FUGAZI or FOR REAL?

1) What is important to know when trying to pick out a quality diamond ring?

Engagement rings vary in quality. The quality determines the degree to which excellence the ring is held to. When picking out an engagement ring the choices are unlimited in style, mountings, prong settings, and even engraving (which today has become popular for individualizing the ring). To distinguish a quality ring the following should be considered.

The bend is offered in different millimeters of width. Pick a size that fits the finger comfortably, you will be wearing this for the rest of your life! Even look into a "comfort fit" band, this style cuts back on the initial awkward rubbing you may experience on the finger. The smoothness of the edges has its way of hugging the finger just right.

The mounting and the prong settings are a high focus area mainly because this is where the "bling bling" sits. The mounting sits on top of the band and the stone will be set into the mounting followed by the fastening of the prongs around the stone to keep is secure. Make sure the mount holds the stone properly by checking the shape and size of the stone that will be held. In other words, do not pick a square mount for a round stone to be set in a 1 carat mount for a .50 carat diamond.

Prongs surround the stone to hold it in place. These are the little pieces of metal that lie gently on top of the stone's edge and wrap around the side. Depending on the mount picked, the number of prongs will vary with the size and shape of the stone, but should be proportionally placed along the edges of the stone. Examining the prongs at the time of purchase is key to making sure the stone being placed on your loved one's finger is secure. Read the full article in the premier issue