Whether you have a special anniversary coming up, or you just want a change of style, upgrading your wedding or engagement ring is a great way to give new life to an old piece of jewelry. A ring represents a special moment and reflects the style and individuality of the wearer, so any modifications need to be planned out carefully. Here, bespoke jewelers, Angelic Diamonds have given some of their top tips for upgrading your engagement ring.
1. Why upgrade your engagement ring?
Buying an engagement ring for a significant other is a landmark occasion in a person’s life, and affordability will undoubtedly be factored into the purchase; however, the traditional etiquette of spending three months’ salary has been reduced notably in recent years, with experts suggesting that modern couples are more likely to cap their spend at the equivalent of just a months’ worth of wages. The overall cost of a wedding in the UK soared last year, reaching an astounding £30,355. Tying the knot is no cheap feat nowadays, and the financial commitment has increased by 12% compared to what it was in 2017. For this reason, couples are choosing to spend less on their initial engagement ring — opting for a ‘place holder’ first and choosing something a bit more extravagant at a later date.
Other situations can also lead couples to adjust their wedding rings, so looking for services that offer jewellery repairs melbourne for example, and repairing, incorporating, or redesigning inherited jewelry has become a popular option for many. Often, inherited items are not worn due to the personal value, which is attached to the piece, but sentiment can be greatly increased when couples choose to upcycle an existing piece to create a new engagement or wedding ring. No one could imagine throwing a piece of gold, or a diamond, out because it didn’t fit or suit them anymore — and jewelers are on hand to remedy this with bespoke designs and a bit of creativity. Even factors such as lifestyle changes can require a ring to be modified, with the health-conscious among us opting to make their rings more ‘gym-friendly’ or, even suitable for the workplace. The connection that peoples have to an engagement ring is extremely personal, but a range of things can influence them into choosing to adapt it, for practicality and taste reasons.
2. How to modify the stone
For many people, making modifications to an engagement ring starts with the stone. Many couples do so to mark a major milestone in their relationship, such as an anniversary or perhaps having a child. Some people simply want to make their ring a bit more special, and by doing so you have some freedom to account for your own personal style. If you’re looking for a subtle way to upgrade your ring, consider beginning with diamond accents on the sides of your center stone, as these can add a reasonable amount of added sparkle while allowing you to keep your original diamond.
It is possible to entirely transform the style of your engagement ring with some modifications, such as adding multiple diamonds to create a three-stone ring. With this option, you aren’t limited to the look that you can create, as potential combinations could include coloured gemstones such as rubies or sapphires for a vintage feel. Many couples choose to keep things simple and celebrate a financial, life, or relationship success by simply replacing the center stone with a larger diamond. Embellishing your current diamond with a halo of stones is another stunning way to add to your ring, but you might also be tempted to completely transform the setting of your ring, making it more tarnish resistant and durable.
3. How to repurpose heirloom jewelry
Many families choose to pass items of jewelry down through the generations, and it is an extremely poignant way to commemorate and symbolize a close bond. The possibilities are endless with making existing pieces of jewelry into new items, and they can be incorporated in various ways.
Heirloom rings can be remodeled into new pieces of jewelry, but it is also possible to preserve some of the originality of the item, while also breathing a new lease of life into it. The setting of the ring can be adjusted and combined with one or more new stones. It is important to consider your own style if you are repurposing a ring in this way, as it’ll be a vital aspect for everyday wear of the ring. Resizing is a common element in the process of repurposing an inherited ring, and this can be done without compromising the integrity of the item in its original condition.
If you don’t want to entirely reset the ring, you might want to consider mixing metals into the piece, choosing tones that complement the existing features while allowing you to put your own unique touch on it. Stacker rings have become increasingly popular recently, so another option that maintains some of the original features is to create a way to showcase your heirloom by utilizing other rings. When combined, a stacked arrangement looks flattering and individual, and you can make your inherited piece the focus.
Your engagement ring will be a piece to treasure forever, and there are plenty of ways to make it suit you as you and your partner grow through life together. From bespoke jewelry designs to adding extra diamonds, you can make your engagement ring a long-lasting commitment of your love.
