ENGAGEMENT RINGS 101

Nothing is more personal – or daunting – than selecting the perfect diamond engagement ring. With Tiny Jewel Box, you have an expert by your side. Discover unparalleled diamond quality with the area’s most unique selection, from vintage masterpieces to classic creations to dramatic contemporary designs. We have a Custom Designer on staff ready to make your dream ring into a reality. We’re here to answer every question, act as your personal consultant, and help you navigate the balance of style, quality, and price to find what’s exactly right for you.

CHOOSE A RING TOGETHER, OR ON YOUR OWN.

Decide if you’d like to include your partner in this very special process. Or, if you prefer the element of surprise, we have some tips on how to get a running start. Selecting an engagement ring is an emotional decision, one that we feel honored to help you make. Here are some factors that we will help you consider when choosing an engagement ring. Redefine your shopping experience:

Style

Take a peek in your partner’s jewelry box: Is it filled with mostly yellow or white metals? Do you see sleek, architectural styles or one-of-a-kind vintage pieces? We recommend doing some snooping or consulting with a friend or relative so you can make a well-educated decision and find a ring your loved one will be excited to wear for decades to come. If you can find a secret Pinterest board, you’re halfway there.

Shape

Before you get to the 4 C’s – cut, clarity, color and carat, decide what shape your partner may prefer. The shape refers to the actual geometry of the stone, which is different from the cut.

Setting

The setting is the framework in which the stone is mounted and can set the mood for a ring. The same diamond can be mounted many different ways, taking on many different styles depending on the setting. If you like a specific diamond, we can show you a setting that takes on the exact style you’re looking for. To achieve a custom look, consider loose diamonds that can be set several ways. We design and manufacture custom rings in-house.

A CERTIFICATE GIVES YOU CERTAINTY.

A Diamond Grading Report or a Diamond Dossier is a document containing the characteristics that make up that particular diamond’s value. A complete grading report includes an analysis of the diamond’s dimensions, clarity, color, polish and symmetry. The report provides the owner with an independent description of the diamond’s essential qualities, a crucial part of the purchase.

EVERY RING COMES WITH COMPLETE CONFIDENCE.

At Tiny Jewel Box, our grading reports are available from two sources: the GIA (Gemological Institute of America) and the AGS (American Gem Society Laboratories). These independent not-for-profit laboratories have no vested interest in the outcome of the diamond grading report. We only sell diamonds that are GIA or AGS certified, so you and your loved one can rest assured that you are getting exactly what you’ve paid for.

Established in 1931, GIA is the world’s largest and most respected not-for-profit institute of gemological research and learning. By extension, the GIA Diamond Grading Report and the GIA Diamond Dossier are considered the world’s premier gemological credentials. For more information, please go to www.gia.edu.

AGS Laboratories is a preeminent authority in diamond grading, providing grading reports for diamonds of all shapes and sizes. Known industry-wide as a laboratory with strict grading requirements and high standards. The AGS employs cutting edge research and technology to help inform your diamond and fine jewelry purchases. For more information, please go to www.agslab.com.

A DIAMOND IS FOREVER, BUT STYLES HAVE CHANGED.

While a traditional diamond in a platinum setting is timeless, your loved one’s personal style may reflect something different. Many may decide to shy away from the traditional ring and show off their unique style with a modern band dotted with diamonds or a brilliant colored stone.

While it’s important your ring is a reflection of you, it’s not the time to make a daring fashion statement. Trends will change, but you’ll wear your engagement ring for the rest of your life. When it comes to styles in engagement rings, consider the following:

MODERN BANDS

Alex Sepkus’ finely carved masterpieces have helped to define what true craftsmanship and originality are all about. Rethink the traditional engagement ring with a diamond band from this modern designer.

ROSE GOLD

Pink-hued gold creates an engagement look that is as romantic as it is on-trend. Opt for a full rose gold band or just a touch mixed with platinum.

COLORED STONES

Kate Middleton’s sapphire engagement ring has made colored stones a bit more mainstream. Colored stones like yellow diamonds, rubies, and sapphires are great alternatives to a traditional colorless diamond.

UNIQUE SETTINGS

Custom settings can take a traditional diamond shape and turn it into a unique engagement ring. Jewelers are experimenting more and more with settings like east to west and tension set.

VINTAGE IS BACK

Everyone loves a ring that has a story to tell. Tiny Jewel Box carries the area’s largest collection of vintage and antique jewelry. For a look straight out of The Great Gatsby or Downton Abbey, try one of our vintage inspired looks or come in and browse our expansive antique collection that spans almost every era.