We all know the old verse “Something old, something new, something borrowed, something blue.” But it’s way more than a verse, its something many brides follow to the rule. So why not fulfill a wedding tradition with estate bridal jewelry?
Future brides from every corner of the globe try very hard to follow this little verse. Their wedding gowns, accessories and jewelry must all play into this little verse. What’s really great is that estate bridal jewelry can fill the requirements very easy! Let’s look at each portion of the vers.
Something old
could be a piece of bridal jewelry that is a family heirloom. It may come from the brides side of the family or the grooms side. It may have been owned by a mother, a grandmother, or even just a traditional piece that is worn by all brides in the family. And if there is no family heirloom bridal jewelry not to worry, you are certainly not alone. That’s where estate jewelry can fill the gap. Find a piece of estate jewelry you love and adore, buy it, wear it. You’ll keep the tradition of something old alive and well!
Something new
Not much explaining to do here. New is a pretty easy bill to fill. There are thousands of online stores and brick and mortar stores offering a great mix of modern stylish jewelry that is perfect as bridal jewelry. But wait! Estate jewelry can help here too. Not all estate jewelry is very old. Estate simply means previously owned and that means by looking at estate jewelry that dates within the last year you can often find that perfect piece that may never have been worn and meets the something new requirement. The added bonus is you won’t look like every other bride because your bridal jewelry will have a unique look all of its own
Something borrowed
May require the most thought. After all most brides want their look to be theirs complete with their own choices in bridal jewelry. Remember borrowing that special piece from a friend or family member can add the finishing touches to your look and it can save you thousands of dollars. Gemstones aren’t cheap! And if you have no one to borrow from never fear there are many retailers that rent out beautiful estate jewelry for weddings. This fulfills your need for something borrowed and you get the added effect of something beautiful and unique.
Something blue
Is your final quest and can be quite an easy task. The most important is to remember there are thousands of shades of blue and you’ll want to choose one that matches your attire. You can choose from sapphires, aqua marines, or even blue pearls to name a few. Your blue can be bold and noticeable or it can be just a hint of blue. Once again estate jewelry comes through. You can find a beautiful piece of jewelry that is unique and affordable and of the highest quality by shopping for estate jewelry.
On your wedding day you are the attraction and you’ll want to look your very best for this important occasion. Choosing estate bridal jewelry will do it’s part to make you look gorgeous and it will have you radiant as you waltz down the aisle!
Friday 24 June 2016
Thursday 23 June 2016
Gay Wedding Ring: Symbol of Love and Equality
A wedding is a once-in-a-lifetime occasion for many people, although for an increasing number of persons, it has become a several-in-a-lifetime event. In any case, it is still a very special ceremony that binds not only a man and a woman together; today, gay male couples and gay women couples also observe the ceremony to affirm their lifelong commitment to each other. In such ceremonies, the gay wedding ring takes center stage.
Same-sex marriage is still illegal in the majority of U.S. states and in countries all over the world, so what gay couples opt for is to participate in a “commitment ceremony,” where the exchange of gay wedding rings also takes place. A gay wedding ring most often resembles the traditional gold or platinum wedding band. Of course, the couples are free to have the designs or the metal they wish for their gay wedding ring. Gay-related symbols are often engraved on the rings, and various textures and effects are available as well. Irish and Scottish rings, multicolored rings, woven rings – a wealth of options is available.
Homosexual and lesbian couples who have exchanged or are planning to exchange gay wedding rings in commitment or blessing ceremonies include Rosie and Kelly O’Donnell, and actress Sophie Ward and Rena Brannan. British musician Sir Elton John and David Furbish have also talked about getting married as soon as gays are legally allowed to join together in matrimony in Great Britain.
Jewelry designers such as Udi Behr are recognizing the need of “unconventional” couples to affirm their commitment to one another. Behr created a collection of gay wedding rings and gay engagement rings called “Love and Pride” in support of the gay rights movement. Behr, who is himself straight, is a popular designer among celebrities; famous people who buy his work include Sharon Stone and Britney Spears.
As with heterosexual couples, gay couples see their weddings bands as a tangible symbol of their love and commitment to one another. Notwithstanding governmental indifference to or disapproval of their needs and wishes, gay people will go on standing for what they believe is their right. The gay wedding ring, aside from its romantic connotations, has also become a symbol of the large part of homosexual culture in today’s society.
Same-sex marriage is still illegal in the majority of U.S. states and in countries all over the world, so what gay couples opt for is to participate in a “commitment ceremony,” where the exchange of gay wedding rings also takes place. A gay wedding ring most often resembles the traditional gold or platinum wedding band. Of course, the couples are free to have the designs or the metal they wish for their gay wedding ring. Gay-related symbols are often engraved on the rings, and various textures and effects are available as well. Irish and Scottish rings, multicolored rings, woven rings – a wealth of options is available.
Homosexual and lesbian couples who have exchanged or are planning to exchange gay wedding rings in commitment or blessing ceremonies include Rosie and Kelly O’Donnell, and actress Sophie Ward and Rena Brannan. British musician Sir Elton John and David Furbish have also talked about getting married as soon as gays are legally allowed to join together in matrimony in Great Britain.
Jewelry designers such as Udi Behr are recognizing the need of “unconventional” couples to affirm their commitment to one another. Behr created a collection of gay wedding rings and gay engagement rings called “Love and Pride” in support of the gay rights movement. Behr, who is himself straight, is a popular designer among celebrities; famous people who buy his work include Sharon Stone and Britney Spears.
As with heterosexual couples, gay couples see their weddings bands as a tangible symbol of their love and commitment to one another. Notwithstanding governmental indifference to or disapproval of their needs and wishes, gay people will go on standing for what they believe is their right. The gay wedding ring, aside from its romantic connotations, has also become a symbol of the large part of homosexual culture in today’s society.
Wednesday 22 June 2016
Handcrafted Wedding Rings Make Excellent Choices
Couples searching for wedding rings have many more options today than have been available in the past. Wedding rings in multiple styles and designs are now available and the choices become more diverse practically every day. One option that has been available for a long time but has been traditionally out of reach to many couples due to prohibitive costs is that of custom-ordering handcrafted wedding rings.
Custom-ordered handcrafted wedding rings used to be available only from major jewelers at rather exorbitant prices, making this an option for celebrities or the extremely well-to-do. This is no longer the case. Major changes in the jewelry industry and the prevalence of the Internet in all aspects of commerce have allied to bring the prices of handcrafted wedding rings steadily down. Handcrafted wedding rings that once cost thousands can now be had for a fraction of their former amount. A custom-ordered handcrafted ring will still cost more than a traditional ring of similar quality, of course, but the price difference is nowhere near what it once was.
Handcrafted wedding rings can be purchased without making a special order these days as well. There are many small companies that specialize in such rings all over the world and they have the advent of the Internet to thank for their inclusion in a far wider market than they ever had before. In many cases these beautiful handcrafted wedding rings can be acquired for much less than the rings available at major jewelry outfits. For example, a beautiful handcrafted wedding ring I found online was designed with a unique challah braid design and cost about $375.00. Looking at a site that offered more traditional rings, I found a plain gold band of the same dimensions and same karat weight for $425.00. Faced with paying more money for a less interesting ring or less money for a unique handcrafted wedding ring, I think I know which option I would choose. This may be the exception rather than the rule, of course. Some handcrafted wedding rings will definitely still cost more, but the beautiful workmanship you get for your money makes all the difference in the world.
Of course, handcrafted wedding rings are merely one of many options available. Ultimately, the rings that you choose will reflect your personal tastes and sense of style. They will be a reflection of your inner selves and, of course, a symbol of your undying love and devotion to each other. That’s what a wedding ring is, after all, a symbol. It’s just very nice to know that there are so many options no available when it comes to selecting that symbol. The ready availability of handcrafted wedding rings has simply added to those options. It’s good for the small jewelers that create these beautiful rings to now have such a wide market in which to offer them, and having such variety to choose from is a good thing for everyone who is looking for the perfect wedding ring.
Custom-ordered handcrafted wedding rings used to be available only from major jewelers at rather exorbitant prices, making this an option for celebrities or the extremely well-to-do. This is no longer the case. Major changes in the jewelry industry and the prevalence of the Internet in all aspects of commerce have allied to bring the prices of handcrafted wedding rings steadily down. Handcrafted wedding rings that once cost thousands can now be had for a fraction of their former amount. A custom-ordered handcrafted ring will still cost more than a traditional ring of similar quality, of course, but the price difference is nowhere near what it once was.
Handcrafted wedding rings can be purchased without making a special order these days as well. There are many small companies that specialize in such rings all over the world and they have the advent of the Internet to thank for their inclusion in a far wider market than they ever had before. In many cases these beautiful handcrafted wedding rings can be acquired for much less than the rings available at major jewelry outfits. For example, a beautiful handcrafted wedding ring I found online was designed with a unique challah braid design and cost about $375.00. Looking at a site that offered more traditional rings, I found a plain gold band of the same dimensions and same karat weight for $425.00. Faced with paying more money for a less interesting ring or less money for a unique handcrafted wedding ring, I think I know which option I would choose. This may be the exception rather than the rule, of course. Some handcrafted wedding rings will definitely still cost more, but the beautiful workmanship you get for your money makes all the difference in the world.
Of course, handcrafted wedding rings are merely one of many options available. Ultimately, the rings that you choose will reflect your personal tastes and sense of style. They will be a reflection of your inner selves and, of course, a symbol of your undying love and devotion to each other. That’s what a wedding ring is, after all, a symbol. It’s just very nice to know that there are so many options no available when it comes to selecting that symbol. The ready availability of handcrafted wedding rings has simply added to those options. It’s good for the small jewelers that create these beautiful rings to now have such a wide market in which to offer them, and having such variety to choose from is a good thing for everyone who is looking for the perfect wedding ring.
Tuesday 21 June 2016
How To Choose A Pearl Necklace For Your Wedding Day
There is nothing more beautiful to complement a wedding dress than a stunning strand of pearls. This traditional wedding jewelry is more popular than ever, with brides using all styles of pearl jewelry to add that finishing touch to their bridal ensemble. In addition to looking fabulous, wearing a pearl necklace on your wedding day has historically been known as a good luck charm, promising to bring the marriage years of happiness.
When choosing a pearl necklace for your big day, there are four main issues to evaluate. These issues will ensure your necklace and any other accessories complement your dress and add to instead of diminish your beauty.
1.) Color: The color of the pearl is usually the most noticeable aspect of any pearl jewelry. Pearls come in colors ranging from traditional white and off-white to pink, black, grey, and even silver. When choosing the color of your pearl necklace, be sure to think of your skin tone and dress. The color should accentuate your outfit and make the ensemble complete, so choose wisely for a color that you can wear on your wedding day and for many days to come.
2.) Size: Pearls come in several different sizes and are either strung for a necklace in a similar range or in a graduated range. Choose a size of pearl that matches your proportions, as well as that of your dress. Size of the pearl directly affects another issue to keep in mind, the length of the strand.
3.) Length: Pearl necklaces are available in several lengths:
The difference in length directly depends on the style of your dress. The most popular lengths of pearl necklaces are the princess length and the opera length. Avoid wearing the longer lengths of pearls over heavily beaded or decorated dresses, as the impact of the pearls may be lost. You may need to try on several lengths to see how each individual strand fits your body.
4.) Additions: Many brides are choosing to forego the traditional strand of pearls and add diamonds or other gemstones to a necklace setting. This is a great idea if you have a preexisting pendant mount of heirloom gemstone you wish to include in your jewelry. Also, many brides are using an illusion or floating setting for a single or several pearls. This setting gives the pearl the appearance of floating weightlessly around the wearer’s neck, giving a more modern feel to this traditional element.
When choosing a pearl necklace for your big day, there are four main issues to evaluate. These issues will ensure your necklace and any other accessories complement your dress and add to instead of diminish your beauty.
1.) Color: The color of the pearl is usually the most noticeable aspect of any pearl jewelry. Pearls come in colors ranging from traditional white and off-white to pink, black, grey, and even silver. When choosing the color of your pearl necklace, be sure to think of your skin tone and dress. The color should accentuate your outfit and make the ensemble complete, so choose wisely for a color that you can wear on your wedding day and for many days to come.
2.) Size: Pearls come in several different sizes and are either strung for a necklace in a similar range or in a graduated range. Choose a size of pearl that matches your proportions, as well as that of your dress. Size of the pearl directly affects another issue to keep in mind, the length of the strand.
3.) Length: Pearl necklaces are available in several lengths:
- Collar (12 – 13 inches)
- Choker (14 – 16 inches)
- Princess (17 – 19 inches)
- Matinee (20 – 25 inches)
- Opera (26 – 36 inches)
- Rope (over 37 inches)
The difference in length directly depends on the style of your dress. The most popular lengths of pearl necklaces are the princess length and the opera length. Avoid wearing the longer lengths of pearls over heavily beaded or decorated dresses, as the impact of the pearls may be lost. You may need to try on several lengths to see how each individual strand fits your body.
4.) Additions: Many brides are choosing to forego the traditional strand of pearls and add diamonds or other gemstones to a necklace setting. This is a great idea if you have a preexisting pendant mount of heirloom gemstone you wish to include in your jewelry. Also, many brides are using an illusion or floating setting for a single or several pearls. This setting gives the pearl the appearance of floating weightlessly around the wearer’s neck, giving a more modern feel to this traditional element.
Monday 20 June 2016
How to Find the Best Wedding Jewelry
When it comes time to get married, you have a lot of things on your mind. In addition to all of the planning that goes into a wedding, you have big decisions to make on wedding jewelry. The engagement ring, for instance, is the first thing you have to think about. Saving for that purchase is a big deal, so you want to make sure you pick out the right one. You’ll also have to think about a wedding band, but that’s secondary to the engagement ring.
Finding the perfect diamond ring is all about the perfect fit. That’s not meant in a literal sense, but more in how the item fits your needs. Diamond rings are expensive, but they can vary in price depending upon size, cut, clarity, and a host of different factors. Before you can pick out your engagement ring, you have to know what your budget is. Diamond rings can run, typically, anywhere from $5,000 to $30,000. You can buy a bigger, more expensive ring, but that’s only for the high rollers. A good rule of thumb is to save three whole months’ worth of pay. Depending upon your salary, this could work.
When you figure out how much you’re willing to spend, you need to think about the kind of cut your future bride wants. You can usually find this out without giving away the fact that you’re going to propose. In passing, find out if she wants a princess cut, an emerald cut, or maybe just a round cut. The options are almost endless, so you need to really understand what she’s looking for. Diamond rings might carry a big price tag, but they aren’t all created equally. Some looks are more suitable for different women, depending upon their taste.
Another important “C” word is clarity. Many people like to judge diamond rings based upon their size or their price, but clarity is much more important in the grand scheme of things. A good engagement ring will really shine when the light hits it. Sometimes, people settle for cloudier rings that are less expensive. This might be good for your budget, but it won’t give you a great looking engagement ring. Make sure that you ask and find out the grade of the diamond clarity. Jewelers are required to give out this information, so make sure you take advantage of it.
Shopping for engagement rings is fun, so you need to approach it that way. You shouldn’t have to worry about things while you are doing it. You should figure out how much you are willing to spend, and don’t stress if it’s not a whole lot. You can find some great diamond rings for less than you would think. It’s important that you do all of the research and above all else, make the ring fit your future bride. She will love it pretty much not matter what you happen to spend on it, but you’d rather have a great ring than an average looking one.
Finding the perfect diamond ring is all about the perfect fit. That’s not meant in a literal sense, but more in how the item fits your needs. Diamond rings are expensive, but they can vary in price depending upon size, cut, clarity, and a host of different factors. Before you can pick out your engagement ring, you have to know what your budget is. Diamond rings can run, typically, anywhere from $5,000 to $30,000. You can buy a bigger, more expensive ring, but that’s only for the high rollers. A good rule of thumb is to save three whole months’ worth of pay. Depending upon your salary, this could work.
When you figure out how much you’re willing to spend, you need to think about the kind of cut your future bride wants. You can usually find this out without giving away the fact that you’re going to propose. In passing, find out if she wants a princess cut, an emerald cut, or maybe just a round cut. The options are almost endless, so you need to really understand what she’s looking for. Diamond rings might carry a big price tag, but they aren’t all created equally. Some looks are more suitable for different women, depending upon their taste.
Another important “C” word is clarity. Many people like to judge diamond rings based upon their size or their price, but clarity is much more important in the grand scheme of things. A good engagement ring will really shine when the light hits it. Sometimes, people settle for cloudier rings that are less expensive. This might be good for your budget, but it won’t give you a great looking engagement ring. Make sure that you ask and find out the grade of the diamond clarity. Jewelers are required to give out this information, so make sure you take advantage of it.
Shopping for engagement rings is fun, so you need to approach it that way. You shouldn’t have to worry about things while you are doing it. You should figure out how much you are willing to spend, and don’t stress if it’s not a whole lot. You can find some great diamond rings for less than you would think. It’s important that you do all of the research and above all else, make the ring fit your future bride. She will love it pretty much not matter what you happen to spend on it, but you’d rather have a great ring than an average looking one.
Sunday 19 June 2016
Irish Wedding Rings
There are a number of Irish Wedding Rings that include Spirals, Triskeles, and Triquetas, Shield Knots and Sun Symbols. The most popular ring by far is the Irish Claddagh and it is surrounded by a romantic legend.
The Claddagh is as was said, the most popular in Ireland. The ring symbolizes love, friendship , and loyalty. The ring is named for an Irish fishing village. The design of the Claddagh is constructed of two hands holding a heart with a crown on top of it. The hands represent friendship, the heart represents love, and the crown represents loyalty.
Various traditions give different meanings to the ring depending on how it is worn. As a wedding ring it is worn on the left hand with the heart pointing inward to the wrist. As an engagement ring it is on the right hand with the heart pointing inward toward the wrist. For friendship it is worn on the right hand turned outward.
The legend of the Claddagh begins when a fisherman Richard Joyce and other crew members were captured by pirates shortly before Joyce was to be married. He was sold into slavery in Algiers and made the property of a goldsmith who taught him the craft of goldsmith. Joyce became the master of the craft. With is beloved back in Claddagh on his mind he fashioned the first Claddagh ring. The hands were to represent friendship, the heart was love, and the crown represented loyalty and fidelity.
In 1698 King Georges III agreed to free all of his subjects. Richard Joyce was once again free. His slave master offered Joyce his daughter in marriage and half of his wealth if he would stay in Algiers. Joyce refused the offer and instead returned home to Claddagh where he found his love waiting for him. Neither of them had married. Upon discovering this, Joyce gave his love the ring and they were married shortly thereafter.
The ring was dubbed The Claddagh because of the village Joyce and his Bride were from. There were others who made the ring much later and added jewels and an intricate crown design. The basic hands holding a crowned heart has never changed. Joyce wanted something that would his love for his Beloved.
The Claddagh today is as popular as it ever was. The basic design of the ring has not changed but now there is more intricacies in the crown, gemstones or jewels can be used to fashion the heart, and the hands are simply hands. The ring can be made of silver, gold or basically any metal.
The design is the clasped hands of the ‘fede’ or faith rings. These rings date from Roman times and were popular in the Middle Ages. The ring is worn now by many to speak to their Irish heritage. The Claddagh tells the story of two lovers who are separated and yet their love and commitment withstood the passage of time. It’s simple design and my heritage influenced my decision to purchase a Claddagh.
The Claddagh is as was said, the most popular in Ireland. The ring symbolizes love, friendship , and loyalty. The ring is named for an Irish fishing village. The design of the Claddagh is constructed of two hands holding a heart with a crown on top of it. The hands represent friendship, the heart represents love, and the crown represents loyalty.
Various traditions give different meanings to the ring depending on how it is worn. As a wedding ring it is worn on the left hand with the heart pointing inward to the wrist. As an engagement ring it is on the right hand with the heart pointing inward toward the wrist. For friendship it is worn on the right hand turned outward.
The legend of the Claddagh begins when a fisherman Richard Joyce and other crew members were captured by pirates shortly before Joyce was to be married. He was sold into slavery in Algiers and made the property of a goldsmith who taught him the craft of goldsmith. Joyce became the master of the craft. With is beloved back in Claddagh on his mind he fashioned the first Claddagh ring. The hands were to represent friendship, the heart was love, and the crown represented loyalty and fidelity.
In 1698 King Georges III agreed to free all of his subjects. Richard Joyce was once again free. His slave master offered Joyce his daughter in marriage and half of his wealth if he would stay in Algiers. Joyce refused the offer and instead returned home to Claddagh where he found his love waiting for him. Neither of them had married. Upon discovering this, Joyce gave his love the ring and they were married shortly thereafter.
The ring was dubbed The Claddagh because of the village Joyce and his Bride were from. There were others who made the ring much later and added jewels and an intricate crown design. The basic hands holding a crowned heart has never changed. Joyce wanted something that would his love for his Beloved.
The Claddagh today is as popular as it ever was. The basic design of the ring has not changed but now there is more intricacies in the crown, gemstones or jewels can be used to fashion the heart, and the hands are simply hands. The ring can be made of silver, gold or basically any metal.
The design is the clasped hands of the ‘fede’ or faith rings. These rings date from Roman times and were popular in the Middle Ages. The ring is worn now by many to speak to their Irish heritage. The Claddagh tells the story of two lovers who are separated and yet their love and commitment withstood the passage of time. It’s simple design and my heritage influenced my decision to purchase a Claddagh.
Saturday 18 June 2016
Men’s Moissanite Wedding Rings: A New Choice for the Modern Groom
Explore the new trend in wedding jewelry — men’s moissanite wedding rings. Men are becoming increasingly savy about their choice of wedding jewelry. Many grooms wish to create a unique yet affordable look by exploring different stones and metals. Men’s moissanite wedding rings are an attractive and economical alternative to the traditional diamond wedding band.
Moissanite is an increasingly popular choice for men’s wedding rings. Though less expensive than the diamond, moissanite is so similar to the diamond in appearance and properties that even those with a trained eye may have trouble distinguishing them. Manufacturers claim that moissanite actually sparkles more than a diamond, and is almost as hard.
Moissanite was first identified as a rare natural substance in meteorites. In the late 1800’s, Dr. Henri Moissan, discovered the substance associated with a fallen meteor in Arizona. However, it is only recently that moissanite was available for purchase. Today, moissanite gemstones are synthetically produced for jewelry. Moissanite’s durability and resistance to heat make it easy to work with for jewelers. Many people are drawn to the stone’s original “otherworldly” origins, and diamond-like appearance.
Men choosing a Moissanite wedding ring can have the look of diamonds without the exorbitant price. Indeed, the groom can splurge on bigger stones and a more dramatic look by choosing the less expensive material. While less expensive, moissanite is a quality stone that is typically set in gold or other precious metals.
Charles & Covard is the only manufacturer of moissanite. JC Penney now sells the line, calling it “one of the fastest growing choices for jewels today.” Moissanite rings come with a lifetime warranty, and will endure the years of marriage as well as a diamond. Those interested in purchasing a men’s moissanite ring may visit Charles & Covard’s website at www.moissanite.com for a list of stores that sell this unique product.
Moissanite is an increasingly popular choice for men’s wedding rings. Though less expensive than the diamond, moissanite is so similar to the diamond in appearance and properties that even those with a trained eye may have trouble distinguishing them. Manufacturers claim that moissanite actually sparkles more than a diamond, and is almost as hard.
Moissanite was first identified as a rare natural substance in meteorites. In the late 1800’s, Dr. Henri Moissan, discovered the substance associated with a fallen meteor in Arizona. However, it is only recently that moissanite was available for purchase. Today, moissanite gemstones are synthetically produced for jewelry. Moissanite’s durability and resistance to heat make it easy to work with for jewelers. Many people are drawn to the stone’s original “otherworldly” origins, and diamond-like appearance.
Men choosing a Moissanite wedding ring can have the look of diamonds without the exorbitant price. Indeed, the groom can splurge on bigger stones and a more dramatic look by choosing the less expensive material. While less expensive, moissanite is a quality stone that is typically set in gold or other precious metals.
Charles & Covard is the only manufacturer of moissanite. JC Penney now sells the line, calling it “one of the fastest growing choices for jewels today.” Moissanite rings come with a lifetime warranty, and will endure the years of marriage as well as a diamond. Those interested in purchasing a men’s moissanite ring may visit Charles & Covard’s website at www.moissanite.com for a list of stores that sell this unique product.
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