Designer Jewelry Gems

Knowing what you can afford in engagement rings and wedding sets is an important part of making the best possible purchase. Determining what price range works for you with affordable engagement rings should be the first step, the looking at the best possible quality engagement rings in the price range is the next.

Diamonds and gems in engagement rings are the most costly component. The settings in which the diamond is placed or grouped can help to maximize the visual impact of the diamond and make it look larger or smaller. A larger central diamond is often set off by a smaller setting and band, making it possible to spend more money on the diamond and less on settings.

Smaller diamonds or diamond chips clustered or grouped either around a central diamond or gem or in a design will also make the overall diamond look bigger. Diamond chips and smaller diamonds used to create the pave style are not as expensive as a single large diamond so you may be able to afford a much larger ring staying with multiple smaller stones.

Using semi-precious or other precious stones within groupings on engagement rings may add to the unique quality of the ring while keeping costs within your budget. Often rubies, emeralds and sapphires are combined in engagement ring settings to add color and depth to the ring without adding a lot of extra cost.

The shape or cut of the diamond can also add visual dimensions that make a ring look larger. Engagement rings featuring the elongated shapes such as oval, pear, marquis or emerald cut are going to draw the eye down the length of the diamond, adding size and dimension.

Color, or lack of color to be more precise, along with cut and clarity are going also work to make engagement rings look beautiful, regardless of the actual carat weight of the diamond. It is better to buy a smaller diamond that is clear, colorless and well cut rather than a huge diamond that is substandard in quality. Some diamonds such as Ascher cut engagement rings or round solitaires are particularly beautiful just because of their color, not the carat weight.

Often selecting a smaller diamond that is of a better cut and clarity provides more options for getting the best possible engagement rings within a set price range. Jewelers should be willing to take the time to explain the different aspects of selecting a diamond to ensure you get just the one you want.

Mixing and matching settings with loose diamonds is a wonderful option when looking at engagement rings. With this type of purchase you select the diamond separate from the setting, allowing maximum flexibility in designing many kinds of engagement rings