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New Flex: True Hearts™ Lab Created Diamonds

In the market for a perfectly cut diamond, for less? You may want to scroll down.

Lab created diamonds

Are you gearing up to pop the question to your significant other and still deciding on an engagement ring? If you’re been exploring our website, you may be familiar with our exclusive collection of True Hearts™ diamonds and our budget-friendly, but sparkling lab created diamonds. Good news: for the first time ever, it’s your chance to score the best of both with our brand new collection of True Hearts™ Lab-Created diamonds. Curious? Keep reading to get the down-low. Be sure to read until the end, because we’ve got a surprise in store for you.

1. What Exactly Are True Hearts™ Diamonds?

When you’re looking for a diamond cut with the most perfect precision, look no further than a True Hearts™ diamond – the premier choice for a diamond that sparkles like nobody’s business.

Why, you ask?

The answer is simple. Since cut determines a diamond’s sparkle, the best cut diamonds will give you the best sparkle. 

How do we get the best cut? Our True Hearts™ collection is crafted by the crème de la crème of diamond cutters and features a one-of-a-kind pattern that resembles hearts and arrows. Now that’s what we call romantic! Just in case you were wondering, this exceptional cut also results in facet positioning that acts like tiny mirrors (cool!), which contributes to its off-the-charts sparkle (yay!). By the way, fewer than 1% of the world’s diamonds qualify as a True Hearts™ diamond. 

Still not quite sure of the difference between a True Hearts™ diamond and an earth-created diamond? Feast your eyes on two diamonds below so we can make things crystal clear. Both of these diamonds have VS2 clarity, the same D color and weigh 1.14 and 1.12 carats respectively. However, there is an $860 price difference between the two. Why? The diamond on the right is a premier cut True Hearts™ diamond. You can tell by observing the perfect internal reflection of arrows when viewed from above and hearts when viewed from below. The result? Perfect sparkle.

An added bonus of choosing a True Hearts™ diamond is that it can actually appear larger than other diamonds of the same size. Yep, you heard right. A superior-cut diamond will offer better angles and symmetry, which allows light to refract more effectively. Lesser cut diamonds will “swallow” their light, making them look smaller, in addition to giving off less sparkle.

WHAT TO LOOK FOR

Interested in purchasing a True Hearts™ round-cut diamond? Keep the following tips in mind:

  • Consistency in the hearts and arrows pattern. You should see eight hearts and eight arrows, and each should be the same size.
  • Even color saturation. Each red, black and white hearts and arrow pattern should exhibit similar color distribution.
  • Optical symmetry is key. A symmetrical hearts and arrows pattern will result in maximum light return. 

In addition to round cut, our True Hearts™ collection is also available in princess and cushion cuts. 

2. Earth Created Vs. Lab Created Diamonds: The Low Down

You may be wondering: What is a lab created diamond and how is it different from earth created diamonds? We’re here to clarify a few points before you decide if a True Hearts Lab Created Diamond™ is right for you.

Lab created diamonds are optically and chemically identical to earth created diamonds. The only difference between the two is their origin.

  • Earth created diamonds are sourced from below the earth’s surface.
  • Lab grown diamonds are created in simulated ‘below-ground’ conditions in a lab.

Needless to say, producing the special carbon arrangement of earth-created diamonds is intense. We’re talking high heat and super high pressure. Plus, very few places in the world are capable of producing earth created diamonds.

Thanks to technology, we no longer need to go digging for our precious stones. Scientists are now able to simulate the required extreme conditions using specialized pressure chambers in a lab. Lab created diamonds are grown from tiny carbon “seeds” that develop in these chambers over months, as incredibly hot gases deposit carbon atom-by-atom onto the original seed. The result? A diamond packing the same quality and sparkle, produced a billion times quicker.

3. Enter True Hearts™ Lab Created Diamonds

Now that you’re more familiar with our dazzling collection of True Hearts™ and lab created diamonds, we have some dazzling news to share. James Allen is now offering you a chance to get your hands on the perfect sparkle of our True Hearts™ diamonds, for less. If you’re looking for the same perfect sparkle of a True Hearts™ diamond, with the affordability of a lab-created diamond, you can get both with our True Hearts™ and lab created diamonds

Our collection of True Hearts™ lab created diamonds are optically and chemically identical to True Hearts™ earth created diamonds. Each True Hearts™ lab created diamond contains the same perfect internal symmetry and proportions as well as the highest gem grading for cut and polish found in True Hearts™ earth created diamonds. The only difference between the two is their origin.

Four Prong Pendant

This light four prong wire basket is designed to showcase the unique beauty of a round brilliant diamond of your choice. Truly a classic design that is perfect for any occasion!

14K White Gold Four Prong Basket Solitaire Diamond Pendant

Kite Set Solitaire Pendant

The finely crafted four prong wire basket pendant features a kite orientation to add a twist to the traditional solitaire necklace.

14K Yellow Gold Kite Set Solitaire Diamond Pendant

Halo Diamond Pendant

This beautifully crafted pendant showcases a halo of sparkling lab created round brilliant diamonds that elegantly frame the lab created center diamond.

14K White Gold Halo Lab Created Diamond Pendant

CALLING ALL DIAMOND LOVERS!

Ready for some good news? For the first time ever, JamesAllen.com is offering 10% off True Hearts™ Lab Created diamonds. It’s like getting the best of both worlds: a super ideal cut diamond at a super accessible price point. If you’re someone who loves the highest quality diamonds and saving lots of money, this one’s for you! Now you can buy any of these gorgeous engagement rings and get bang for your buck.

Petite Pavé Engagement Ring

This French Cut pavé diamond engagement ring is created to maximize the amount of light that hits the diamonds from all sides. Custom tailored prongs are set into the shank of the ring, allowing a variety of bands to sit flush with the engagement ring. 

14K Rose Gold Pave Halo And Shank Diamond Engagement Ring Round Center

Pavé Halo & Shank Engagement Ring

This gorgeous engagement ring features pavé set diamonds on the halo and along each side of the shank, highlighting the round cut center diamond or gemstone of your choice.

14K Rose Gold Pave Halo And Shank Diamond Engagement Ring

Knife Edge Solitaire Engagement Ring

The knife edge design of this ring draws attention to the center diamond showcasing its brilliance without detracting from its beauty.

14K White Gold 2mm Knife Edge Solitaire Engagement Ring

Ready to shop True Hearts™ Lab Created diamonds? Check out the articles below to get more inspiration!

Engagement ring catches your eye? Share the love on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, Snapchat, or in the comments below!

Subscribe to our email list for access to secret sales, practical ring-buying tips, and $100 off your first purchase!

Jackie B.

Jackie is a writer who loves a good deal, especially when it comes to jewelry!

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Look Like a 2021 Golden Globe Winner: Jewelry Lookalikes

This year’s Golden Globes looked a lot different than previous years – but one thing stayed the same: our love for celebrity jewelry!

Gold Jewelry

The 2021 Golden Globes was mostly virtual (with the exception of some exceptional first responder attendees) but filled with festivities nonetheless. Even though the nominees stayed at home for the awards ceremony, they definitely didn’t skimp on the glam. We’re loving their looks, and their jewelry is no exception. Read on to find out our favorites of the night and how you can get the lookalikes for less!

1. Anya Taylor-Joy

All eyes were on the first-time Golden Globes attendee, who snagged the award for Best Performance by an Actress in a Limited Series for “The Queen’s Gambit”. The star looked tres chique in an emerald halter dress with a diamond necklace fit for a queen. Give yourself the royal treatment with our showstopping diamond bar necklace. Checkmate!

The Lookalike:

Vertical Bar Drop Diamond Necklace

A diamond at the center of this vertical bar drop necklace adds extra sparkle to a timeless look. This piece also features an adjustable custom chain which makes it the perfect piece for layering with other necklaces in your collection!

Anya Taylor-Joy and the Vertical Bar Drop Diamond Necklace
14K White Gold Vertical Bar Drop Diamond Necklace

2. Gal Gadot

Wonder Woman was truly a wonder in a white dress paired with a long, gold pendant  featuring a large, dark center stone. The stark color contrast makes a beautiful, bold statement. While we may not have this never-seen-before pendant, make your own sparkling statement when you accessorize with our unique, exquisite Onyx Cabochon necklace. P.S. Congrats on your pregnancy, Gal!


The Lookalike:

Oval Onyx Cabochon And Diamond Necklace

This striking onyx cabochon surrounded by diamonds in 18K yellow gold is a serious statement piece. This exquisite necklace is a timeless piece that will have a special place in your jewelry box for years to come.

Gal Gadot and the Oval onyx cabochon diamond necklace
18K Yellow Gold Oval Onyx Cabochon And Diamond Necklace

3. Emma Corrin

Emma’s well deserved win at the 2021 Golden Globes for “The Crown” was accompanied by a most stunning pair of emerald and diamond earrings. The perfect occasion earrings, our version will make everyone green with envy!


The Lookalikes:

Halo Emerald & Diamond Drop Earrings

Celebrate a classic look with these petite drop earrings featuring oval emeralds surrounded by a halos of glistening diamonds. This chic pair of earrings will instantly upgrade any look.

Emma Corrin with Halo emerald diamond drop earrings
18K White Gold Petite Drop Oval Halo Emerald And Diamond Earrings

4. Regina King

Regina King was blinged out to the max in loads of gorgeous diamond jewelry (almost as gorgeous as the actress and director herself!). We love that her diamond pieces were staples with a statement, like this Butterfly Criss-Cross diamond ring. Our second favorite accessory? Regina’s show-stealing pup, Cornbread.


The Lookalike:

Butterfly Criss-Cross Ring

A fun, delicate criss-cross ring featuring two beautiful crafted butterflies pavé set with round diamonds. The butterflies face each other and are separated by a single row of diamonds. Great for everyday wear.

5. Viola Davis

The “How To Get Away With Murder” star looked drop-dead gorgeous in a mermaid gown paired with a thick, gold chain necklace. If you’re in the mood to go big and bold, look no further than this paperclip chain necklace, guaranteed to take your neck game up a notch.  


The Lookalike:

Alternating Paperclip Chain Necklace

This beautiful 14K yellow gold paperclip design features a polished hollow paper clip chain with a pear-shaped lobster lock.

Viola David with alternating paperclip chain necklace
14K Yellow Gold 5.1mm Alternating Paper Clip Chain Necklace

6. Andra Day

Andra’s well deserved win for her titular portrayal of Billie Holiday in “The United States vs. Billie Holiday” was one of the highlights of the evening. Another highlight? Her gorgeous diamond jewelry, reminiscent of our Leaves Cascade Diamond Drop earrings. Grab a lookalike pair for yourself.


The Lookalikes:

Leaves Cascade Diamond Drop Earrings

These graceful drop earrings feature stunning leaves of diamonds that cascade along a fine gold chain, allowing for elegant movement and sparkle in a delicate design.

Andra Day with leaves cascade diamond drop earrings
14K White Gold Leaves Cascade Diamond Drop Earrings

7. Amanda Seyfried

The “Mean Girls” star looked like a classic beauty, adorned with classic diamond jewelry. We’re huge fans of her necklace, similar to our timeless Curving Diamond Bar necklace. Feeling inspired? Shop this dazzling alternative.

The Lookalike:

Curving Diamond Bar Necklace

This delicate necklace featuring a subtly curved bar of round-cut pavé diamonds set in 14K white gold is beautifully understated to compliment any look. Gift this timeless piece to the special someone in your life.

Amanda Seyfried with curving diamond bar necklace
14K White Gold Curving Diamond Bar Necklace

Ready to sparkle red-carpet style? Check out the articles below to get more inspiration!

Subscribe to our email list for access to secret sales, practical ring-buying tips, and $100 off your first purchase!

Jackie B.

Jackie is a writer who loves a good deal, especially when it comes to jewelry!

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What Is a VVS Diamond?

Are you wondering what a VVS diamond is but not sure where to start? This handy guide will help you decide if a VVS diamond is right for you.

VVS Diamond

You’re probably here because you’re thinking about getting engaged – yay you! An engagement is an incredibly exciting milestone, but let’s be honest: Buying a diamond can feel overwhelming sometimes. If you’re in the market for an engagement ring, you might be asking yourself: “what is a VVS diamond and why in the world does it matter?”

1. Let’s Talk Basics: What Is A VVS Diamond?

To get a little technical: VVS is an acronym for “Very Very Slightly” – which refers to a diamond that is very, very slightly included. An “inclusion” is the official term for a diamond’s internal characteristics and a “blemish” is the term for a diamond’s external characteristics. These can include characteristics like feathers, crystals, twinning wisps, clouds and surface graining. They will determine how much light is able to pass through a diamond, which will in turn affect the stone’s light return – arguably, the best part of buying a diamond. Who doesn’t want a diamond that sparkles

On the clarity scale, VVS diamonds are one step below “flawless” diamonds. They are always clear of any imperfections to the naked eye and usually have no visible imperfections under 10x magnification. At James Allen, we use up to 40x magnification technology, so you can be sure you’re seeing each diamond with the same detail and ease as you would in a jewelry store. 

2. VVS1 vs VVS2 Diamonds

VVS diamonds fall into two categories: Very Very Slightly Included 1(VVS1) and Very Very Slightly Included 2 (VVS2). VVS2s are slightly more included than VVS1s, and the nature of these inclusions is usually different. For example, VVS1 diamonds tend to have tiny imperfections towards the side of the diamond, as opposed to the center. Imperfections on the side are preferable to those in the center because they do not affect light performance as much. 

VVS1 diamonds are generally more expensive than VVS2 diamonds. Because VVS diamonds fall just under flawless diamonds (FL and IF), they’re a great option for people who want a practically flawless diamond without a flawless price tag. 

3. VVS vs Flawless Diamonds

One of the main reasons to choose a VVS diamond is that it often will look just like a flawless diamond but saves you a nice chunk of cash. 

Let’s compare the two diamonds below. The one on the left is 1.02 carats, H color and IF clarity. The one on the right is 1.00 carat, H color and VVS1 clarity.

Can you spot any differences between the two diamonds?

Both diamonds are roughly the same size, as the .02 difference will not be perceptible to the naked eye. Both diamonds are the same H color, which faces up white. Neither has any fluorescence. Both have excellent symmetry and polish grades. Both are certified by GIA. 

In short, the only real differences between these two diamonds are their clarity and price tags. There is roughly a $600 difference between them, which is a result of the clarity grade jump. 

If you’re looking to maximize your budget for a high-clarity diamond engagement ring, VVS diamonds are a great choice. The difference in price could get you any of the following engagement rings:

Comfort Fit Solitaire Engagement Ring (Six Prong)

14K White Gold 2mm Comfort Fit Solitaire Engagement Ring

Knife Edge Solitaire Engagement Ring

14K Rose Gold 2mm Knife Edge Solitaire Engagement Ring

Split Shank Solitaire Engagement Ring

Cable Solitaire Engagement Ring

14K White Gold Cable Solitaire Engagement Ring

4. Which jewelry pieces are most suitable for a VVS diamond?

VVS diamonds are great choices for higher carat diamond engagement rings (above 3 carats) and step cuts (emerald and Asscher, or square). They also allow you to buy a setting that really showcases the center diamond, as opposed to settings that are better at hiding inclusions (for example, this bezel setting). Settings that have fewer prongs, less metal, as well as  tension settings are ideal for showcasing VVS diamonds, like the ones below:

Petite Pavé Engagement Ring

14K Rose Gold Petite Pave Engagement Ring

Bow-Tie Channel Set  Engagement Ring

14K White Gold Bow-Tie Channel Set Diamond Engagement Ring

Spiral Tension Set Engagement Ring

14K White Gold Spiral Tension Set Engagement Ring

Rope Solitaire Engagement Ring

14K White Gold Rope Solitaire Engagement Ring

Tapered Half-Bezel Engagement Ring 

Pinched Bar Pavé Engagement Ring 

14K Rose Gold Pinched Bar Pave Engagement Ring

If you’re looking for fine jewelry that features smaller diamonds, like tennis bracelets, there’s no need to go for VVS clarity. You can stick with SIs or VSs since inclusions are harder to spot in smaller diamonds.

5. Wrapping Up

A VVS diamond is a great choice for someone who is looking for a flawless-looking diamond, without the flawless price tag. VVS diamonds are intended to be the pièce-de-resistance of any engagement ring, so you might want to show off your stone with a setting that puts the diamond front and center. 

If you need help picking out a diamond, our non-commissioned gemologists are available 24/7 via phone, chat, text and email. 

Looking for the perfect diamond? Check out the articles below to get more inspiration!

Ring catch your eye? Share the love on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, Snapchat, or in the comments below!

Subscribe to our email list for access to secret sales, practical ring-buying tips, and $100 off your first purchase!

Jackie B.

Jackie is a writer who loves a good deal, especially when it comes to jewelry!

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covid-friendly spring porposal ideas

8 COVID-Friendly Spring Proposal Ideas

Spring is just around the corner, making it the perfect time for an outdoor (and COVID-friendly) proposal!

8 COVID-Friendly Spring Proposal Ideas

If you’re looking for spring proposal ideas during the COVID era, we’ve got tips on planning the perfect one below. From beaches to camping, to drive-ins and hikes, there is a myriad of options to make your engagement unforgettable. As an added bonus, outdoor springtime proposals are usually also pet friendly – and who doesn’t want their unofficial, furry family members included on such a special day? Finally, if you’re in the market for an engagement ring, we’ve got good news for you: James Allen is always COVID-friendly. 

While planning a proposal can be a lot of work, just remember – within every spring lies the word ring. Coincidence? We think not. 

1. Hike Proposal with a View

If your partner loves exercise and nature, why not combine the two with a hike proposal? To get started, pick a trail filled with local flora and fauna. Revel at nature’s beauty as you make your way up to a scenic viewpoint – don’t worry, your hard work will pay off once you get to the top! Find a secluded spot with a great view and pop the question. 

Planning Tip: Spring proposal ideas can be sometimes thwarted by weather, so make sure to take into consideration the forecast (you don’t want rain or even a very cloudy day to dampen the mood), your partner’s level of fitness (most hikes are categorized into easy, medium and hard) and fill a backpack with water and snacks – just make sure not to forget the engagement ring!

Ring Tip: Consider an engagement ring that speaks to your partner’s appreciation of the outdoors like our Entangled Vines Ring.

Entangled Vines Engagement Ring

hike proposal
14K White Gold Entangled Vines Engagement Ring

2. Sunset Proposal at the Beach

There’s a reason why the beach is a classic spring proposal idea: the sea is as beautiful as it is romantic. If your significant other loves spending time on the coast, a beach proposal might be the way to go. Enjoy the gorgeous sky as the sun descends over a vast, blue ocean. Breathe in the gentle breeze before getting down on one knee and asking the question of a lifetime.  

Planning Tip: The coast is generally cooler than the inland, especially as the sun goes down, so make sure to bring jackets or blankets to account for the change in temperature. To make sure the timing is just right, be sure to check sunset times in advance and give yourself a buffer for any possible delays, like traffic jams and bathroom breaks. Romantic touches like candles and rose petals in the sand are best left for other settings – the wind will likely blow them away.

Ring Tip: Consider an engagement ring that evokes the serenity of the ocean and the beauty of the sunset, like our Rope Solitaire Ring. 

Rope Solitaire Engagement Ring

beach proposal
14K Rose Gold Rope Solitaire Engagement Ring

3. Lake Proposal

The ancient Chinese philosopher Lao Tzu advised: “Make your heart like a lake with a calm, still surface and great depths of kindness.” If you don’t live near the coast and your partner loves water, a lake offers an incredible backdrop for a proposal. Pack a picnic basket with your favorite foods and head out to the lake of your choice. Take in the beauty of nature reflected back at you through a still body of water, as you and your partner contemplate your future, together as one.

Planning Tip: Lakes are often surrounded by rocks, which can be uncomfortable to sit on. You might want to bring foldable chairs or a bench, in addition to a few blankets.

Ring Tip: Consider an engagement ring with sapphire accents, to give a pop of blue color, like this gorgeous French-Cut Pavé Ring. Or think about using sapphire as your center stone. 

French Cut Pavé Blue Sapphire Engagement Ring

lake proposal
14K White Gold French Cut Pave Blue Sapphire Engagement Ring

4. Field of Flowers

Springtime makes everything bloom, so what better place to celebrate your love than in a field filled with flowers? Whether lavender, daisies or tulips, flowers provide not only a gorgeous backdrop but also a sweet smelling setting. Be sure to check for superblooms in your area – rare opportunities in which an unusually high number of wildflowers bloom at the same time. Flowers are a staple of every relationship – why not use them to signal the start of your engagement?

Planning Tip: To really nail your spring proposal idea, make sure to take into consideration the color palate. For example, if you’ll be proposing in a field of yellow daisies, you might want to think about choosing a contrasting wardrobe to make your pictures pop. 

Ring Tip: Consider an engagement ring inspired by your surroundings, like the gorgeous flower design below. Or choose a fancy color lab diamond for a center stone that really pops.

Open Lace Pavé Halo Engagement Ring

field of flowers proposal
14K White Gold Open Lace Pave Diamond Halo Engagement Ring

5. Drive-In Movie Theater Proposal

If your significant other is a cinephile, a drive-in movie pays homage to their personal preferences while also being COVID-friendly. Pack your car with popcorn and your favorite candy. Think about which parking spot makes the most sense for a proposal – do you prefer to be towards the back, for more privacy? Would you propose before, after or during the movie? Drive in and get ready for the most memorable movie experience of your lives!

Planning Tip: Many drive-ins have limited movie selections, so be sure to research different options to understand in advance which movie your partner prefers. If you’re unsure, consider a classic romantic comedy, which is a propos for day’s events. 

Ring Tip: Consider an engagement ring that screams classic Hollywood, like this Art Deco Inspired design.

Art Deco Inspired Halo Engagement Ring

14K White Gold Art Deco Inspired Octagonal Halo Engagement Ring

6. Camping Proposal

This spring proposal idea is for the adventure seekers: if you and your significant other are the outdoors-y types, how romantic is a proposal under the stars? Escape the city and take advantage of all Mother Nature has to offer – hikes with spectacular views, crisp river water and cuddling over a campfire at night (don’t forget the s’mores!). You might even cross paths with wildlife like deer, elk or bears. Springtime offers the perfect weather for camping and lush greenery – and proposals! 

Planning Tip: Make sure to reserve your campsite well in advance and check the weather before heading out. If you don’t want to invest in a ton of camping gear, ask friends if they’d be willing to let you borrow their gear.

Ring Tip: Consider an engagement ring that gives a nod to the beauty of nature, like our Organic Bamboo Engagement Ring. 

Organic Bamboo Engagement Ring

camping proposal
14K Yellow Gold Organic Bamboo Engagement Ring


7. Bring Spring Indoors

If your significant other isn’t the outdoors type, you can still hit your spring proposal idea out of the park by bringing spring to you! Start by finding out your partner’s favorite flowers and filling your home with them. Sprinkle petals and light candles around the house for added effect. If you’re not the decorating kind, take to Pinterest for inspiration or enlist the help of a visually savvy friend. To make this sweet day even sweeter, top it off with your partner’s favorite dessert – what could be better than Calla Lilies and cupcakes or freesia and fondue? 

Planning Tip: Some flowers are harder to find than others, so make sure to take this into consideration when figuring out your timeline. Some people prefer potted plants because they last longer – it never hurts to do a little detective work to find out your partner’s preferences! 

Ring Tip: Consider an engagement ring that combines delicate beauty with strength and elegance. Our recommendation? A dazzling Petite Pavé design. 

Petite Pavé Engagement Ring

indoor proposal
14K White Gold Petite Pave Engagement Ring

8. Back-Up Plan

Life throws curveballs, so consider having a contingency plan. If all else fails, hit up your local outdoor farmers market (don’t forget your masks!), choose fresh ingredients and whip up a delicious dinner for two. You can also order a meal prep kit, which delivers all of the ingredients to your house, ready for you and your significant other to cook in unison. If you’re not the cooking kind, opt for a meal delivery service (also a great way to support your favorite restaurants!) paired with a beautifully set table and candles.

Ring Tip: Bring out the classics for this one! You’ll never go wrong with any of our best-selling solitaire, halo or three-stone designs.

Comfort Fit Solitaire Engagement Ring

backup plan proposal 1
14K White Gold 2mm Comfort Fit Solitaire Engagement Ring

Pavé Halo & Shank Engagement Ring

backup plan proposal 2
14K Yellow Gold Pave Halo And Shank Diamond Engagement Ring

Marquise Three-Stone Engagement Ring

backup proposal 3
14K Rose Gold Marquise Shape Three Stone Ring

Proposal plans sorted? Check out the articles below to get more inspiration!

Engagement ring catch your eye? Share the love on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, Snapchat, or in the comments below!

Subscribe to our email list for access to secret sales, practical ring-buying tips, and $100 off your first purchase!

Jackie B.

Jackie is a writer who loves a good deal, especially when it comes to jewelry!

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mens-engagement-rings-blog-cover

Men’s Engagement Rings

Women aren’t the only ones wearing engagement rings. 

Men's engagement rings

It’s 2020 and men’s engagement rings are FINALLY here and getting recognized in their own right. Men are also participating in this age-old proposal tradition and honoring their newly engaged status! However, distinguishing a man’s engagement ring isn’t always clear-cut.

So – what’s the difference between a man’s engagement ring and his wedding ring?

Simply put, they can be whatever you’d like. New(ish) traditions come with a huge advantage: you can make them your own. Men’s engagement rings and wedding rings may be interchangeable, the only difference being that they’re worn at different times.

Men’s engagement rings may be worn up until the wedding ceremony, upon which they’re taken off and put on again in order to symbolically become wedding rings. Some men also choose to buy one ring for the marriage proposal and another for the wedding.

Mix, match, replace, swap – there are endless ways to design your engagement ring and/or wedding set.

CLASSIC ENGAGEMENT RINGS

Classic men’s engagement rings come in unadorned white gold, yellow gold, rose gold or platinum. They feature clean lines, simple composition, and are free of any detailing.

Slightly Flat

Slightly Domed

14K White Gold 6.5mm Slightly Flat Comfort Fit Wedding Ring
14K Yellow Gold 5mm Slightly Domed Comfort Fit Wedding Ring

CARVED ENGAGEMENT RINGS

Carved men’s engagement rings feature intricate design work like hammering, special finishing (like satin), patterning and milgraining.  

Grooved

Bark Pattern

14K Yellow Gold 6mm Grooved Comfort Fit Wedding Band
14K White Gold Blackened Bark Pattern Comfort Fit Ring

DIAMOND ENGAGEMENT RINGS

Men’s diamond engagement rings pull off a stylish twist on a classic design. Choose your shine: these rings feature diamonds and every type of gemstone.

Channel-Set

Beveled

14K White Gold 6mm Beveled Bezel Set Diamond Wedding Ring

ALTERNATIVE ENGAGEMENT RINGS

Alternative men’s engagement rings are made of non-traditional metals like titanium, tantalum, tungsten, cobalt and even wood. In addition to being some of the most affordable setting materials, many are also hypoallergenic.

Cobalt Chrome

Carbon Fiber

Cobalt Chrome™ 9MM Stair Step Comfort Fit Ring
Black Titanium 8mm Comfort-Fit Carbon Fiber Inlay Design Ring

Get inspired! The perfect men’s engagement ring is one that’s loved by its wearer – so go with whatever design speaks to you. 

Starting your ring search? Check out the articles below to get more inspiration for the proposal!

 Engagement ring caught your eye? Share the love on Instagram, Facebook, Twitter, Snapchat, or in the comments below!

Drop a hint to your SO with this pin:

Men's engagement ring

Subscribe to our email list for access to secret sales, practical ring-buying tips, and $100 off your first purchase!

Jackie B.

Jackie is a writer who loves a good deal, especially when it comes to jewelry!

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Diamond Terms: Your Essential Pocket Dictionary

Just starting your diamond search? This bite-sized dictionary of the most important diamond terms is a life-saver.

2 white diamonds on a stone

Keep this list of diamond terms open on a browser tab. Diamond terminology can be a headache. But hey, you’ve got to speak the language! We’ve created a list of the diamond terminology that will be most helpful to you. As you begin to ring-shop, this is THE list.

Good luck! Let’s start it off with the MOST important diamond terms: the 4 Cs:

CUT

How well-proportioned a diamond is.

Many consider cut to be the most important C, as a well-cut diamond will give off more sparkle than a less expertly-cut diamond. A well-cut diamond also hides color and imperfections better. Cut grades range from Good to Very Good to Ideal. James Allen also carries True Hearts™, a Super Ideal cut that displays perfect internal symmetry, optimal proportions, and the highest gem grading for cut and polish. (Psssst…less than 1% of diamonds qualify for the True Hearts™ title.)

Emerald-Cut Pavé Ring

14K White Gold Three Stone Emerald And Pave Set Diamond Engagement Ring

COLOR

A grading system based on a diamond’s lack of color.

In general, more colorless diamonds are more valuable. While most diamonds have some degree of color, in many cases they can only be seen under specific viewing circumstances. Additionally, metal color choice can often affect a diamond’s perceived color.

Yellow Gold Milgrain Ring

Yellow Gold Milgrain Ring

CLARITY

The presence or absence of imperfections (or “inclusions” in gem-speak) in a diamond.

These inclusions can be found on the surface of the diamond (like chips) or inside the diamond (like clouds or crystals). Clarity is graded on a scale from “Included” (lowest) to “Flawless” (highest). See “Eye Clean” below for additional info.

Diamond Clarity

CARAT

A measurement of a diamond’s weight.

Higher carat weight often correlates with a larger size, but not always. Due to certain cuts’ specific proportions, sometimes a diamond of a higher weight can actually look smaller than one of a lower weight.

Vintage Oval Ring

14K White Gold Antique Bezel And Pave Set Engagement Ring

COST (the 5th C)

Getting the most out of your ring budget!

To many people, this is actually the most important C! There are countless ways to get the most for your money, including opting for a lower clarity graded diamond, dropping color grades in a yellow or rose gold metal, opting for a lab diamond and buying just under the desired carat weight.

Extra-credit blog reading:
Tips & tricks on how to make your diamond look bigger while staying on budget.

keeping the ring a secret hiding spot

SHAPE

The form in which a diamond is cut.

The most popular diamond shapes include round, princess, oval, cushion, and marquise. Don’t confuse shape (the diamond’s form) with cut (the diamond’s proportions)!

Tapered Heart-Shaped Ring

EYE-CLEAN

Whether or not a diamond’s imperfections are visible to the naked eye.

Higher clarity grades indicate that a diamond’s inclusions are visible only under professional magnification. These diamonds may offer good value; they’re less expensive while still lacking any visible flaws.

3 dimaonds

FACING UP WHITE

A diamond that may not be colorless, but which will look colorless to the naked eye in a setting.

In many cases, the color grade “I” and above will “face up white.” If you opt for a lower color-graded diamond, setting it in a warm metal will help mask its color.

Rose Gold Entwined Ring

14K Rose Gold Rope Solitaire Engagement Ring

EARTH-CREATED DIAMONDS

Diamonds that have been formed in the earth’s mantle under immense heat and pressure over millions of years.

Diamond Halo Pendant

LAB CREATED DIAMONDS

Diamonds that are created in a laboratory, but are actually chemically and optically identical to traditional diamonds.

There are two ways to make lab-created diamonds:

1) “High Pressure, High Heat” mimics the pressure and heat of the earth to create a diamond.

2) “Chemical Vapor Deposition” builds up carbon vapor into a diamond within a low-pressure vacuum chamber.  

Lab Created Diamond Pendant

14K white gold diamond solitaire pendant (mounting)

Want to make your diamond knowledge a cut above? Check out the articles below!

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Jackie B.

Jackie is a writer who loves a good deal, especially when it comes to jewelry!

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