Think you can tell the difference between earth created diamonds and lab grown diamond engagement rings? We’ll put you to the test with some of our best diamonds!
Although lab grown diamonds are created in a lab, they are real diamonds and have the same physical, chemical, and visual properties as earth created diamonds.
This striking similarity begs the question: Is it possible to tell the two apart?
You don’t need to be an expert to try and give it a go. We’re showing off some of our customers’ favorite custom-designed engagement rings. Some have lab diamond center stones, and others are set with mined diamonds. Keep scrolling to see if you can spot which is which.
Did you know that it takes earth made diamonds billions of years to form, whereas a lab grown diamond can be created in under 10 weeks? That’s right! Scientists have managed to recreate special chambers which replicate the exact environment needed for diamonds to form.
Another fun fact about lab created diamonds is they come in every shape, size, and color as earth created diamonds. While some fancy color diamonds are extremely rare, you wouldn’t struggle to find your favorite color as a lab diamond.
Any luck differentiating between the diamonds? Don’t fret if not. Even the experts can’t tell the difference between lab created diamonds and mined diamonds with the naked eye.
Let’s tally up your scores and see if you guessed correctly. For each set, we’ll go from left to right:
Lab grown | Earth
Earth | Lab grown
Earth | Lab grown
Lab grown | Earth
So, how’d you do??
What’s The Difference Between Lab Created Diamonds And Earth Created Diamonds?
If you found it difficult to spot the difference, just know you’re not the only one! 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.
Getting The Best Diamond Ring For Your Buck
Modern-day consumers will be happy to hear that lab grown diamonds are generally more affordable than earth created diamonds, giving you a 30% larger stone for the same cost!
Why?
The diamond-growing process is less resource-intensive than the diamond-mining process. It simply costs less to grow a diamond in a lab than it does to mine a diamond from the earth, and those savings are passed along to diamond shoppers. If you’re looking to maximize your budget without compromising on quality and sparkle, lab created diamonds are a great choice for you.
Worth It? We Think So
There’s no doubt that earth created diamonds contain millennia of history, tradition, and romance. While these diamonds are the classic choice, lab grown diamonds are an affordable option and equally fresh. No matter what you decide, both diamonds hold their magnificent sparkle forever!
Final Thoughts
Were you able to tell our lab grown and earth created diamonds apart? Here’s the bottom line: Both are winners! Lab grown diamonds offer equal brilliance and sparkle as earth created diamonds. That being said, if you’re looking to maximize your budget without compromising on quality, a lab grown diamond may be calling your name.
Something sparkly catches your eye? At James Allen, we’ve got loads more jewelry up our sleeve. Browse our stunning assortment of wedding rings, tennis bracelets, men’s engagement rings, and more to spoil your significant other (or yourself!) today.
Subscribe to our email list for access to secret sales, practical ring-buying tips, and $100 off your first purchase!
If you’re looking to check off your holiday gift list and save money, then it’s your time to shine…literally! James Allen’s Black Friday deals are here! Read on to check out the best bling at the best prices. Shop early, save, and, best of all, sleep in on November 25th.
James Allen Black Friday Deals
It’s that time of year again, the annual James Allen Black Friday sale! 25% off SITE WIDE! Save on everything! That piece you’ve been eyeing all year? Treat yo self! That engagement ring your love has been sending hint after hint for? Blow their mind with the bling!
Sparkle so bright they won’t remember you forgot their birthday? They’ll wish you would forget it every year! Shop early, save, avoid the chaos, and savor those turkey day leftovers.
Best Selling Black Friday Engagement Rings
A chill in the air and some ice on the finger. The most romantic time of year is upon us once again, the perfect time to pop the question or upgrade your current hardware. Whether you prefer a perfect pavé, a sophisticated solitaire, or a heavenly halo engagement ring, this is the ideal time to grab one of our 2022’s top trends.
Solitaire Engagement Rings
Oh, how we love a solitaire engagement ring! You just can’t go wrong with this timeless, classic, and simply stunning style. Not only are solitaire settings budget-friendly and allow the focus to be solely on your center stone, but they also give an understated elegance beloved by all.
Worried a solitaire is too simple? Pshaw! Go for a thick or thin band, get modern with a knife edge or a six prong shank, or amp up the style with a rope or cable band. The options go on and on!
Choose from timeless yellow gold, romantic rose gold, brilliant white gold, or go for the strength of platinum. Whichever metal or style you choose, a solitaire engagement ring will always be in style. Check out these best-sellers for inspo, and go to JamesAllen.com for more!
Halo Engagement Rings
Stand in the light of a halo when you give your loved one of our halo engagement rings. This style, where your center stone is surrounded by a literal halo of diamonds, gives your already shining ring enhanced elegance and sparkle.
Do you subscribe to the bigger is better theory? Then halo rings are for you! The halo of diamonds around your center stone will make your ring look even bigger than it is. It’s no wonder their popularity continues to grow.
After all, is more shine ever a bad thing? Take a look at some of the halos our customers just love, and check out more here!
Pavé Engagement Rings
Love the look of being surrounded by diamonds but don’t have the budget of being surrounded by diamonds, then look to the pavé! Pavé literally means to cover, as in to pave something. Pavé engagement rings feature bands that are covered in diamonds.
What is great is that the diamonds are tiny, making them affordable and allowing you to satisfy that champagne taste! All these tiny diamonds reflect light, allowing a beautiful sparkle that can be seen from every angle.
A ring that dazzles this bright is sure to get that yes! Need some inspo? These beauties are best sellers for a reason!
Fine Jewelry Black Friday Deals
Figuring out what to get all the people on your list can be a pain in the you know what! Fine jewelry to the rescue! It always makes a great gift! Whatever their style, whomever the recipient, whichever pieces are preferred, jewelry is the gift that never fails.
Gold Jewelry
There’s a reason it’s called The Gold Standard. Gold is always great; whether you prefer yellow, white, or rose, gold is the gift that keeps on going. Get in on the minimalist trend with gold pieces that you’ll never want to take off. Sport a perfect pair of gold hoop earrings, a cute cuff, an initial necklace, and a statement ring.
Speaking of statement rings, why go for just one when you can stack ‘em? Wear them on the same finger or get multiple for different fingers because when it comes to stackable rings, it’s like holiday guests, the more the merrier!
Wear your gold jewelry together, separately, or mix and match for a clean, elegant look.
Lab Created Diamond Jewelry
Love diamonds but want to save even more? Then our lab created diamond jewelry collection is for you! Lab created diamonds are great because they are 100% real diamonds, cost less than their counterparts found in the earth, and at James Allen, are certified conflict-free.
Lab grown diamonds are also the perfect way to build your fine jewelry basics collection. Go for a timeless tennis necklace, a perfect solitaire ring, a set of cluster earrings, and a station dash bracelet to pull the collection together.
Is your best friend such a Libra? Is your sister the ultimate Gemini? Sounds like they need a piece from our gorgeous constellation collection. No matter their sign, we got the shine to match!
Complete the set with a pair of lab grown diamond hoop earrings, go for a heavenly halo ring, or choose a perfect pendant. No matter what you choose, our lab created diamond pieces are just what every jewelry box needs.
Birthstone Jewelry
Celebrate a birthday this holiday season, no matter when you were born! Rock the wintery gem of December with beautiful topaz pieces and feel hot hot hot while sporting these icy cool blues. Choose the deep red of January’s garnet and feel regal everytime you put it on.
From the deep shades of September’s sapphires to the engaging greens in May’s emeralds, birthstone jewelry looks good every month of the year. Were you born in October but have the soul of an April baby, pair a stunning opal necklace with a diamond bolo bracelet. Throw in a ruby ring for a pop of color to honor all those July babies you know and love.
James Allen’s collection of birthstone jewelry is so gorgeous you’ll wish you had a birthday every month of the year!
Black Friday Wedding Rings For Women
The James Allen Black Friday sale is also a great time to get that dream wedding ring! Whether you’re looking for your perfect wedding ring for the big day, to add a beautiful piece to your wedding ring collection, or simply want to upgrade your current wedding ring, we have the style for you.
Want a classic ring to match your timeless love? Go for one of our simply sophisticated classic wedding rings. Available in yellow, white, rose gold, and even platinum, as well as different widths, and even styles (check out our knife edge for a classic ring with a twist); we’ve got the right ring for you!
Do you need a ring that sparkles as bright as your smile? Our collection of diamond wedding rings will leave you wanting for words.
Whether you want diamonds that go on and on, like our dazzling eternity rings, or maybe you want a pavé wedding ring to match your pavé engagement ring, our seemingly endless collection of women’s wedding rings has the perfect ring waiting for you.
Black Friday Wedding Rings For Men
Your man deserves a ring that will make everyone go wow! We know this is an important purchase, one of the most important pieces of jewelry you’ll ever buy, and you don’t want to buy just any old ring.
Classic men’s wedding rings are simply timeless. Whether you prefer a slimmer 4mm ring, or want a slightly thicker 6mm band, these enduring rings are available in varying widths, metals, and finishes. From comfort fit to slightly flat or slightly curved, these stylish rings allow you to take a classic look to the next level.
Do you love the classic look but want to give it a twist? Go for a bold, black tantalum ring. Whether you prefer one with a pattern, a satin finish, or one mixed with gold, there are so many choices for men’s wedding rings that you are sure to find your favorite.
Final Thoughts
It’s never a bad thing to be ahead of the game, at least when it comes to holiday shopping! Get that list, check it twice, and finish shopping before everyone else has even started. As they elbow their way through the crowds and set their alarms before the sun, you’ll be fast asleep, dreaming of how you got gifts everyone will love and at a discount. So head on over to JamesAllen.com because sparkle season starts now!
Sarah is a stickler for grammar and prefers to use the Oxford comma. She enjoys her career as a writer since being a professional snowboarder/powerlifter/pastry chef didn’t pan out.
Steven Spielberg’s West Side Story remake is coming out in December 2021 and we are snapping with excitement! Although the 1961 original was historic, it’s undoubtedly time for an update. With critics raving about this sublime version, it’s time to weigh in with matching sparkle.
Classics persist through the ages and are reborn through the ages. West Side Story most definitely proves this rule, with the Broadway run re-envisioned in the 1961 movie, and now the 2021 cinematic remake. West Side Story itself is a modern reimagining of Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet.
In West Side Story, love, tragedy, anger, class tension, and disenfranchised rage are put on display in a rumbling, technicolor flurry. A powerful production deserves worthy statement pieces. At James Allen, we were inspired by the gorgeous costumes, iconic soundtrack, and ageless story to hand-pick the perfect engagement rings for Broadway fans.
Read on for West Side Story-inspired lookalike engagement rings!
Maria’s Dress | Ruby and Diamond Sunburst Halo Engagement Ring
Perhaps the most iconic costume in West Side Story is the dress Maria wears to the neighborhood dance: a simple white dress accented with a bold red ribbon. We’ve got the perfect complement to her outfit: this white gold ring with a ruby center stone. An engagement ring is a perfect accessory for this outfit because 1) it’s at the dance that Tony and Maria have their first encounter, and 2) Maria’s outfit is made by Anita, her best friend, a talented wedding dress seamstress.
2021 Anita | Bird of Paradise Engagement Ring
In Spielberg’s version, Anita struts through the neighborhood dance in a gorgeous bright yellow dress with a red ruffled petticoat. There’s no better ring to match her twirling antics than this yellow gold bird of paradise engagement ring set with a beautiful ruby center stone. Round and marquise cut diamond dot its unique asymmetrical halo.
1961 Anita | Amethyst and Diamond Engagement Ring
In the 1961 movie, Anita, played by Rita Moreno, is instantly recognizable in her purple mermaid dress. She leads the pack in every dance, swirling her skirts in an unforgettable purple vision. This 1.8-carat emerald-cut amethyst will, like Anita, mesmerize a crowd.
Tony & Maria meeting | Intertwined Bypass Engagement Ring
Tony and Maria’s first meeting at the neighborhood dance is magical. Almost instantly, they lock eyes and are besotted with one another.
The Challenge Dance | Double Halo and Shank Pavè Engagement Ring
The Challenge Dance in the gym starts out as a get-together dance. Glad Hand sets the kids up in two circles: “Boys go on the outside, girls on the inside…when the music stops, each boy dances with whichever girl is opposite.” What better to wear to a Challenge Dance than a blingy double-halo engagement ring that resembles the dual-circled dance floor?
Puerto Rico in America | Red, White, and Blue Engagement Ring
Here you are free and you have pride! This patriotic ring’s red, white, and blue colors represent the national flags of both Puerto Rico and the United States. This white gold setting, rubies, and a stunning sapphire make this ring one that you’ll feel proud to wear throughout the country.
Rita Moreno’s Valentina | Vintage Navette Engagement Ring
In Spielberg’s remake, Doc no longer runs the local drugstore; rather, his place has been taken by his widow, Valentina. And Valentina is played by Rita Morena, who won the best supporting actress Oscar for playing Anita in the original 1961 film! We’ve chosen an intricate vintage ring to honor this timeless Hollywood legend. A beaded navette pattern gives off an effortlessly French air, and a pavè halo adds even more sparkle.
Maria and Tony’s Balcony Scene | Bypass Solitaire Engagement Ring
Oh, the world is wild and bright with this dual-leveled bypass ring. The center diamond’s offset mounting resembles the couple’s late-night meeting on the balcony: with Tony professing his newfound love from the alleyway to Maria, who lovingly looks down upon him from her second-floor apartment and responds in kind.
Sharks vs Jets | Half Bezel-Set Pavè Engagement Ring
This symmetrical half bezel-set ring brings to mind the confrontation between the Sharks and the Jets. The half-bezel setting is designed almost as if the side stones are pushing the pavè half-halo up and over the center diamond like a cresting wave.
West Side Story is all about simmering class tensions that can’t help but boil over when confronted with the love of a young couple, and this seemingly overflowing diamond engagement ring captures the story’s teeming emotions.
Something’s Coming, Something Good | Petite Pavè Engagement Ring
Like Tony, we can’t help but burst with optimism at this petite pave ring. It’s one of our most popular styles, with over 1000 five-star reviews! Its band twinkles thanks to its French Cut pavè settings, which feature tiny v-shaped slots along its edges that expose each diamond to even more light. And more light = more sparkle.
Anybodys | Two-Tone Solitaire Engagement Ring
A tomboyish outsider for most of the play, Anybodys tags along with the Jets until she’s officially welcomed into the gang after a post-rumble act of bravery. Anybodys is tough, persistent, and plucky, deserving of a unique engagement ring that can withstand Jet-worthy hijinks.
This two-tone ring, with white gold on the outside and yellow gold within, suits the code-switching Anybody’s comfort across the neighborhood’s borders. Sure, she says “I ain’t never gonna get married. Too noisy.” But everyone deserves some sparkle, and diamond rings aren’t only for engagements.
Proposal plans in motion for 2021? You might want to take notes.
With 2020 coming to a close, we’re looking forward to fresh starts and sparkling new styles in the year ahead. From the return of the classics to pops of color and a rise in personalized rings, the new year is set to have it all. People are raising their glow game with bright, bold choices to achieve that #winning ring selfie while staying true to what fits their unique personality. Keep scrolling for our predicted 2021 engagement ring trends.
1. Colorful Stones
We previously anticipated a rise in colorful gemstones back in 2020 and expect the trend to continue into the new year. Keep your eyes peeled for gemstones, especially sapphire and emerald. You can never go wrong by incorporating a birthstone into your chosen ring – it’s an expression of your unique style and creativity. And did we mention they’re absolutely breathtaking?
Following a year of challenges and uncertainty, people are all about keeping it simple (and sparkly!) in 2021. Solitaire rings not only spotlight the center diamond beautifully but seamlessly compliment every personality and style. We also predict an upward trend of split shank engagement rings, where the band beautifully splits into two on each side before joining the center diamond.
Today, more people are choosing to add their two cents into the ring-making process, with some couples even designing a ring together. In 2021, we’re predicting a rise in custom-made engagement rings and non-traditional styles. Speaking of customizing, we recommend adding a free engraving to your ring at checkout for an extra special touch. Need ring-spiration? Feast your eyes on some of our customer creations, then try your hand at designing your very own.
There’s no doubt that earth created diamonds contain millennia of history, tradition, and romance. But what about the new sparkle on the block? We’re referring to lab created diamonds of course – an equally dazzling and cost-effective alternative which we’re expecting to explode in 2021.
Lab created diamonds are optically and chemically identical to earth created diamonds and are generally about 30% more affordable. Plus, they look great with every ring, no matter what you choose.
Yellow gold engagement rings have gained serious traction in 2020 and show no signs of slowing down in 2021. This warm, luxurious metal pairs with almost any outfit, giving its wearer an instant boost of style and undeniable elegance. Why choose a yellow gold ring? Gold is yellow by nature, so the color of the metal stays vibrant and is easy to maintain, allowing you to keep your sparkle in tip-top shape through the new year and beyond.
Good communication is a key tenet of any relationship. This means being open and honest about everything and anything. So why wouldn’t you work together on your engagement ring, one of the most significant pieces of jewelry you’ll ever wear?
Gone are the days when partners are expected to be mind readers. Thankfully, the days of open and honest communication are here. Don’t wait in silence for what you want, work together to ensure your engagement ring is one you both love.
Should You Pick An Engagement Ring Together?
More and more couples are choosing to experience picking out an engagement ring together. By working together, you can ensure it is a ring you will love, that it is your size, and that it contains any and all meaningful touches. This is one of, if not the most important ring you’ll ever wear, so why not make sure it’s perfect?
Working together is an added benefit when designing the ring. Instead of guessing based on the jewelry you own, you can ensure it is the exact metal, diamond, or gemstone cut, carat, clarity, and of course, style.
Is It OK To Shop For Engagement Rings Together?
Of course! The tradition of surprise, while a lovely one, is something more and more couples are saving for popping the big question itself. After all, a surprise proposal is that much less stressful when you know you are asking with a ring your partner absolutely loves!
What Are The Benefits Of Ring Shopping Together?
The better question is, what aren’t the benefits? Shopping for an engagement ring together has so many benefits! From ensuring it is the right size and style, you can rest easy knowing you won’t need to make a return or exchange. Shopping together reduces stress and ensures a successful purchase.
Less Engagement Ring Stress
Most people have an idea of what they want their engagement ring to look like. They have a vision, if not of one design they love, then of a few. But those visions are in their head, and unless you are a mind reader, shopping together takes away the stress of “What if they don’t like it?”
By shopping together, you remove the stress of sizing, and instead of hoping it fits, you will KNOW it does. After all, this is a ring they will wear for the rest of their life, you want it to be perfect.
Openly Discuss Budget
This is a great perk of shopping together for a ring. Instead of overspending or accumulating debt, by working together, you can ensure to buy a ring your partner loves on a budget you can afford and are both comfortable with.
You can also discuss how to get the perfect ring within your budget. For example, choosing a lab grown diamond engagement ring will allow you to get a diamond she loves for a price that you love.
Risk-Free Proposal
Shopping together ensures your partner will say yes. No sweaty palms, no wondering what the answer is. You KNOW they will say yes, so you can save all your stress for planning the perfect proposal.
What Are The Benefits Of Designing Your Engagement Ring Together?
Just like shopping for a ring together, designing your engagement ring together has many benefits. Ensuring it is the right size, it incorporates both of your styles, that it is a ring you love, and of course, making the experience that much more special.
Style Preferences Are Guaranteed
While you can get hints when perusing (see spying) your partner’s jewelry box, they may have a totally different vision for their engagement ring. Someone with funky taste may opt for something more traditional for this momentous piece of jewelry.
Not only can you ensure they love every detail, from the metal color and style, to the diamond or gemstone, but you can choose together a beautiful sentiment to have engraved.
Being sure the ring fits from day one is a huge benefit to shopping together. While James Allen offers free resizing (get more details here), some styles are harder to resize, some styles simply cannot be resized, and of course, resizing takes time. Getting engaged is so exciting! Having to wait to wear your ring because it is getting resized can really take the wind out of your sails.
Shopping together guarantees that from the moment you hear “yes,” your partner can wear their ring comfortably. And comfort is important because they will wear this ring everyday forever.
No Subtle Hints Needed
Who knows what women are thinking? Who knows what anyone is thinking?! Shopping and designing your ring together removes the guesswork. No worrying your hints are too subtle, no being frustrated when they miss your hints altogether.
Instead, complete security in knowing you will get the exact ring you want. How refreshing!
Avoid Redesigning & Resizing
Shopping for a ring together means you won’t hear that dreaded “I love it, but I just need to change a few things.” No worrying about the size or style, instead, you’ll have the full confidence that it fits because your partner was there with you to give their ring size. No fretting if they will like it because your partner was there to tell you what style they wanted. Instead of getting the ring almost perfect but they wanted a different metal color, you will simply get the ring perfect the first time.
Getting engaged is a special time. You are starting your journey to forever, committing to each other in a very meaningful way. Taking the time to design your engagement ring together gives this important piece of jewelry that much more meaning. From start to finish, getting married is a special experience, so make the most of it and start earlier by designing your ring together.
Engagement Ring Designing Tips For Couples
There are a few things to keep in mind when choosing to design your own engagement ring. Read below for some tips and tricks, and of course, our experts at James Allen are always here to help.
Learn The 4Cs
Cut, Color, Clarity, and Carat Weight: these are the 4Cs, i.e., the 4 things you want to keep in mind when shopping for an engagement ring. In addition to applying to a center stone, many styles have accessorizing diamonds and side stones where this information is also useful.
Cut refers to the facets, angles, and proportions of a diamond or gemstone, color refers to the clarity or colorlessness of a diamond, clarity refers to how free of inclusions your stone is, and carat weight refers to the weight or size of your diamonds and stones.
There are many benefits to designing your ring online, most of all convenience. You can start this process anytime, whatever your schedule. No more running to the mall before the store closes or skipping brunch to spend the morning in some office.
Another perk is options! Options online are endless, you can choose from lab grown and earth created diamond options, as well as diamond alternatives like moissanite. You can look together at the different shades of gemstones that are available, see how different sizes will look, try your dream center stone in different settings, and so on and so forth.
Designing a ring online ensures you will get a ring you and your partner love, the only limit is your and your partner’s imagination!
Consult An Expert
There is a LOT to know about diamonds and fine jewelry, and at James Allen, our experts are here to help. Our Real-Time Diamond Inspection allows you to browse our loose diamonds while simultaneously speaking to one of our diamond experts. You can ask about everything from the specs of a diamond to reviewing a grading certificate.
When making an investment purchase like an engagement ring, speaking to an expert is just as important as doing your research, so make sure you get all the advice. Speaking to experts and consulting with couples who have already gone through the process will help ensure that together, you pick out the perfect engagement ring.
FAQs
Is it rude to change your engagement ring?
We don’t think so! Your engagement ring is for life, you and your partner need to absolutely LOVE it! Just make sure to check the return policy of wherever you shop.
Should your rings match?
This is entirely up to you. Some couples choose to get matching engagement rings, some choose to get matching wedding rings, while some brides choose to match their engagement ring to their wedding ring. While you are shopping, discuss with your partner the various options as you may want to purchase your engagement and wedding rings together.
What is the rule for engagement rings?
The rule is…there are no rules! How much you spend, what style you choose, going for a diamond or gemstone as your center stone, these are all decisions that are personal. You will wear this ring for the rest of your life, so whether you go for a blinged out diamond engagement ring or prefer a simply sophisticated solitaire style, your engagement ring needs to be your way.
Better Together
It is not an easy mission to find the ring of your dreams. Even if you have a style in mind, the shopping process can be overwhelming. There are many factors to consider, including choosing a retailer, deciding on your budget, and picking a style.
When embarking on such an important mission, why not have your partner by your side? After all, they will present the ring when popping the big question; let’s make sure it’s one you both love!
Visit us at JamesAllen.com and start designing your dream ring today!
Sarah is a stickler for grammar and prefers to use the Oxford comma. She enjoys her career as a writer since being a professional snowboarder/powerlifter/pastry chef didn’t pan out.
These affordable engagement rings are equally as beautiful as they are budget-friendly!
Everybody deserves their dream engagement ring. However, in some cases, high-quality glitter comes with an equally high price tag. If you’re looking for an affordable yet beautiful engagement ring, don’t fret. We’ve compiled a list of our top-selling affordable engagement rings that will have your SO beaming as bright as the rings themselves.
1. Solitaire Engagement Rings
When it comes to affordable engagement rings, a solitaire ring is always a good place to start. Consisting of a single stone and a simple setting, this timeless ring allows your diamond to take center stage. Keep it simple but shiny with these classics.
Although classic shapes are the most popular, you’ll find a golden opportunity with elongated fancy shapes. These stones are not only cheaper, but their shapes create the appearance of a larger surface area. Consider these stunning pear, oval and marquise diamond rings and get more bang for your buck.
Pavé rings consist of small diamonds encrusted on the band, making the band itself look like it’s made of diamond. This elaborate display of diamonds gives the ring a boost of extra sparkle at an affordable price, without needing to invest more in increasing the center stone’s carat size.
If you’re on a budget and want an affordable yet supersized sparkle, look no further than a halo! We recommend a cushion-cut stone paired with a pavé halo band. Alternatively, choose a clean trellis setting and let the halo do the sparkling.
White Gold Pavé Halo Engagement Ring (Cushion Center)
Gemstones have become an increasingly popular option when shopping for affordable engagement rings. If you’d like to venture away from a traditional all-diamond engagement ring, a gorgeous side-stone ring with marquise-shaped sapphires or a ruby 3 stone ring will do the trick.
White Gold Vintage Diamond & Marquise Sapphire Engagement Ring
Our customers prefer to glow big and go home with these handcrafted halo engagement rings.
All Hail Halo Engagement Rings!
If you’ve been following our blog, it should come as no surprise that halo engagement rings are our most-reviewed setting style. And for good reason.
Halo settings surround the center stone with an outer ring of smaller diamonds or gemstones that reflect light off the center stone, making it appear larger. This is especially useful if you’re on a tight budget and want to “supersize” the sparkle of your center stone without breaking the bank.
Halo Engagement Rings: A Galaxy of Glam
Like the rings of Saturn, halo engagement rings shine bright and can be seen from a great distance. Check out the 10 heavenly bodies our customers have been gravitating toward:
1. Cushion Outline Pavé Halo
Can’t decide between a cushion-cut or round center stone? This halo engagement ring lets you have the best of both worlds: the nostalgic outline of a cushion-cut halo as well as the brilliance of a round center diamond.
“This ring is an absolute beauty that simply takes your breath away.” – Darryll T.
“This ring is relatively thin and delicate but pops with the halo. The halo adds that much more to the rock in the center. The way everything sparkles when the light hits it is amazing.” – Samuel L.
6. Embellished Gallery Pavé Halo
This knockout pavé setting was created with maximum light and brilliance in mind. It features a custom-designed halo that perfectly conforms to the center diamond.
“The ring is elegant and HUGE. It looks beautiful and shines like no other ring I have ever seen.” – Katie L.
“Ever since she’s had the ring, all we hear is how gorgeous and BIG the diamond is, not to mention how brilliant and fiery the diamond looks.” – Chad M.
And now for a special collection…
…a quartet of exquisite halo rings! All display pavé-set diamonds along both their shanks and their halos, highlighting each of their differently-shaped center diamonds:
“This is the most beautiful ring I’ve ever seen! It sparkles at every angle. It is elegant and unique from most other rings you typically see!” – Christopher E.
“The ring is absolutely stunning! It looked beautiful in the picture on your website but seeing it and holding it in person is unreal!” – Louise E.
Jonny is passionate about puns, adores alliteration, and finds diamonds positively facet-nating! Since joining James Allen, he has written the word 'sparkle’ 9,732 times and counting.
Twisted engagement rings put a new spin on the classic solitaire ring setting.
Abbraccio Swirl Engagement Ring by Danhov
Everything is more interesting with a twist: gin and tonic with a twist of lime, M. Night Shyamalan movies, those poles outside barber shops. The same goes for jewelry – namely, twisted engagement rings. Their updated design adds a whimsical and utterly unique touch to an otherwise basic band.
Twisted engagement rings can be fashioned out of one solid metal band, two tightly wound bands, or an open split shank that intersects with itself. For an eye-catching enhancement, choose one that’s studded with pavé diamonds or sporting a shimmering halo.
The Bold & The Beautiful 💍
Contoured Twist Tension Set Engagement Ring
Twisted engagement rings are already a bold look, and silvery metals are in, but this modern tension-set ring brings added drama and sophistication. The wide, sleek band, with its striking contours, is one of the fiercest settings we’ve seen! Can you feel the tension?
The Tulip from Amster-dayum! 🌷
Milgrain Twist Tulip Basket Engagement Ring
This one-of-a-kind solitaire ring has milgrain detailing along the shanks and can be set with a round or princess-cut diamond. Where’s the tulip, you ask? Ah, that’s the twist! It forms the basketfor an extra-romantic surprise.
The Pretzeled Pavé 🥨
Pavé Twist Diamond Engagement Ring
This delicious-looking setting features a liberal sprinkling of pavé diamonds along each of its interwoven bands. These serve to gently accent the center stone… like grains of salt on a pretzel!
The Simply Di-vine 🍃
Twisted Vine Engagement Ring
There ain’t no shine like a twisted vine! This bewitching nature-inspired ring showcases two marquise-shaped pavé-set accents on either side. These leaf-like flourishes flow together seamlessly on a band of lustrous gold.
The Spiraling Solitaire 🌀
Cable Solitaire Engagement Ring
Throw your partner a rope in the form of this charming twisted cable solitaire engagement ring. Tightly interwoven gold cables are a subtle way to let the wearer know you won’t ever let them down. Pair with the matching cable wedding band when you’re ready to tie the knot.
The Coiled Crossover 🔀
Pavé Halo and Twisted Shank Engagement Ring
Keep your fingers crossed for this gorgeous split-shank engagement ring. A pavé halo surrounds the center stone, while additional pavé diamonds line one of the shanks for maximum sparkle.
Twisted Engagement Rings: Give Us a Twirl
Is a ring with a twist top of your list?Let us know in the comments below or over onInstagram, Facebook, Snapchat, or Twister. Er… Twitter.
Jonny is passionate about puns, adores alliteration, and finds diamonds positively facet-nating! Since joining James Allen, he has written the word 'sparkle’ 9,732 times and counting.
Whether you’re a secret agent or a straight shooter, check out our pro tips for finding her engagement ring style.
Everyone has a personal style. Some are more understated than others and, therefore, harder to discern. Your job as Buyer of Rings, Proposer of Marriage, is to hone in on that style by whatever means necessary. Put on your detective hat and do some snooping around or straight up ask your partner what she’d like. Either way, finding her engagement ring style needn’t be a chore with our handy guide. Just pop on some good music and get sleuthing.
Finding Her Engagement Ring Style: Cut to the Chase
These days, it’s perfectly acceptable – preferable even – to bring your partner into the design process. No one knows the wearer’s style better than the wearer herself, so why not involve her in the decision making? Goodness knows you’ll need all the help you can get when confronted with terms like pavé, halo, and tension! (That last one’s a setting style btw, not a headache.) By promoting your partner to Chief Ring Adviser, you’ll come across as the sensitive and considerate human being you are while eliminating much of the guesswork. It’s a win-win.
Now, the direct approach won’t work for everyone, mind you. Some customers – proposer and proposee alike – have their hearts set on a solo ring selection, culminating in the Big Reveal. To those irrepressible romantics, we say… read on!
Finding Her Engagement Ring Style: A Spy on the Wall
Like all good detectives, you’ve been waiting for the right case to come along; a case worthy of your powers of deduction. Finding her engagement ring style is right up there with #WhoBitBeyoncé and that whole Yanny vs Laurel thing – except the odds of you solving this one are far higher!
Seriously though, your partner’s online and offline activity might give away key clues about her ring preferences. If she has a Pinterest account, it’s worth checking to see if she’s created any boards with sparkle-related titles or pinned any specific rings. Assuming you have access to her Facebook account, check her profile and activity log for any ring posts she’s liked or shared.
What’s the Buzz?
Even if she’s been careful not to leave a digital trail, she may have confided in her best friend or sibling. Once you’ve got a sparkly bee in your bonnet, it’s almost impossible to keep it to yourself! Listen for subtle hints that might come up when she’s chatting with her inner circle, especially if the topic of celebrity engagement rings comes up.
Finding Her Engagement Ring Style: How She Rolls
When finding her engagement ring style, it often helps to draw on your own personal experience. Presumably, you’ve spent a fair bit of time with your SO and have gleaned an insight or two about her day-to-day.
What kind of lifestyle does she lead? If she has a job or hobby that requires her to wear gloves, she’d be better off with a setting that doesn’t have exposed diamonds on the band. Solitaire and channel-set rings are both practical options as they minimize the risk of the diamonds getting caught or falling out. A less hands-on lifestyle would allow for more exposed diamonds on the band – pavé being the obvious example.
Extra! Extra! Read All About It!
Vintage Inspired Floral Bouquet Engagement RingSpiral Tension Set Engagement Ring
If your girl is more Devil Wears Prada than Devil Wears Nada, you might consider a more daring setting. Pay close attention to her wardrobe. If she dresses to impress and won’t touch anything unless it’s by a top designer, go for something with character, such as a vintage engagement ring or hyper-modern tension ring.
If, on the other hand, her idea of glamour is a pair of old jeans and a t-shirt, we’d recommend opting for something simple like a baguette side-stone engagement ring. Understated yet elegant.
If none of the above tips speak to you, no one would fault you for playing it safe and going with a classic style such as a solitaire. This is essentially a single center diamond mounted on a plain setting. Solitaires are considered classics for a reason: they work with practically any individual style and never go out of fashion.
Once you’ve figured out your setting style, it’s time to consider the diamond shape. If you have even the slightest doubt about what shape to get, you can’t go wrong with a round cut. Round-cut diamonds are by far the most popular shape for engagement rings, owing to their perfect geometry and abundant sparkle. These timeless classics are tried and true, but if it’s a little more edge you’re after, a princess or cushion-cut diamond should suffice.
Walk a Mile in Her Style
How did you manage to pinpoint your partner’s style preference?Did you go undercover or were you upfront about it? Let us know in the comments below or over onInstagram, Facebook, Snapchat, or Twitter.
For more invaluable ring-buying tips and tricks, check out the previous posts in our men’s FAQ series.
Pin the style on your fiancée!
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Jonny is passionate about puns, adores alliteration, and finds diamonds positively facet-nating! Since joining James Allen, he has written the word 'sparkle’ 9,732 times and counting.
Love makes the world go round and we’ve got the aw–inspiring around-the-world marriage proposals to prove it!
Somewhere on this big blue marble we call home, a couple is getting engaged right now. By the time you finish reading this article, several hundred thousand more will have put a ring on it. Planet Earth is quite simply theplace to pop the question – at least until commercial spaceflight becomes a thing.
In honor of World Post Day, we’ve rounded up our favorite around-the-world marriage proposals submitted by our international customers. Just as their love knows no borders, James Allen offers free shipping to over 30 countries worldwide. You could say we put the glow in global!
Around-the-World Marriage Proposals: Honduran Homebodies
Pavé Halo Diamond Engagement Ring
Our round-the-world trip starts out in Zamorano, Honduras. Hopeful hubby Aaron left girlfriend Maria a note instructing her to meet him by a tire swing in their neighbor’s yard. As she waited obligingly by the swing, her knight in shining amour pulled up in a red vintage truck. He presented her with a bouquet of flowers and an impossible-to-resist pavé halo diamond ring, to which she couldn’t help but say yes. We love the sheer simplicity of this proposal and can practically taste the homemade baleadas wafting through the air! Read more
Around-the-World Marriage Proposals: Canadian Cascade
Single Row Pavé Infinity Engagement Ring by Martin Flyer
Next, we head north to Edmonton, Canada, and the scene of Carly and Roman’s gushing proposal. Roman whisked Carly off on a helicopter ride, stopping below a glacial waterfall for a picturesque mountaintop picnic. Using the Insta-worthy moment to his advantage, Roman pretended to set up the camera’s self-timer, but secretly hit record. The teary-eyed romantic then took the plunge and presented his love with a single row pavé infinity ring by Martin Flyer. Noticing that he was holding the box upside down, Carly quickly turned it right-side up and said yes through the laughter and the tears. Read more
Around-the-World Marriage Proposals: American Dream
Petite Pavé Engagement Ring
The next leg of our whistle-stop tour takes us to the City of Angels via France. Manon from France and fiancé Andrew from Texas were university sweethearts who somehow managed to make their intercontinental relationship work. While on a trip to Los Angeles to realize Manon’s lifelong dream of hiking to the Hollywood Sign, Andrew got down on one knee and proposed with a petite pavé ring. Serendipity may have brought them together, but it was their James Allen sparkler that made it official. Read more
Around-the-World Marriage Proposals: Mauritian Marvel
Diamond Split Shank Double Halo Pavé Engagement Ring
All the way over on the other side of the world, a man named Arreytambe was planning an altogether more tropical proposal. He invited then-girlfriend Bessem to visit him on the idyllic island of Mauritius, where he had moved for work. After they’d spent some time enjoying all the island has to offer, Arreytambe arranged a private dinner on the beach, complete with waiter service, hidden photographer, and drone cam. Bessem could barely contain her excitement when he got down on one knee and pulled out that diamond split shank double halo pavé ring. And who could blame her? It is quite stunning! Read more
Around-the-World Marriage Proposals: Jamaican Joy Ride
Falling Edge Pavé Diamond Engagement Ring
Our last stop takes us to Kingston, Jamaica and the aptly named Hope Gardens, where churchgoers Karamo and Renee got engaged. Karamo told a blindfolded Renee they were going out for a surprise dinner and drove around in circles to disorient her. In fact, he was planning to pop the question in a part of the sunken garden that he and his friends had decorated. Not even a few brief rain showers could dampen the mood of this joyous occasion. Needless to say, she said yes to him and her falling edge pavé diamond ring (in that order). Read more
Around-the-World Marriage Proposals: Bring It Home
Where (and how) on earth did you pop the question? Map it out for us in the comments below or over onInstagram, Facebook, Snapchat, or Twitter.
Jonny is passionate about puns, adores alliteration, and finds diamonds positively facet-nating! Since joining James Allen, he has written the word 'sparkle’ 9,732 times and counting.
