Product pricing and earnings updated as of August 28, 2007
There's much more to an engagement ring than the four C's. A ring for a lifetime should have just as much attitude and character as the woman wearing it; it should be as unique as she is. Whether you are planning the perfect proposal or looking to drop your man a hint, here are some tips to consider as you start your search for that perfect ring. We have suggestions for every personality type. With so many choices and styles, it's easy to feel overwhelmed when selecting the perfect engagement ring but here are some things to consider as you shop:
The Fashionista
For the girl whose finger is always on the pulse of what's hot, there is plenty to choose from. Some of our favorites include new designs are old; antique styling is back in vogue. Large, colored center stones are all the rage in Hollywood, thanks to celebrities like J. Lo and her infamous and huge Ben Affleck era pink diamond. Heidi Klum wears a ring fit for a supermodel featuring a canary diamond. Nicole Richie's birthstone, a pink sapphire, often takes center stage on her fourth finger. Instead of a white diamond, consider one in color or a beautiful tanzanite or pink tourmaline. Read more about colored gemstones
The Sentimental Bride
Why shouldn't one of the most significant gifts from your one and only be filled with history and sentiment? Do a little research and find out if there is a diamond or a ring that is in either family that currently doesn't have a finger to call home. Whether you decide to have the diamond(s) placed in a new setting or keep them in the original setting, there's no doubt you'll be touched by the enhanced meaning. If there isn't anything in your family that you can make your own, consider designing a ring that resembles a family heirloom. Or, better yet, design a piece with some significance to the two of you. Courtney Cox Arquette's ring has two round cut diamonds stacked on top of each other, making the shape of hubby David's lucky number 8.
The Contemporary Bride
While the “it” ring of the moment is anything antique, many still prefer their bling to have a modern flair. There are many great settings to achieve a modern look, no matter what shape your diamond may be. Anything that has a sleek effect will fit the bill, like tension settings (meaning that there are no prongs holding the diamond in place) or bezel settings. A partial-bezel setting would be perfect for the girl who loves a clean contemporary look. While light on detail, it is heavy on impact and can grab an eye from across the room. Shop rings now
The Budget Bride
Just because you have a smaller budget, the glimmer on your finger doesn't have to be small! You can get a beautiful three stone ring for well under $2,000. It is a classic style, won't break the bank, and looks larger than the total carat weight may suggest. If three smaller stones isn't your style, you might want to opt for a simple solitaire setting in white gold, rather than platinum. It really is difficult to tell the difference, they just wear differently over time. Find an affordable style to grow with your marriage. You can increase the number or carat size of the diamonds throughout your marriage, keeping the original as the center piece. Shop rings now
The Eclectic Bride
We all know her, the girl who doesn't like much jewelry. For her, just keep it simple.There is a ring out there for her. Some eclectic brides are opting for a detailed wedding band in lieu of an engagement ring/wedding band combo. Choose a modern setting with antique flair, featuring channel set diamonds and antique milgrain detailing. Rings don't have to be a solid band, so think outside the box for an eclectic girl. Shop rings now
The Traditional Bride
The classic solitaire remains the standard for engagement rings. There are some stunning new cuts that give this timeless treasure a new flair. In addition to the traditional round, pear, emerald, and oval cuts that one would typically see in a traditional solitaire, look for Assher cuts stones, rare Cushion cuts, and Princess cut stones for more brilliance and sparkle and just a little more pizazz than you may find with a typical round cut stone. Shop rings now
Make it Personal
Add your own personal touch by engraving a message on the inside of the band. When Tom Hanks proposed to wife, Rita Wilson, she excitedly shouted her answer, “You bet!” Hanks took his cue from his bride and had “You bet!” engraved inside both of their wedding bands. Add your own special sentiment inside the band to make it even more special and meaningful. You can find something you both will love when you keep in mind that the ring should be a representation of the woman wearing it. If you are unsure, ask her for some hints to help you but surprise her with the timing and place as you pop the question! The moral of the story: Make it personal, from the heart, and full of sentiment that will last a lifetime.
uTANGO merchants mentioned in this article include:
About uTANGO
uTANGO is a new kind of reward program specifically for singles, engaged couples, and newlyweds (married less than 3 years). The program is FREE and allows you to earn Points toward Annual Cash Rewards up to $800 and Life-Stage Cash Rewards up to $1 million for your future.* It's easy - just enroll, then make all of your online purchases through any of nearly 300 uTANGO merchants and watch the Points add up!
To accelerate your Point earnings, get the uTANGO LifeStage Rewards VISA® Credit Card! Card holders will earn an extra two (2) Points per dollar spent online or offline at over 300 program merchants and one (1) Point per dollar spent anywhere Visa is accepted.
Receive 10,000 Bonus Points…and a $10 Gift Card from one of these merchants; Home Depot, Target or Starbucks when you spend $100 with your uTANGO Visa card! Click here to apply for the uTANGO LifeStage Rewards Visa Card
