An engagement ring is a piece of jewelry worn with much value. Engagement rings oftentimes lead to a wonderful union between two lives. History affirms that engagement rings came about in 1215 when Pope Innocent III declared an interlude for marriages. In those times, as promise from the man that he would not abandon his woman during the waiting period, a simple metal band was given to the woman.

These bands were later enhanced and accentuated with gemstones and eventually came to be known as engagement rings.

Today, modern technology provides for wide varieties of diamond engagement rings, perfectly cut and ornamented. Yet despite the boom of contemporary designs made of famous brands, many couples still prefer heirloom or antique engagement ring.

An antique diamond engagement ring has its unique charm that cannot be found in mass marketed jewelries. Passed from generation to generation, antique diamond engagement rings bear witness to unconditional, endless loves. It brings ardent hope of lasting bond for the would-be couple.

Any ring over 50 years of existence is an antique. Antique diamond engagement rings are often lavishly designed. They have distinctly varied designs, including Victorian, Edwardian, and Art-Deco, to name a few. It could even be said that no two antique rings are ever the same, as none of them could ever have identical cuts.

Antique rings unlike the new fashioned rings, made out of state of the art technology, are not perfectly cut but this very imperfection adds even more to the ingenuity and uniqueness of each piece.

Though rare, you can still get hold of antique diamond engagement rings if you are clever and patient enough to search for it. Here are some suggestions:

You can first rummage your mother’s jewelry box, who knows what prized possession you might find in there. You can go to a certified and trusted jeweler who may guide you in your quest. You can go to a pawnshop or visit an antique/vintage store. You can attend estate sales where you can find estate rings; these are newer rings, not yet antique, but are on their way to becoming so.

And of course, use the internet to get quick access about these timeless masterpieces.

Cushion cuts gained popularity in the latter part of the 1800’s until the early 1900’s.Before the dawn of electric bulbs, cushion cut diamond ring was also referred to as candlelight diamond because it was said to be most brilliant in candlelight.

In the modern day setting, cushion cut diamond engagement rings are more symmetrical than its older contemporaries, mainly due to the advent of modern refinements and upgraded lapidary skills. Though this may be the case, couples prefer older versions of cushion cuts and still searches for this kind in the antique or vintage market.

Cushion cut diamond engagement rings work best as alternative for couples who prefer traditional, subtle designs. Cushion cut diamond engagement rings are still rare in modern rings.

Cushion cuts are best in solitaires, the kind that draw the attention to the gemstone located at the center of the ring. Many women however, prefer small accent stones incorporated in the ring.

A cushion cut diamond ring has about 60 facets; this is 20 or more facets less than the modern rings. Facet refers to the smooth, polished planes that make up a stone’s surface. With lesser number of facets as compared to fancy shapes and signature cuts, it exhibits lesser brilliance.

But this characteristic, precisely adds to its unique appeal that sets the cushion cut diamond ring apart from its modern contemporaries for it provides a certain depth to the diamonds, allowing a person to see through it – revealing its unpretentious beauty.

The next time you invite your partner for a romantic candlelight dinner; consider a cushion cut diamond engagement ring to go with it?

Blue diamond engagement rings are very unique and beautiful. They can be quite expensive because of its rarity and the process that it underwent before obtaining its enhanced color and quality. Its color is what makes it really expensive. But those who buy such rings are not really after the price but its uniqueness.

That’s why blue diamond engagement rings are very magnificent and impressing when used as a symbol of commitment and engagement. They can be considered as very special gifts and treasures.

There are several grand names given to the largest and most popular blue diamonds: Blue Empress, Heart of Eternity and Hope.

Blue diamonds are considered to be one of the rarest types of diamonds in the world. Natural blue diamonds are almost non-existent, that is why anyone who is offered with “natural blue diamonds” should always check the genuineness of such gems before purchasing.

Blue diamonds are one of those so-called fancy diamonds, meaning, they posses a strong and attractive and appealing color. They have undergone a diamond treatment process called irradiation wherein they obtain their blue color. Most fancy diamonds are more expensive than the colorless or plain ones because of this process.

If you are wondering where the color blue in blue diamonds come from, wonder no more. The small amount of boron that has been trapped in the diamonds crystal structure is the key element responsible for its color. And this also makes blue diamonds conducive to electricity.

To those who are interested in buying a blue diamond engagement ring, you must know that the darker the color blue, it means that it has a better quality. And remember that most blue diamonds available in the market today are manmade. And always check the genuineness of the item you are buying.