Page 32 - Indulge February/March 2017

bridal guide

W h e n i t ’ s t i m e f or t h e r i n g ,

different

might be j ust the thing

By Patrick O’Donnell

Beyonce famously sings, “if you liked it, then you The decidedly art deco ring has three round diamonds
should have put a ring on it” — but she doesn’t surrounded by a vintage rectangular setting with even
specify what that ring should have looked like. more diamonds.

Maybe that’s because more women (and men) are “When someone proposes, it’s nice to know that your
opting for something a little different from the typical partner has put some thought into creating a ring, or
engagement band. going through the process of selecting a unique ring
mounting, and a high quality diamond,” Bella says. She’s
“Five years ago, people would come in and specifically definitely seen customers become more discerning over
say, ‘my friend has a halo ring, and I want one, too.’ Now, the years. “Consumers are placing more importance than
consumers are wanting something more unique; they don’t ever on quality merchandise and diamonds. I’ve always
want the same style ring their friends have,” says Susan stressed the importance of high quality goods to my
Bella of Allentown’s Susan Bella Jewelry. clients … it’s refreshing to now see new clients coming in
and asking me for it.”
Intertwined bands — like rope settings — have been
popping up more, as have pavé bands, which are essentially She also says some customers are moving toward color
covered in gems all the way around. Vintage and vintage- and, in some cases, away from diamonds: “I’ve been
inspired engagement rings are also making a comeback, getting some requests for ‘alternative’ stones to be used
thanks in part to a revival in antique style and design. in lieu of a traditional diamond solitaire, particularly with
Scarlett Johannson’s engagement ring is a perfect example. millennials. Sapphires, morganite and rose-cut diamonds
are the most popular.”
PARAGON CATERING
Experts say other popular options include moissanite, a
featuring crystal that occurs naturally in meteorites and is almost as
tough as a diamond; and lemon quartz, a yellow stone made
Kasey Lynn’s Wedding Services of color-enhanced transparent quartz. Rubies, emeralds and
tanzanite — all natural gems that are more rare but less
610.748.7041 expensive than diamonds — are also making engagement
ring appearances.
Premier Full Service Caterer and Event Planner
serving the Lehigh Valley and beyond for over 25 years. Rings without gemstones — such as the traditional Celtic
Claddagh, or “lover’s knot” — are also trending.
Weddings, Rehearsal
Dinners, Engagement Wedding bands have changed some, too. “For men, gold
Parties, Corporate bands have made a comeback,” Bella says. “White gold,
Events, Special even yellow gold and two-tone! They are wanting a quality
Occasions, Private band, and their partners want them to get a wedding band
Parties, Proms, Golf that costs more than $200. Alternative metals such as
Outings & More cobalt chrome, tantalum and titanium are still strong in the
black and darker tones.”
Full Service Catering,
including Rentals, Ladies, on the other hand, want “custom, custom,
Entertainment & custom,” she says. “The ladies all want custom bands to be
Bar Options made to fit their engagements rings perfectly!”

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