Diamonds and Engagement Rings

Diamonds have been considered an exceptionally valuable commodity that has been mined and traded for many centuries. They first found commercial notoriety in India during the 4th century BC, the diamond capital moved from India to Brazil during the 1700s and then to South Africa where the infamous Kimberley Mine was found in 1866. Through the years, the diamond industry has experienced many evolutionary and revolutionary changes in the way we use diamonds and in more recent years there has been innovations in how they are being created; from the mine to the laboratory. In the mid-1950s scientists started growing man-made diamonds but were only able to create them as tiny industrial grade crystals that weighed under a carat. It wasn’t until the 1990s that larger diamonds were created suitable for jewelry. As technology continues to reign supreme, nearly everything we do in today’s world is becoming more technologically synchronized which has both positive and negative outcomes. But when it comes to the creation of diamonds there is a great debate on which is better, man-made diamonds or mined diamonds. While both mined and man-made diamonds have the same chemical composition and physical characteristics, how they are made, the impacts they have on the world and their potential inherent value tend to differ. Mined diamonds are created deep beneath the Earth’s surface and take billions of years to form while lab grown diamonds are grown atom-by-atom in a carbon rich, controlled environment that takes about 6-12 weeks to be created. This makes it feasible for you to have few impurities than mined diamonds and makes it possible for you give specifications on the cut, color, clarity, and weight that you want. However, the over indulgence of perfection can take away from the rarity that mined diamonds have, with each diamond found in nature being incomparable to the next. As people becoming more conscious of the ecological status of our planet, man made diamonds have made major steps towards becoming more accepted and sought after due to the non-invasive impacts they have on Earth’s natural resources unlike mined diamonds who contribute to substantial amounts of pollution to our water and air quality. With the mined diamond industry, occasionally being linked to socially and environmentally unethical and immoral practices, it has made it easier for man-made diamonds to base a platform on being more ecologically sufficient. However, organizations like ‘Diamonds Do Good’ have set out to make it their sole mission to educate the world on the positive socio-economic impacts diamonds have on our planet and the people in it. The organization has created innumerable opportunities for communities around the globe like making college financial assistance, reliable clean water sources and maternal education programs possible for people across Africa, India, and Mainland China. Developed by The Diamond Empowerment Fund the Diamonds Do Good initiative is supported by jewelers and diamonds companies around the world, including renowned companies like DeBeers. Of all the attributes that weigh on the scale of pro and con, the discussion of futuristic value is of great importance. The man made diamond industry is constantly upgrading their technology, making it easier to produce larger quantities of stones that are more and more affordable. As this evolution progresses, the future resale value of man made diamonds will be significantly suppressed as a result. This however could place a greater nostalgia on mined diamonds and their value especially investment grade diamonds. With the composition of both man made and mined diamonds being the same it all comes down to your personal preference and what is most important to you. Before making the decision be sure to fully research and educate yourself on the upside and pitfalls of both types of diamonds. The greatest thing to keep in mind is that diamonds, no matter where they are sourced from, not only are they the hardest substance known to man but also are the universal symbol of everlasting love.

Trends of popular engagement rings fluctuate over the years as new styles emerge. Here are six hot engagement trends among the modern-day bride to consider when deciding which style best suits you. Split Shank Engagement rings with split shanks give a fashion-forward and architectural feel to an otherwise traditional solitaire or pavé setting. Most split shank engagement rings begin touching, moving towards a larger space where they meet the diamond, as seen below. You can also opt for the inverse, with the gap beginning larger on the east and west points, narrowing and meeting together at the diamond for a very unique look. Either way, the dividing of the shank gives the illusion of two bands, which also means more sparkle! Featured Ring: Tacori HT2548RD Petite Crescent Split Shank Round Bloom Engagement Setting East-West Settings We’ve been talking a lot about this hot trend—east-west engagement rings are a unique addition to the bridal market. They showcase the diamond being horizontal in orientation, rather than the more traditional vertical setting. This placement of the diamond not only elongates the finger, but also creates the illusion of a larger stone. An east-west setting is the perfect choice for the modern bride who wants something unique and elegant. Geometric Silhouettes Adding a geometric shaped halo around your center round or oval diamond is a fashion forward and modern twist on the traditional halo setting. Designers like Karl Lagerfeld have a variety of geometric profiles, such as hexagons, asymmetrical points, and knife edge details. These unique halo silhouettes are appealing as they often make the center diamond appear larger. Featured Ring: Karl Lagerfeld Kollection #2 Geometric Halo Knife Edge Diamond Engagement Ring Setting Rose Gold There is no doubt of the rise in popularity of rose gold engagement rings, and it is likely to be a trend that stays around for a while. Rose gold eludes a feel of romanticism and uniqueness for someone looking for a more vintage-inspired engagement ring. The blush undertones compliment various cool or warm skin tones and proves to be more versatile than gold or silver. It is also surprisingly more durable than two of its alternatives, yellow gold and white gold, making it a great choice for an engagement ring you will be wearing regularly. However, it is not quite as durable as platinum. Tacori offers a ‘Pretty in Pink’ collection of various rose gold styled engagement rings. For those who don’t want to fully commit to a rose gold ring but still love the hue, Verragio rings often feature a rose gold accent on the interior of the ring as a hidden surprise. Featured Ring: Tacori Pretty In Pink HT2550OV Engagement Setting Baguettes Baguette diamond accents framing a center diamond lend to a unique art deco feel, appealing to brides looking for something different yet classic. There is also an increasing popularity of baguettes being used as the solitaire diamond in an east to west placement (horizontal rather than vertical), appealing to more minimalistic brides. Baguette diamonds offer endless opportunities to make an engagement ring unique and look stunning when paired with other shapes. Featured Ring: Ritani Tapered Baguette Diamond Engagement Mounting Hidden Details Intricate details visible from the side view of the ring are increasingly popular and will sparkle from all angles. Tacori has perfected this aspect of engagement rings, with a devotion to deliver beauty from every angle. Verragio engagement rings also showcase intricate details with scrolling along the inside for a very romantic and feminine feel. Featured Ring: Tacori HT2522CU Blooming Beauties Engagement Ring Setting Elongating Shapes Pear, marquise, and oval shaped diamonds are making a huge comeback as a chic alternative to the ever-popular round. The flattering silhouettes elongate the finger and often make the carat size appear bigger than it actually is. Not only do they appear larger in a carat to carat comparison with a round diamond, but they also typically cost less. Combining the traditional, rounded edges with a sharp point on pear and marquise diamonds lend to its more modern appeal. Featured Ring: White Gold Halo Pear Engagement Mounting

Every year, jewelers from around the world gather in Las Vegas for the JCK jewelry show, showcasing the hottest and most sought-after trends among the industry. The hot trend this year dominating the show are east-west engagement rings, going against bridal traditions as we know it. East - West engagement rings showcase the diamond being horizontal in orientation, rather than vertical. Oval, emerald, marquise - you name it! The possibilities are endless allowing you to truly customize the look, reflecting your individuality. What we love about this hot engagement ring trend: Elongates the finger Creates the illusion of a larger stone It’s unique - not everyone is wearing one Ability to stack with other rings Directionally Chic Handcrafted in California, Tacori just released a stunning set of directionally chic styles as an addition to their ‘Simply Tacori’ collection that we are going crazy over. The modern collection features oval, emerald, marquise, and pear shaped diamonds of horizontal orientation on various bands from rose gold to platinum. The addition of these directionally chic styles add contemporary versatility to the beautiful Tacori girl look. The Pirouette Love this look but afraid you won’t a few years down the road? Designer A. Jaffe showcased their knack for innovation and craftsmanship, bringing to life the pirouette ring. With the ability to twist the diamond from east - west back to traditional vertical, the flexibility is in your hands allowing your creative side to flourish. Bottom line: We are simply loving this fresh, bold trend and know we will be seeing a lot more of it!

So you’ve found the one you want to spend the rest of your life with. Planning how to pop the question can be nerve-wracking and overwhelming. It’s a moment you will cherish for the rest of your lives. So how do you make it personal? What if he or she sees it coming? We’ve curated a list of top romantic ideas to inspire you, while still being unique to your relationship. For the Hopeless Romantic If your soon to be fiancé always has been that classic, hopeless romantic…try not to over think it. What will really take her breath away are the little details—think numerous tea light candles, a private setting, rose petals, nice music, and champagne. Plan a night on the town that you both are excited to get a little dressed up for. After dinner, lead her to a private area of the restaurant or even back at home. Enlist the help of one or two of your closest friends to set everything up to your liking while you are at dinner. When she sees the thought you put into making this moment special, she will be gleaming. For the One with Wanderlust If you both share that endless desire to travel the world, begin your next trip abroad with a proposal in a memorable location. Whether it be in a gondola in Venice, in front of a Turkish mosque, or in the ever-romantic city of Paris—choose a landmark beautiful and meaningful. Ensure you can capture the moment and your surroundings by hiring a photographer, since it’s unlikely you will have a friend to help you out in a foreign country. After popping the question, you can spend the rest of your trip celebrating together and make an engagement holiday out of it. Years later, you can visit and remember how special the city is to your relationship. For the One Who Loves the Sea Beach proposals have always been a classic option for a reason. The serene ocean with waves brushing the shoreline makes for the perfect setting. Have a few of your friends help you with this one, writing into the sand in large letters “Marry Me?”, with rose petals scattered around. Have one of her friends be your accomplice and lead her to the beach where she will find you waiting. For the Wine Enthusiast A vineyard can make a beautiful setting for a proposal —whether it be local or a weekend trip just a few hours away. If she enjoys a glass of robust Valpolicella or Pinot Noir, she is sure to be gleaming all day. Set up a private tour of the vineyard letting the owner or manager know your plans. Pop the question when walking together through the endless rows of the vines around sunset. For the One Passionate About History Let your surroundings set your proposal apart and choose a building gleaming with history. Whether it be the steps to an old bank, a historical landmark, or an empty building in your city with wood beam ceiling details and rustic concrete floors—this will be your foundation. From there, add soft details such as sheer white draped fabrics, candles, and maybe even some keepsake photos representing your journey together. Then on what seems to be an ordinary date night, suggest you go for a walk just around the corner to this special location. Have a friend help you by making sure everything is set up for your arrival. It is bound to be a meaningful and private setting. For the One who Loves the Holiday Season If your soon to be fiancé loves the holidays, this would be the perfect opportunity to pop the question. It’s likely that your family will be in town so you can celebrate afterwards with everyone. An intimate way to propose is during the night you plan to decorate your Christmas tree. Place an ornament asking her to marry you inside a box, but among your other ornaments ahead of time. That night while the tree lights are on and soft music is playing, pour two glasses of warming red wines to set the tone. When she reaches for the next ornament, she will open the box and be completely speechless when you get down on one knee and ask her to marry you. For the One Passionate About Their City. A city skyline can make a stunning as well as meaningful backdrop for engagement photos. You’ll want to hire a photographer to sneak some photos of this setting. Do a little research of restaurants just outside of the center of your city—with rooftop access. You may need to request special access for the occasion, which can be arranged. The best moment to bring her up there will be just before the sun sets, otherwise it will be difficult to capture both of you as well as the skyline. For the Book Lover Perhaps she has always had a passion for novels and poetry. Make her favorite novel the centerfold of your proposal. Buy a copy of the novel and cut out a hole in the center, creating a nest for the ring. You may choose to give it to her when the moment feels right, whether it be a planned time or spontaneous. For the Active One Incorporate activities you and your beloved enjoy doing together, such as rock climbing, hiking, or even bungee jumping. This will allow you to catch them off guard as well since it is something you enjoy doing regularly. You may choose to create a more intimate setting by incorporating soft lighting, candles, or rose petals around. For the Animal Lover Enlist the help of man’s best friend—your beloved pet and a huge part of your family. Create or buy a lightweight sign to loosely drape around your dog’s collar saying something along the lines of “Will you marry my dad?”. Your soon to be fiance will surely be excited that your furry friend is a part of the special moment. For the One Who Loves Getting Lost at Sea If you both have a passion for boating, proposing at sea would be a great opportunity. Whether it is yours or if you charter a boat for the evening, it’s bound to be romantic and personal time away from the hustle and bustle. Plan to bring some chilled champagne and light snacks on board as well…and don’t forget the champagne glasses. You’ll be eager to celebrate! For the One Who Cherishes Family Plan a scavenger hunt taking her down memory lane ending with a proposal in a beautiful setting. At each location she will be led to, have her closest family and friends holding the next clue. The locations could be anything meaningful—from where you had your first date, your favorite restaurant, and so on. In the end, lead her to a romantic location where you are waiting ready to propose, with all her friends and family from along the way there to celebrate. Now that you have some inspiration to build off of regarding romantic proposal ideas, you are ready to get the engagement ring that will be the focal point when you pop the question. In addition to an engagement ring, don't forget, you will need wedding bands and bridal party gifts, Mikimoto Pearl Stud Earrings for the ladies and a William Henry Money Clip for the guys for example. This is sure to make lasting memories while sharing your magical day with your friends and family.

What kind of bridal and fashion jewelry do women want? Tacori! And when do they want it? All the time, but especially during J.R. Dunn Jewelers’ annual Tacori Weekend! This year, visit the J.R. Dunn Jewelers showroom at 4210 N. Federal Highway in Lighthouse Point, FL on November 5-6, 2016 to find the engagement ring of her dreams, and his-and-her wedding bands that complement each other as beautifully as the two of you do! You’ll be able to meet a Tacori specialist and see more than 500 engagement rings in 18kt white gold, rose gold and platinum from a dozen collections. Additionally, a complete line of fashion jewelry in sterling silver and gold with diamonds and assorted colorful gemstones may provide delicious food for thought for gifts for your maid- or matron-of-honor and bridesmaids. As if an exquisitely detailed ring with The Tacori Touch – the designer’s signature crescent; an interlocking half-moon arc – weren’t enough, your purchases will earn you an American Express gift card! Here’s the run-down on the spending requirements: Purchase Amount American Express Gift Card Up to $1,000 $ 50 $1,000-$2,499 $ 100 $2,500-$5,000 $ 500 Over $5,000 $1,000 By the way, guys get a free Tacori Sport Band with their purchase of a Tacori wedding band; it’s the designer’s way of saying “Thank You.” Be sure to check out the GIA-certified diamonds J.R. Dunn Jewelers has in the diamond vault, too. There’s a large selection of loose diamonds in all shapes and sizes, cut, color and clarity to complete your Tacori engagement ring setting. Your walk among the aisles of J.R. Dunn Jewelers during Tacori Weekend will help you walk down the aisle in style!

Where do you go when you want to find ideas for “the” engagement ring? The same place you are going every day – your favorite social pages! You’ll find posts from like-minded people and the top names in bridal jewelry. Check out the hottest engagement rings on real people in colorful photographs. You can shop the looks, designer collections, and request information or connect with a J.R. Dunn Engagement Ring Specialist in real time. Spread the word, sharing your favorite(s), on Twitter, Pinterest, Facebook, Google+ and Tumblr. You can also enter for the chance to win a $3,000 engagement ring setting of your choice. See all the styles up for consideration from the world’s top jewelry designers, like Tacori, Verragio, Simon G., Scott Kay, Forevermark, Gabriel & Co. and Ritani. From halo to pave, solitaire, side stone and three-stone, they’re all represented! All shapes of diamonds, too, whether you want a round, princess, cushion, oval, emerald, Asscher, heart, marquise, pear or radiant center stone. Of course, J.R. Dunn Jewelers’ award-winning in-house designer offers one-of-a-kind bridal designs; you can see his sensational variations on the theme, too! For all you guys about to get down on bended knee, and women who want to give a helpful hint to the boyfriend, the only hashtag you need to know is #MyRingspiration; it’s totally socially acceptable!

Over the course of time, your diamond can be dulled by exposure to everyday substances. To prevent this, don’t allow the buildup to become too severe. When cleaning your diamond ring, avoid chemicals or harmful solutions, as they can damage the metals and weaken the structure of your ring. Use warm, soapy water with liquid soap. For a more intense clean, find a soft toothbrush, or a child’s toothbrush, and gently work around the stone and setting. Don’t be too rough with the cleaning, and dry with a lint-free cloth. For special occasions you can have your diamond ring professionally cleaned for that added glint. While diamonds are the hardest of gemstones, they are not indestructible and still require care. Engagement and wedding rings are most vulnerable to being lost or damaged because of their daily use. Though the diamond is lauded as being hardy, this can make people less careful with their diamond rings even when they are often the pieces of jewelry with the most sentimental value and are, therefore, the most precious. The upkeep of your diamond ring will help ensure its value and integrity are preserved. Keep your diamond ring shiny with regular cleaning. Over time, your diamond ring will be bumped, smacked and hit in your everyday movements. Though your ring should be able to withstand most of those sorts of experiences, you should schedule regular checkups with your jeweler. Prongs are especially vulnerable, and when they become loose, you are in danger of losing your stone. At your checkup, the jeweler can ascertain the strength of the setting and tighten it up for better security when necessary. This is a highly advised preventative measure to keep your diamond ring intact. If you keep it clean, secure and insured, your ring will sparkle for a lifetime and last for generations. Like anything else that gets worn or used daily, diamond rings can be lost, damaged, or stolen. Don’t wait for that to happen before you realize how valuable jewelry insurance can be. Buying insurance for your diamond ring can be easy and straightforward. Don’t assume that your general insurance covers your ring adequately. Look into your policy and seriously consider a separate policy for your precious jewelry. Accidents happen, but they don’t need to set you back financially. Caring for your diamond ring requires attention and thoughtfulness. If you keep it clean, secure, and insured, your ring will sparkle for a lifetime and last for generations beyond.

1) You are invited to his family events. You're included in traditional family holidays and celebrations. 2) You are part of his “team”. He says that he can’t picture his life without you. 3) He starts suggesting sharing more than just the bedroom. Willingness to open a joint bank account or get a pet are indications he wants to secure your bond. 4) He talks about children. He makes jokes about what your kids will be like. While this may seem to be a comment made in jest, you know he’s preoccupied with thoughts of your starting a family together. 5) He points out his happily-married friends. He is watching his married friends and feeling like the odd man out, which makes him more comfortable with the idea of taking the leap to marriage himself. >>BROWSE ENGAGEMENT RINGS<<<

Are you looking for an engagement ring that dares to be different and stands out in a crowd? Blue sapphire is a natural choice! As a center stone or accent. The most famous engagement ring in the world, which now graces the finger of the Duchess of Cambridge, showcases the protective gem. They are royal-looking and romantic. And no stranger to proposals! The stone has been popular since the Victorian Era. They are durable enough to wear every day, too. With a Moh’s scale rating of 9, they follow right behind the diamond. The most important quality for a sapphire is its color. You can expect to find some inclusions. Take a look at multiple stones side-by-side. They should be lively, with an even reflection of light. Take a look at Tacori engagement rings with blue sapphires that pay tribute to the September birthstone. The custom designs are based on styles from various collections. If you can dream it, Tacori can build it; the perfect ring for you, per your specifications! Petite Crescent HT2549RD A round center sapphire gets a white diamond halo and ribbon twist band. Call it dainty. Call it feminine. Classic Crescent 2578RP The iconic half-moon designed that started it all is featured in this ring with a pop of color from sapphire side stones. The look is timeless. Intricate. Grand. Simply Tacori 2525PR A frame of white diamond baguettes and round brilliant diamonds frame a Princess shaped sapphire center stone. Strings of round white diamonds adorn the split-shank band. The piece glitters with glamour. Dantela 2620RDLGP An emerald-shaped sapphire center stone is the center of attention in this ring with round white diamond halo and band. It is a modern classic. Blooming Beauties HT2520CU A ring of blue sapphires surround a cushion-shaped white diamond center stone. The traditional gems dot the diamond band. You – and everyone who sees the ring – will be impressed. Royal T HT2613EC This ring is very much like the Royal T model shown to the left (HT2613CU10X8), but with an emerald-shaped sapphire center stone! It clearly shows that whatever shaped stone you select, the large, exquisitely detailed ring will be radiant. Royal T HT2613CU10X8 An oval-shaped center sapphire is surrounded by a round white diamond halo. The white diamond band features graduated with a single sensational row on each side. You will see beauty from every angle! Most Tacori engagement settings are available in platinum or 18kt white, yellow or rose gold. The Royal T collection comes in platinum, yellow or rose gold only. The stones in the engagement mountings are G color and VS clarity. Can you think of a better way to be a bride with something blue? Maybe it is your favorite color. Or one of you was born in September. The stone is always works well in bridal jewelry. Sapphires are a symbol of faithfulness and loyalty. As well as truth. So go ahead; express yourself! Flaunt a rich blue bauble. Your sapphire engagement ring will sparkle and stun!

You’ve probably heard the old cliché, “the best things come in small packages.” This is oh so true when talking about Tacori Petite Crescent engagement rings! Three things in particular are hallmarks of the collection: 1) The crescent detailing is soft and small. This is a refinement of the Classic Crescent collection. Smaller interlocking half-moon arcs mean more of them can be used. 2) Petite Crescent rings have a diamond -intense look. French-cut pave-set diamonds are used on the ceiling. They need less metal. A heavy diamond look means more sparkle! 3) The design is dainty and delicate. Your comfort is ensured. The collection is wonderful to look at and wonderful to wear! The look is fresh and beautiful. Perfect for today’s Tacori girls. She is bold. Confident. Passionate. And she embraces The West Coast Dream that is the Tacori Touch. It’s all about an effortless attitude. A relaxed lifestyle. A touch of glamour. Put the focus on your center diamond with a Petite Crescent setting. The classic look is hand carved in California. In white gold, yellow gold, rose gold or platinum. You will delight in the romantic details of these heirlooms-in-the-making. What a way to express yourself!

When you buy a big diamond, you get big benefits! A large stone shows off a gem’s natural beauty. They are more precious. And make a statement. Take a look at these six rings. They are remarkable! They are radiant! They are ready to adorn your finger! * Steal her heart with this six carat heart-shaped ring. The center stone is framed in a diamond halo. The heart motif continues to side stones in the split shank band. * This 5.04 carat ring features a diamond halo around the oval center stone. Half-moon diamonds with halo give the setting an elegant balance. * The odds will be stacked in your favor when you present this 4.08 round brilliant with halo! The diamond band has the look of a few stackable rings. * This cushion-cut 8.54 diamond ring is the stuff sweet dreams are made of! The pillow-like center stone is surrounded by a diamond halo and rests on a split shank diamond band. *Fairy tales can come true with this 8.97 carat marquise shaped diamond. The gem is surrounded by a double halo. All rest in a platinum setting. * Big, bold and brilliant are three words that describe this ring that features a 20.38 carat round with halo. It is perfect for the lady who lives life large!

The new must-have ring is one with two diamond stones from Forevermark. One gem represents love and one friendship. Some of the rings feature stones cradled in a setting with significance: the bypass mounting. Each end of the ring swirls around the diamond setting, meeting above and below, rather than in the center. And coils around your finger. Then there are the models that feature two halo-set gems that appear to orbit around each other. What a brilliant idea, and rings! The pieces are distinctive, thanks to its differences. When two sides of a band do not form a straight line, people will talk! Words like beauty. Classic in style, two-stone diamond jewelry is suitable for gift or engagement. The two-stone ring has it all: an appealing look and a design with meaning. Can you think of a better way to show passion and partnership in a single piece of jewelry? Felix Adler said, “Love is the expansion of two natures in such fashion that each include the other, each is enriched by the other.” This is shown in beautiful fashion by Forevermark! One cannot help but have an emotional connection to a two-stone ring. This is one design that will not be passed over this holiday season! Classic two-stone diamond jewelry is here! It is the in thing now and into the future. You will find rings in all tones of precious metal from top designers. Find them here today.