Among life’s grandest symbols of commitment, few compare to the dazzling elegance of a diamond engagement ring perfectly designed to take your partner’s breath away. From its perfectly aligned facets to the brilliance of its cut, a beautful ring makes a statement that is sure to captivate. But of all the rings available, how do you even start shopping for the classiest engagement rings?
Before you get into your search, be sure to set a budget. Once you have that set, you can think about diamond shape, accent stones, metal types, artistic touches, and much more.
In this blog post, we’ll uncover what sets the classiest diamond rings apart, from elongated dazzling cuts to complementary metals and touches only the most discerning eye can recognize. You’ll gain insights to guide your search for the the most perfect engagement ring for you and your partner.
The Significance of Engagement Rings
Offering more than just a pretty shine, the classiest engagement rings hold both profound cultural and emotional importance.
The circular band symbolizes unending love, while the diamond represents strength, longevity, and beauty. A ring represents a couple’s shared hopes, values and dedication in physical form.
The custom of giving diamond engagement rings goes back many centuries, but the first recorded use of the diamond engagement ring was in 1477. In 1477 Archduke Maximilian of Hamburg presented Mary of Burgundy with a diamond engagement ring, and that symbolic act prompted other royals to do the same.
Since then, engagement rings have remained an enduring tradition, with over 80% of proposals involving one. According to The Knot the average spent nationally is $6,000, with most people researching rings for several months prior.
For many, the engagement ring symbolizes the most meaningful piece of jewelry they will ever own. Take time to find the classiest style to ensure the ring you choose reflects the significance of your relationship in its entirety.
Classy Engagement Rings Characteristics
The idea of a “classy” engagement ring is arguably up for debate, but if class is your goal then keep in mind the enduring features of classic engagement rings that have remained popular over the decades.
High-Quality Materials
Ultraclear, colorless diamonds certified for ethical sourcing, set in platinum, white gold, or more traditional yellow gold signify excellence.
Design Elements
Elongated cuts like the oval, pear, or emerald cut diamond are associated with classy engagement rings. And intricate halo and pavé settings reflect meticulous craftsmanship indicative of sophistication. Finally, the round brilliant diamond is a classic that has remained the most popular diamond shape for decades.
Craftsmanship and Attention to Detail
Precisely aligned facets, excellent symmetry and polish, and hand-engraving enhance elegance with special touches.
Popular Classy Engagement Ring Styles
Nothing says classy or “classic style engagement rings” like these iconic elegant styles:
Solitaire
The solitaire truly is in a category of its own when it comes to timeless engagement rings. In this setting, a single diamond (usually a round diamond) set on a precious metal band is the focal point, which exudes timeless simplicity. In a solitaire setting the diamond takes center stage to showcase quality and needs nothing else to enhance it.
Halo
Pavé diamonds encircling the center diamond add grandeur and have the added bonus of making the center stone appear larger. Pavé bands provide even more sparkle.
Vintage
Filigree detailing and figural accents reflect historic elegance. Rose gold and cushion cuts give a nod to times past–when Old Mine Cut diamonds atop warm yellow gold bands were the standard.
Three-Stone
The three-stone diamond engagement ring features two smaller diamonds flanking the center stone. Together, the three symbolize the couple’s past, present and future.
Art Deco
Intricate geometric profiles with bold lines and motifs reflect luxury. Art Deco-style rings frequently feature rectangular emerald and baguette diamonds.
From understated to ornate, these classy engagement ring styles share a romantic essence elevated by exquisite embellishments. Their motifs carry symbolic meaning.
Selecting the Right Gemstone
Today, diamonds remain the standard central stone for their enduring symbolism–and the De Beers 1947 “A Diamond is Forever” campaign has something to do with that, too.
But alternative gemstones are now popular for their uniqueness and meaning. If you’re considering diamonds first, be sure to learn about the 4Cs of diamonds.
The 4Cs of Diamonds
Created by Gemological Institute of America (GIA)-founder Robert M. Shipley in the 1940s, the 4Cs established a formal grading system for diamonds. Before this system, there were many terms used to describe diamonds but there was no standardization.
The 4Cs are broken down into four categories: cut (which only applies to round diamonds), color, clarity, and carat weight. When you understand that 4Cs you have a better chance of getting the best value for your money. You can read more about the 4Cs, here.
Lab Grown Diamonds
If you’d rather not have a natural diamond because you oppose the controversial mining practices or human rights violations often associated with them, then a lab grown diamond engagement ring is an excellent option.
When you buy lab grown diamonds you can be 100% sure your purchase is environmentally friendly and ethical.
Colored Gemstones
Colored gems like sapphires and emeralds add a bit of flair to any ring. Sapphires and their deep blue color are especially beautiful and symbolize wisdom and integrity. And yes, lab created sapphires are a thing.
You also have the option of colored diamonds. Colored diamonds come in a wide range of colors–just like natural diamonds.
If you’re looking for a diamond engagement ring with a pop of color, consider our Bellflower ring. The Bellflower Ring features a halo of lab-created sapphires that adds a beautiful, unexpected touch of color to an otherwise classic engagement ring style.
Metal Options for Classy Engagement Rings
The metal color you choose for your setting sets your ring’s overall tone and enhances its gemstone. You’ll be hard-pressed to find a diamond set in sterling silver; instead, you’ll find your options are a white gold, yellow gold, rose gold, or platinum band.
White gold
With its beautiful silvery shine, white gold looks clean and refined. Although white gold contains yellow gold, it looks white because it’s a mixture of yellow gold and nickel, silver, or palladium.
One downside to white gold is it requires periodic plating to maintain its bright finish and avoid looking tarnished. However, this is a small price to pay considering white gold is much less expensive than platinum.
Yellow gold
Timeless with a warm glow, yellow gold is typically used for traditional engagement ring styles that reflect a classy look. Yellow gold is available in 10k, 14k, 18k, and 24k. But when it comes to rings, 14k gold is best.
The higher the karat yellow gold is, the more gold it contains. This may sound great but pure gold is quite soft and prone to dents and scratches. Anything above 14k isn’t always the best for rings because rings are subject to a lot of wear–especially if you have a job that requires you to use your hands a lot.
If you want a yellow gold band consider 14k gold. Not only is it more durable, it’s also more affordable.
Rose gold
A rose gold band gives a distinctive vintage, romantic vibe that exudes class. And it looks good on any skin tone but best complements warmer skin tones.
Rose gold (sometimes called “red gold”) gets its distinctive pink color from a mixture of metals, including copper and silver. People seem to think rose gold is a newer trend, but it’s been popular in the US since the 1920s.
Platinum
One of the rarest and most precious metals on Earth, platinum has a rich white luster that never tarnishes. It’s more expensive than pure yellow gold and more durable. A platinum engagement ring is the ultimate luxury choice, especially when paired with a beautiful, high-quality diamond.
Which Metal Will You Choose?
Platinum and white gold project crisp modernity for diamonds while yellow and rose gold exude tradition. But when you choose, be sure to keep in mind that (looks aside) metals impact durability, maintenance, and cost.
Customization and Personalization
Custom details make each ring an original symbol of your relationship’s uniqueness. Whether you choose to incorporate engraved messages, birthstones, or a mixed metal look, personalized touches show thoughtfulness.
Engrave a special phrase along the inside of the band or request a custom design. Work in meaningful symbols like your initials, astrological signs, your wedding date, or even your favorite flowers–the options really are endless!
Budgeting For Your Classy Engagement Ring
Before you start to shop, you should first set an engagement ring budget. Without a budget you run the risk of overspending and not getting the ring you truly want.
Tradition dictates spending 2-3 months’ salary on a ring, but that rule (along with all of the others like it) is irrelevant now. What you should truly be basing your budget on is your financial situation. Do not buy a ring you cannot afford!
When you take the time to analyze your finances and determine what you can reasonably afford without going into debt, you’ll enjoy your purchase even more.
Save Money With Lab Grown Diamonds
To get the best value within your budget, we recommend choosing lab grown diamonds.
Did you know lab created diamonds cost 30-50% less than mined diamonds? Just think about what you can do with the money you save! Purchase a larger center stone, upgrade your wedding bands, purchase additional jewelry, or put that money toward your wedding or honeymoon.
Shopping Tips and Resources
Stick to reputable jewelers that come recommended or have positive reviews. Ask about their credentials and whether or not they provide diamond certificates. Also, be sure to ask about their return policies and whether or not they offer free ring resizing and cleaning.
If you buy a lab grown diamond engagement ring, be sure to get a diamond certificate for it. Lab grown diamonds are issued certificates from major reputable laboratories such as the International Gemological Society (IGS) and the American Gem Society (AGS).
Your lab diamond’s certificate will state that it is indeed a lab grown diamond, and whether or not it received any treatments.
Take advantage of online tools like ring builders to try out different diamond shapes, settings, and metal colors before going in to buy. And be sure to make an appointment before you go in to shop. When you have an appointment, you can be sure you have the jewelry associate’s full attention for the best service possible.
Caring for Classy Engagement Rings
Proper care preserves the integrity and enhances the brilliance of a classy engagement ring for many years to come. With some basic maintenance, it can be passed down as a family heirloom.
How to Clean Classy Engagement Rings at Home
To clean an engagement ring, use mild soap and warm water. Start by soaking your ring for about 10 minutes, then scrub it gently with a soft brush, rinse, then set it on a soft cloth to dry.
Don’t Use Harsh Cleaning Solutions
Always avoid using harsh chemicals or jewelry cleaning solutions, and be careful using ultrasonic cleaning devices. Those types of devices can loosen your ring’s prongs, making it easier for your precious diamond to slip out and be lost forever.
When to Remove Your Ring
To protect your ring, remove it when doing household chores or working out. Wear gloves if you’re going ot work in your garden. Keep your ring in a safe place when you take it off, such as a ring dish or a jewelry box. Be sure to insure your ring for extra protection. You should also have your ring resized if it’s too big so it doesn’t fall off.
Have a Professional Inspect Your Ring Twice a Year
Have a trusted jeweler inspect your ring at least twice a year to ensure its prongs and settings are secure. When you do this, you can make sure your stones don’t become loose and fall out.
Regular professional cleanings will also remove built-up grime and restore your ring’s sparkle. Take your ring in immediately if you notice any loose stones or damage. Well-maintained rings last longer.
Final Thoughts
Finding the perfect engagement ring to symbolize your lifetime commitment requires careful thought. Set your budget, understand the 4Cs of diamonds, and consider details like metal color, diamond shape, and setting styles.
Once you’ve done this initial work, you are halfway to owning the perfect diamond engagement ring of your and your partner’s dreams.
Shop Classy Engagement Rings with Clean Origin
At Clean Origin, we carry a full selection of only the classiest lab grown diamond engagement rings in a variety of styles–whether you want a solitaire diamond, a round brilliant cut diamond, or something more intricate. Along with our large selection of affordable lab grown diamonds, we offer an outstanding return policy, free ring resizing, and much more.
Shop either in-store with us at one of our nationwide showrooms or online with the help of an experienced diamond expert. Our goal is to make the shopping experience as easy as possible for you.
We also offer you the ability to build your own engagement ring. Simply choose your diamond, the setting, and metal color. Experiment with hundreds of different style combinations to find a ring that suits your or your partner’s style.
