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Engagement Rings: Can Males Have One?

We are living in the 21st century and some may claim that we are in a post-modern society, one in which gender boundaries have become blurred, and the term ‘metrosexual’ is yet another fashionista term to apply to a man comfortable in his own sexuality.

With revolution in the air and all of this change, it would appear slightly ridiculous that some men still feel uncomfortable wearing a piece of jewellery that is symbolic for their commitment and love to the woman in their life.

Male engagement rings will often bear similar characteristics to those of a female engagement ring, yet will obviously be more masculine in their design in that they will be wider and thicker, in order to fit the man’s finger. Similarly to women’s rings, diamonds will often feature heavily on the ring, seeing as over the last sixty years, they have become a staple in most engagement rings.

Although they are still by no means the norm, male engagement rings are becoming increasingly popular in the United States, with the wife to be returning favour of her engagement ring with one of her fiancee’s own.

With so many females out their battling for equal opportunities for women in the home and the workplace, it would seem that a forward step in such a movement would be to make the act of marriage an equal one too, with women shelling out the traditional two months salary for a ring to go on their man’s finger, therefore it begs the question as too why they are not more prevalent in today’s society.

People who oppose this idea may be the traditionalists in society, those that claim that it is a man’s duty to purchase and offer the ring, and that engagement rings are only to be worn by women because this is the way that it has always been.

For those who are a little more playful with tradition, somewhat more experimental with the idea of marriage, then a male engagement ring may be worth looking into, yet the latter view is totally acceptable, as many people agree that the old fashioned way of proposing is the best way, a sort of, ‘If it ain’t broke, don’t fix it’ mentality.

Male engagement rings can be found in many jewellers, including online jewellers and ring sale sites, many of which will offer great discounts for using their services online.

Factors to Consider When Buying an Engagement Ring

diamond engagement ring, engagement diamond ring, engagement wedding rings, jewelry engagement rings

diamond engagement ring, engagement diamond ring, engagement wedding rings, jewelry engagement rings

Buying an engagement is an important and romantic time in one’s life. When you buy that special ring, you want to make sure that the ring is perfect for your loved one. In order to ensure that special moment will be a wonderful memory that lasts a lifetime, there are a number of factors to consider when buying an engagement ring:

1. The first thing you should consider is your fiancees jewelry preferences. You want to make sure that that she will love it because she will be wearing it all of the time. If you do want to surprise her, make sure that the ring can be exchanged in case she does not like it, or the ring does not fit properly.

2. The quality of the ring is another important factor to consider. You have to determine what kind of engagement ring that you want. Such features include the type of setting, number of diamonds, strength, size, and durability. You may want to consider consulting with family, friends, and a professional jeweler.

3. Before you go out engagement ring shopping, make sure you know how much you can afford. You want to impress your fiancee, but she most likely will not want you do to go broke buying it. Remember, you have further costs such as the engagement party, wedding, honeymoon, and purchasing a home, which can all be very expensive. If necessary, explain the situation, and perhaps go engagement ring browsing together, or talk to one of her family members or a close friend.

4. Make sure that the ring you purchase is authentic and of good quality. Generally Compare diamond options such as price, style, and quality. Sometimes the diamond may be cheaper if you purchase it separate from the setting. When comparing diamond engagement rings, it is important to remember that diamonds are priced according to their size.

5. If you are searching for a diamond, make sure it is authentic. It should be certified as this will ensure that the diamond is not a fake. There are also other gemstones you can choose, but you should also make sure they are authenticated. It is important to make sure that the engagement ring and wedding ring complement each other.

6. If you are buying a loose diamond or other gem, you have to make sure you have an appropriate band. Gold or silver bands are the most popular choice. It should reflect the quality of the stone and be a band that your fiancee will love.

7. You want to make sure that you have a durable engagement ring. Nowadays, people have more active lifestyles, so you have to make sure the ring is strong and of high quality.

Getting engaged is one of the most special times in one’s life. Because an engagement ring shows how much you love your fiancee, it is important that you make it a moment to remember by ensuring that the engagement ring is one that your fiancee will love and cherish.

The Sparkling History of Jewelry

history of jewelry, the history of jewelry, history of costume jewelry, history of ireland jewelry

history of jewelry, the history of jewelry, history of costume jewelry, history of ireland jewelry

As with all other practices in our culture, jewelry has its roots and just like any other aspect, it has transformed as it made its way to the present day.

Earrings and other body rings are also considered as such but, there is a difference between these body accessories to body art. Items that are attached to a garment of your clothing, like buttons, are not considered jewelry. Belts and handbags, and items of similar nature are considered accessories, and not jewelry, even if these items are made of gems or precious stones.

The wearing of jewelry has always been associated with power, today and in the past. Leaders and chiefs of tribes showed their superiority over others using jewelry. These indicated the prestige and control of selected individuals.

It is thought that jewelry is actually one of the oldest forms of body adornment. This was proven from a recent find of beads made of Nassarius shell that is a hundred thousand year old and thought to be the oldest known jewelry.

Upon death of a pharaoh, servants would put jewelries in their graves because of the belief that they can take these during the afterlife. It is sad to note however, that grave thieves have stolen artifacts that could’ve been useful to many historians.

In line with this, jewelry is made to beautify almost any part of the body, this would range from hairpins to toe rings and a lot more. While the more expensive, and high-quality jewelry is made using gemstones and precious metals like silver or gold, there was also the use of precious stones. Even during the old times, art jewelry is considered more appreciated over material value.

Romans resembled the Greeks in their practice of wearing jewelry. They also did not wear them, except if there were celebrations. There were instances when they wore it in public to fend off evil spirits. Under the rule and influence of Romans, Britain would usually fashion jewelry from fossilized wood for the nobles on the island.

Even after the Empire of Rome was overthrown, production of jewelry still continued. Designs became more elaborate and attractive. The Celts had fondness for ornamental and extremely artistic jewelry that depicted religious symbols.

Seeing this history of what we currently use on ourselves, we just cant seem to think of how we are so much like our ancestors, yet quite different, dont you agree?


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