HISTORY OF HOOP EARRINGS

Do you like hoop earrings? Learn about the history of hoop earrings and get a new perspective on this beloved and powerful style.

Although hoop earrings are one of the lightest pieces of jewelry you can wear, they carry the weight of the whole world. As one of the oldest ornaments in human history, earrings are of great significance in different cultures.

The hoop earrings, once used by kings and queens to symbolize power and social status, are now considered symbols of unity and strength. Ring earrings stand out, just like the strong women who wear them.

Read on to explore the history of earrings and learn how they have evolved over the years.

HISTORY OF HOOP EARRINGS

Hoops have been around almost as long as humans have. From ancient Egyptians to American style icons, both men and women have sported the famous look.

ORIGIN OF HOOP EARRINGS

Hoop earrings were worn by ancient Greeks, Romans, Asians, and Egyptians. What began as a way to identify tribal members turned into symbols of religion and power within societies.

The first hoop earrings originated around 2500 B.C.E. in Nubia, an African civilization located in what we now call Sudan. The ear jewelry was created in gold, silver, and bronze. In 1000 B.C.E., tapered hoop earrings spread to other cultures around the world.

In 1500 B.C.E., Egyptian men and women both flaunted gorgeous hoops on their ears. They believed earrings enhanced a person's beauty and were made using twisted gold wire and beads. Royal Egyptians wore heavy and thick gold hoops to symbolize their wealth and power.

Ancient Roman and Greek art show that these cultures embraced hoop earrings as well. The jewelry was predominately worn by women, but men with high social status sometimes sported hoop earrings as well. In ancient Persia, carvings depict soldiers wearing a single hoop earring in each ear.

FAST FORWARD TO THE 1600S

Europe saw a decline in ear jewelry through the 1600s. This was largely due to elaborate hairstyles, headpieces, high collared clothing that covered the ears.

During the 1700s Century, small, pear-shaped pearl earrings were more popular throughout European cultures than hoops. This is also when men began cutting back on their earring usage and would instead only sport the jewelry in one ear.

During the 1820s, light hoop earrings were more popular than heavy-weight pendant jewelry. Fashion trends during this time replicated historical styles with heavy inspiration from Roman cultures that led to greater popularity in large, gold hoops.

HOOP EARRINGS IN THE 20TH CENTURY

In the United States in the 1900s, there was a mix of negativity around hoop earrings. Many people saw them as symbolizing Native American and Latino culture. Many American women stopped wearing earrings altogether so they would not be categorized as an immigrant.

The stigma surrounding ear piercings in the United States was short-lived. By 1910, simpler hairstyles, lower cut outfits, and updos that flaunted the ears instead of hiding them. This led to a rebirth of earring popularity among American women.

The early 1920s introduced exotic styles that brought the hoop earring back into the spotlight in America thanks to Spanish and Egyptian influences. The discovery of King Tutankhamen's tomb in 1922 rebirthed the notion of gold hoop earrings symbolizing power and high social status.

The updos and short hairstyles of the 1920s and 30s made earrings an essential finishing touch to outfits. Shoulders were being exposed with low-cut blouses, and a pair of gorgeous hoops matched perfectly. American entertainer Josephine Baker loved wearing gold hoops on stage.

Hoop earrings were the signature look of the 1960s as they matched with the clean, straight-hair trend of the decade. During the 1970s, hoops in silver, chrome, kinetic, and tribal designs were very popular. Cher and Diana Ross were notorious for flaunting large hoops with intricate designs.

The 1980s brought new jewelry designs with jagged shapes and drops. This pushed hoop earrings to the back burner temporarily, although the design never went out of style.

Hoops continued to be popular among women throughout the 1990s and early 2000s thanks to hip hop culture and Latino influence.

THE MEANING BEHIND THE HOOPS

Hoop earrings are worn by many people throughout the world today and continue to be one of the oldest fashion trends alive.

Hoops are empowering. They symbolize strength and international fashion. Being a circle, hoop earrings show unity, infinity, and wholeness.

Hoop earrings have been a staple of Latino culture. As minorities and immigrants in America and Europe, hoop earrings became a symbol of strength, identity, and resistance to discrimination. For young Latino girls, it is common to receive a pair of small hoop earrings at a young age from their mothers or grandmothers.

Hoop earrings are for the bold. With so many different designs and sizes, hoop jewelry stands out more than any other type of earring. Stud piercings blend in and can be easily overlooked while dangling hoops demand attention.

Cardi B, Michelle Obama, Jennifer Lopez, and Beyonce are just some of the influential women in today's culture who love sporting hoops. They are seen as more than just fashion pieces, but respectful nods to the Dominican and African cultures where they originated from.

STAY IN THE LOOP

Hoop earrings are a major component of many different cultures and continue to evolve as a symbol of fashion accessories and power. Understanding the long history of hoop earrings should make you proud to show off bold and beautiful costumes.

Why cheap jewelry makes you spend more money

Cheap jewelry and artificial jewelry may seem affordable, but in reality it will cost you more. There are a few things you should know about buying cheap jewelry.

7% of the total American population consider their spending on jewelry as a major expense. Jewelry is a key fashion statement especially among women of all ages. You will certainly look more glamorous if you can accessorize that beautiful dress with a stunning piece of jewelry to boot.

Most people assume that good quality jewelry must cost you an arm and a leg. This assumption is overrated. You can always go for affordable but quality jewelry.

But, you also need to know that cheap can be costly in the end. If you are considering buying cheap jewelry in place of more expensive but affordable pieces you need to consider a few important pointers.

Cheap jewelry and costume jewelry can seem like an affordable fix, but it can actually cost you more. Here's what you should know about buying cheap jewelry.

CHEAP (USUALLY) MEANS LOW QUALITY

Do you ever wonder how stores with such low-cost jewelry break even? Well, it is because the pieces of jewelry they sell are low quality and cost less. Most of the gemstones you will find in cheap jewelry stores are amazing on the surface but will eventually disappoint you.

If you plan on buying a cheap gemstone, you are better advised that they tend to have an inferior color. They also tend to break easily when bumped. You may need to consider these important observations before settling for that cheap jewelry option.

THE RISK OF IMITATIONS IS HIGH

Your naked eye will not realize this, but most of the diamond jewelry you find in cheap jewelry stores is an imitation. This is not meant to burst the bubble but is impossible to get a genuine diamond at the price that most of these cheap jewelry stores quote. What you will most likely buy is some fake stone.

Some shrewd jewelry makers will include small pieces of a real diamond in between normal metal droplets. Because of the excitement you derive from buying such jewelry cheaply, you rarely undertake due diligence. You only learn later that cheap is expensive when your cheap piece of jewelry begins to discolor.

Do not fall for fake jewelry when you can buy affordable yet genuine jewelry.

CHEAP JEWELRY EQUALS SHAKY PRONGS

If you have ever gone out window shopping for rings, you know that prongs are the backbone of a strong ring. Unfortunately, when you go out seeking to buy a piece of cheap jewelry, you tend to sacrifice such nitty-gritty at the altar of cheaper prices. Such cheap pieces of jewelry have weak prongs that are easily damaged sooner rather than later.

In a ring, such prongs hold the stone in place. You know what happens in the event that these prongs get weaker with time.

Stop buying cheap jewelry if you want a lasting solution to shaky prongs. There is a range of fairly priced options you can consider if in need of quality rings.

WATCH OUT FOR LOWER KARAT GOLD

Have you ever sort for a gold necklace, a ring or bracelet and marveled at how cheap they are in specific jewelry stores? Well, it is because they were of a lower karat gold standard than the seller purported. You may wonder what is cheap jewelry made off, it is actually made of lower standards of the purported expensive stone.

In the United States, most of the cheap jewelry sold as gold does not even attain the standard regulation of 10 karats. If you are keen about your health and the various allergies, you must always stick to wearing jewelry that is between 14 and 18 karats. Also, cheap gold-coated jewelry may not be the best solution for your fashion needs.

BE KEEN ON THE HAZARDOUS COMPONENTS IN CHEAP JEWELRY

Imagine achieving a temporal stunning look at the expense of long-term chronic disease. Terrible right? This is what buying cheap jewelry will most likely lead to. Lead jewelry is an observable example of the negative consequences of buying cheap jewelry.

BE AWARE OF THE DANGERS OF LEAD JEWELRY

If you are considering buying fancy earrings to accessorize your look, you need to focus on quality and not cost. Most of the low-priced earrings and other cheap jewelry are not lead compliant. Your guess is as good as mine on the consequences that this jewelry has on your health in the long term.

Before you decide to settle for that cheap jewelry, you must reflect on the risk of organ damage that leads causes. Your decision to settle for costume jewelry will get you into health-related trouble sooner than you can imagine.

BE KEEN ON THE HAZARDOUS COMPONENTS BEFORE BUYING CHEAP JEWELRY

Buying cheap jewelry increases your risk of developing skin complications such as contact dermatitis. Stop buying cheap jewelry if you are keen on avoiding instances of dry blisters on your skin and excessive itching.

You will not appreciate the low-cost budget you used to buy such jewelry if you end up spending extra in medical expenses.

THE RISK OF CADMIUM IN COSTUME JEWELRY

Take a moment and think about the role that your kidneys play in your body. Now imagine experiencing fatal kidney failure due to an avoidable action. Most cheap jewelry has a high level of cadmium, which has the potential to lead to kidney failure in the medium-term.

The cadmium component in most of the jewelry is also cacogenic. The dangers of cheap jewelry include cancer and other chronic illnesses, which should be a concern for you. Stop buying cheap jewelry without considering the long-term implications that these accessories have on your health.

BUYING CHEAP JEWELRY CAN BE TOXIC

When refereeing to jewelry, it is agreeable that cheap is noxious based on the many negative implications that buying cheap jewelry has on your health. Why would you want to end up with all these negative consequences when there is genuine jewelry that will not be too costly?

If you do not want to buy a bracelet or a necklace often due to damage or discoloration, you need to stop buying cheap jewelry. Also, do not forget the negative effects cheap pieces of jewelry may have on your health.7% of the total American population consider their spending on jewelry as a major expense. Jewelry is a key fashion statement especially among women of all ages. You will certainly look more glamorous if you can accessorize that beautiful dress with a stunning piece of jewelry to boot.

Most people assume that good quality jewelry must cost you an arm and a leg. This assumption is overrated. You can always go for affordable but quality jewelry.

But, you also need to know that cheap can be costly in the end. If you are considering buying cheap jewelry in place of more expensive but affordable pieces you need to consider a few important pointers.

Cheap jewelry and costume jewelry can seem like an affordable fix, but it can actually cost you more. Here's what you should know about buying cheap jewelry.

CHEAP (USUALLY) MEANS LOW QUALITY

Do you ever wonder how stores with such low-cost jewelry break even? Well, it is because the pieces of jewelry they sell are low quality and cost less. Most of the gemstones you will find in cheap jewelry stores are amazing on the surface but will eventually disappoint you.

If you plan on buying a cheap gemstone, you are better advised that they tend to have an inferior color. They also tend to break easily when bumped. You may need to consider these important observations before settling for that cheap jewelry option.

THE RISK OF IMITATIONS IS HIGH

Your naked eye will not realize this, but most of the diamond jewelry you find in cheap jewelry stores is an imitation. This is not meant to burst the bubble but is impossible to get a genuine diamond at the price that most of these cheap jewelry stores quote. What you will most likely buy is some fake stone.

Some shrewd jewelry makers will include small pieces of a real diamond in between normal metal droplets. Because of the excitement you derive from buying such jewelry cheaply, you rarely undertake due diligence. You only learn later that cheap is expensive when your cheap piece of jewelry begins to discolor.

Do not fall for fake jewelry when you can buy affordable yet genuine jewelry.

CHEAP JEWELRY EQUALS SHAKY PRONGS

If you have ever gone out window shopping for rings, you know that prongs are the backbone of a strong ring. Unfortunately, when you go out seeking to buy a piece of cheap jewelry, you tend to sacrifice such nitty-gritty at the altar of cheaper prices. Such cheap pieces of jewelry have weak prongs that are easily damaged sooner rather than later.

In a ring, such prongs hold the stone in place. You know what happens in the event that these prongs get weaker with time.

Stop buying cheap jewelry if you want a lasting solution to shaky prongs. There is a range of fairly priced options you can consider if in need of quality rings.

BE KEEN ON THE HAZARDOUS COMPONENTS IN CHEAP JEWELRY

Imagine achieving a temporal stunning look at the expense of long-term chronic disease. Terrible right? This is what buying cheap jewelry will most likely lead to. Lead jewelry is an observable example of the negative consequences of buying cheap jewelry.

BE AWARE OF THE DANGERS OF LEAD JEWELRY

If you are considering buying fancy earrings to accessorize your look, you need to focus on quality and not cost. Most of the low-priced earrings and other cheap jewelry are not lead compliant. Your guess is as good as mine on the consequences that this jewelry has on your health in the long term.

Before you decide to settle for that cheap jewelry, you must reflect on the risk of organ damage that leads causes. Your decision to settle for costume jewelry will get you into health-related trouble sooner than you can imagine.

BE KEEN ON THE HAZARDOUS COMPONENTS BEFORE BUYING CHEAP JEWELRY

Buying cheap jewelry increases your risk of developing skin complications such as contact dermatitis. Stop buying cheap jewelry if you are keen on avoiding instances of dry blisters on your skin and excessive itching.

You will not appreciate the low-cost budget you used to buy such jewelry if you end up spending extra in medical expenses.

WATCH OUT FOR LOWER KARAT GOLD

Have you ever sort for a gold necklace, a ring or bracelet and marveled at how cheap they are in specific jewelry stores? Well, it is because they were of a lower karat gold standard than the seller purported. You may wonder what is cheap jewelry made off, it is actually made of lower standards of the purported expensive stone.

In the United States, most of the cheap jewelry sold as gold does not even attain the standard regulation of 10 karats. If you are keen about your health and the various allergies, you must always stick to wearing jewelry that is between 14 and 18 karats. Also, cheap gold-coated jewelry may not be the best solution for your fashion needs.

THE RISK OF CADMIUM IN COSTUME JEWELRY

Take a moment and think about the role that your kidneys play in your body. Now imagine experiencing fatal kidney failure due to an avoidable action. Most cheap jewelry has a high level of cadmium, which has the potential to lead to kidney failure in the medium-term.

The cadmium component in most of the jewelry is also cacogenic. The dangers of cheap jewelry include cancer and other chronic illnesses, which should be a concern for you. Stop buying cheap jewelry without considering the long-term implications that these accessories have on your health.

BUYING CHEAP JEWELRY CAN BE TOXIC

When refereeing to jewelry, it is agreeable that cheap is noxious based on the many negative implications that buying cheap jewelry has on your health. Why would you want to end up with all these negative consequences when there is genuine jewelry that will not be too costly?

If you don't want to buy bracelets or necklaces, often due to damage or discoloration, you need to stop buying cheap jewelry. Also, don't forget the negative effects cheap jewelry can have on your health.

Then again, the quality of jewelry at such a low price is guaranteed in our store. Welcome to visit our store!

Cara size: How big is it?

When it comes to the size of an engagement ring, how big is it? Some celebrities wear 15 carats of pure diamonds, and while you may not be a celebrity, you may still want to know if a big diamond is right for you. We all agree that a ring as big as your head is quite impractical, but apart from the obvious, what size is taboo? Read some of the guidelines below to determine what rock size is perfect for.

Don't Break the Bank

Don't forget you have a wedding to pay for. Check your budget to make sure the ring you're going to purchase is within your means; when we say within your means, we don't mean you'll be fine if you eat nothing but microwave noodles for the next six months. Really think about what matters to you. My cousin had an extremely extravagant wedding and honeymoon. It was all very beautiful, but later on when she had two kids she wished she had toned it down on the budget a bit. Why? Because, priorities change. Try to think ahead. Does the ring's size really matter that much? Are you going to want the thousands you would've spent on the ring for something else, like a house? If money is no issue then that's great, but make sure to always plan carefully.

Consider Your Hands

Every woman's body is different, including her hands. Some of us have small hands with slender fingers; some of use have larger hands with short, thicker fingers. The size of your stone isn't always about cost—it should be about what looks good too!

Large stones will dwarf slender fingers, depending on the cut, can look almost like the candy rings you sported as a child. They can also make short fingers look even shorter. The best way to know what will look best on you is to try on multiple carat sizes in the general style you want. A 2.5 carat stunner might look impressive in the case, but not always on your hand.

Consider Hand Activity

Have you ever tried wearing a ring all the time? Some people can't stand them; I get annoyed with the feeling after 20 minutes. However, most women say that you do get used to it. Now consider a huge ring. Think about the weight and general bulkiness. Prettiness aside, if the thought of your left hand being weighed down makes you anxious, a large gem is probably not for you.

Also think about your job and hobbies. Will you be held back by a larger ring or be afraid of it getting damaged? If so, you'll probably end up taking it off and putting it back on a lot. If this thought doesn't bother you, then that's cool, but if it does you might want to stick to a smaller style.

What about your everyday life? It can be annoying when a piece of jewelry gets caught on everything. You want your engagement ring to bring you nothing but joy. Will a bulky ring that gets caught on things sometimes and drive you nuts?

Is Flashy Classy or Trashy?

Consider the actual style and look of the ring you're thinking about. How do you want to present yourself? This is a piece you will be presumably wearing forever, so you'll want to think this through. The biggest factor in choosing your gem size is personal taste. It's just a fact of life; some people think a huge ring is gorgeous and impressive and some think it's just super gaudy.

So what kind of person are you? Do you love to stand out with tons of bling or does the thought of an eye-catching rock make you squirm? If you're not sure, think about your personal style. Are you the kind of person who's always dressed up and who always gets a manicure? You might be more inclined for a large ring. Then again, if you're the kind of person who isn't too fussy about their looks and loves to rock a more casual t-shirt ensemble, you might be better off with a modest, beautiful ring.

It's an Accessory

Speaking of outfits, you'll want to think about your ring in tandem with your style of clothing. Your ring will act as an accessory to every outfit you wear. Let's say you pick a huge emerald for your ring instead of a diamond. It's a beautiful ring, but you'll want to keep in mind that since it's so big, that green will really pop. This might clash with certain outfit color choices. You may not care, but if you do and you're committed to your unique ring, you might want to go a bit smaller. That way your ring fits in with your look seamlessly.

Since it's something you'll be wearing every day, it is a big decision. Make sure to think about not just who you are now, but who you think you'll be in the future. Leave yourself some room to love the ring forever. You don't want to have regrets later you chose the biggest thing in the jeweler's case. You may leave yourself thinking, “yeah, it's impressive, but it drives me nuts!” But, on the other hand, downside to a small ring is just that: it's small. Be honest with yourself if that will bother you, too, and discuss this with your fiance.

Your engagement ring, big or small, should be about the love you share. It should be special for both of you, but you have to wear it forever, so it's important that you like what you wear!

It doesn't matter how big or small you are. The most important thing is that you find someone who is willing to pay for you and give all he has. That's enough.But if you want to save your budget, you might as well visit our store.

Care and preservation of diamond rings

Diamonds are timeless. However, sparkling diamonds inadvertently turn into dull diamonds. Proper maintenance and maintenance will ensure that your diamonds sparkle in the years to come. We have some guidelines that can help you show off your ring every day for the rest of your life.

Be Careful

Don't be a daredevil on a daily basis when wearing your ring. Don't be careless and leave it on during times it might get damaged. Whether throwing the football to your kids or wrestling with your dog, be careful not to chip the band or loosen the stones. Try not to punch the wall in anger or use your hand as a hammer hanging artwork. Swinging a tennis racket, spiking a volleyball, or lifting weights can easily knock stones our of their place.

Remove Your Ring When Preparing Food

Cooking can be messy. From kneading dough for bread, rolling meatballs between your hands, and rubbing spices on meat, food particles can get stuck deep within your diamonds. You don't want raw meat stuck in your ring for days. Simply remove your ring and place it in a safe location when cooking. Make sure to put it back on after you get done so it doesn't get swept away in the garbage disposal with the leftover remnants of food.

Store Diamonds Properly

It's important that diamonds are stored properly when they aren't on your finger. You may never take your ring off, but if you do, put it in the proper location. You should store diamonds in a jewelry box lined with cloth. This helps avoid scratches and any damage to the setting.

Insure Your Ring

One of the best things you can do to care for your ring is insure it. Of course, nothing can ever replace the emotional and sentimental value of your engagement/wedding ring. Insuring your ring just means if it's ever lost or damaged, the cost is covered. Your significant other can go get you the same kind or invest in an upgrade.

Routine Inspections

Your wedding ring is probably one of the most important things you'll wear. Regular inspections at your local jeweler will keep its health top notch. Yes, rings need annual check-ups just like you do! To the naked eye your ring might look just fine, but have problems under the surface. A jeweler can ensure there aren't any chips or cracks in the diamonds and ensure your gemstones are firmly held in place. You can easily get these things fixed before they cause further deterioration of your diamonds or lead to a missing jewel in your setting.

Let The Ring Rest

You won't spontaneously combust and your marriage won't fail just because you take off your diamonds at times. You should take the ring off during any times that might present stress to your gems. Little things like carrying heavy luggage on a trip or washing dishes can mess with the setting or the diamonds. Let your ring rest at times so it isn't always bullied by the outside world. You may feel naked, but you're extending the life of your ring.

Don't Swim With Your Ring

Swimming in cold water can shrink your fingers. This means the ring can become loose and fall off if you're not careful. Harsh chemicals in pools and spas may also easily discolor your metal. Platinum is tough to taint, but sterling silver and white gold doesn't stand a chance next to these chemicals. This doesn't mean you have to remove your ring when taking a bath, but be careful of the sudsy bubbles that might dull your diamonds.

Remove Your Ring When Cleaning

Harsh chemicals can harm the diamonds as well as the metal in your ring. If you clean your home with solvents that contain bleach they can react negatively. They won't destroy the ring, but they can leave diamonds cloudy and dull. Always remove your ring or wear gloves when cleaning to prevent this from happening.

Clean Your Diamonds Regularly

You'll be amazed at the shine a jeweler can bring out in your ring and most jewelers will steam clean your ring free of charge. Make sure you get it cleaned regularly to keep it sparkly. If you want to try to copy this cleaning technique at home, you can rinse it with warm water and dish detergent. Don't scrub it with anything but a soft toothbrush. Some people swear by soaking your ring in gin or vodka to get the same effect.

Don't Apply Body Creams When Wearing Your Ring

Diamonds become dull when slathered with heavy creams. As you rub lotion on your body or cream on your face, the residue can leave your diamonds looking sad. This residue may even discolor ring if you aren't careful. Take your ring off and sit it in a safe location as you apply lotion to ensure it won't get damaged.

To do these things well, it is perfect, of course, you can also buy some cheap jewelry for your daily wear, so damage is not distressed, lost is not a pity.

Diamonds and Gems Mixed Stone Rings

What's the new trend in engagement rings that swept the ring design industry? Colored stone accents! Between colored gemstone rings and traditional diamond rings, these rings are the perfect middle way. While some insist on traditional diamond rings, such as Paris Hilton's 20-carat diamond beading ring, others have chosen to jump ship and use color boldly.

Varying Design Options for Accent Stones

Now that you know what people typically look for in stone accents, you can make your specific design decisions. There are a lot of design elements that factor in when it comes to choosing accent gems. For instance, what is the style of the ring? Is it modern, art deco, or classic? You could always let the style dictate the type of gem accents you will use. An art deco styled ring pairs wonderfully with an emerald or sapphire. Rubies and yellow diamonds look great with classic ring design styles. If you’re looking for a chic stone to go with your totally modern ring, you could always go with something sharp like a black or pink diamond.

You could even consider adding multiple types of stones to your ring. Although you risk a “rainbow” look, unless that’s what you’re going for, multiple colors can look great if paired correctly. Consider the shape and size of your gem accents. The bigger and more unique you make your accents, the more they will stand out. If you want your accents to to be more muted, you should make them smaller and mimic the shape of the diamond. I have seen many rings with all the gems aligned in a row, where there is a diamond featured in the middle and a colored gem on either side of it. A ring like this keeps the accents balanced while highlighting the diamond to feature it in the design.

Choosing the Right Colored Gemstones

When considering the different types of engagement ring designs with colorful accents, there are a few stones that stand out. Some stones look absolutely beautiful when paired with a diamond: sapphires, rubies, emeralds, yellow diamonds, and opals. A few less popular, but significantly cheaper alternatives, are pearl and moonstone. On the other hand, some people choose to make these beautiful gemstones the main stone for their engagement ring.

If you’ve decided to use these stones as accents, they will all look great within the right ring design. Just keep in mind that some stones are more durable than others. For instance, a lot of people choose topaz as their accent gem because of its durability. Rubies, sapphires, and emeralds are all pretty durable, but they can require special care. Talk to your jeweler to discuss the best ring options based on your budget requirements and your desired ring style.

Flattering Colors to Match Your Personality

A good way to choose a colorful accent is to think about what colors look good on you. If you go this route, you’ll never feel like the colors clash with your eyes or skin tone. Consider what kind of clothes you typically wear. What color of ring would go well with your wardrobe and which colors would not be complementary? You could also base the color choice off your favorite color to simplify things. Make certain the stone you want is one that is durable or that you’re willing to care for a ring with a more fragile stone.

If you’re still having trouble imagining what colors you can choose for accents, try thinking about your typical gemstone choices. What stones are you normally attracted to? If you go with something you normally like, chances are you’ll like your ring all the same. If you think the colors would just be too much, consider more neutral options. You could pair your diamond with something soft, like a light-colored yellow diamond, or even a pearl or opal. The opal, although not very durable, works well because its multicolored flecks look great with almost any stone.

Multi-Stone Wedding Bands

Another aspect of the multi-stoned ring is the wedding band. When you have such a unique ring, how in the world do you pair it to a wedding band? This is completely up to you, and, like your gemstone choices, you have lots of options here. You could go with the classic solid gold or silver band, great for offsetting the busyness of a colorful ring. You could choose a band that is complex in its metal work. This is a great choice if the band on the engagement ring has intricate metal carvings or designs. It’s an effective look to tie design elements together. This is true for gemstones as well.

With so many possibilities, it's hard not to get excited about a multi-stone engagement ring. If you want to break the rules but stay stylish, these rings are definitely the perfect choice for you. Some people worry that these rings won't make weddings scream because they're not traditional diamond rings. What I'm trying to say is that, with the right design, stones of any color can look great on an engagement ring. The final decision is up to you. People say diamonds are girls' best friends, but I think yellow and pink diamonds are also very popular.

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Why You May Want a Vintage Wedding Ring

You want to make your wedding ring different (who doesn't?) The ring is beautiful, a separate princess cut diamond is timeless, but what you're looking for is a little unconventional. A vintage wedding ring brings extra charm, as well as an extra sense of history and mystery. It's fun to think about the former owner of your ring and explore the origin of the ring or how it was made.

There are many different styles and eras of vintage wedding rings—and shopping for one can often feel like looking for a needle in a haystack–but if you love the thrill of the hunt and are willing to be patient, a vintage wedding ring might just be the right fit for you. Not quite ready to go treasure hunting yet? Here are a few reasons to consider why you may want a vintage wedding ring—and some tips on how to find the perfect one for you.

Your Ring Will Be Truly Unique

If having a truly unique wedding ring is of top importance to you, you really can’t go wrong with vintage. While the local jewelry store may only carry the currently popular styles, there are limitless options if you choose to buy a vintage ring. It’s not guaranteed that you won’t eventually run into a bride with a similar ring as yours, but it’s much more unlikely if you choose to buy your jewelry at an estate sale or an antique store. A vintage ring is the perfect statement for those brides who think of themselves as anything but ordinary or conventional.

Buying a Vintage Ring Is More Eco-Friendly

Although mining diamonds is generally less environmentally destructive than other types of mining, it still has led to soil erosion, deforestation, and forced local populations to relocate in areas where diamonds are mined. Buying a vintage ring means that you will be recycling an old ring and that no new mining will be required. So, a beautiful ring and contributing to less mining? That’s a win-win.

Vintage Rings are Typically Less Expensive

If the sticker shock of a new wedding ring is causing your anxiety to heighten, there’s a chance that going vintage might be a little easier on your bank account. You can typically expect to spend at least 30% less on a vintage engagement or wedding ring than if you were to go the traditional route. Retail jewelry is marked up, on average, between 253% to 336% so avoiding these retailers will likely save you a little money. There are exceptions, of course, and if you are after a really rare stone or a specific ring that is considered rare, this will increase the price.

Shopping for a Vintage Ring Is a Unique Experience

Shopping for a wedding ring is always an exciting excursion, but hunting for the perfect vintage one puts the experience over the top. Sure, you can just head to the mall and pick out the first one that catches your eye (and the one that fits into your budget), but a vintage ring will give you a better experience and a great story. If you don’t plan your shopping trip (or trips) out correctly, it can often feel like a wild goose chase, but if done right you’ll have a memorable adventure and a gorgeous ring.

Some Vintage Ring Shopping Tips

If you’ve decided that a vintage ring is for you, you’ll need a few strategy tips before you head out to the antique store or an estate sale.

Be Patient

Embarking on your vintage wedding ring hunt is going to require a lot of patience, and it’s not going to be an easy setup like at a traditional jewelry store. Depending on the antique store or estate sale, things will be scattered throughout several jewelry displays and it may be difficult to pinpoint exactly what you’re looking for. The important thing to remember is to be patient and ask for help from any associates who may be working.

Go to More than One Place

Just like any other important purchasing decision that you make, it’s crucial to go to more than one place when you are shopping for your vintage wedding ring. Go to a few different antique stores or hit up a few estate sales to determine a range of pricing as well as get a better idea of selection.

Don't Have a Specific Idea in Mind

You may have a Pinterest page dedicated to your dream ring, but it's best to start the day with an open mind rather than having a specific idea of what you want. You never know what will catch your eye or attract you - having a super-specific idea can limit you in a way you don't realize. Go with it and see what you're attracted to.

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How to make the diamond on your engagement ring look bigger

Couples can spend a lot of money on engagement rings. Although the size of a diamond doesn't mean everything, it means a lot to some people. If you fall into this category, but you think you and your other half can't afford expensive jewelry now, you still have some choice. There are many ways to make your engagement ring look bigger than it really is! Although it may seem a bit ghostly, who cares? As long as you love your diamond engagement ring, it doesn't matter. There are a few factors to keep in mind when you start shopping for a perfect, big-looking engagement ring!

Choose a Bright and Shiny Metal to Reflect Light Around the Stone

There are many band materials to choose from, but bright bands are best if you want to exaggerate the size of your diamond. In fact, the shinier, the better! Bright bands will help to reflect additional light around your stone, giving the illusion of additional size.

While there are several shiny band options available, 18 karat white gold and platinum are likely best. Between the two, however, the white gold wins. This material is extremely bright and will draw more attention to your diamond. Additionally, white gold is less expensive. This means you can spend more money on a larger stone.

Forget Round Cuts (Try Oval Instead for a Similar Look!)

Round diamonds are by far the most popular, but they actually cost more money. This difference in price is due in great part to demand and the fact that they’re more difficult to cut. Round cuts also result in more waste than other shapes.

None of this may seem that surprising, but there’s one thing that’s likely to shock you. Round diamonds are usually smaller than other cuts in both carat weight and physical size! When comparing a round and oval diamond at the same price point, for example, you’ll likely find the oval cut is larger. Keeping this trend in mind can help you get more size for your buck!

Try a Thin Band Instead of a Thick Band to Highlight the Diamond

Band thickness also impacts how big your diamond ultimately looks. Chunky bands tend to make diamonds of all shapes look smaller, while thin bands actually exaggerate diamond size. Of course this is all relative, but it’s absolutely something to keep in mind if you want to make your stone look bigger than it actually is.

As an extra bonus, picking a thinner band may also decrease the overall cost of your ring. You can either pay less overall, or apply the difference to the diamond itself and purchase a slightly larger stone. Don’t forget to keep comfort in mind, however. Some people prefer wider bands because they feel more natural on the finger. Spend time trying on the various options before making a decision based solely on physical appearance.

Choose Thin Prongs to Show More Surface Area of the Diamond

The prongs on a ring keep the stone in place. These can be thick or thin, depending on the design of the ring. If you want your diamond to appear larger, opt for thinner prongs, as they draw less attention. Thicker prongs will often look too bulky, especially if you choose a petite band.

To Get the Most Bang for Your Buck, Know that Retailers Aren’t All the Same

Before making any big purchase, it’s important to do your research. This is just as true for diamond engagement rings as it is for anything else. The unfortunate truth is that many jewelry retailers price gouge. Some companies have a lot of money to pour into advertising and therefore quickly become the go-to source for certain products. This is particularly true for some big, well-known brands. Shopping with these engagement ring retailers first may mean you pay more for a smaller diamond.

You may also want to consider a ring design with fewer prongs. While many rings have six prongs, it’s possible to find ones with only four. Taking this route will mean less of the diamond is covered, which places more focus on the stone and allows additional shine. Both of these factors will enhance the diamond’s appearance and make it look larger.

Keep Your Engagement Ring Clean so it Sparkles and Shines

It’s important to keep the band and stone as clean as possible. Not only will this improve the overall appearance of your ring, but it will make your stone look bigger. Again, shine and sparkle place more focus on your diamond, which will inherently make it appear larger than it actually is.

While many jewelry shops will be happy to clean your diamond engagement ring regularly, you’ll save a lot of money if you purchase your own cleaner and polishing cloths. It’s recommended that you give your ring a gentle cleaning bi-weekly.

Don't think that the price is the best just because the jeweler is popular. Before making a final decision, shop first and go. Carefully compare all factors, including carats, cutting quality, physical size and cost. That is, beware of deals that are incredibly good;

Engagement ring accessories essentials

Once the question is raised, there's a lot to cross out on your list, especially when wedding planning begins. In any bride's life, it's hard to stop and focus on your shiny new jewelry at this exciting time. However, there are also plenty of accessories that can be perfectly matched with diamonds to kick off your wedding. In order to make this precious ring safe, shiny and clean, let's take a look at which engagement ring accessories every bride-to-be must have!

Ring Box or Jewelry Organizer

Especially if your ring comes with a box that's on the flimsier side, you may want to invest in a quality ring box to store your new bling in. There are so many of these on the market, from luxe velvet ring boxes that can be personalized with an initial to wooden boxes that can withstand almost anything you put them through. Boxes like these are perfect for transporting your ring on the go and finding one with two slots for that eventual wedding band is another great idea.

If a single box is not your style, a jewelry organizer may be a wise investment at this point of your life. This is useful for more than just your engagement ring, but also keeps your earrings, necklaces, and bracelets organized and all in one place no matter where your travels take you.

Workout Gear

Who would have thought that even your ring needs gear when it comes to protecting it during a workout? When you hit the gym, you want to take extra care to ensure that your prized ring is protected and safe. You may not want to leave something so valuable in a locker, which makes a wristband that zips up to hold your ring a no-brainer. Another option for keeping your ring safe is a rubber wrapper designed to slip over your ring to keep it safe from scratches.

Ring Cleaner

Especially when you wear something so regularly, your ring is bound to get dirty! You'll want to invest in ring cleaner that is safe to use on your diamond. Use this cleaner regularly, especially if you begin to notice the stone getting foggy or accumulating water spots. They even make wipes that make cleaning your ring a breeze.

Ring Dish

When you're washing dishes, in the shower, or sleeping, you may opt to take your engagement ring off to keep it safe and clean. It’s important to have a safe place to stow your ring in these moments to ensure it doesn’t fall on the floor or get lost. A ring dish is a fun and cute way to stash your ring whenever you slip it off. Consider a personalized ring dish, one in a unique shape, or one with a ring holder in the middle so that your jewels are guaranteed not to fall off. These can be found at almost any price point and are available in many stores and on common websites like Amazon or Etsy. With so many ring dishes on the market, it’s almost impossible not to find one to match your taste and personality.

Ring Sizers

Many brides may find that their ring doesn't fit them the way that they want it to, yet they might not be ready to commit to having it resized. If this is the case for you and your ring is too large, there are inexpensive and effective sizers that can be found on sites like Amazon in order to keep your ring snug and safe in between sizings. (Ring Size Guide)

Not only are these accessories useful, but they also make it more exciting to be a bride! Whether you buy these rings for yourself or as an engagement gift, they are the perfect way to celebrate an exciting moment to ensure that your ring is safe and well maintained.

How to choose the perfect pair of wedding shoes

For any shoe-obsessed woman, choosing the perfect pair of wedding shoes is as important as a wedding dress! Either way, your wedding shoes should be your own reflection, perfectly matching what really matters, whether it's style, comfort or price. Of course, it's easier said than done, and finding the perfect pair of wedding shoes is no exception. This is your wedding after all, and no detail, big or small, should be ignored or compromised.

Here are a few things to consider when looking for the perfect pair of wedding shoes. Let the hunt begin!

Fit

The level of comfort of your wedding shoes will depend largely on how they fit. They should not be too small, too tight, or even too big. And since everyone's feet are different sizes, widths, and shapes, it might take a bit of searching for that perfect pair.

Having your feet properly measured is a good idea, especially when picking out a pair of wedding shoes, but to help give you an idea what to look for in a proper fit, consider a few things first. You want to make sure the shoes don't pinch any part of your foot, from the sides to your toes and heels. They shouldn't rub the top, tip, or sides either, as this could cause painful blisters. Make sure you have some wiggle room but not too much or keeping them on will not only be a hassle but could cause cramps. Finally, make sure the arch fits well, too.

Comfort

Chances are you will be wearing your wedding shoes from early in the morning until very late at night, which is why you should find a pair of wedding shoes that are not only beautiful but comfortable. Don't worry; the words “beautiful” and “comfortable” can be used in the same sentence to describe wedding shoes! In fact, a good pair of wedding shoes should always be both! But if you're looking at shoes beyond bridal boutiques, you'll want to be really honest with yourself: can you imagine wearing them all day and night while standing, dancing, and walking around? If not, you might have to keep looking.

Style

Most women are more concerned with the overall style of their wedding shoes than anything else, but it's all important! Which is why I saved this until now. The style of shoe you choose should match your dress, the time of year and the overall style of your wedding. It should also match your own individual personally and sense of fashion. If you're really into bold patterns and colors, choosing a fun, quirky wedding shoe is the perfect way to add some pop to your look. But if you prefer neutral colors and simple designs, feel free to keep your shoes simple, too.

Weather

While you can't always predict the weather, you will obviously know what time of year it's going to be. In the summer, an elegant sandal or peep-toe would be fantastic, but not so much in the winter. If you're planning a winter wedding, you'll want a closed pair of shoes to keep your toes warm.

Height

There are a lot of different heel heights to choose from, from ballet flats to six-inch heels. The right size for you will depend on what you're comfortable wearing, what style you prefer, and where you'll be wearing them (more on this further down though).

Personally, I can't walk in heels even if they're only a couple of inches off the ground, and yet there are women who can easily run in skyscraper shoes (I'm picturing Sarah Jessica Parker as Carrie Bradshaw right now). The height that's right for you will depend on what you're most comfortable in. If you're a pro in heels and can spend hours in them, go for it! But if you're praying you'll even make it down the aisle without falling, it might be time to be honest with yourself and go for something more practical.

Also consider your dress length when choosing shoe height. If your skirt needs the extra height to keep it off the ground, flats may be out of the running.

Location

Make sure you consider where your wedding will be taking place before purchasing your wedding shoes. For example, if your wedding is on the beach, a six-inch heel isn't going to go so well. If you know you'll be walking on grass a lot throughout the day, again, heels can be tricky as they tend to sink into the ground easily. If you're set on wearing heels and you know you'll be outside some of the time, you could always bring a pair of flats to change into. Also consider the floor you will be walking on. If it's hard, it might be slippery and so you should consider a sole that has some grip to it. If it's carpeted, on the other hand, you won't have that problem.

Dancing

Dancing is a big part of any wedding reception, so make sure whatever shoes you choose, you can easily move around. In fact, when trying on wedding shoes, try dancing around in them to see if they feel good and won't be a problem.

Color

The color you choose will obviously depend on the color of your dress and wedding theme. Do you want them to match or do you want them to stand out? Maybe you want your shoes to be the focal point of your outfit, or perhaps you just want something bold and colorful peeping out from under your hemline. Or maybe you'd rather have white wedding shoes, in which case you should make sure it matches your dress's shade of white.

Cost

Like all things in life, the cost of anything depends on what you can afford and what fits your budget and your lifestyle. In this case, it also depends on how important your wedding shoes are to you. Some women see their wedding as the perfect occasion to splurge on something a little more than what they normally would, while others just need something to wear on their feet. Just be honest with yourself about what you can afford and what the cost means. Often price does reflect the quality, but sometimes it doesn't. Don't be afraid to check the sale section, sites like eBay, and other online stores.

Afterwards

Some women want home school shoes can wear and time long long after the sound of wedding bells have been faded. Others know'll only be wearing them once, and plan to them along along with their dress. What one are you?   Because if you want shoes you can wear more than once, that might ed ed you you sit to buy something and more and more Practical.

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How to Choose Your Wedding Shoes

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The 10 things to forget about bride's wallet

Most brides think they need to pack their wallets particularly well on their wedding day. This bag can accompany them from preparation, to eating, to ceremonies, to reception, until late at night. However, on the busiest days of your life, it's hard to know what you need.

Make sure that these ten items are part of your bag, so that there is no way you'll be without them; if you are over-prepared, that is certainly not a bad thing! Rather than having a mad scramble for anything at your venue, having things handy will make every small bump in the road feel barely noticeable.

1. Tissues

Listed number one for a reason! Great for removing a quick swipe of make-up or a stray tear, and handy if you need to blow your nose or if someone wants to get rid of gum at the last minute.

2. Stain Stick or Wipes

In combination with the tissues, these can be a lifesaver if something gets on an outfit – especially a white bridal gown. Make sure to test the one you want to use on the fabrics of the bridal party outfits; find a spot on the inside of a hem where no one would notice discoloration and make sure you pack the brand that leaves no trace!

3. Super Glue, Duct Tape, or Another Fastener

Something about big events seems to coax things to break at the last minute. While nothing truly important in a wedding ceremony is breakable, most of us want to be able to quickly resolve any issue with decorations or physical items in the wedding space without complaint. Super glue is a good option for this, though if you know you'll need something stronger, no one would turn down a small roll of duct tape either!

4. Safety Pins

While no one would choose ideally to have their wedding dress held up by a pin and a prayer, safety pins are a great plan B when a rip or tear or not-quite-fitting outfit happens. They can also be helpful if your outdoor wedding takes a turn for the windy: pinning down a tie or two if someone forgets a real tie pin can be done in a non-obtrusive way to make the photos or videos of the ceremony not look like a wind tunnel.

5. Benedryl/First Aid Essentials

Especially helpful if you haven't been exposed to the wedding venue previously for long enough to know if you are allergic to anything, it is also a great idea to have a small supply of your favorite headache cure, some band-aids, and antibiotic ointment. Even if the only use is a scraped knee from an adventurous flower girl, its always nicer to be able to quickly handle the situation rather than searching an unfamiliar venue for what you need.

6. A Ring of Some Kind

While not the world's most romantic option, putting a ring in the bag and then keeping it hidden in a bouquet or pocket can be helpful for if something keeps both rings from making it into the hands of the happy couple for the specific moment of the ceremony. From far away, no one in the crowd will be able to tell if you have to use your teenage mood ring to get married, and once you swap them out for the real thing, it becomes a story to laugh about, rather than a scramble in front of everyone.

7. Small Mirror

While brides and grooms usually look wonderful, it's nice to be able to quickly check, especially if you are wearing more than your usual amount of makeup or are sporting a fancy hairdo.

8. Water

Hydration is key, especially on a day when many people are too nervous to eat adequately. At least taking small sips of water in the moments between activities on the wedding day is important, especially since using a water fountain is a pain in a ball gown.

9. Scissors

For some reason, there always seems to be a need for scissors: cutting a loose thread from a dress or opening a package of bubbles at the end of the night can be hard without them. Personally, I liked having scissors packed for a minute after we drove away from our venue because we were able to slip out and cut away all the dangling parts of our car's festooned decorations from the groomsmen. I didn't mind looking silly, but it just seemed dangerous to get on the highway with tin cans dragging behind us.

10. Pen

From guestbook signing to signing the marriage license, it cannot hurt to have a pen handy. Some people choose to write a sweet note to their beloved during the moments between preparation and the ceremony, to calm their nerves and return their focus to the reason why the hoopla is happening. Having a pen handy will allow you to have this little moment and your groom or bride will appreciate knowing they were on your mind when that moment arrived.

Add your own items to this list to make sure your bag is customized for your wedding. For example, if you know you need to light a candle at some point, put a lighter in your bag, and if you want to change a pair of shoes to a party, keep them at hand. Overall, the goal of the Survival Toolbox or "Bag" is to have more than you need, so that on your special day, nothing happens to take more than a minute to find a solution to any small problem.