Additional Coverage:
- 2 of the most impractical engagement ring styles, according to a private jeweler (businessinsider.com)
Engagement Ring Dreams: Balancing Sparkle with Staying Power
For many, an engagement ring is more than just a piece of jewelry; it’s a symbol of lasting commitment, often worn daily for a lifetime. While the allure of a dazzling diamond or a unique design is undeniably appealing, local jewelers are reminding prospective buyers that true beauty in an engagement ring also lies in its durability.
According to Anna P. Jay, a private jeweler with extensive experience, some of today’s most popular engagement ring styles, despite their aesthetic appeal, may not stand the test of time or daily wear. The key, she advises, is to find a balance between visual appeal and practical longevity.
Thin Bands: A Delicate Dilemma
One trend Jay points to as potentially problematic is the ultra-thin band. While favored for creating a sleek silhouette and making a central stone appear larger, these slender bands often lack the necessary support for everyday use.
“I don’t like super-thin bands personally because sometimes they’re not sturdy,” Jay explained. “When you have a larger stone on the top, it becomes top-heavy, so it’ll constantly be spinning.”
Beyond spinning, thin bands are more prone to bending and may require additional prongs to securely hold a stone, due to a reduced base for support. Jay suggests opting for a slightly thicker band, emphasizing that even a small increase in width—mere tens of millimeters—can significantly enhance the ring’s resilience without noticeably altering its appearance.
The Intricacies of Eternity Bands
Another style gaining popularity but raising durability concerns is the U-prong eternity band, often referred to as an infinity ring. These rings feature diamonds or other gemstones encircling the entire band, creating a continuous line of sparkle. While visually stunning, Jay warns that the U-prong setting, in particular, is incredibly delicate.
“U-prong settings are incredibly impractical,” Jay stated, noting that she has frequently had to reset or tighten prongs on such rings after just a week of wear. “I think jewelry should be worn, and if you can’t wear it because it’s too fragile, what’s the point?”
A significant drawback of full eternity bands is their inability to be resized. As finger sizes can fluctuate throughout a person’s life, an eternity band may eventually require a complete re-setting, which can be both costly and inconvenient. As an alternative, Jay recommends halfway or three-quarter eternity bands, which incorporate a section of plain metal, allowing for future resizing.
A Lasting Investment
Ultimately, purchasing an engagement ring is a significant decision and often one of the most substantial jewelry investments a person will make. Jay encourages open and honest conversations between partners about their expectations and desires for a ring, not just in terms of style, but also in terms of practicality and longevity.
“Make sure you do talk to your partner about what you want because it’s not a cup of coffee,” she said, highlighting the permanence of the purchase. “We can’t just throw it away and start again. Let’s make sure we nail it.”
Read More About This Story:
- 2 of the most impractical engagement ring styles, according to a private jeweler (businessinsider.com)