Rosie Ray

Your diamond ring is forever, which means you’ll want to pick a diamond engagement ring that you’ll love for the rest of your lives. After all, does the difference between a classic round, brilliant cut diamond and a trendy marquise diamond really matter? It’s about more than just the look of the diamond, and you’ll learn why. If you’re not sure which women’s wedding rings would work best for you or your partner, keep reading to find out more about how to choose the right cut. Soure: merzzie/Shutterstock.com Diamond Basics When discussing diamond quality, it’s important to know the basics. Before you know what cut is right for you, you’ll need to know what kind of diamond you’re looking for in the first place. According to the Gemological Institute of America, that’s why we have the universal standard of the 4Cs of Diamond Quality: carat weight, color grade, clarity grade and cut grade. The weight of a diamond is how many carats it is, like 1 or 2 carats. The color of a diamond can range from yellowish to a clear and nearly spotless white. A diamond’s clarity refers to the absence of inclusions and blemishes. You came here to learn about the best diamond cut for you. That’s the fourth category of the 4Cs. Let’s learn about some of the most popular diamond shapes. Popular Diamond Shapes  While this list doesn’t consider all of the different diamond cuts that are out there, it shows some of the more popular and prevalent styles you’ll see on the market. Let’s see which ones might be right for you. You Want Romance and Structure — Opt for a cushion cut diamond that looks like a pillow. It’s one of the most popular fancy-shaped diamonds because of its versatility. Source: The Stormi/RosieRay.com You’re G-L-A-M-O-R-O-U-S —  For a ring shape that’s fit for royalty, choose an emerald cut diamond. It’s a timeless cut with a shallow depth which gives off the appearance of the large diamond, even if it’s a smaller carat weight. You’re Bold and Idealistic — The heart shaped diamond is not one for the faint of heart, but it’s the cut you should go for if you want a seriously unique fancy-shaped ring. Just keep in mind that because of all of the angles on this diamond, you’ll need to take extra care and be mindful with how you handle this ring to not accidentally damage it. You Believe Trends Are Cyclical — If there’s anything that Gen Z’s revival of Y2K fashion taught us, it’s that maybe our fashion wasn’t so bad after all and that fashion and style are cyclical. The marquise cut, AKA the football shaped diamond, was very popular in the ’80s. We’ve seen a serious resurgence of this trendy diamond cut. You’re Simple and Classic — You don’t want all the bells and whistles. You just want a beautiful ring that’s easy to care for and meant to last for ages. The round cut diamond is a simple classic that’s always timeless and never goes out of style.   Which Cut Is Right for You? Just like your personality and style are unique, you want a ring that’s as special as you are. You may be surprised at how your taste changes after you start browsing around and seeing what rings work best for you. If you are looking for memorable wedding bands and engagement rings that are sure to shine, you’ll want our alternative wedding rings. Browse Alternative Wedding Rings Which Cut ISN’T Right for You? You can’t really go wrong with engagement rings, as each ring has a certain beauty and allure to it, but you can feel like a ring just doesn’t match you. To pick the best ring for you, you’ll want one that feels comfortable. If you like what’s popular and trending and will want that ring to capture the moment you and your partner were engaged, do that. If you want a ring that’s classic and will retain its style decade after decade, go for that. There isn’t a “right” or “wrong” cut so much as what’s the best fit for you. If you’ve been looking for alternative wedding rings, Rosie Ray has the perfect array of wedding rings for your unique style. Want custom-looking engagement rings without the special custom price? Browse our entire selection of women’s wedding rings today. Shop Our Women’s Wedding Rings

If you’ve been searching for an alternative and unique engagement ring, opt for the distinctive allure of the salt and pepper engagement ring. Colorless or white diamonds tend to be the most popular center stone choice for women’s wedding rings, but there are plenty of women who dream of a salt and pepper diamond engagement ring. When it comes to picking and understanding the rich history of the exclusive salt and pepper engagement ring, here’s everything you need to know.  Source: kovop58/Shutterstock.com 1. The History and Origin of the salt and pepper — There’s a lot of history behind the origin of the salt and pepper and how it’s still a popular choice for alternative wedding rings today. Some cultures believe that this dark gemstone helps link the spiritual to the physical world. It’s often said that there’s a deep spiritual meaning and possible protection from evil with the salt and pepper. Across cultures, diamonds generally symbolize a strong emotional connection. salt and peppers, more specifically, symbolize courage and justice. 2. The Meaning and Symbolism Behind the salt and pepper — Just like the white or colorless diamond, salt and peppers are also associated with purity and love. What makes salt and peppers different in terms of symbolism is that they’re also associated with power and passion. The added depth and color of the salt and pepper symbolize charisma. They’re one of the toughest minerals on Earth. It’s no wonder they’re known to be a great symbolic choice for the meaning of forever behind engagement rings. Browse Our Women’s Wedding Rings 3. Are salt and pepper Engagement Rings a Good Choice? — According to the Gemological Institute of America, not only are salt and peppers ideal center stone engagement rings, but they’re also quite affordable compared to many other diamond colors, too. If you have a partner who loves to stray from societal expectations, a salt and pepper ring is the way to go. Perhaps they have a unique fashion sense or style. While all of their girlfriends are rocking the typical colorless diamond ring, she’ll be turning heads with her standout salt and pepper ring. 4. Choosing Your salt and pepper Engagement Rings — When choosing a salt and pepper engagement ring, there are a few things you’ll want to keep in mind. Besides your partner’s ring size, you’ll also want to think about the diamond setting and shape. Many salt and pepper rings have halo or solitaire settings. Also, consider the metal type of the band. Buy Your salt and pepper Engagement Ring 5. What to Consider When Buying a salt and pepper Engagement Ring — There are several different factors to consider when it comes to the salt and pepper engagement ring. Keep in mind that because they’re salt and peppers, they won’t reflect light the same way that white or colorless diamonds do. You’ll see the shape of salt and pepper engagement rings normally in a round, pear or cushion cut. Because of how bold the center stone is, you may want to stick to a simpler wedding band than one with a flashier metal type or an equally loud pavé setting.   6. Is the Salt and Pepper Engagement Ring Right for You? — A salt and pepper engagement ring may be right for you and your partner if you’re looking for a standout kind of engagement ring. When investing in any kind of big purchase like an engagement ring, you’ll want to keep cost in mind. While many diamond engagement rings can be pricey, you’ll find that the beautiful salt and pepper engagement ring is actually quite affordable. For a ring that’s meant to set you apart from the ordinary and show the uniqueness of your love as a couple, you can’t go wrong with a salt and pepper engagement ring.

Are you and your partner searching for the perfect engagement ring or wedding band? Rosie Ray offers a vast collection of innovative and unique designs for women. There are so many gorgeous choices that it can almost be overwhelming. However, as you browse, you might see the word “gemstone” thrown around a lot. But what is a gemstone and how do diamonds stand apart? Furthermore, diamonds vs. gemstones: which do you choose?  In this guide, we explain the difference between diamonds and gemstones and talk about why you might want to wear one over the other for women’s wedding bands, engagement rings or special pieces of jewelry. Then, you can find the perfect stone for your ring! Why Gemstones are Taking Over the Engagement Ring Industry Diamond engagement rings have long been sought after for their downright glitz and glimmer. They’re the traditional thing to receive when being proposed to but what’s all this talk about gemstones lately?! We get it. You wanna be cool and not break the bank for your honey so maybe they are a good option. Wait - I get to have a colored center stone, like my favorite color maybe?! How cool is that!! Gemstones come in a myriad of different colors, especially Sapphires and Garnets. There are some recognizable blue Sapphire engagement ring designs or entirely unique and different engagement rings. Picture a pink sapphire engagement ring or a green engagement ring - OR a cluster ring with several colors. When you add color, the possibilities are endless and oftentimes the price tag is drastically lower.  Gemstone engagement rings are the newest craze in the engagement ring industry. Why? Because they say “she’s not like anyone else so why should her ring look like everyone else’s?” But you might then ask - “but it won’t be as durable as a diamond, right?” Not necessarily! Sapphires, Garnets, and some other gemstones are almost as hard as diamonds and can take daily wear the same way a diamond engagement ring can. Check out the Mohs hardness scale and try to stick to stones with a 7.5 or higher to make sure they won’t chip or knick when you’re doing the dishes or weeding in the garden.  A Diamond Is a Clear Gemstone While there are actually about 200 types of gemstones, including all kinds of mineral crystals (topaz), rocks (opal) and organic materials (pearls), when you hear the word “gemstone,” vibrant colors are probably the first thing to come to mind. While gemstones like rubies, emeralds and sapphires offer bold, vibrant colors, gemstone hues can go a lot lighter. You can find gemstones such as soft peridot green, pastel-violet amethysts and even yellow citrines, though because of their softness, many jewelers dont carry them. But gemstones are found in an even lighter color than that: the clear diamond. Technically speaking, yes, a diamond is a gemstone. Comparing carats to carats, they are also the most valuable gemstone. This is what makes all other gemstones besides diamonds often referred to as “semi-precious.” That being said, one of our most popular and unique diamonds is the natural salt and pepper diamond, which offers a whole mood.  One of the biggest misconceptions about diamond rings is that they need to be treated with kid gloves. Diamonds are the hardest gemstone known to man and can endure pretty much everything that life throws at them, which is why they are the typical choice for engagement rings. That doesn’t mean they are the ONLY choice. Let the choice be yours. Diamonds vs. Gemstones: How to Choose So now that you know diamonds are indeed gemstones, how do you choose one for your engagement ring or wedding band? Glad you asked. We’ve listed the advantages of both diamonds and gemstones below to help guide you in your decision.  Diamonds Are Stronger As mentioned, diamonds are the strongest gemstone, coming in at 10 on the Mohs hardness scale. The highest durability level of 10 makes diamonds one of the hardest substances on earth. The Mohs scale also indicates how well a gemstone can hold up to scratches, chipping or breaking. This is why they are used for engagement rings and wedding bands that you’ll wear forever.  Still, you can find some exceptionally hard semi-precious gemstones that come pretty close to a diamond’s 10 level on the Moh scale. Coming in close at 9 Moh, sapphires and rubies are the second hardest gem and make a fantastic ring alternative.  Semi-Precious Gemstone Rings Are Affordable Since diamonds are the most precious and rare of all gemstones, they also come with a higher price point per carat. As a whole, semi-precious gemstones are the most budget-friendly for brides looking for a wonderful alternative to the traditional diamond ring. However, if you still love the look of a classic diamond ring, Rosie Ray also offers lab-grown diamonds that are more affordable, too. Traditional and lab-grown diamonds are both natural, sustainable diamonds. You just get more bang for your buck with a lab-grown diamond.  Semi-Precious Gemstones Are Unique Speaking of tradition, let’s talk a bit about that! Diamond engagement rings and wedding bands have been the choice of many couples since De Beers introduced the idea in 1947 that “a diamond is forever.” However, around 2020, a new trend emerged — couples wanted a more unique aesthetic, choosing colorful gemstones instead of the classic diamond. Not that there’s anything wrong with a classic, but some simply prefer to stand out from the crowd, too. Gemstone colors can also symbolize special milestones or events in your life. They can also simply represent who you are as an individual. Certain stones also offer different shapes since they don’t need to be cut so precisely to obtain a diamond-like sparkle. Many couples choose gemstones simply because they prefer a more modern, edgy shape.  Diamonds and Gemstones Make Gorgeous Rings So if you’ve always dreamt of having a diamond engagement ring, then by all means go for it. Diamonds are gorgeous, durable, and incredibly beautiful. But if that’s just not you, be sure to explore other options. In the end, he honestly just wants to get you something you’ll love, so explore both and see where you land. Whether you prefer a bespoke salt and pepper natural diamond, a color-enhanced black diamond or a bright green Tsavorite gemstone, Rosie Ray offers a variety of styles and shapes to fit your taste and budget so you can find the ring of your dreams. Shop Our Collections of Diamond and Gemstone Engagement Rings

Planning a wedding can be overwhelming, to say the least. Coordinating food, flowers, photographers, videographers and other vendors for the wedding reception. Scheduling flights and hotels for the honeymoon. It’s enough to make a couple forget the important things — like enjoying the moment. Oh, and purchasing the wedding bands that will signify your love, of course! Afterall, the wedding is for that - for YOU! However, whether you’re on the hunt with your honey for a gorgeous, sparkling engagement ring or are shopping for wedding bands before the big day, you’ll need to actually find your ring size first. Luckily, Rosie Ray offers the convenience of buying women’s wedding rings online. And when it comes to finding your ring size, we make that pretty easy, too.  In this guide, we talk about the average ring size for women and offer a super-convenient, stress-free way to measure your own ring size at home. This way, you have more time to plan your perfect wedding and spend time with your love doing all the fun stuff.  The Average Ring Size for Women Let’s talk about average ring sizes. In the U.S., ring sizes are typically  found in half increments, but can go as customized as quarter sizes - ranging from size 3 up to size 14. Keep in mind that this is for both men’s and women’s ring sizes. For women, the rings fall on the smaller end of the spectrum, from sizes 3 to 9, and men being between sizes 7 to 14. So what is the average ring size for women then? That would be a size 6. Still, all women’s bodies are unique, so it’s important to know that a size 6 might not be the right fit for you. Don’t assume that a size 6 wedding ring or engagement ring will fit. Take exact measurements to find out your personal, unique, individual ring size. If you’ve done any shopping in the mall, most jewelers carry a sample size 7 in their cases. Common Ring-Sizing Methods (and Their Disadvantages) So how can you determine your ring size? Well, there are several methods out there that can help you find your ring size. However, they’re not always the most convenient or accurate, which is worse. When you purchase an engagement ring, wedding band or any other type of ring online, you want to be confident you’re choosing the appropriate size. This way, your ring will be comfortable and secure. Let’s explore some of the common ring-sizing methods and why you should think twice about using them to find the perfect fit. The Paper or String Method Okay, if you’re not familiar with this method, let’s explain. Essentially, what you do is use a piece of string or paper to wrap around your finger’s base. You mark the string or paper with a pen and line it up along a ruler to find the millimeters. While this method can be used in a pinch for something like costume jewelry, you don’t want to do this for an engagement ring or wedding band you plan on wearing forever.  Whatever you use — string, paper, floss, etc. — it can stretch, bend and just generally give you an inaccurate reading. Furthermore, women with wider knuckles should avoid using this sizing method. If you measure your finger’s base and can’t see how it slips over your knuckle, then you may order too small of a ring size. And for engagement rings, getting your size is especially important because you want your center stone to sit up perfectly so you definitely want to nail your size so it’s not constantly sliding behind your finger. The Jeweler A jeweler can always take measurements to determine your ring size. However, keep in mind that your measurements can fluctuate throughout the day. If you just ate a meal, had mimosas for brunch or the temperatures are extreme (like it’s freezing outside), your finger can expand and shrink. So scheduling the time to swing by a jewelry store only to have a single measurement taken is not entirely ideal. In truth, to find your accurate ring size, you should take measurements multiple times throughout the day.   Find the Perfect Fit with Rosie Ray’s Ring Sizer As you now know, while there are several ways to find your ring size, they’re not all created equal. If you want to know your true ring size — and not play the guessing game and hope for the best — there’s one really convenient, at-home solution: the Rosie Ray Ring Sizer! Get the Rosie Ray Ring Sizer for a Perfect Fit The Rosie Ray Ring Sizer is much more accurate than the previously mentioned ring-sizing methods. With a flat, compact design, it comes in the mail, where you can take your measurements night or day for as long as you need to determine your ring size.  We recommend wearing your chosen size around all day so you can feel it out and make sure it’s the perfect choice. Only then can you make sure your wedding ring fits like a glove.  Tips for Using the Flat Ring Sizer Remember: You want your ring to fit comfortably, but snug. Don’t chance it flying off in cool weather or when your hands are wet or recently moisturized. Consider the size of your knuckles. It may be that the base of your finger is much smaller than your knuckle. If you have large knuckles, play around with the Rosie Ray Ring Sizer. Choose the smallest size that fits over your knuckle. (You should have to twist a little to get it off.) Put a Wedding Ring on That Finger, Already Discover your dream wedding ring and then be certain you’ve ordered the right size — with our Rosie Ray Ring Sizer. 

  Source: Levon Avagyan/Shutterstock.com Determining your style and taste in women's wedding rings is exciting. From the setting to the metal to the gemstone itself, there’s much to get excited about. One major consideration is the diamond shape and cut. There are several unique diamonds shapes out there, from pear to marquise, but how do you choose between two seemingly similar shapes like the cushion cut and round cut? When both give off softly rounded edges, but which should you claim as yours? Style, budget and how the center stone looks in the setting all play a role in your final decision. So what can you expect out of these two diamond shapes? Glad you asked! Let’s explore the key differences between a cushion cut vs. round cut diamond or gemstone.  Cushion Cut vs. Round Cut: What You Can Expect The Stormi Before we dive into what you can expect for each type of diamond shape, let’s talk about what the shapes look like.  The Cushion Cut: Also called an “old mine” cut, the cushion cut diamond is a timeless cut dating far back. The cushion cut is considered a fancy-cut diamond, like a pear, marquise or oval-shaped diamond. However, don’t confuse the cushion cut with other square-shaped fancy diamonds like the princess cut, which has a more defined square shape with sharper corners. Instead, the cushion cut has softer edges and rounded corners – kind of like a pillow! The Round Cut: Round cut diamonds are exactly that – round. Like the cushion cut, they have 58 facets, but because of the perfectly round nature, the facets give off more brilliance. This is why round cut diamonds are often referred to as “brilliant cut” diamonds. While they haven’t been around as long as the cushion cut, they have become a classic, desirable look.   Cushion Cut vs. Round Cut: Brilliance Even though both cuts typically have 58 facets, a round cut diamond gives off a greater brilliance. Hence the name “brilliant cut” diamond. A round cut diamond gives off more sparkle because its 58 facets are cut in a pattern that creates more scintillation. What the cushion cut does have is “fire,” giving off a star-like pattern inside its facets. Some women prefer this more original crushed ice look over the brilliant round diamond’s scintillation.   Technically speaking, the round cut diamond will always offer more brilliance. However, it doesn’t mean that a cushion cut diamond isn’t just as beautiful in the eyes of the beholder. If you like a broader brilliance effect of the cushion cut with its larger table surface and facets, then you do you! It’s entirely up to preference, but we always recommend seeing the diamond for yourself to decide if the sparkle and brilliance meet your expectations.  Cushion Cut vs. Round Cut: Carat and Size If you were to compare a similar carat cushion cut and round cut diamond, at first glance, you might think the cushion cut appears more substantial in size. This is because the cushion cut typically features larger facets – more notably on the top. So often the diamond weight is spread out more and creates the illusion of a bigger stone. However, the round cut’s brilliance can overtake this illusion, counterbalancing them into appearing the same size.  So which is better? That depends on what you prefer. But if you want a large-looking stone, with a more unique, with an almost antique quality, we suggest choosing a cushion. Alternatively, adding a halo setting to a round stone will provide the illusion of a larger diamond. In fact, a halo setting can give the illusion of a larger stone and offer a protective buffer to a diamond’s edges. The beautiful part about a halo with any center stone is that you can get more bang for your buck in choosing a smaller center stone size since the halo will boost the size of the complete look. Cushion Cut vs. Round Cut: Affordability A fancy cut diamond – like a cushion cut – is also more affordable. Therefore, unlike a perfectly round cut diamond that requires expert precision, a fancy cushion cut diamond is less wasteful. Combine this with the fact that brilliant round cut diamonds are more popular, and the choice is clear: cushion cuts are the more budget-friendly option. Plus, they’re a bit more unique!  So, Cushion Cut vs. Round: Which is Right for You? The Marilyn Now that you understand the difference between a cushion cut and a round cut diamond, which do you prefer? Is it the timeless fancy-cut cushion with its spectacular fire and softened square shape? Or do you lean toward a classic like the round cut with its dazzling and scintillating brilliance? Whatever your preference, you’ll find a unique, beautiful engagement ring at Rosie Ray’s. Explore our entire collection to find the perfect engagement ring!    Put A Wedding Ring On That Finger, Already

If you have ever read the description of an engagement ring and been confused on what all the terminology means, you are not alone. Whether the ring is minimal and understated or exquisitely detailed, there are many parts of an engagement ring. So let us help make it easier to understand the next time you go shopping for women’s wedding rings. Join us as we guide you through Ring Anatomy 101 and break down each feature and detail that an engagement ring offers. The Center Stone The center stone is the focus of an engagement ring. As the main attraction and largest stone, the center stone can be found in a lot of different shapes and cuts. While diamonds are the traditional stone chosen for an engagement ring, the center stone can also be other gemstones like rubies or sapphires. Salt and pepper diamonds are an increasingly popular stone choice as well. For white diamonds, you can even choose between a natural or lab-grown diamond.  Center stones can be found in “fancy” shapes such as an emerald, pear, marquise or princess cut, each with a unique look and features. However, a round diamond is the most popular shape, with the one carat size being the most popular in this cut. The Band or Shank Highly detailed or understated, your center stone will always rest on a band or shank, which slips onto your finger. Sometimes, couples choose to engrave a sentimental inscription, wedding date or message inside the band/shank. Also, when an engagement ring needs resizing because it is too tight or too loose, if it is a precious metal, a jeweler can typically easily resize the band. The one exception to this rule is if the ring has an ornate design that continues throughout the entire band. That’s why it’s best to get a ring that atleast has what’s called a “sizing band,” or some space at the back to change sizing as needed over the years. The Setting or Mounting Whether it’s referred to as the setting or the mounting, this word is an all-encompassing term that is used to describe the overall look of the ring. Aside from the center stone, it involves everything else: the band and other details like halos, the gallery and the shoulders (more on those later). The setting is not one particular engagement ring part, per se, but the whole aesthetic and design. For instance, you will often see an engagement ring being described as having a contemporary setting or a vintage mount. It’s the overall mood of the ring. The Side Stones While the center stone takes center stage, the side stones flank it like the backup singers. Quite often, side stones complete what is called a three-stone setting, representing the past, present and future of a relationship.  Side stones can come in any of the same shapes and stones that a center stone does. Side stones tend to be perfectly placed to accentuate the center stone. You can usually get away with a smaller center stone if you have some nice accents on the sides, or a halo - more on that in a bit!  The Head or Crown The “head” or “crown” of an engagement ring is what holds up the center stone. Prongs are part of the head or crown, too. Often, the style and cut of the center stone will dictate what kind of head/crown or prongs are used in the engagement ring design. You want to keep that center diamond or gemstone secure, of course.  Button prongs are standard, while claw prongs offer a bit more grip to unique stone shapes like round, emerald and cushion cuts. You may also have four- or six-prong settings. Aside from prongs, a head/crown can also have what is known as a “basket.” A basket may have even more stones or a carved motif or design along the sides. In essence, the basket is what holds the center stone up and the prongs keep it safe. The Halo Not to be confused with the crown, the “halo” is a circumference of smaller stones that surround or frame the center stone. An engagement ring halo is entirely optional and not always chosen. However, a halo does have a dramatic effect, making the center stone appear grander in size and sparkle. The Gallery This engagement ring part references the side profile of the band/shank. If your engagement ring is a vintage setting, you may find the gallery to have intricate filigree designs. However, if you have a modern setting, the gallery may have a few stones and a clean, sleek profile.  The Bridge Beneath the gallery is the “bridge,” the section that often joins each side of the band. The bridge also sits beneath the head and tends to rest on the finger, offering extra traction to prevent slipping or twisting. It can be just as minimal or intricate as the gallery.  The Shoulder The engagement ring’s shoulder is essentially part of the shank’s top. They are the top larger sides of the engagement ring, tapering off, twisting or splitting later down the shank. Now You Know All the Engagement Ring Parts  Now that you know all the bits and pieces that make up an engagement ring, take this knowledge to find the perfect ring. Knowing the terminology, you can discuss with your partner and jeweler the exact features that make up your dream engagement ring.  Shop All Our Wedding Rings

There’s no denying the mesmerizing sparkle and classic appeal of a dazzling diamond, but let’s be honest — they’re not for everyone. If you fancy yourself more of a trend-setter or a trailblazer than a gemstone classicist, consider thinking outside the diamond, so to speak, and going for a non-diamond engagement ring that’s equally as blingy. Put a Wedding Ring on That Finger Already Why Choose a Non-Diamond Engagement Ring? There are a few obvious reasons to skip the diamond when designing your ring. The most important are aesthetic and personal preference, but you’ll also find that going diamond-free will bring you some massive cost savings. While price varies widely depending on the size and quality of your stone, in general, an alternative stone will cost significantly less carat for carat than a diamond. For example, the average cost of a 1-carat diamond ranges from $1,800 to $12,000, while the average cost of an equivalent 1-carat sapphire ranges from $450 to $1,600. Before You Go Shopping Before you so much as pull up your Pinterest app, you want to determine a few important factors that will influence how to pick your perfect non-diamond engagement ring. What is my (or my partner’s) budget? Which center stone shapes do I like best? What vibe am I going for? Do I want a colorful gem or a diamond look? Do I want diamond accents or none at all? Pick a Colorful Alt Stone The next step in choosing your non-diamond engagement ring is to consider your alternative stone options. You may make your choice based on aesthetic, cost, symbolism or another personal reason. There’s no shortage of alternative stone options available for people who aren’t in love with the idea of a diamond. Here are a few popular ones for your consideration. Vibrant Blue or Pink Sapphire — When you think of a sapphire, you probably picture a deep blue stone like the 12-carat stunner Prince William gave to Kate Middleton back in 2010. While blue sapphires are an all-time classic, there’s more to the story when it comes to sapphire stones. If you love a rosy look, consider a champagne sapphire. Sapphire is the September birthstone symbolizing truth, joy, royalty and good fortune. They are  also incredibly durable. The Mohs scale speaks to a stones durability or hardness and sapphires are just below Diamonds in rank. Sapphires come in a range of colors covering the entire rainbow so they are a wonderful choice for a ring you’ll wear everyday. Mesmerizing Green Tsavorite — A variety of garnet, tsavorite is a great option for someone who adores the look of emerald but doesn’t want a gemstone as common. A bit brighter in color than the typical emerald, an emerald cut tsavorite makes an awesome engagement ring for the wearer who adores a unique, vintage look. Tsavorite symbolizes vitality, benevolence and compassion. Because of its rarity, it can be a bit more expensive than sapphire. Being that Sapphires and Garnets are in the same family, a tsavorite garnet will have the same amazing durability as a sapphire, perfect for everyday wear. Ever-Changing Purple Alexandrite — Sometimes referred to as “emerald by day, ruby by night,” alexandrite is a bit of a chameleon in the world of precious gems. With stunning hues of blues, purples, greens and reds, this kaleidoscopic gem is perfect for the wearer who considers herself a true-blue original and doesn’t want to be pigeon-holed to one color or style. It symbolizes luck, intellect and love. Like hazel eyes, the wearer might find their ring trying to adapt in color to what they’re wearing everyday. Natural Alexandrite is extremely rare, but you can also find lab created alexandrite that is more affordable and created with the same circumstances, just in a lab, so it possesses the same incredible color changes. Consider Lab-Grown Diamonds In addition to colorful gems, you don’t want to sleep on the classic looking diamond alternatives out there. Bringing more affordability, less conflict and often more beauty, Lab-grown diamonds bring the wow factor of the typical gem minus all the downsides.  Since they are made of the same chemical compound as “real” diamonds, lab-grown diamonds provide the ultimate in fire and sparkle. The only difference is that these diamonds were manufactured in lab environments. Bonus: They’re ethically sourced and much less expensive, so you can give yourself a pat on the back while you sparkle. Find Your Perfect Non-Diamond Ring At Rosie Ray, we understand that every shopper is unique, and we don’t believe in forcing a certain stone or style on anyone. We’ve got one-of-a-kind engagement rings that will make your heart flutter to match your personality, style and your perfect love story.

You’ve heard all these different diamond shapes and setting terms thrown around. You may still be unsure about the difference between a round cut diamond versus a princess cut diamond. If you’re not sure which kind of ring is right for you, we’ll dive into seven different popular types of diamond shapes to get your unique gold wedding rings or engagement ring. Source: marienalien/Shutterstock.com 1. Round — The round cut diamond is a timeless option for engagement rings. It’s consistently been the most popular diamond shape for decades. It’s the most brilliant cut due to its symmetrical shape, which means if you’re looking for that extra shiny diamond ring, you’re going to want a round cut diamond. Typical settings for this ring are a side stone or solitaire setting. 2. Princess — While princess cuts aren’t as popular as round cut diamonds, the princess cut diamond is still a fan favorite. This square-shaped diamond has the most brilliance of all the square-shaped diamonds. You’ll see anywhere from two to four chevron patterns on this diamond. This cut is also known as the square modified brilliant. You can get this stone in a rectangular princess cut, but the rectangular modified brilliant cut isn’t as popular or desirable as the square cut. You’ll typically see the princess cut diamond set in a solitaire or three-stone ring setting. Opt for a four-prong setting to offer extra protection for this ring so the corners won’t accidentally get damaged. Shop All Our Wedding Rings 3. Emerald — If you’re looking for a larger diamond that’s more affordable as you go up in size, the emerald cut diamond fits perfectly with most settings. They go well with solitaire, pavé and three-stone settings. The large surface table and deep clarity of the emerald cut diamond normally appear larger than other diamonds in the same carat weight. The emerald’s unique features include its rectangular, elongated shape, chiseled step cuts and linear facets. 4. Cushion — In the past decade, we’ve seen the cushion cut diamond grow in popularity. It’s a combination of the traditional, old mine facet pattern diamond cut and the round cut. This diamond usually has a rectangular or softer square shape with curved edges. It’s called the cushion cut because it looks like a pillow cushion. If you’re looking for a ring with a vintage look and feel, opt for a cushion cut diamond. Browse Wedding Bands for Her 5. Marquise — The trendy marquise diamond is known for its trademark football-shaped diamond cut. It has 56 facets on the diamond cut. The elongated shape of the marquise diamond makes it seem larger than other diamonds of the same carat weight, causing the fingers to look thinner as well. It’s a great choice for anyone looking for a really unique ring. 6. Heart — What better way to show your love than with a heart-shaped diamond ring? It’s shaped exactly as you expect it would — in the shape of a heart. While you won’t find them as common as round shaped diamonds, you can still find high-quality heart-shaped diamonds online. According to the Gemological Institute of America, you’ll want a diamond engagement ring that shields the point of a heart-shaped diamond because that part is most vulnerable to any damage. 7. Baguette — Speaking of diamonds that look like other things, there are baguette diamonds as well that look like, well, baguettes. Baguette-shaped diamonds can be great accent pieces, although their brilliance doesn’t compare to other brilliant cut diamonds. They’re an affordable alternative to the more popular emerald cut. Now that you know about these seven different diamond shapes, you’ll be able to choose your wedding ring or engagement ring with confidence. Rosie Ray has a wide array of radical rings for the modern bride that you’ll love wearing forever.

Source: Syda Productions/Shutterstock.com Choosing engagement rings and women’s wedding rings can be an overwhelming experience. Even when you know beyond a shadow of a doubt that your partner is “the one,” planning a proposal and ring shopping are entirely different tasks. Rosie Ray is here to ease the stress! We’ll help guide you in the process and make your journey to find the perfect engagement ring a joyful one.  As you search for a ring online or at a jeweler, remember these five engagement ring shopping etiquette tips. They will help you find the engagement ring of her dreams! #1 Learn the Basics Before you go shopping for an engagement ring, brush up on the basics. Learn about the 4 C’s of diamonds — color, cut, clarity and carats — as well as the types of metals and settings. You might want to familiarize yourself with natural and lab-grown diamonds too.  The Four C’s of Diamonds Color: While it might be sparkling and crystal clear to the naked eye, a diamond’s color comes in many hues. It can range from truly colorless to yellowish to a light brown. Colorless diamonds more rare, which makes them more valuable too.   Cut: A quality diamond cut made by a skilled cutter helps to create extra brilliance and dazzle. A higher grade means an expert cut, getting the most sparkle out of your diamond or gemstone. Clarity: Inclusions and blemishes make a diamond unique. However, you can find a diamond with less. Verify the clarity chart to see where it falls or look for yourself through the microscope. Whether you prefer something clearer or a striking salt and pepper diamond, you do you.  Carat: Simply put, “carats” is the diamond’s weight. A single metric carat equals one-quarter of a gram.  Natural vs. Lab Gown Diamonds Natural Diamonds: Natural diamonds are created under the earth’s pressure for over millions of years and then mined. Many lean toward lab diamonds for fear a more sustainble and conflict-free products. However, with Rosie Ray natural diamonds, you don’t have to worry. All of our diamonds are sustainably sourced using the Kimberley process, preventing conflict diamonds.  Lab Grown Diamonds: Scientists have discovered how to grow diamonds in a lab that look no different than a natural diamond. They are made up of the very same chemical compounds as a natural diamond – with the same “wow” factor too! Rosie Ray offers both natural and lab-grown diamonds – so take your pick! When you walk into a jeweler or browse jewelry online, it can help to know a thing or two about what you’re looking at. Even if you don’t know precisely what you want and are looking for something truly unique, knowing these basics can help you set a budget and tell the jeweler what you want. #2 Window Shop First Another tip for engagement ring shopping etiquette is to go in with an understanding of your partner’s preferences. The best way to do that is to go window shopping. Luckily, you can go window shopping from the comfort of your couch, so it feels natural and there’s no pressure. Or head into a store and look around. It’s absolutely fine to let a jeweler know you’re just browsing. They may ask you some questions about budget to help narrow your search as well. So know your budget. Even if you never step foot in a jewelry store, and the proposal is a complete surprise, we encourage couples to find a way to chat about likes and dislikes so you know your partner’s preferences. Something as simple as finding out their preferred gold color and center stone shape would help narrow down your search immensely. And you know your budget, so with that information, you’ll be armed and ready! And if you are completely surprising your partner, take a look at the jewelry that they wear most often, which will help dictate their style. For instance, she may have a very ornate ring that was her grandmother’s that she keeps but doesn’t often wear BUT she might wear some pretty modern looking minimalist jewelry daily. That would tell you she would like something modern, with simple clean lines and no fuss. Shop Our Minimalist Collection #3 Focus on Rings Within Your Price Point It bears repeating - before you shop for engagement rings, have a budget in mind. Look at rings within your budget and try not to get distracted by something above your means. Be considerate and upfront with salespeople about your price range and politely let them know if they are showing rings out of your budget range. This will help them and you get back on track. Furthermore, setting a clear budget means you won’t be trying to haggle the price down. You might be able to negotiate the ring’s purchase down a hair, but haggling or lowballing a salesperson or jeweler is just plain bad engagement ring shopping etiquette. In short: Stick to a budget and be comfortable with it.   Rest assured if you truly fall in love with something outside of your budget, a lot of jewelers have financing programs you can look into if you qualify, but you can also look at changing out the center stone in most rings to either a lab diamond or a colored gemstone to come down on price and help you get back in budget. #4 Purchasing Typically Falls to Guys (But You Do You!) Traditionally, engagement ring shopping etiquette dictates that the ring is to be purchased by the man. This might be the norm, but the rule is not set in stone (pun intended). Some couples, especially same-sex partners, might choose to split the cost of engagement rings and wedding rings. So, today, the tradition still stands, but it should really come down to what you and your partner would prefer. Typically the engagement ring should be purchased by the proposer who is making the beautiful romantic gesture! Also, keep in mind that it’s generally advised to purchase a ring three months before popping the question, allowing you time to have your ring crafted and make plans for the big proposal. If you’re shopping with Rosie Ray, be sure to account for our 3- to 4-week turn-around time for our handcrafted rings that are made to order. Put a Wedding Ring on That Finger, Already #5 Be Honest About the Ring Source: NAK Photographer/Shutterstock.com During the proposal, be in the moment. Take a moment to cry tears of joy, embrace and, of course, say “yes.” Slide the engagement ring on the finger and take it all in. Feels good, right? Okay, well maybe it’s a little loose or tight. Don’t worry, it happens. Just be honest and let your partner know it doesn’t quite fit.  Luckily, Rosie Ray allows you to exchange your new engagement ring for a different size. We offer one free resizing within 30 days of your delivery date. So if you are proposing – don’t worry! She’ll love it or your money back! Shop women’s wedding rings and engagement rings at Rosie Ray today!