Jewellery for Marriage

Engagement and wedding bands go platinum

The ring is a symbol of unending love, fidelity and commitment. The use of rings to denote one’s marital status dates as far back as Ancient Egypt. It is believed that the tradition of wearing engagement and wedding rings on the third finger of the left hand can also be attributed to Ancient Egypt, as Egyptians believed that the blood from this finger traveled directly towards the heart.
However, while the tradition of wearing rings has persevered in the Western world, it has not remained stagnant. Engagement and wedding rings have, like everything else in fashion, altered over the years.
Today, the most popular trend in wedding and engagement bands is platinum. These simple, beautiful rings have an understated brilliance that makes them truly timeless testaments of a couple’s love for each other. Platinum is such a popular metal because it has the purest white colour. While more expensive, it is also seen as a preferable alternative to white gold because white gold can oxidize and thus acquires a yellowish tinge. Platinum is also a very durable metal, being much harder than gold, making it less susceptible to wear over the years.
Tiffany & Co., probably the most famous jeweler in the United States, features truly stunning platinum engagement bands. In their Tiffany Setting ring, a simple white platinum band is set with a lustrous, spherical white diamond. Another modern style is their Lucida engagement ring, in which a platinum band is set with a bold square white diamond.
Simple, timeless rings similarly mark Verragio’s collection. Their EUR-8700 platinum wedding ring is set with three princess cut diamonds, creating a beautiful, European-inspired look. The wedding companion of the ring is a magnificent platinum band with three princess cut diamonds. A second pair of matching platinum rings features a platinum engagement ring with six round cut channel set diamonds, with the matching wedding band featuring nine round cut diamonds.
This simple style allows engaged and married couples to rest assured that their bands would not go out of style. Also, buy opting for less ornate rings, a new bride can easily wear both her engagement and wedding bands without any discomfort or friction between the rings.
For those individuals who want more colourful options, Sparkle N Dazzle, an American based company, features platinum iridium designer rings with a striking gold twist. These bands feature bars of gold metal as well as “threads” of gold that ornate simple, ultra-modern looking rings.
While designer rings may not be within everyone’s price range, those looking for a more upscale look can purchase the rings they want without skipping on the mortgage for their new house. For example, the astounding ring that Ben Affleck gave former fiancé Jennifer Lopez can be ordered online at www.emitations.com. The gorgeous sterling silver ring is set with a stunning - not to mention huge - pink crystal adorned with cubic zirconias.
When shopping for wedding bands, couples should chose a style that they will be content with. While platinum rings may be dominant, young couples should not feel that they must conform to this trend. Rings should be chosen above all upon the couple’s personal tastes and styles, and also upon what they feel suits them best. Above all, the rings should be a symbol of the couple’s unique love and not simply an icon of the current fashion.

Publication Date: 2004-08-29
Story Location: http://tandemnews.com/viewstory.php?storyid=4337