Selecting the perfect ring has long proven a challenge for couples looking to take the next step in their relationships. While factors like price and style may influence your decision, you might also find it interesting to learn more about gemstones. The color of the rock in an engagement ring can signify many different ideas. If you want to have some more fun while picking a ring, take a look at these common stones and what their colors say about your love.
The Classic White Diamondring
To kick the list off, consider the classic white diamond. Once popular because of its rarity, this type of stone is actually now the most common gem found in engagement jewelry. This has led many couples to shy away from white diamonds and turn to more exciting and unique options. If you still think this is the perfect fit for you, then remember that diamonds are meant to signify strength. Just as diamond is one of the most durable materials found on the planet, so will your relationship withstand whatever is thrown at it.
The Alternative Diamond Shades
Since white diamonds are seen as too traditional by many modern couples, colored diamonds have taken off in popularity. Those with a golden hue, which are sometimes referred to as champagne diamonds, are said to represent the effervescent, joyous side of relationships. Pink options are also a nice choice, the soft color symbolizing romance and imagination. Finally, yellow diamonds are a stone connected with excitement. Choosing a gem in this shade means your years will be filled with wonderful surprises. These are just a few colors available, with each representing a unique facet of your love story.
The Shades of Bluering
If you want to forego the standard diamond option, there are troves of other stones worth your time. Those who have a preference for blue may want to think about aquamarine. The color of this stone captures the cool tone of ocean waters and represents the fluidity of love as it changes over time. Blue sapphires are also a great choice, their bold appearance being the prime option for celebrities and royalty alike. Though a bit more of a deep purple than blue, tanzanite is an appealing option that represents the magic of your love.
The Red Hot
In contrast to the cool-blue tones, stones in red offer a chance to really make a statement. Rubies are a perfect pick for those looking to capture the passion of a relationship. Along the same lines is the almandine garnet. While this gem also represents passion, the deep-red hue of the stone symbolizes the serenity that can be found in a long-term partnership. Though more pink than red, morganite is a great pick for a couple looking to capture the whimsical aspect of love.
The Rest of the Rainbow
Gemstones come in every shade you can imagine, meaning that it can be difficult to cover all the options available to you in one list. Some popular choices to consider include emerald, the deep green said to symbolize good fortune and wealth. The sparkling orange of citrine can also offer a fetching look, the color representing the shining and nourishing light that marriage can bring. If you want to capture all of the colors of the rainbow in a single stone, the iridescent opal is a perfect fit that represents the couple’s desire and beauty.
From the durability of classic white diamond to the unique shimmer of opal, there are countless colors to consider when it comes to your engagement ring. While not the most important factor to consider, selecting your gemstone based around color can add a touch of personal significance. Explore your options and proudly wear a ring that is undeniably you.
One of the biggest decisions you’re going to have to make when planning your wedding is picking a ring. The engagement ring tends to be the piece that gets more attention, but your wedding bands are just as crucial. In fact, some would argue this item of jewelry is more important because it is the piece that will be worn into the future. All of this means that you need to put time and effort behind selecting the right rings.
The act of picking out wedding bands is one that a couple usually takes on together. Use these points to guide your search and learn more about how you can both feel satisfied with the final decision.
Start by Talking
As with almost every aspect of planning your nuptials, a conversation is a great way to get the ball rolling. Essentially, the goal is to discuss what you want the rings to look like overall. Do you want to pick out matching rings, or are you more interested in selecting jewelry that represents each of your individual styles? There’s no right or wrong answer, but you have to talk it out to feel like you both will be satisfied with the final decision.
Ring Inspiration
If you’re stuck and not in the know about current ring trends or options, then the next step should be to get inspired. There’s no need to haul yourself to a showroom and stare at tiny gems through glass, either. The internet has made inspiration as easy as clicking a button. Take a look at a variety of different blogs and social channels aimed at selling or promoting wedding bands. This will give you an amazing idea of what is possible and introduce you to styles you may not have thought of on your own.
Setting A Ring Budget
Before you step foot in a store, you need to set a budget. Weddings are expensive, and there’s no need to pour all of your available funds into this aspect of the event. Engagement rings tend to be flashier overall, meaning many couples opt for less fanciful wedding rings. This works to your advantage, because it is much easier to save money when you are picking out jewelry that is simple and elegant rather than ornate and bedazzled with precious stones.
Don’t Delay
A good rule of thumb when it comes to picking out rings is not to wait. The closer it gets to your wedding date, the more possible setbacks you’re bound to encounter. Very few people are able to slip on the showroom ring and call it a day. More often than not, the ring will need to be sized and adjusted to fit your finger. In order for jewelry experts to guarantee that your rings will be back in your possession before the date of the wedding, you have to give them enough time.
Factor in Your Daily Life
Finally, you should always think about the parameters of your daily routine when picking out an item like a ring. When you live an active lifestyle, it means that your hands come in contact with more irritants. Since you want to preserve your ring as best you can, it is wise to consider specific treatments meant for the type of life you live. The higher the odds of you losing your ring due to how you go through daily motions, the more likely it is you should opt for an inexpensive ring model.
Though it is not the most important choice you will need to make, picking out your wedding rings is a decision that still demands your attention. Follow the steps suggested here, and it will be much easier to discover a fit that you adore.
The cost of a wedding can approach the expense of new car or even more, depending on any number of items. According to The Huffington Post, a wedding in Quebec can run about $8,400 for just 77 guests, but one survey found that the average amount spent on a wedding was about $23,000. That figure does not include the engagement ring or honeymoon. Today’s couples have to make sure they have budgeted for their wedding. Traditionally, families were expected to help with the expenses, but in today’s environment, that isn’t always the case. Although the lines of who pays what for a wedding are definitely blurred, there are some customary divisions.
The Groom and His Family
The groom and his family have the easier burden when it comes to the wedding. The groom generally pays for the engagement ring and bride’s wedding ring. He should also expect to be responsible for:
His attire
Boutonnieres and corsages for his side of the wedding party
Officiant’s fee, plus accommodations and transportation
Marriage license
Bride’s gift
Gifts for the groomsmen
DJ or music at the reception
Liquor at the reception
Because the groom’s family traditionally hosts the rehearsal dinner, he or his family should expect to manage all the expenses associated with it.
The Bride and Her Family
Generally, if it isn’t in the groom’s list, it’s the bride’s responsibility. This includes the ceremony and reception expenses, as well as all of the planning, invitations, and photography. Most of the big ticket items are under the bride’s purview. The bride’s family is generally the one who hosts the engagement party, and the bride’s parents are considered the hosts of the reception. This is one reason their name is listed first on the invitation. If the bride hosts a luncheon for the bridesmaids, it is her responsibility to pay for the party.
The Attendants
Although the bride and groom are responsible for most of the expenses associated with the wedding, the attendants should pay for their own attire and accessories. Considerate brides and grooms may offer to assist with costs if the attendant is not able. The bride and groom may also need to provide attire for younger attendants such as the ring bearer or flower girl who do not have discretionary income.
The attendants generally work together to host the bachelor or bachelorette party, and the maid of honor and bridesmaids may host the bridal shower. Attendants should also arrange their own transportation to and from the wedding. Sometimes, the attendants chip in together for a gift for the couple, but it isn’t mandatory.
Contemporary Views of Who Pays
More couples are waiting until they are older and settled into a career and home before they tie the knot. This lets them contribute more money to their own affairs and not ask their parents to cover any expenses. Some families are splitting the bill in thirds, where the groom’s family, the bride’s family, and the couple each pay for one-third of the wedding.
Instead of looking at traditional lists of who pays for what, it’s important to consider the abilities of each party. Adult brides and grooms who have been managing their own finances should not expect parents to cover any of the costs. If the parent offers, then consider it a blessing and don’t ask for more. Second-time brides and grooms are pretty much on their own when it comes to wedding expenses.
Instead of making your wedding about money, take the time before you ever make plans to work out a budget and know exactly what you and your future spouse can afford. Stay within your budget to get started on the right foot without going into debt and dealing with a truckload of bills in your first year of marriage.
Selecting the perfect ring has long proven a challenge for couples looking to take the next step in their relationships. While factors like price and style may influence your decision, you might also find it interesting to learn more about gemstones. The color of the rock in an engagement ring can signify many different ideas. If you want to have some more fun while picking a ring, take a look at these common stones and what their colors say about your love.
The Classic White Diamondring
To kick the list off, consider the classic white diamond. Once popular because of its rarity, this type of stone is actually now the most common gem found in engagement jewelry. This has led many couples to shy away from white diamonds and turn to more exciting and unique options. If you still think this is the perfect fit for you, then remember that diamonds are meant to signify strength. Just as diamond is one of the most durable materials found on the planet, so will your relationship withstand whatever is thrown at it.
The Alternative Diamond Shades
Since white diamonds are seen as too traditional by many modern couples, colored diamonds have taken off in popularity. Those with a golden hue, which are sometimes referred to as champagne diamonds, are said to represent the effervescent, joyous side of relationships. Pink options are also a nice choice, the soft color symbolizing romance and imagination. Finally, yellow diamonds are a stone connected with excitement. Choosing a gem in this shade means your years will be filled with wonderful surprises. These are just a few colors available, with each representing a unique facet of your love story.
The Shades of Bluering
If you want to forego the standard diamond option, there are troves of other stones worth your time. Those who have a preference for blue may want to think about aquamarine. The color of this stone captures the cool tone of ocean waters and represents the fluidity of love as it changes over time. Blue sapphires are also a great choice, their bold appearance being the prime option for celebrities and royalty alike. Though a bit more of a deep purple than blue, tanzanite is an appealing option that represents the magic of your love.
The Red Hot
In contrast to the cool-blue tones, stones in red offer a chance to really make a statement. Rubies are a perfect pick for those looking to capture the passion of a relationship. Along the same lines is the almandine garnet. While this gem also represents passion, the deep-red hue of the stone symbolizes the serenity that can be found in a long-term partnership. Though more pink than red, morganite is a great pick for a couple looking to capture the whimsical aspect of love.
The Rest of the Rainbow
Gemstones come in every shade you can imagine, meaning that it can be difficult to cover all the options available to you in one list. Some popular choices to consider include emerald, the deep green said to symbolize good fortune and wealth. The sparkling orange of citrine can also offer a fetching look, the color representing the shining and nourishing light that marriage can bring. If you want to capture all of the colors of the rainbow in a single stone, the iridescent opal is a perfect fit that represents the couple’s desire and beauty.
From the durability of classic white diamond to the unique shimmer of opal, there are countless colors to consider when it comes to your engagement ring. While not the most important factor to consider, selecting your gemstone based around color can add a touch of personal significance. Explore your options and proudly wear a ring that is undeniably you.
One of the biggest decisions you’re going to have to make when planning your wedding is picking a ring. The engagement ring tends to be the piece that gets more attention, but your wedding bands are just as crucial. In fact, some would argue this item of jewelry is more important because it is the piece that will be worn into the future. All of this means that you need to put time and effort behind selecting the right rings.
The act of picking out wedding bands is one that a couple usually takes on together. Use these points to guide your search and learn more about how you can both feel satisfied with the final decision.
Start by Talking
As with almost every aspect of planning your nuptials, a conversation is a great way to get the ball rolling. Essentially, the goal is to discuss what you want the rings to look like overall. Do you want to pick out matching rings, or are you more interested in selecting jewelry that represents each of your individual styles? There’s no right or wrong answer, but you have to talk it out to feel like you both will be satisfied with the final decision.
Ring Inspiration
If you’re stuck and not in the know about current ring trends or options, then the next step should be to get inspired. There’s no need to haul yourself to a showroom and stare at tiny gems through glass, either. The internet has made inspiration as easy as clicking a button. Take a look at a variety of different blogs and social channels aimed at selling or promoting wedding bands. This will give you an amazing idea of what is possible and introduce you to styles you may not have thought of on your own.
Setting A Ring Budget
Before you step foot in a store, you need to set a budget. Weddings are expensive, and there’s no need to pour all of your available funds into this aspect of the event. Engagement rings tend to be flashier overall, meaning many couples opt for less fanciful wedding rings. This works to your advantage, because it is much easier to save money when you are picking out jewelry that is simple and elegant rather than ornate and bedazzled with precious stones.
Don’t Delay
A good rule of thumb when it comes to picking out rings is not to wait. The closer it gets to your wedding date, the more possible setbacks you’re bound to encounter. Very few people are able to slip on the showroom ring and call it a day. More often than not, the ring will need to be sized and adjusted to fit your finger. In order for jewelry experts to guarantee that your rings will be back in your possession before the date of the wedding, you have to give them enough time.
Factor in Your Daily Life
Finally, you should always think about the parameters of your daily routine when picking out an item like a ring. When you live an active lifestyle, it means that your hands come in contact with more irritants. Since you want to preserve your ring as best you can, it is wise to consider specific treatments meant for the type of life you live. The higher the odds of you losing your ring due to how you go through daily motions, the more likely it is you should opt for an inexpensive ring model.
Though it is not the most important choice you will need to make, picking out your wedding rings is a decision that still demands your attention. Follow the steps suggested here, and it will be much easier to discover a fit that you adore.
The cost of a wedding can approach the expense of new car or even more, depending on any number of items. According to The Huffington Post, a wedding in Quebec can run about $8,400 for just 77 guests, but one survey found that the average amount spent on a wedding was about $23,000. That figure does not include the engagement ring or honeymoon. Today’s couples have to make sure they have budgeted for their wedding. Traditionally, families were expected to help with the expenses, but in today’s environment, that isn’t always the case. Although the lines of who pays what for a wedding are definitely blurred, there are some customary divisions.
The Groom and His Family
The groom and his family have the easier burden when it comes to the wedding. The groom generally pays for the engagement ring and bride’s wedding ring. He should also expect to be responsible for:
His attire
Boutonnieres and corsages for his side of the wedding party
Officiant’s fee, plus accommodations and transportation
Marriage license
Bride’s gift
Gifts for the groomsmen
DJ or music at the reception
Liquor at the reception
Because the groom’s family traditionally hosts the rehearsal dinner, he or his family should expect to manage all the expenses associated with it.
The Bride and Her Family
Generally, if it isn’t in the groom’s list, it’s the bride’s responsibility. This includes the ceremony and reception expenses, as well as all of the planning, invitations, and photography. Most of the big ticket items are under the bride’s purview. The bride’s family is generally the one who hosts the engagement party, and the bride’s parents are considered the hosts of the reception. This is one reason their name is listed first on the invitation. If the bride hosts a luncheon for the bridesmaids, it is her responsibility to pay for the party.
The Attendants
Although the bride and groom are responsible for most of the expenses associated with the wedding, the attendants should pay for their own attire and accessories. Considerate brides and grooms may offer to assist with costs if the attendant is not able. The bride and groom may also need to provide attire for younger attendants such as the ring bearer or flower girl who do not have discretionary income.
The attendants generally work together to host the bachelor or bachelorette party, and the maid of honor and bridesmaids may host the bridal shower. Attendants should also arrange their own transportation to and from the wedding. Sometimes, the attendants chip in together for a gift for the couple, but it isn’t mandatory.
Contemporary Views of Who Pays
More couples are waiting until they are older and settled into a career and home before they tie the knot. This lets them contribute more money to their own affairs and not ask their parents to cover any expenses. Some families are splitting the bill in thirds, where the groom’s family, the bride’s family, and the couple each pay for one-third of the wedding.
Instead of looking at traditional lists of who pays for what, it’s important to consider the abilities of each party. Adult brides and grooms who have been managing their own finances should not expect parents to cover any of the costs. If the parent offers, then consider it a blessing and don’t ask for more. Second-time brides and grooms are pretty much on their own when it comes to wedding expenses.
Instead of making your wedding about money, take the time before you ever make plans to work out a budget and know exactly what you and your future spouse can afford. Stay within your budget to get started on the right foot without going into debt and dealing with a truckload of bills in your first year of marriage.
