- How to Buy an
Engagement Ring [article] - Wedding Proposals:
9 Great Places to... [article] - Shopping for Bridal
Accessories [article] - Something Old, New,
Borrowed and Blue [article] - Smart Splurges [article]
Express Yourself
If you want to create something totally original, the toughest part is pinpointing what you want the ring to "say." It can be tough for a non-artist to translate emotions into a nonliteral, concrete form. Work with what you know: Try writing a paragraph -- or a list of adjectives -- that describes how your mate makes you feel or traits she or he has that inspire you. If words elude you, look for graphic imagery that does the job: a Mondrian painting, a soft romantic coverlet, earthy waves, or stars. Reference the list or image when browsing.
Keep the Wedding Band in Mind
The whole point of this engagement ring thing? There will soon be a wedding band to keep it company! Two options: Go wild and commission a ring that stands alone (she will wear it on her right hand after the wedding band moves in), or design something that looks beautiful alone but truly becomes complete with the addition of a coordinating custom-designed or store-bought band.
Expect a Higher Price Tag
Don't be surprised to find that a made-to-order ring may cost up to three times as much as a ring "off the rack." The obvious reason: Custom rings are more labor- and time-intensive since they must be hand-assembled from many different pieces.
