiment and thought behind the ring are what truly matter.
The History of Wedding Bands
Wedding bands have a rich history too, dating back to ancient Egypt, where couples exchanged rings made from reeds and hemp as symbols of eternity. The circular shape represented eternal love and commitment. Around the 12th century, the exchange of wedding bands became a church-sanctioned part of the marriage ceremony. The modern practice of exchanging wedding bands became widespread in the 20th century, symbolizing mutual commitment and the unending circle of love.
Pick the Right Wedding Band
Selecting wedding bands that complement your engagement ring and suit your lifestyle is just as important as choosing the engagement ring itself. Here are some key considerations:
Metal Matching: For a cohesive look, many couples choose wedding bands that match the metal of the engagement ring. This creates a consistent, elegant appearance. However, mixed metals are increasingly popular, so don’t be afraid to intentionally mix your metal types.
Design Harmony: The wedding band should complement the engagement ring. If the engagement ring is intricate, a simpler band can balance the look, whereas a plain solitaire can be paired with a more elaborate band.
Comfort: Because wedding bands are worn daily, maximum comfort is crucial. Ensure the band fits well and doesn’t have any sharp edges or protrusions that could cause discomfort.
Lifestyle Considerations: If you lead an active lifestyle or work with your hands, consider a more durable metal like platinum; and for diamond wedding bands, select a style with low-set diamonds and a protective setting, such as a channel setting.
Personalization: Many couples choose to engrave their wedding bands with special messages, dates or initials, adding a personal touch to their rings.
Stone Accents: Some wedding bands feature small diamonds or gemstones that add sparkle and complement the engagement ring. Consider adding meaningful stones, such as your partner’s birthstone, to add personal sentiment; or a stone that symbolizes something special to you. For instance, sapphire represents fidelity. Our team at King’s Jewelry can check your jewelry, to ensure that any additional stones are securely set to prevent loss.
Visit King’s Jewelry for Your Bridal Sets
Choosing the perfect bridal jewelry set is a significant decision, and one that will last a lifetime. At King’s Jewelry, we understand the importance of this momentous occasion and are dedicated to helping you find the perfect engagement ring and wedding bands that reflect your unique love story. Our extensive collection of bridal sets features a variety of styles, metals and designs to suit every taste and budget. Our jewelry experts are here to assist you in making an informed decision, ensuring that your bridal jewelry is as special and enduring as your commitment to each other.
Related Article: Shining Through Time: The Evolution of Engagement Ring Styles