In Advice

Engagement ring care tips to keep your sparkler looking new

May 11, 2026 No Comments

While your ring may be built to last a lifetime, it still needs a bit of love along the way. Proper engagement ring care isn’t just about keeping it shiny for Instagram photos. It’s also about protecting a piece of jewellery that carries enormous sentimental value.

Luckily, a few smart habits can help keep your sparkler safe, secure and dazzling for years to come.

Take it off more often than you think

It might feel strange removing your engagement ring after getting used to wearing it every day, but there are certain situations where it’s much safer off your finger than on it.

Heavy lifting at the gym, gardening, cleaning with harsh chemicals and even sleeping can put unnecessary pressure on the setting and metal. Over time, this can loosen prongs, scratch the band or cause tiny stones to fall out without you even noticing.

When you shouldn’t wear your engagement ring

Your engagement ring is designed for everyday wear, but there are some situations where jewellers strongly recommend taking it off.

At the gym

Weights, resistance machines and even certain yoga poses can bend bands, loosen stones and scratch metal. Pavé settings are especially vulnerable during workouts because tiny diamonds can shift under pressure.

In the shower

Soap, shampoo and conditioner create buildup that leaves stones looking dull and cloudy. There’s also the very real possibility of your ring slipping off and disappearing down the drain.

While cleaning

Household cleaning products often contain harsh chemicals that can damage metals and gemstones over time. Bleach and chlorine are particularly harsh on jewellery.

At the beach or pool

Cold water causes fingers to shrink, making rings easier to lose without noticing. Sand can also scratch metal and get trapped underneath settings, while chlorine and salt water may weaken certain metals over time.

While sleeping

Sleeping with your ring on can create unnecessary wear from friction against bedding, and overnight swelling can sometimes make rings uncomfortable or difficult to remove.

During gardening or DIY projects

Soil, tools and rough surfaces can easily scratch or dent your ring, while dirt buildup underneath stones can dull sparkle surprisingly quickly.

When applying skincare or beauty products

Lotions, oils, sunscreen, perfume and fake tan can all leave residue behind that affects shine. It’s best to put your ring on after finishing your beauty routine.

During certain holidays or travel

Adventure holidays, hiking trips and busy tourist destinations can increase the risk of damage, loss or theft. Some brides-to-be choose to wear a travel ring instead for peace of mind.

If there’s ever doubt, jewellers tend to follow one simple rule: if an activity could scratch, loosen, bend or expose your ring to chemicals, it’s safer off your finger than on it.

Put your ring on last

When getting ready, your engagement ring should be the finishing touch.

Perfume, hairspray, fake tan, moisturiser and makeup can leave residue on your stone over time, dulling its sparkle much faster than you’d expect. Jewellery experts often recommend applying all beauty products first and slipping your ring on just before heading out the door.

Keep a ring dish nearby

One of the easiest engagement ring care habits to adopt? Ring dishes.

Place one next to your bed, another in the bathroom and maybe even one in the kitchen. Having designated safe spots around your home means you’re far less likely to leave your ring balanced precariously on a sink edge or wrapped in a tissue somewhere.

And yes, everyone thinks they’ll remember where they put it. Until they don’t.

Clean your ring regularly

Even the most brilliant diamond can start looking dull thanks to lotions, soap, makeup, sunscreen and the natural oils on your hands.

Thankfully, you don’t need anything fancy for at-home engagement ring care. A small bowl of warm water with a drop of mild dish soap works perfectly. Let the ring soak for a few minutes, then gently clean around the setting with a soft toothbrush before drying it with a lint-free cloth.

A gentle clean every few weeks can make a noticeable difference to your ring’s sparkle.

Book professional check-ups

Just like your car needs a service, your engagement ring benefits from a professional once-over too.

Jewellers can check that the prongs are still secure, inspect the setting for wear and professionally polish the metal to restore its shine. Tiny issues that you might never notice yourself can often be caught early before they become expensive problems.

If your ring suddenly starts snagging on jerseys, blankets or towels, don’t ignore it. That can sometimes be a sign that the claws or prongs have lifted slightly and need attention.

Know your metal

Different metals require slightly different care.

White gold rings, for example, are usually coated in rhodium plating to achieve that bright silvery finish. Over time, the plating naturally wears away and may need refreshing every few years.

Make sure your ring actually fits properly

A ring that’s too loose is risky, while one that’s too tight can become uncomfortable and difficult to remove.

Finger sizes naturally fluctuate throughout the year depending on temperature, lifestyle changes and even hydration levels. In colder weather especially, fingers can shrink enough for rings to slip off more easily.

If your ring constantly spins, slides or feels uncomfortably snug, it may be worth visiting a jeweller for resizing or sizing beads.

Proper engagement ring care starts with making sure your ring fits securely in the first place.

Consider jewellery insurance

It’s not the most glamorous part of being engaged, but insuring your ring can save a lot of stress later on.

Insurance can help cover theft, accidental damage or loss, particularly if you travel often or wear your ring daily. Many jewellers provide valuation certificates that make the process much easier.

It’s also smart to keep clear photographs of your ring, along with any certificates or valuation documents, in a safe place.

Hopefully you’ll never need it — but having that peace of mind is worth it.

Not all gemstones are created equal

While diamonds are famously durable, other gemstones require a gentler approach.

Emeralds, opals, pearls and softer stones can be more vulnerable to knocks, heat, chemicals and even sudden temperature changes. If your engagement ring features a coloured gemstone, it’s worth asking your jeweller about the best cleaning and care methods specifically for that stone.

Don’t panic about taking it off

There’s an old superstition that removing your engagement ring is somehow “bad luck”. Thankfully, that’s exactly what it is: a superstition.

Looking after your ring properly doesn’t say anything about your relationship. If anything, careful engagement ring care simply means you want this sentimental piece to stay beautiful for decades to come.

ALSO SEE: (Don’t) put a ring on it

(Don’t) put a ring on it

Feature image: Pexels

In Advice

How to pull off the perfect destination proposal

May 4, 2026 No Comments

Planning the perfect proposal is nerve-wracking, exciting and maybe even a little overwhelming, all bundled up neatly into one big knot in your stomach. Throw in an unfamiliar destination, and that knot gets a little bigger. But don’t fear, we’ve got the fool-proof guide to making it go as smoothly as possible:

Do your research beforehand

By planning ahead, you’ll take a little pressure off yourself as well as have more peace of mind about how it’s all going to play out. Have a plan of where, how and when you’d like to pop the question, but don’t expect it to work out exactly as you see it in your head. When the moment is right, you’ll know, but also don’t be too stressed about changing it up in case of unforeseenable elements, like the weather.

That said, make sure you’re aware of what’s happeing in the area you’re planning to propose in, especially if you’ve never been there. Do a little internet search beforhand to see if any events are happening, if the area is a sacred place perhaps, or if any of the areas are restricted. It will also be handy to look at popular scenic locations, or romantic spots that other people have popped the question at for some inspiration.

Communicate with your hotel

…or resort, B&B, or wherever you’re planning on staying. Even if you’re not planning to propose at the place you’re staying at, they’ll most likely make some extra effort to make it romantic for you if they know what your plans are. Some places even organise some complimentary champagne, a romantic dinner, or some rose petals in your room for after you’ve popped the question.

Insure the ring

Before you even leave for your getaway, make sure the ring is insured. Things happen, but if you’re planning to propose while away, it’s the last thing you’d want to worry about. Get the ring insured for in case a stone pops out, or heaven forbid, it gets misplaced or stolen. It’s the responsible thing to do anyway, plus it will put your mind at ease.

Hide the ring, safely

Packing is stressful enough as it is, or at least for some. But making sure the ring stays safely hidden from your fiance-to-be’s eyes is extra daunting. If you don’t want to worry about it falling out of your pocket, or your partner accidentally seeing it in your bag, pack it in your check-in luggage. However, if you’re scared of your luggage getting lost or delayed (because yes, these things happen), keep it safely stashed in your carry-on. Rather safe than sorry, right?

Furthermore, if you’re worried about it being discovered at customs, it’s a good idea to place the ring box inside a bigger, nondescript box with a note inside to give the inspector or security guard a quick heads up in case they have to take a closer look.

Don’t wait until the last minute to propose

You want to wait for that perfect moment, but don’t wait until the last day of the trip. Nerves might not be your best friend, so your partner might notice that you’re acting a little differently. A little anticipation is good, especially if your partner is kind of expecting it, but if you propose earlier on, you’ll have more time to celebrate it in a special place.

Don’t overthink it

Sometimes it’s best to just go with your gut. If the moment feels right, go for it, even if it doesn’t go with your plans. Being spontaneous and it being unexpected sometimes makes the moment that much more special.

ALSO SEE: Alternative engagement ring stones

Alternative engagement ring stones

Feature image: Unsplash

In Accessories

Alternative engagement ring stones

February 25, 2026 No Comments

An engagement ring holds a large amount of significance for a couple. For hundreds of years, the classic diamond has been a major trend for engagement rings, often honoured for their simple beauty, shine, and value.

But with more and more traditions evolving, the classic diamond engagement ring is slowly being replaced with other special stones, materials and designs that value originality, affordability and meaning.

Take a look at our top picks for alternative engagement rings:

1. TANZANITE

The next best thing to diamonds is the striking tanzanite. With its deep blue, this stone can complement a silver, rose gold or white gold band beautifully. As far as cut goes, tanzanite is popular in many shapes. This teardrop ring shows how tanzanite can pair with other jewels as well.

2. MORGANITE

With a light, dusty pink tint, morganite is an affordable and stunning stone which signifies unconditional love and compassion – two necessary traits in all marriages. This stone is equally as versatile due to its light shade and works well with all metals.

3. JEWEL BAND

If you want to have a more practical and simple engagement ring, then a plain band with a few jewels may be the one for you. Incorporate your favourite stone, or multiple to make a statement. If you opt for a brightly coloured stone such as the ruby or peridot, your band is bound to stand out.

4. OPAL

Opals are a rare and highly sought after stone that adds a touch of glamour to a ring. They can give off a vintage appearance, but if you pair it with a simple silver band surrounded by smaller diamonds, it becomes a modern but still unique ring.

5. VINTAGE

Whether it’s an heirloom, has been bought in an antique store, or specially made to appear old-fashioned, vintage rings will always be breathtaking options for engagement rings. The metal is darker and has intricate detail, which is often accompanied by a large and neatly cut stone.

6. ONYX

Dare to make a bold statement with a dark and shimmery onyx centrepiece on your engagement ring. This black stone complements yellow gold in a unique and modern way, which has slowly started to pick up attraction on the market.

7. PEARL

Having a pearl on your engagement ring definitely adds a touch of vintage elegance. If you are a lover of all things old-fashioned, opting for these lovely round jewels will bring your dream ring to life.

8. ROUGH CUT

The cut of the stone makes a big impact on the overall ring. Just simply using an uncut diamond instead of a neatly cut one can change the look and feel of your ring. A rough cut ring is more rustic and natural-looking, for a more organic finish. In this case, it’s better to seek a specialist for a hand-crafted option.

9. TURQUOISE

If you love to be different then this is the stone for you. Choosing a turquoise jewel for your engagement ring is a big step, as this particular stone has a very youthful appearance, especially when paired with a dainty band and smaller stones. But you will have a unique and special ring that you value, which is all that matters.

10. SMOKY QUARTZ

This earthy stone is a beautiful and affordable option for an exquisite natural-looking engagement ring and can be paired with silver or yellow gold for complementary tones. Marvel over its sparkle and changing colours when it catches the light.

ALSO SEE: Diamonds: Understanding the 4 C’s

Diamonds: Understanding the 4 C’s

Image: Unsplash

In Engagements

Say I do with a ring tattoo

February 23, 2026 No Comments

More and more young couples are moving away from wedding traditions. From having both parents and siblings walk the bride down the aisle, to not throwing the bouquet, and now swopping out wedding bands for tattoos.

In Rings

Big days, big feel: The fine details of a blissful beginning

February 19, 2026 No Comments

There is a certain electricity in the moments before a wedding, a soft, quiet magic that settles in the air. It’s in the rustle of a gown, the gentle touch of a guiding hand, and the shimmer of jewellery catching the light just before a life-changing “I do.” These delicate details shape the atmosphere of the day, anchoring emotion in ways words sometimes cannot.

At Sterns, we’ve always believed happiness is found in these finer moments. Jewellery becomes the most meaningful detail of all, the part of your story you carry with you long after the music fades and the flowers are packed away.

Because this love, this moment, this promise… It’s rare. A one-in-a-million kind of love that deserves to be captured with craftsmanship as beautiful as the story it represents.

Your Forever Starts Here

Choosing an engagement ring is one of the most significant decisions you’ll make on your journey to forever. It’s more than a symbol; it’s a vow you wear every day, a reminder of the moment your future shifted.

Sterns’ Forever Diamonds Collection is crafted for this moment. Each natural diamond is hand-selected for its brilliance and individuality, making every ring a unique expression of love. Just as Wedding ETC often celebrates modern, personal approaches to weddings from intimate ceremonies to trend-forward styling, this collection embraces individuality while honouring timeless romance. [weddingetc.co.za]

Whether your style leans toward the elegance of a classic solitaire, the vintage romance of a halo, or the modern allure of clean, minimalist lines, every Forever Diamonds ring is designed to reflect the emotion behind your “yes.”

Crafting a Proposal That Feels Like You

A proposal is more than a question; it’s a story you’ll tell for the rest of your life. In many of the features on Wedding ETC, couples are gravitating toward meaningful, personal moments over grand gestures.
It’s the sentiment that counts: the place where your love grew, the song that holds memories, or the simple traditions only the two of your share. [weddingetc.co.za]

The perfect proposal isn’t about extravagance but intention. A heartfelt moment at home, a scenic viewpoint at sunset, and a handwritten note leading to the ring, these details create the magic. And the right ring becomes the finishing touch, the detail that transforms the moment into forever.

Jewellery for Every Chapter of Love

Every love story is a tapestry of shared memories, early sparks, deepening connection, and milestones that shape your journey. Wedding ETC regularly highlights how couples today celebrate each milestone uniquely, from proposals to the final walk down the aisle.
Sterns embraces this same philosophy through jewellery crafted for every stage of your love story. [weddingetc.co.za]

For the early days: delicate pieces that capture youthful romance and promise.
For the engagement chapter: rings chosen with intention, reflecting the depth of your bond.
For the wedding day: heirloom-worthy designs that complete your bridal look.
For the years beyond: jewellery that grows with you, marking anniversaries and milestones.

These pieces become part of your journey, memories you can wear.

A Wedding Day That Feels Personal

One of the most meaningful aspects of planning a wedding is creating a day that reflects who you are as a couple. Wedding ETC is known for spotlighting current trends and timeless ideas, from intimate celebrations to bold, modern themes. [weddingetc.co.za]

Your theme sets the tone: classic romance, modern minimalism, soft pastel palettes, or the dreamy pearlescent accents trending for 2025. Whatever your choice, your jewellery should elevate it.

Diamond studs catch candlelight. A shimmering bracelet highlighting every movement. A pendant resting close to your heart. These aren’t just accessories, they’re emotional details that complete the feeling of the day.

Big Days, Big Feel

Your wedding is one of life’s biggest days, wrapped in emotion, joy, and significance. At Sterns, we create jewellery that honours that feeling, pieces that mark milestones, celebrate meaning, and capture the magic of forever.

Because when the day is big, the feeling should be even bigger.
And the details, especially the sparkling ones, should celebrate a love worth remembering.

Sterns: https://sternsonline.co.za/

In Advice

(Don’t) put a ring on it

January 22, 2026 No Comments

While Beyonce might not agree, there are smarter ways to show ‘you like it’ than with a pricey engagement ring

As much as many of us may long for the sparkle of a diamond ring and the iconic ‘I said yes!’ Instagram reveal picture, the reality of it is that with the ongoing increases in the cost of living and the added expenses of a wedding looming, a huge engagement ring isn’t always very practical. But budget constraints need not to cramp your bridal bliss, especially if you change your thinking.

I’m a big believer of choosing an affordable ring, as I don’t think couples should start out their life together in debt

Ring in a new life

For Tamlyn Jacobus, the ability to afford an enjoyable life together far outweighed the need for an engagement ring.

‘If I were to follow societal traditions and has asked for a 1-2 carat, colourless princess cut, it would have set us back for the lifestyle we choose to live. Exploring eateries and travelling to different places in our region is something we enjoy doing regularly. Knowing spending money on a huge ring and that a big wedding wasn’t on the cards allowed us to go away on a few mini-escapes before saying I do.’

Tamlyn and Camilo eloped – and used the cash they saved to buy a home of their own. Tamlyn now wears a dainty white-gold band to signify their marriage.

Up, up and away

With a new generation redefining cultural and societal norms, we’re seeing new trends grow in popularity and with more and more people aspiring to travel, it’s no surprise that honeymoons are getting all the love.

‘My husband didn’t get a ring. He got me a simple engagement ring, but no wedding ring. I rarely wear the engagement ring. Instead of spending on the wedding or on rings, we travelled for weeks through South East Asia and put a deposit down on a townhouse,’ says Wendy van Eyck.

Soon-to-be-bride Kerri Davis agrees:

‘My ring has an amethyst stone and cost about R400. We saved for a two-week honeymoon to Thailand.’

Less ka-ching, more bling

‘I’m a big believer of choosing an affordable ring, as I don’t think couples should start out their life together in debt,’ says Tiffany Marx – Inspired Jewellery. It’s possible to have a beautiful engagement ring without breaking the bank. Here are Tiffany’s top tips for budget-friendly ring-buying:

Choose an alternative stone

Slightly tinted diamonds (like Champagne and salt-and-pepper diamonds) have become very popular. They are so different and much more affordable than whiter diamonds. Moissanite is also great options.

Buy a mount

These are cast rings that one can set the central stone-stones into. Although I would personally always suggest a handmade ring, choosing a mount tends to be a less expensive exercise as the ring is not a bespoke, handmade item.

Work with a jeweller

Many retail shops will only offer you traditional rings as that is what they sell. Try and find a jeweller whose style you like and is willing to work with whatever budget you have. At the end of the day, you can create a really beautiful ring regardless of the materials that are used if you have a good design.

ALSO SEE: Busted! 5 Common engagement ring myths debunked

Busted! 5 Common engagement ring myths debunked

Feature image: Unsplash

Article written by Bianca Hartel for the Summer 2019 print issue.

In Rings

South African Engagement Ring Trends 2025: Ethical Glamour & Bold Local Designs

January 15, 2025 No Comments

Love Meets Local Craft in 2025

In 2025, engagement rings are no longer just about sparkle, they’re about substance. South African couples are reimagining what it means to mark a lifelong commitment, leaning into trends that prioritise personal meaning, ethical sourcing, and support for homegrown craftsmanship. Whether it’s a minimalist solitaire or a custom creation inspired by local culture, the rings of 2025 are telling powerful stories of love, values, and identity.

Let’s explore the most exciting engagement ring trends shaping South African proposals this year.

Ethically Sourced Diamonds Take Centre Stage

Conscious luxury is on the rise. More South African couples are asking where their diamonds come from and opting for stones that are responsibly mined or lab-grown.

Ethically sourced diamonds are no longer a niche preference. Thanks to increased transparency in the industry, couples can choose rings that align with their values without sacrificing beauty. Initiatives like the Kimberley Process and brands offering full traceability have paved the way for diamonds with integrity.

Lab-grown diamonds are also gaining traction, offering identical brilliance without the environmental footprint. Add in recycled metals and eco-friendly settings, and you have a ring that sparkles in more ways than one.

Jeweler Highlight:

Katannuta Diamonds offers fully traceable stones and custom rings crafted in Cape Town with ethical practices at heart.

Supporting Local: Jewelers with a South African Soul

There’s a new level of appreciation for South African design talent. Couples are turning away from mass-produced rings and gravitating toward local artisans who offer custom service, personal attention, and one-of-a-kind designs.

Choosing local doesn’t just support the economy, it means your ring is made with care, creativity, and often, cultural relevance. Whether it’s a family-owned atelier or a Black-woman-owned startup, South Africa’s jewelry scene is bursting with brilliance.

Top Local Jewelers to Know in 2025:

Nungu Diamonds – A luxury, Black-owned diamond house redefining ethical elegance in Joburg.
Bespoke by Kate – Known for colourful stones and bold shapes that make a statement.
Charles Greig – A legacy brand offering timeless craftsmanship with a South African heart.

Top Local Engagement Ring Jewelers in South Africa in 2025

Jeweler	Location / Province	Specialties
Cape Diamonds	Cape Town, WC	Fynbos‑inspired bespoke, minimalist GIA‑certified designs
Dear Rae Jewellery	Cape Town, WC	Ethical recycled metals, symbolic custom styles
Anna Rosholt Jewellery	Cape Town, WC	Elegant, African motif‑influenced bespoke rings
Tiffany Marx Jewellery	Cape Town (Watershed), WC	Custom moissanite/diamond rings; praised by Reddit users
Kirov Jewellery Studio	Monte Vista / Stellenbosch, WC	High‑value, award‑winning bespoke rings since 1993
Grand Diamonds	Cape Town, WC (online too)	Lab-grown & natural diamond rings; GIA-certified, consult online or showroom
OGilvie Gems (OgilvieGems)	Cape Town / national	Best value bespoke jewellery; natural and lab diamonds
Stonz Diamonds	Johannesburg, Gauteng	Craftsmanship-focused custom engagement rings
Poggenpoel Jewellers	Pretoria, Gauteng	Fair pricing; custom moissanite/diamond engagement rings
José Jewellers	Boksburg / Gauteng	Personalized design, excellent after-sales support
Mark Whitehorn	Craighall, Johannesburg, Gauteng	Goldsmith-run; friendly service and custom rings
Platinum Jewellers	Umhlanga / Durban North, KZN	Bespoke gold/diamond rings; upgrade programmes available
J Hind Jewellers	Durban Central, KZN	Family‑run since 1954; in-house custom gold/diamond work
Brettland Poulsen Jewellers	La Lucia, Durban, KZN	Contemporary bespoke engagement ring studio
Browns Jewellers	Durban (various), KZN	Widely known chain with custom service via Durban workshops
Katannuta Diamonds	Cape Town (online), nationally	Conflict-free & lab-grown diamonds; full custom design service
Olga Jewellery Design Studio	Cape Town, WC	Ethically-sourced diamond engagement rings; personalized bespoke service
Infacet Jewellers	Cape Town, WC	Art-deco to bezel and moissanite/diamond bespoke rings

Contemporary Meets Culture, Design Styles on the Rise

The biggest design trend in 2025? Authenticity. Couples want rings that reflect their personal story, not just a Pinterest board.

Expect to see:

Asymmetrical settings

Coloured stones like sapphires, emeralds, and morganite

Mixed metals think gold paired with platinum

Rings that fuse heritage with modern aesthetics, such as engraved Zulu or Xhosa patterns.

Minimalist solitaires and bold cocktail-style rings are both popular, because the trend is about self-expression, not conformity.

Customisation Is King

Forget one-size-fits-all. In 2025, couples are co-creating their rings from scratch, often designing them together as part of the engagement journey.

Thanks to 3D printing and virtual design previews, you can see exactly what your ring will look like before it’s made. Popular personalised touches include:

Hidden birthstones

Engraved fingerprints or wedding dates

GPS coordinates of where you first met or got engaged

A custom ring isn’t just about style, it’s about building a symbol of your unique love story.

Sustainability Beyond the Stone

Sustainability doesn’t stop at sourcing. In 2025, the entire experience matters, from packaging to aftercare.

More jewelers now offer:

Eco-conscious packaging made from recycled or biodegradable materials
Ring care kits for long-term maintenance
Buy-back or recycling programmes, allowing you to redesign heirloom rings or upgrade sustainably

It’s all part of a bigger shift toward conscious wedding planning and it starts with the ring.

How to Choose the Perfect Engagement Ring in 2025

Here’s a quick cheat sheet:

Start with values: Do you want a mined or lab-grown stone? Ethical sourcing? Local craftsmanship?
Consider lifestyle: Is your partner hands-on and active? Choose durable settings and low-profile designs.
Think beyond the sparkle: Add personal touches that tell your story.
Support local: Visit SA jewelers for in-person consultations, or book virtual sessions to explore custom design options.

Your Love Story, Your Ring

In a world of trends, the most important thing is finding a ring that reflects you. Whether it’s a glittering diamond from a local mine, a lab-grown gem with a sustainable story, or a custom design infused with culture, 2025 is the year of meaningful luxury.

So go ahead, choose local. Choose ethical. Choose love that lasts and a ring that speaks volumes.

Featured Image: Canva

In Advice

6 Unique engagement rings that will wow your soon-to-be fiancé!

January 12, 2022 No Comments

“Diamonds are a girl’s best friend.” Well, not anymore.

Let’s be honest, the pandemic has put certain things into perspective. Do we really need to be spending thousands on an engagement ring when we can be using that on a down payment for a house?

While there’s nothing wrong with flashing your cash and spending it on a new diamond ring, more bridal couples appear to be stepping away from the traditional sparkler and opting for rings that are a bit more modern.

If you’re getting ready to pop the question and you’re looking for a few shiny alternatives, here are six modern sparklers to add to your soon-to-be fiance’s finger.

Also Read: Signature cocktails to add a little zest to your summer wedding

Amethyst

You’ll often find amethyst in its raw form, but with a little elbow grease from a jeweller, this deep-purple can offer a beautiful alternative. It’s not quite as hard as a diamond ring, but it is durable and will save you a few months salary.

Emerald

There’s something about the rich green tone of emerald that screams luxe! There is a range of jewellers in South Africa that offer this as an engagement option and are offered in a number of styles to suit your partner’s preference. Not only is this precious stone timeless, but it’s modern too!

Pearl

Who said you can only wear pearls around your neck? These natural gemstones will ensure a beautiful and iconic engagement ring that will make anyone squeal with delight. There is some bad news when choosing a pearl as an engagement ring. A pearl is made from calcium carbonate and is found between 2.5 to 4.5 on the Mohs scale, which means that it can get scratched and damaged quite easily. However, it can be a great engagement ring if you don’t plan to wear it too often.

Opal

This gemstone is beautiful and unique but is often considered old-fashioned. Thankfully, opal is making a comeback … and in a big way. The great thing about the sparkler is that it comes in various colours including black, white, and dazzling crystal. There are even some that reflect the rainbow – how dreamy!

However, you’ll have to be careful when sporting an opal engagement ring as it is considered 5.5 to 6.5 on the Mohs scale and is not a very hardy gemstone when compared to traditional rings.

Ruby

A deep red beauty, rubies are one of the four precious stones and are an extremely popular choice when it comes to engagement rings. The vibrant red hues ooze luxury and flaunting a gorgeous blood-red ruby is bound to catch the eye of family and friends.

The best part is that it’s incredibly hardy as it features at 9 on the Mohs scale, so you know it can withstand the busiest bride-to-be.

Sunstone

Forgot the always popular moonstone, the sunstone is a little-known alternative that will outshine any gemstone. These enchanting gemstones are slightly hard to come by in South Africa as it is commonly found in Norway and the US, but it’s not impossible. This vibrant stone is also said to have a few incredible characteristics, including bringing abundance, prosperity, vitality and fearlessness to the wearer.

It’s a pretty durable gemstone too as they are 6 to 7 on the Mohs scale, but you’ll still have to keep your eye on it when dusting off around the house.

Picture: Pinterest

In Engagements

Celebrity engagement rings that may cost more than your house

October 21, 2021 No Comments

Recently, Blink-182 drummer Travis Barker got down on one knee and popped the question to reality star Kourtney Kardashian. The news has since sent social media (and ex Scott Disick) into a frenzy with many fans gawking at the ginormous ring now sitting on her left finger. The massive diamond engagement piece is reportedly worth $1 million – that’s around R14 million – a price of a luxury house in Camps Bay or West Cliff.

So, just how much are celebrities forking for the rock on their left finger?

1. Mariah Carey

Mariah Carey sure doesn’t like to be outdone, sitting at the top of the list with a 35-carat diamond ring that reportedly cost a whopping R10 million.

mariah carey engagement ring — Source: People

2. Beyonce

Well, they don’t call her Queen B for nothing. It’s no surprise that the Lemonade singer has one of the world’s highest-valued diamonds with husband Jay-Z reportedly paying around $5 million for the gorgeous emerald-cut ring back in 2008.

3. Jennifer Lopez

When it comes to sporting some serious engagement bling, Lopez would take up a few spots on this list. However, it’s her engagement to A-Rod back in March 2019 that has placed her firmly on this list. The American baseball star went all out when getting down on one knee, purchasing a 15-20 carat emerald cut ring that was reportedly worth $5 million.

4. Paris Hilton

Remember that time in 2005 when Paris Hilton was engaged to shipping heir Paris Latsis? Not many people do, but the hotel heiress walked away with a diamond ring valued at $4. 7 million at the time, that’s around R58 million.

Paris Hilton Engagement ring — Source: REUTERS

5. Kim Kardashian

There’s no question that Kanye West and Kim Kardashian don’t do small – go big, or go home is their motto, which was clear to see during the couple‘s epic 2013 proposal. The diamond stunner reportedly cost a cool $4 million but was unfortunately amongst the jewellery stolen during Kim‘s infamous Paris robbery.

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In Advice

The ins and outs of diamond certification

March 16, 2021 No Comments

Buying an engagement ring is an investment, so it’s important to make sure you’ve done everything through the right channels and are getting what you paid for. Unfortunately, it’s not as easy as just saying ‘I do’. A lot of research and paperwork is involved, so best do your homework.

If you’re searching for the perfect gemstone to centre your ring, a term that will come up a lot is ‘diamond certification’. This is a system created by the Gemological Institute of America (GIA) to evaluate the merits of a particular diamond.

Factors considered in the certification include the four Cs – cut, carat, clarity and colour. Other characteristics it will mention include its symmetry and fluorescence.

This certificate is essentially proof that you are receiving a genuine diamond and is being shown at the same grade that it is being sold at. As such, this works to give buyers ease of mind of their diamond’s quality and identity.

Diamond certification also helps in the valuation process, as a valuer will require all this information when placing a monetary value on your diamond. This is important to have for insurance purposes, but also in the event you decide to re-sell the diamond in future.