Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best way to select a
diamond?
Start by educating yourself in the four Cs of diamonds:
cut, clarity, color and carat. Next consider the shape of the diamond. Generally
speaking there are seven principal diamond shapes: round, marquise, emerald, princess,
pear, oval and heart. Finally, cut and cutting style work in harmony to create
a diamond's brilliance. Cutting style is categorized into three basic types: step-cut,
brilliant-cut and mixed-cut. The difference between these three types is the number
of facets in each cut. A step cut has rows of facets that resemble the steps of
a staircase and are usually four-sided and elongated. The brilliant-cut, the most
being round, has 58 facets and is admired for its fire and sparkle. The mixed
cut combines both Step- and Brilliant-cut facets.
How much should I spend ?
Diamonds can be found in a range of prices—and you're certain to find one
that suits your taste and what you plan to spend. If you are about to buy a diamond
engagement ring, you may want to consider spending the commonly accepted guideline
of two months’ salary. Also check out a few stores or hop on the Internet
and surf a few sites. You'll get a lot of info in a short time.
What is a diamond certification
and why is it important?
Diamond certificates, more accurately known as diamond grading reports, are commonly
provided with the purchase of a significant piece of diamond jewelry such as a
diamond engagement ring. These reports are prepared by independent, certified
gemologists from laboratories around the world and can help calculate the specific
characteristics of your diamonds (color, cut, clarity and carat weight, for example).
Please note that a grading report does not include an appraisal or any kind of
statement of monetary worth of the diamond. However, it does assure you of the
quality and authenticity of your diamond. As most consumers are not experts, a
certificate is an objective comparison. In addition, some insurance may require
a grading report if you are planning to insure the diamond.
Should I consider jewelry insurance?
If you own valuable pieces of diamond jewelry, like your diamond engagement ring,
you may want to consider insuring them for added protection. The Wedding Ring
Shop offers jewelry insurance through Jewelers Mutual Insurance Company. For a
nominal fee, you can protect your jewelry against loss, theft, and damage. The
cost of the insurance is based on the jewelry's retail replacement value and the
state you live in. For more information and an application, please talk to one
of our in-store consultants or contact us online.
How do I clean the ring?
Dip ring in a prepared cleaning solution which you can obtain from your jeweler
and clean your diamond with the brush provided. Rinse thoroughly in warm water
and wipe with a soft towel. A mild soap and water solution used with a soft brush
is also effective for most home jewelry care. Always check with your jeweler before
using commercial cleaning products. Even mild chemicals in some products can damage
certain gems. For polishing, do not use paper towels as they can scratch the metal.
There are polishing cloths designed for use with certain metals.
Is there anything that can damage
a diamond ring?
Even though diamonds are the hardest substance known to man, a diamond will scratch
another diamond. So it is important that jewelry not be stored together since
it can be scratched or tangled. Cosmetics, soap and skin oil will cloud a gem's
brilliance. Diamonds especially have an affinity for grease; even oily dishwater
can dull its beauty. Prolonged exposure to chlorine can discolor your gold and
even damage the alloy in your gold jewelry.
Also, diamond jewelry should never be worn while doing routine chores. Household
cleaners can damage gems and some precious metals. Points are vulnerable to chipping
and even everyday activity can loosen a setting. This is why it’s important
to visit a professional jeweler every six months to have your diamond’s mountings
and settings checked. If you have purchased a ring from The Wedding Ring Shop,
be rest assured that we will professionally
clean and inspect your diamond any time you visit.
How do I pick a ring she will like?
The following steps will help prepare you to make a wise choice when purchasing
the most enduring gift of love:
- Pay attention when she admires someone else’s ring
- Notice which advertisements or photographs of rings she admires
- Ask her friends and family what she likes
- Take time to notice the other jewelry she wears—whether she prefers
a simple design or a more intricate piece
- Note metal choice as well—white gold, yellow gold or platinum
- Browse with her at a dependable jeweler
- Learn about the 4Cs so that you can make an educated
purchase
- Surprise her with the engagement ring that goes beyond all her expectations
For more information, visit our Romance 101 section.
How do I find out her ring size
without asking?
Finding her ring size without her knowing is not the mystery it may appear. Here
are some very easy solutions to getting her ring size while keeping your gift
a surprise. Keep in mind that a woman’s ring size will vary for each finger,
so the below suggestions are meant only as a directional tool for you.
- If she’s in the habit of leaving any of her rings lying about, make an
impression of one. A bar of soap, a piece of clay or even a piece of bread can
be used to take a reliable measurement.
- Trace the inside of the ring on a piece of paper which the jeweler can then
use to determine an accurate measurement.
- Put on one of her rings on your own fingers. Push it down as far as it will
go and then mark the spot with a pen. Then just show the marking to your jeweler
who can measure it for you.
- Ask a friend. It's not uncommon for one friend to ask another for their ring
size as a matter of curiosity.
- If you can bring one of her rings to the jeweler without arousing any suspicion,
this will probably be the safest course of action. Offer to take her jewelry to
be cleaned and have the jeweler measure her ring at the same time.
How did the tradition of giving
a diamond engagement ring begin?
The diamond acquired its unique status as the ultimate gift of love as far back
as the fifteenth century. The tradition of giving a diamond engagement ring as
a promise for marriage began in 1477 with Archduke Maximillian of Austria and
Mary of Burgundy. At that time, diamonds were looked upon as talismans, or charms,
that could enhance the love of a husband for his wife.
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