Your engagement ring is probably one of the most important and sentimental pieces of jewellery you’ll ever own, so naturally you want something that you’ll always love and feels personal to you.

Whether you’ve been dropping hints to your significant other or you go together to choose the ring, there’s a lot to take into consideration.

With different shapes, shades, stones and cuts, there are so many styles to choose from, so we’re here to help you decide what ring that best represents you…

The Pear Cut

Perfect for: the bold and bubbly bride

The pear cut ring has become one of the most popular choices over the last few years and has even been seen on many chic celebs, such as Margot Robbi and Emily Ratajkowski. Brides who choose this style of ring are normally bold and bubbly with a chic sense of style and bags of confidence to match!

The Cluster Ring

Perfect for: the whimsical and bride

If you’re a bride who loves romantic and vintage vibes, then you deserve a fairy tale cluster ring! These types of rings represents your glamorous side whilst also relating to your whimsical nature and magical star-like energy.

The Princess Ring

Perfect for: the fashionista bride

The princess cut trilogy ring is perfect for the sophisticated and modern bride who loves a little sparkle but nothing too much! You’ve probably got a edgy sense of style and love a contemporary take on fashion, which makes this ring perfect for you and will match all your chic outfits!

The Simplistic Ring

Perfect for: the minimalistic bride

Although simple, these rings certainly don’t compromise on style! They are best suited to the minimalistic bride, who loves clean lines and neat designs. You know yourself and you know exactly what you like, so go for a simple yet stunning ring that represents that inner sparkle.

The Royal Ring

Perfect for: the traditional classy bride

If these rings catch your eye then you’re definitely a traditionalist at heart! You probably have an old soul with a little modern-day glamour in your style, which is what makes these stunning royal-like rings the one for you!

Coloured Gems

Perfect for: the trendsetter bride

Coloured gems are perfect for the brides who love to stand out in a crowd. You tend to make your own rules and can even be a bit of a trendsetter – these rings are your best match as they are unique, eye-catching and glamourous, just like you!

The post What Your Engagement Ring Says About You appeared first on Wedding Journal.

The creation of lab-grown diamonds. Grown under laboratory conditions from a natural diamond seed, Lab grown diamonds primary element is carbon combined with pressure, heat and time. They are molecularly identical to a naturally mined diamond and rank at the top of the internationally recognised Mohs scale for hardness. They also exude the incredible sparkle of a traditional diamond. See here, for more in depth information on the Four C’s of lab grown diamonds. In essence, lab grown diamonds have all of the components of a traditional diamond combined with a more sustainable approach and affordable price.

As human beings, we are programmed to ask questions on anything new that enters the markets. When it comes to lab grown diamonds many people as ‘how are they made?’. They go through a process called Chemical Vapour Deposition or CVD for short. This uses a thin slice of diamond seed, which is placed in a sealed chamber. This is heated to around 800 degrees Celsius and exposed to carbon-rich gases. The carbon begins to adhere to the diamond seed and crystallises. Another commonly asked question ask is ‘How are lab grown diamonds different to naturally mined diamonds?’. On a molecular and visual level, there is no difference between them. The main difference between them is the environmental impact of mining versus lab creation, the social implications and the difference in price.

A great physicist once said “We cannot solve our problems with the same thinking we used when we created them.”. We live in a progressive society where we look to develop alternative resources for long term environmental sustainability. This movement has been applied to and invested in by the jewellery industry. At Commins & Co, all engagement rings, dress rings, wedding rings and eternity rings are available in both lab grown and natural mined diamonds. As a company who prides itself on a progressive approach, they have seen a surge in popularity over the last twelve months with 25% of their diamond ring sales commissioned with the use of lab created diamonds. That is a monumental figure when you consider they have only been introduced to the market in recent year. This is due to the growing number of couples who are becoming more environmentally and socially conscious.

Finally, it is important to mention that lab grown diamonds are a more affordable option for the modern couple. In such times of uncertainty, the idea of purchasing a diamond ring were the only difference is the diamonds origins and saving on average 40% appeals to many consumers. Whether lab grown diamonds are for you or not, they are now a permanent fixture within the jewellery industry. And for those of you looking at lab grown diamonds, visit Commins & Co to view their amazing range of lab grown diamond engagement rings!

The post Introducing Lab Grown Diamonds appeared first on Wedding Journal.

There is no better way to embrace your Irish roots than in the one piece of the wedding you hold onto for life; the wedding band!

Picking The Metal

The first thing to think of when picking your band is which type of metal to go for and while silver and platinum are becoming increasingly popular, nothing states tradition more than a Gold band. Most couple’s think you need to pair gold with gold and platinum with platinum, but that’s not the case. In fact, mixing and matching can look quirky yet stylish, so mess around with different metals to see what you like.

Choosing Your Design

When deciding on design for your traditional Irish Wedding Ring, research in symbolism and mythology is an absolute must!

The Trinity Knot

One of the more popular designs is the Trinity knot or Triquetra which can either symbolise the Holy Trinity for a more religious couple or it can symbolise eternal love through the three stages of life. Whatever the meaning the wearer believes, the Trinity Knot is a true symbol of Ireland’s ancient culture from the Druids right through to the 1900’s.

This White Gold ring from Murray and Co Jewellers demonstrates how mixing metals really can make a difference.

The Tree of Life

Another popular design is the Tree of Life, a further example of ancient Irish culture which connects the wearer to nature and symbolises purity, peace and love. Although traditional, it is a great symbol for the more Boho Bride or Groom.

This ring from Crossan Jewellers is unisex so can be worn by either partner or both:

The Celtic Cross ring

If you are hoping for a more spiritual ring, a simple Celtic Cross is the perfect style for you. The cross, said to be designed by Saint Patrick himself, features the Christian Cross in front of the sun which is believed to connect us with the Heavens and the Earth while giving us eternal and life-giving properties.

The Claddagh ring

The most popular design is of course the classic Claddagh ring, which combines the three symbols of hands for friendship, heart for love and crown for loyalty. Originating in County Galway, the Claddagh ring was first used as a wedding band over 300 years ago and has become the true symbol for love on the Emerald Isle.

Check out this beautiful Gold Claddagh ring from Robinsons Jewellers which can also be ordered in White Gold and is a perfect fit for a traditional engagement ring.

Gemstone

Although traditionally plain metal, many traditional Irish wedding bands contain diamonds or even mixed gemstones to give it that real Celtic feel. If you hope to stay as true to Irish tradition as possible then the best way is to use the gemstones found on the island itself.

Aquamarine, found in Northern Ireland, represents calm, peace, and balance, and was believed to be a treasure for mermaids and sailors. Relating to the sea, its colouring is perfect to add to a Gold or even Platinum band.

Is it even possible to think about Ireland without calling it the Emerald Isle? What better way to incorporate Irish traditions than to place an Emerald in your ring?! Emerald Beryl’s are one of the more common gemstones found on the island and are believed to promote guidance and clarity to a marriage as well as natural healing properties.

If you want to keep the green but add a twist, the closest green gemstone to Emerald you will find naturally on the island is Peridot, a compassionate stone that is believed to bring health, harmony and peace to a marriage by balancing emotions and mind.

There are many more gemstones to choose from that can be found on the island or are woven into the traditions of the country but whatever you decide to go for, adding a splash of colour to your ring can really make a difference.

Finding Your Perfect Design

Everyone wants their wedding ring to be perfect and while some jewellers specialise in traditional or Celtic rings, finding your dream ring can be a little more tricky. Feeling too spoilt for choice? Why not mix it up and design a ring that includes multiple layers of Irish symbolism or traditions?  A simple Claddagh ring can be elevated by adding the Trinity knot on the band or emeralds can be added to the Celtic Cross. Whatever you decide, customising your ring can not only promote tradition but can be a great way of expressing your individuality.

Here are some top tips to take with you on the day:

1. Decide your budget! Speak to your partner and discuss how much you would each like to spend and go in prepared.
2. Get sized up! Make sure your hands are not too hot or cold when sizing your fingers as this can mean your ring may need to be exchanged or resized before the big day. Also, its best to pick your ring 3-4 months before your big day to allow for size changes.
3. Talk to the Jeweller and tell them exactly what you are looking for. They have been in the business long enough to give you some expert advice and can help with everything from metals, colours or even shapes!
4. Take your time! No where does it say that you must pick the first ring you see in the first shop you visit. This is a piece of jewellery you will wear for the rest of your life, so you want to make sure you find the perfect ring for you.
5. Once you have chosen your ring, why not browse for some matching pieces for your day. If you are getting a custom ring, why not design some custom earrings or a necklace? Or better yet, why not opt for a Celtic Hair clip, an item which is both practical and chic!

If you are in need of more jewellery inspiration, check out the fabulous local wedding jewellery and ring designers and brands in our exclusive online wedding directory.

The post Number One Guide To Traditional Irish Wedding Rings appeared first on Wedding Journal.