The Wedding Ring Blog

Article: 'Green' Issues Associated with Jewelry Manufacturing

Ever wonder about the impact that a wedding ring with diamonds or gemstones might have on the environment? Call me "crazy," but I'm not sure many people strictly buy jewelry because a dazzling wedding ring, lovely necklace, or any spectacular set of earrings comes with a promise to feed the world, cure the common cold or lower the price of gasoline. We buy our jewelry out of love, ceremony, beauty and/or hope. In fact, a wedding ring should be considered a token of everlasting promise with a rather large emotional investment attached. But at what price is this investment?

For those who are environmentally conscious (and the numbers are growing), many manufacturing techniques applied by much of the jewelry industry can affect our surroundings, but very few of these issues are commonly discussed. These issues are related to the manufacturing and mining of metals and gems, pearl farming and coral harvesting - essentially most areas that are directly involved in the production of fine jewelry. They are:

1. Pollutants used during or caused by gem cutting
2. Fuel and electricity consumption resulting from heat treating gems
3. Use of chemicals for coloration, diffusion and bleaching of gems
4. Irradiation hazards for operators, suppliers, manufacturers, retails and consumers
5. Pollution of bays and oceans through waste products from harvesting pearl oysters
6. Dragging nets along the seafloor for harvesting blue, red and black corals
7. Killing elephants, seals, walruses, narwhals and sea tortoises for horns, shells and ivories

So much for just digging into the ground, polishing a rock or opening a few oysters!

If you are concerned with or want to know about any and all environmental issues associated with jewelry manufacturing so you can be "green,” then the following websites are helpful with understanding many of today's concerns:

www.fairtradegems.com
www.gemstone.org
www.jewelers.org
www.michaelaram.com
www.seaweb.org
www.tiffanyandcofoundation.org

When it comes to making the jewelry industry environmentalist-friendly, the truth is fairly simple. Everyone - from the miners to the manufacturers to the jewelry stores and right down to the consumer - must be aware of and be willing to adopt responsible sourcing, manufacturing and retailing standards in order to have the greatest impact. It has to start somewhere. And sometime. Hopefully, that time is sooner rather than later.

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Check these rings out!

So you think you've seen it all? Well, here's a set of rings for the couple whose main thing in common is a love for "Tool Time" and all things handy. These wedding rings are specially created from brass and have 24kt gold plating. The stone set in the man's ring is a white zicron. Designer Kiley Granberg has the following to say about his truly tooled creations:

"Wedding bands are about commitment. The inherent connotations are a huge part of the piece and, quite often, reveal themselves as a social or sexual comment.

The rings are constructed out of brass then plated in 24kt gold. And although the stone is set into the men's ring, when screwed together, the stone actually sits against the woman's finger."

See more of Kiley Granberg's wedding ring creations...

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New Blog: Joseph Schubach Jewelers

Joseph Schubach is a jeweler, and he has a blog. Here's Joe's mission statement:

"I encourage you to ask us questions about anything jewelry or gemstone related and let us know what's on your mind. So give us a call, send an email or now post a reply to our blog. Your comments will help us do a better job because after all, we're in business for you, to create beautiful pieces of jewelry that will bring you happiness and joy for a lifetime!"

Care to interact? Just visit Joseph Schubach's Jewelers Blog and get started. The related website sells directly to the public, and has a wide selection of wedding rings (such as the pictured set of palladium rings with a hammered finish) and even a payment plan is available.

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Article: What Makes a Wedding Band Cause an Allergic Reaction?

With some individuals, white gold may present an issue of nickel sensitivity or an allergic reaction to the alloy, so slowly more suppliers are beginning to use palladium instead. Care to know more? Read this article by Sam A. Brown.

When it comes to men's wedding bands, we nonchalantly think any band will do. But often times, wedding bands and other rings can cause irritation or even an allergic reaction. There are many considerations to weigh when selecting a men's wedding band, but the most important and most overlooked is the type of metal

Typical wedding rings are made of gold, sterling silver, titanium, platinum and tungsten. Traditionally, men's wedding bands have been made of gold. White gold, sterling silver, platinum and newer metals like tungsten and titanium have made their way onto the jewelry scene. Precious metals often used in men's wedding bands are comprised of metal alloys which are mixtures of various elements including hydrogen, oxygen, copper, niobium, nickel, iron and gold.

What makes a wedding band cause an allergic reaction?
Men's wedding bands and wedding rings are meant to be worn everyday and need to be designed accordingly. Rings are exposed to water, sweat, scratches on a daily basis. To withstand the daily wear and tear, most rings are made of 14k or 18k gold, sterling silver, platinum or titanium. Pure gold, 24k gold doesn't have any other elements and is very soft. 14k and 18k gold or not pure gold, 14k gold is 58.3% pure and 18k is 75% pure, with the rest comprised of other alloys such as silver, zinc, copper, palladium and nickel. It's these other alloys that cause the allergic reactions, nickel being the biggest culprit, but also the main element given to gold to make it more corrosion resistant and durable.

Read more of What Makes a Wedding Band Cause an Allergic Reaction?...

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Article: Choosing a Wedding Ring

It is traditional to wear your wedding ring on the left hand,
symbolically closest to your heart...

Most brides wear their engagement ring on the same finger, over the wedding ring. If you choose this tradition, consider how the rings will look beside each other.

Often, rings are designed to fit together, side-by-side. Many women like the symmetry of matching bands, with diamonds of the same size and shape, or just the same type of metal.

You may choose a wedding ring other than one designed to match your engagement ring. This creates a unique look that is very popular.

Men have a few simple choices. He can select ring thickness, choose between platinum, 18k gold or titanium, a wedding ring set with diamonds or one with a unique design. Some couples choose matching men's and women's wedding rings.

Read more of Choosing a Wedding Ring...

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Article: When Do You Take Your Wedding Ring Off?

Never? When you wash your hands? During a life saving operation? Only on business trips to tropical islands while traveling alone and surrounded by Hawaiian Tropic girls? Well - when do you take your wedding ring off?

Actually, this article actually touches upon a painful reality in life - divorce. This is a topic that is not likely to be covered here too often. But I did find this to be an interesting yet sad read.

From Apparenting.com...

As Linda and I have continued to travel down the road from married to divorced (we're maybe 30% down the road legally, and probably about 50% emotionally) one of the issues that seems to have been the most challenging hasn't been splitting bills into two, figuring out who gets the kids for specific holidays or anything like that. It's been the more pedestrian question of when do you take off your wedding ring?

As I have written about in the past, I've already been proud of my wedding ring, proud of what it represented, being a part of a holy union, a partnership through life, and so when we really did get to the point of separation, it wasn't that huge a deal for me to pull it off my finger.

Though to be honest...

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Article: Wedding Rings

Wedding Day Tips offers practical advice about choosing the wedding ring that's right for you. Articles like this tend to touch upon broad ideas that may vary from article to article, so it's good to research more than one for helpful hints and suggestions. After all, an educated consumer makes the wisest choices! Advice on the Internet awaits, so surf on! And on! And on!

WEDDING RINGS (as seen on Wedding Day Tips...)
Of all the many things you plan for your wedding ceremony, the most enduring remembrances are your wedding rings. While your wedding flowers and wedding cake will one day be just happy memories, your wedding rings are meant to be with you thru out your marriage. Because wedding rings are exchanged as you and your spouse recite your wedding vows they are a very symbolic part of the wedding ceremony. Long past your wedding day, they will endure as a token of your love and your relationship for as long as you are married. As you choose your wedding rings, there are many things to keep in mind as you search for the right wedding rings for you and your spouse.

Five Factors of Importance
Your choice of wedding rings is an important decision. There are many factors to consider to help ensure that the wedding ring you choose today will be one that you can enjoy for many years into the future. When selecting wedding rings, you will choose between styles, gemstones, metals, and cost. You will also need to decide if you and your spouse want matching wedding rings. This is a personal choice that varies from couple to couple. As you consider all your choices, there are basically five factors of importance:

• Set your budget - perhaps somewhat unromantic, but very realistic.
• Your wedding ring should fit your lifestyle - so you can wear it everyday.
• It should be durable - so it will endure and not wear out.
• It should be well designed - so it will securely hold and protect the diamonds.
• You should love the way it looks!

Read more about wedding rings on Wedding Day Tips...

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Article: The USB Wedding Ring

Excuse me, but how many gigabytes would you like for your wedding ring? The concept USB wedding ring has in-built storage space for the George Jetson in your life. Ladies and gentlemen - the future is now.

By James Sherwood, Reghardware.co.uk

Victorian poet Elizabeth Barrett Browning asked us to count the ways I love thee. But if modern-day wedding ring designer Jennifer Flume gets her way, then you’ll be counting the ways in gigabytes and diamond carats.

Flume has designed two concept diamond wedding rings, which each hide a USB Flash drive underneath the removable diamond dazzler.

Read more of The USB Wedding Ring...

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Article: The World's Top Ten Men's Wedding Bands

A few years back, Internet bridal jewelry expert Fred "The Diamond Guy" selected his favorite wedding ring designs. It looks as though his design preferences have help up fairly well. The two main companies that he favors - Benchmark and Novell - still offer these designs, and some remain best sellers today. Looks like the old adage "the more things change, the more they stay the same" hold true.

From DiamondCuttersInternational.com:

I’ve scoured manufacturer after manufacturer in search of the top ten men’s wedding bands on the planet. The bands were judged on price, quality, popularity and ingenuity. It comes as no surprise to me that all ten winners come from only two companies--Novell, who has probably single- handedly revolutionized the way a men’s wedding band can be custom made and Benchmark (the Mercedes Benz of wedding bands) who invented the comfort fit™ phenomena. While there are many ring companies that have similar, if not copy-cat designs, they lacked the consistency in quality, customer service and warranties. (Click on any of the images to view a larger version. Please use your browser's 'Back' button to return to this page once you have viewed the wedding band.)

#10 The Classic: If the sole job of the ring is to just announce you’re "off the market" then it’s hard to beat the old Classic. The Classic comes in any width, is half round (curved on top) and is generally preferred comfort fit™ (inside round not flat). The most popular width for a man is 6mm (about _ inch) and most men prefer the heavy comfort fit. ™ (Comfort fit™ is offered in ranges from light to heavy).

 

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Article: Should a Man Wear a Wedding Ring?

Undecided as to whether or not to wear a wedding ring? Ring designer Peter Crump offers the following thoughts (which appeared on Apparenting.com):

Strange as it may seem the use of a wedding ring by men was not common until recently. Whereas women have worn wedding rings for eons, men have not. The use of rings as a symbol of everlasting love enshrined in marriage can be traced back thousands of years. But not so much for men.

It was, in fact, during the second world war that the use of wedding rings by men became more common. (Note that mens wedding rings and men's wedding bands are interchangeable, both meaning the same thing.)

It became the custom for US soldiers going to war to publicise their marital status by the wearing of a man's wedding ring. They were happy to make public their commitment to their wife by the wearing of a public symbol that declared that commitment to all. Given that this habit of wearing men's wedding bands was reasonably new it was all the more creditable that these men were willing to forego the marital obscurity available to them from not wearing a ring and actively chose to make a public statement about their choice.

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Article: Why is a Wedding Ring Always Worn on the Third Finger?

With marriage comes questions, questions and more questions. So why is a wedding ring worn on the third finger (i.e the ring finger)?

From CoolQuiz.com:

Modern "authorities" on etiquette follow their predecessors in matrimonial procedure, in urging that the wedding ring always be worn on the third finger.

Before medical science discovered how the circulatory system functioned, people believed that a vein of blood ran directly from the third finger on the left hand to the heart. Because of the hand-heart connection, they chose the descriptive name vena amoris, Latin for the vein of love, for this particular vein.

Read more of Why is a Wedding Ring Always Worn on the Third Finger?...

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Article: Figuring Out What Size Engagement Ring to Buy

Recently, I was asked about figuring out a woman's engagement ring size without letting her in on the surprise. I found this article to be extremely helpful, although I never had previously given this topic much thought. My answer normally would have been "ESP!"

4 Easy Ways to Figure Out Her Engagement Ring Size Without Her Knowing
By Nina Callaway, About.com

1. The easiest way to tell is if she already wears a ring on her third finger. If it's one she doesn't wear very often, you can just take it with you to the jeweler. Otherwise, trace around the inside of the ring onto a piece of paper. The jeweler will be able to work from there.
2. If she's a heavy sleeper. you can take a piece of paper or string and wrap it around her third finger. Be sure to mark where the two ends overlap.
3. Ask her closest friends; sometimes women try on each other's jewelry, or have bought jewelry for one another.

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Article: How to Understand the Symbolism of Rings

So you’re going to be wearing a ring (if not two) from your wedding day until the union is broken or at least until you die. Ever wonder about rings and their symbolic meanings? If you are curious, then read on.

By eHow Weddings Editor

While there's not an established significance associated with every ring you might wear, some rings are by their nature symbolic, while others take on added symbolism depending on the finger you wear them on. This is especially true of engagement and wedding rings, but may apply to other rings as well.

Things You’ll Need:
Jewelry Boxes
Claddagh Rings
Class Rings
Engagement Rings
Friendship Rings
Mother's Rings
Promise Rings
Wedding Rings

Step 1:
Wear a mother's ring to show the birth months of each of your children. The ring is made up of birthstones - one for each child - arranged in one of several styles.

Step 2:
Order a school ring that displays your year of graduation and the activities you are involved in. Tradition has it that the ring is worn with the insignia facing inward (toward you) while you are in school, and is changed so that the insignia faces out (away from you) after you have graduated.

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Article: How to Choose Bridal Jewelry for the Big Day

This is more for the future bride, but any man can look like a real pro by offering this advice which accompaning his loved one to David's Bridal for the dress selection.

by Isobel Clayton

You don't have to break the bank with your wedding jewelry, the most important thing is co-ordination with your dress. You want to set your dress off perfectly with the accessories, not detract from it, so make sure you consider the following:

1. What is your wedding ring like?

- Don't forget that this will be an important new addition on your wedding day so if your wedding ring is gold then if your going to wear metal jewelry, it needs to be gold as well. If your wedding ring is platinum or white gold then match it with silver-colored materials instead. Alternatively, you can get away with beaded or satin jewelry instead if matching your wedding ring with a similar colored metal is too difficult or expensive.

2. What is your dress like?

- If your dress is plain material with no lace, beading, sequins or crystals then you have a blank canvas and can add accessories that are as plain or intricate as you wish. Lucky you!

- If your dress has any kind of elaboration then don't add too much jewelry and select plain pieces otherwise you risk clashing with the detail on your dress. If possible, match the jewelry with the detail on the dress - so for white beading, then choose delicate tiny shimmering beaded bracelets and necklaces.

3. Be sensible

- Avoid sharp, angular jewelry however much you like it : you don't want to snag your dress, or your stockings.

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Platinum diamond ring by Novell

Men's platinum 6mm wide comfort fit wedding ring with eight .05-CT princess cut diamonds and frost finish. All Novell wedding rings can be made in men's and women's sizes and in a variety of finishes and widths.

For additional information and pricing, please visit an authorized Novell retailer.

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This ring is featured on The Knot.com.

Platinum ring by Novell

Men's platinum 6mm wide comfort fit wedding ring with bright finish. All Novell wedding rings can be made in men's and women's sizes and in a variety of finishes and widths.

For additional information and pricing, please visit an authorized Novell retailer.

Need a limo for your wedding? Book one at LimoTraveler.com.

This ring is featured on The Knot.com.

Platinum diamond ring by Novell

Men's platinum comfort fit wedding ring with eight total .03-CT round diamonds. This ring has a frost finish and bright edges. All Novell wedding rings can be made in men's and women's sizes and in a variety of finishes and widths.

For additional information and pricing, please visit an authorized Novell retailer.

Need a limo for your wedding? Book one at LimoTraveler.com.

This ring is featured on The Knot.com.

Platinum ring by Novell

Men's platinum 6mm wide comfort fit wedding ring with brushed finish. All Novell wedding rings can be made in men's and women's sizes and in a variety of finishes and widths.

For additional information and pricing, please visit an authorized Novell retailer.

Need a limo for your wedding? Book one at LimoTraveler.com.

This ring is featured on The Knot.com.

Palladium ring with diamonds by Novell

Novell's L1108-7GCC is a palladium and 14kt pink gold wedding ring that is 7mm wide. There are 8 x .10 princess cut diamonds around the ring (.80 total ct. weight).

Novell can customize their designs to your specifications, so that your wedding ring will be one of a kind. Exactly the way you want them. Wider. Narrower. In platinum, palladium, 5 kinds of gold, and more.

For additional information and pricing, please visit an authorized Novell retailer. And remember - your ring can be your way with Novell. Visit www.novelldesignstudio.com  for more information about customization.

Need a limo for your wedding? Book one at LimoTraveler.com.

Download the free brochure "Choosing the Right Metal for Your Bridal Jewelry"...

Palladium ring with diamonds by Novell

Novell's L1107-7GCC is a palladium and 14kt pink gold wedding ring that is 7mm wide. There are 15 x .03 princess cut diamonds around the ring (.45 total ct. weight).

Novell can customize their designs to your specifications, so that your wedding ring will be one of a kind. Exactly the way you want them. Wider. Narrower. In platinum, palladium, 5 kinds of gold, and more.

For additional information and pricing, please visit an authorized Novell retailer. And remember - your ring can be your way with Novell. Visit www.novelldesignstudio.com  for more information about customization.

Need a limo for your wedding? Book one at LimoTraveler.com.

Download the free brochure "Choosing the Right Metal for Your Bridal Jewelry"...

Palladium ring with diamonds by Novell

Novell's L1106-8GCC is a palladium and 14kt pink gold wedding ring that is 8mm wide. There are 23 x .10 round diamonds around the ring (2.30 total ct. weight).

Novell can customize their designs to your specifications, so that your wedding ring will be one of a kind. Exactly the way you want them. Wider. Narrower. In platinum, palladium, 5 kinds of gold, and more.

For additional information and pricing, please visit an authorized Novell retailer. And remember - your ring can be your way with Novell. Visit www.novelldesignstudio.com  for more information about customization.

Need a limo for your wedding? Book one at LimoTraveler.com.

Download the free brochure "Choosing the Right Metal for Your Bridal Jewelry"...

Platinum diamond ring by Novell

Novell's L1105-7GCC is a palladium and 18kt gold wedding ring that is 7mm wide. There are 6 x .14 princess cut diamonds around the ring (.84 total ct. weight).

Novell can customize their designs to your specifications, so that your wedding ring will be one of a kind. Exactly the way you want them. Wider. Narrower. In platinum, palladium, 5 kinds of gold, and more.

For additional information and pricing, please visit an authorized Novell retailer. And remember - your ring can be your way with Novell. Visit www.novelldesignstudio.com  for more information about customization.

Need a limo for your wedding? Book one at LimoTraveler.com.

Download the free brochure "Choosing the Right Metal for Your Bridal Jewelry"...

Palladium ring with diamonds by Novell

Novell's L1103-7.5GCC is a palladium and 18kt gold wedding ring that is 7.5mm wide. There are 23 x .10 round diamonds around the ring (2.30 total ct. weight).

Novell can customize their designs to your specifications, so that your wedding ring will be one of a kind. Exactly the way you want them. Wider. Narrower. In platinum, palladium, 5 kinds of gold, and more.

For additional information and pricing, please visit an authorized Novell retailer. And remember - your ring can be your way with Novell. Visit www.novelldesignstudio.com  for more information about customization.

Need a limo for your wedding? Book one at LimoTraveler.com.

Download the free brochure "Choosing the Right Metal for Your Bridal Jewelry"...

Palladium ring with diamonds by Novell

Novell's L1101-8GCC is a palladium and 18kt gold wedding ring that is 8mm wide. There are 8 x .07 trillion cut diamonds around the ring (.56 total ct. weight).

Novell can customize their designs to your specifications, so that your wedding ring will be one of a kind. Exactly the way you want them. Wider. Narrower. In platinum, palladium, 5 kinds of gold, and more.

For additional information and pricing, please visit an authorized Novell retailer. And remember - your ring can be your way with Novell. Visit www.novelldesignstudio.com  for more information about customization.

Need a limo for your wedding? Book one at LimoTraveler.com.

Download the free brochure "Choosing the Right Metal for Your Bridal Jewelry"...

Palladium ring with diamonds by Novell

Novell's L1100-7GCC is a palladium wedding ring that is 7mm wide. There are 1 x .2 princess cut and 2 x .15 trillion cut diamonds in the ring (.50 total ct. weight).

Novell can customize their designs to your specifications, so that your wedding ring will be one of a kind. Exactly the way you want them. Wider. Narrower. In platinum, palladium, 5 kinds of gold, and more.

For additional information and pricing, please visit an authorized Novell retailer. And remember - your ring can be your way with Novell. Visit www.novelldesignstudio.com  for more information about customization.

Need a limo for your wedding? Book one at LimoTraveler.com.

Download the free brochure "Choosing the Right Metal for Your Bridal Jewelry"...

Gold braided ring by Novell

Novell's MAX3519-10GT is a 14kt gold wedding band that is 10mm wide.

Novell can customize their designs to your specifications, so that your wedding ring will be one of a kind. Exactly the way you want them. Wider. Narrower. In platinum, palladium, 5 kinds of gold, and more.

For additional information and pricing, please visit an authorized Novell retailer. And remember - your ring can be your way with Novell. Visit www.novelldesignstudio.com  for more information about customization.

Need a limo for your wedding? Book one at LimoTraveler.com.

Download the free brochure "Choosing the Right Metal for Your Bridal Jewelry"...

Gold braided ring by Novell

Novell's MAX3518-10GWPK is a 14kt gold wedding ring that is 10mm wide.

Novell can customize their designs to your specifications, so that your wedding ring will be one of a kind. Exactly the way you want them. Wider. Narrower. In platinum, palladium, 5 kinds of gold, and more.

For additional information and pricing, please visit an authorized Novell retailer. And remember - your ring can be your way with Novell. Visit www.novelldesignstudio.com  for more information about customization.

Need a limo for your wedding? Book one at LimoTraveler.com.

Download the free brochure "Choosing the Right Metal for Your Bridal Jewelry"...

Gold ring by Novell

Novell's MAX3517-10GW is a 14kt gold wedding ring that is 10mm wide.

Novell can customize their designs to your specifications, so that your wedding ring will be one of a kind. Exactly the way you want them. Wider. Narrower. In platinum, palladium, 5 kinds of gold, and more.

For additional information and pricing, please visit an authorized Novell retailer. And remember - your ring can be your way with Novell. Visit www.novelldesignstudio.com  for more information about customization.

Need a limo for your wedding? Book one at LimoTraveler.com.

Download the free brochure "Choosing the Right Metal for Your Bridal Jewelry"...

Gold ring by Novell

Novell's MAX3516-10GW is a 14kt gold wedding ring that is 10mm wide.

Novell can customize their designs to your specifications, so that your wedding ring will be one of a kind. Exactly the way you want them. Wider. Narrower. In platinum, palladium, 5 kinds of gold, and more.

For additional information and pricing, please visit an authorized Novell retailer. And remember - your ring can be your way with Novell. Visit www.novelldesignstudio.com  for more information about customization.

Need a limo for your wedding? Book one at LimoTraveler.com.

Download the free brochure "Choosing the Right Metal for Your Bridal Jewelry"...

Gold ring by Novell

Novell's MAX3515-10GW is a 14kt gold wedding ring that is 10mm wide.

Novell can customize their designs to your specifications, so that your wedding ring will be one of a kind. Exactly the way you want them. Wider. Narrower. In platinum, palladium, 5 kinds of gold, and more.

For additional information and pricing, please visit an authorized Novell retailer. And remember - your ring can be your way with Novell. Visit www.novelldesignstudio.com  for more information about customization.

Need a limo for your wedding? Book one at LimoTraveler.com.

Download the free brochure "Choosing the Right Metal for Your Bridal Jewelry"...

Gold ring by Novell

Novell's MAX3514-10GW is a 14kt gold wedding ring that is 10mm wide.

Novell can customize their designs to your specifications, so that your wedding ring will be one of a kind. Exactly the way you want them. Wider. Narrower. In platinum, palladium, 5 kinds of gold, and more.

For additional information and pricing, please visit an authorized Novell retailer. And remember - your ring can be your way with Novell. Visit www.novelldesignstudio.com  for more information about customization.

Need a limo for your wedding? Book one at LimoTraveler.com.

Download the free brochure "Choosing the Right Metal for Your Bridal Jewelry"...

Gold ring by Novell

Novell's MAX3513-10GW is a 14kt gold wedding ring that is 10mm wide.

Novell can customize their designs to your specifications, so that your wedding ring will be one of a kind. Exactly the way you want them. Wider. Narrower. In platinum, palladium, 5 kinds of gold, and more.

For additional information and pricing, please visit an authorized Novell retailer. And remember - your ring can be your way with Novell. Visit www.novelldesignstudio.com  for more information about customization.

Need a limo for your wedding? Book one at LimoTraveler.com.

Download the free brochure "Choosing the Right Metal for Your Bridal Jewelry"...

Gold hammered ring by Novell

Novell's MAX3511-10GW is a 14kt gold wedding ring that is 10mm wide.

Novell can customize their designs to your specifications, so that your wedding ring will be one of a kind. Exactly the way you want them. Wider. Narrower. In platinum, palladium, 5 kinds of gold, and more.

For additional information and pricing, please visit an authorized Novell retailer. And remember - your ring can be your way with Novell. Visit www.novelldesignstudio.com  for more information about customization.

Need a limo for your wedding? Book one at LimoTraveler.com.

Download the free brochure "Choosing the Right Metal for Your Bridal Jewelry"...

Gold ring by Novell

Novell's MAX3509-10GW is a 14kt gold wedding ring that is 10mm wide.

Novell can customize their designs to your specifications, so that your wedding ring will be one of a kind. Exactly the way you want them. Wider. Narrower. In platinum, palladium, 5 kinds of gold, and more.

For additional information and pricing, please visit an authorized Novell retailer. And remember - your ring can be your way with Novell. Visit www.novelldesignstudio.com  for more information about customization.

Need a limo for your wedding? Book one at LimoTraveler.com.

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Gold ring by Novell

Novell's MAX3508-10GW is a 14kt gold wedding band that is 10mm wide.

Novell can customize their designs to your specifications, so that your wedding ring will be one of a kind. Exactly the way you want them. Wider. Narrower. In platinum, palladium, 5 kinds of gold, and more.

For additional information and pricing, please visit an authorized Novell retailer. And remember - your ring can be your way with Novell. Visit www.novelldesignstudio.com  for more information about customization.

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Gold hammered ring by Novell

Novell's MAX3507-10GW is a 14kt gold wedding band that is 10mm wide.

Novell can customize their designs to your specifications, so that your wedding ring will be one of a kind. Exactly the way you want them. Wider. Narrower. In platinum, palladium, 5 kinds of gold, and more.

For additional information and pricing, please visit an authorized Novell retailer. And remember - your ring can be your way with Novell. Visit www.novelldesignstudio.com  for more information about customization.

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Gold ring by Novell

Novell's MAX3505-9GW is a 14kt gold wedding band that is 9mm wide.

Novell can customize their designs to your specifications, so that your wedding ring will be one of a kind. Exactly the way you want them. Wider. Narrower. In platinum, palladium, 5 kinds of gold, and more.

For additional information and pricing, please visit an authorized Novell retailer. And remember - your ring can be your way with Novell. Visit www.novelldesignstudio.com  for more information about customization.

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Two-tone gold ring by Novell

Novell's MAX3503-9GT is a 14kt gold wedding band that is 9mm wide.

Novell can customize their designs to your specifications, so that your wedding ring will be one of a kind. Exactly the way you want them. Wider. Narrower. In platinum, palladium, 5 kinds of gold, and more.

For additional information and pricing, please visit an authorized Novell retailer. And remember - your ring can be your way with Novell. Visit www.novelldesignstudio.com  for more information about customization.

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Download the free brochure "Choosing the Right Metal for Your Bridal Jewelry"...

Article: Wedding Ring Workshops

Offbeatbride.com reports about wedding ring workshops. Consumers can learn about wedding ring design and lay out plans to create their own rings under the watchful eye of a master jeweler. Just as a man and woman build a life together (and hopefully forever), a couple can build their bridal jewelry as well.

There’s been talk about wedding ring workshops before on offbeatbride.com (remember how Elaina did a workshop to make her wedding ring?) and for those of you who have been intrigued by the idea, keep reading!

Wedding ring workshops happen all over the US and in two UK locations, and here’s how it works: you take a day with a master jeweler who gives you one-on-one guidance through the process of designing, fabricating, and finishing your truly unique wedding rings. I’ve always been a big proponent of custom rings, but actually making the rings your damn self!? It don’t get much more DIY than that!

Read more on Offbeatbride.com...

Article: 5 Brilliant Wedding Ring Ideas from Bridal Guide

Concerned about how mining affects the Earth? Looking for ways to be eco-friendly when it comes to making your jewelry purchase? Be confident when buying your engagement and wedding rings with these helpful tips from Bridal Guide (May/June 2008 issue).

Ensure your diamond is conflict-free. Amnesty International USA advises asking: “How do I know that your jewelry does not contain conflict diamonds (ones that are unethically mined)?” “Can you tell me where these diamonds came from?” “Can I see a copy of your company’s policy on conflict diamonds?” “Can you show me a written guarantee from your suppliers stating that your diamonds are ethically mined?”

Use recycled gold. Some jewelers work with precious metals that have been reclaimed; that way they avoid metal mines, which can sometimes harm the environment or communities (for more on this, see earthworksaction.org). You can even trade in your own old jewelry and have your wedding rings made from its gold. Go to greenkarat.com or ask your local jeweler for more information.

Article: Find the Perfect Wedding Ring

Ready to choose your wedding rings? Bridal Guide has the information you need to find the styles that suit you both.

by Elena Donovan Mauer

Q: I have always envisioned wedding bands that match perfectly, but I have noticed that most of our friends don't have identical bands. Are there any rules for coordinating our choices?

A: It's up to you whether or not you'd like the rings to be the same. His and hers rings are a good idea from a sentimental standpoint, but many brides and grooms want to express their individuality. "There's a wide variety out there, from bands with a vintage 19th-century feel to those with a Gothic, hand-forged look," says jewelry designer Scott Kay. "Even the classics may have a rope or weave motif and different types of engraving and patterns. You're not marrying someone exactly like you, so wanting different styles is understandable." But you can still convey a sense of unity by choosing bands in the same metal or with a similar feature, like a princess-cut diamond. As long as you both love your rings, matching or not, you've made the right choice.

Read more advice on the Bridal Guide website.

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Platinum and palladium ring by Wright & Lato

Wright & Lato's X2006-7GQP platinum and palladium combination wedding ring. The width of this ring is 7mm.

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Article: Real Rings From Real Couples

Need some wedding ring advice? The Knot went straight to the experts -- four couples registered with The Knot -- and asked them how they found their perfect bands.

Buying a ring is a big commitment -- your wedding band will stay on that fourth finger for the rest of your life. Whether you choose one that’s classic and understated or sleek and modern, make sure your ring expresses your personal style.

Their Love Story: Sonia and Jason met on Match.com and immediately clicked. Eighteen months later, the couple married in a traditional Indian celebration at San Francisco’s magnificent Omni Hotel.

Their Ring Story: When it was time to think about wedding bands, Sonia and Jason looked toward time-honored style. "We wanted wedding bands that reflected our traditional ways," Sonia says. Together they decided on vintage-inspired platinum bands with matching etching along the border. Sonia’s band included a row of shimmering diamonds, while Jason’s band featured two rows of milgrain pattern. Then the couple added a personal touch -- they had the phrase "Kindred Spirits" engraved on their rings. "We really wanted our bands to be a piece of art that reflected our commitment," Sonia says.

Knot Note: Wearing an heirloom family band? Shop for a vintage-looking band or one made in a similar style for your spouse.

Read about other real couples on TheKnot.com...

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Article: How Can You Make Your Wedding Band Special?

Do you need to know how you can make your wedding ring extra special? WeddingChannel.com offeres the following advice:

Although your Big Bling has become quite an attraction, your Big Day also involves the Big Band. Whether you want one encrusted with diamonds, or prefer a subtler accent to your engagement rock, this symbol of your eternal love and commitment should not be overlooked. 

-With so many other wedding essentials to think about, the purchase of the wedding bands is often put on the back burner. You can avoid last minute shopping by starting the search six months in advance. You don’t want to settle for any old ring just because you spent all your time agonizing over your reception-seating chart. Remember, your centerpieces will eventually wither, but your bands will last a lifetime.

-If you plan all your resources toward your reception, dress, and décor, there may not be much money left for your rings, so do some advance planning and budgeting. Since you and your groom each need one, start setting aside money for bands early on.

-What better way to bond than to go band shopping together! This experience shouldn’t be rushed -- buying two rings may mean spending twice as much time deciding on metals, choosing styles, and examining patterns. There are many choices out there for the bride, and even grooms are preferring rings with design details and diamonds. With filigree, engravings, stones, and tri-colored options, finding the right wedding ring requires just as much thought and consideration as choosing the perfect engagement ring.

Read more about making your wedding band special...

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Article: Wedding Rings - 10 Commandments

Choosing wedding rings that you love and can live with forever is easy with The Knot's 10 catch-all commandments (written by Lori Seto).

Certain buying basics apply to all jewelry, but when it comes to your wedding rings, that pair of bands you'll wear for countless anniversaries to come, a different set of shopping tips apply. Here are our 10 commandments to finding, affording, and caring for your all-important wedding rings.

Narrow Your Choices: Because this is one of the few pieces -- if not the only piece -- of jewelry you'll both shop for and wear, make some preliminary decisions (flip through magazines and browse jewelry stores to get ideas). What color metal are you interested in -- yellow or white? Perhaps all the jewelry you own is gold, but he wants a white metal to match his watch. Compromise: Look for bands that have both yellow and white metals. Are you interested in something simple or eye catching? What about a band with diamonds or colored gems?

Set a Budget: A set of simple gold bands will cost from $125 to $200 each; plain platinum bands run $400 to $600 each. Diamond wedding bands average $742, according to the Diamond Information Center. Engraving on the inside of the band can cost from $1 to $8 per character (letter or number), depending on the font and whether you have it engraved by hand or machine.

Mix Up The Metals If Necessary: Freaking out because she likes platinum, he likes yellow gold? Don't even worry about it -- there's no rule that you have to match. It's more important that you each have a ring you're happy with and will enjoy wearing.

Start Browsing Early: Begin looking for your bands at least two months before your wedding date. This gives you time to browse and revisit rings that catch your eye. (Browsing is an important part of the process: Don't skip this step and buy the first thing you see.) Allow even more time if you're interested in a custom piece. Keep in mind that engraving can take up to one month.

Read the rest of The Knot's 10 Commandments for wedding bands...

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Article: 7 Rules for Choosing Your Wedding Rings

Whether you go timeless, trendy, or somewhere in between, make sure your ring choices stand the test of time with 7 simple rules from The Knot.com's Joanna Saltz.

Start Your Search Early

If you're like most couples, you'll have a basic idea of what you want before you head out to the stores, but that doesn't mean you won't find five different bands you love once you start shopping. Give yourselves at least two months to browse, research, price, and revisit rings that catch your eye. Allow even more time if you're interested in a custom piece-extras like engraving can take up to one month. If you're pressed for time, you may need to save the sweet talk for later. Ask if you can bring the rings back for engraving before you buy.

Have a Budget

Shop with the assumption that you're going to spend about 3 percent of your total wedding budget on rings. The average price for a gold band is around $150. For a platinum band, the average rises to $600 or $700. Diamonds can add considerably more to the cost.

Read the rest of 7 Rules for Choosing Your Bands...

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Article: Choosing the Perfect Ring

Are you looking to buy a diamond engagement or wedding ring? Before you do so, read this article from About.com's Nina Callaway to make sure you are well acquainted with the basics.

The wedding rings and engagement rings you choose will be one of the most enduring pieces of your wedding day. Your ring is not only a important element of becoming married, but its also a longlasting symbol of your love and commitment. Therefore, you'll want to choose rings that are timeless and high quality.

Ultimately, you'll also want to be an educated consumer who knows what you're getting for your dollar.

Style:
Follow your instincts with the look and design of your ring, while asking yourself if it will be a design you'll be comfortable wearing every day for the rest of your life. The traditional plain gold band will be in style for years to come. If that's too plain for you, consider a beaded edge or an engraved style. For a slighty flashier look, what about a ring of channel-set diamonds? Ultimately, choose a ring that you feel is expressive of your style and personality. I've heard of a couple that chose to have rings custom-made that resembled bicycle gears, reflecting their mutual love of bike-riding. There's really no wrong answer as to what style of ring you should choose.

Read more...

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Article: How to Select A Wedding Band, Understanding Your Wedding Band

How to Select A Wedding Band, Understanding Your Wedding Band
By kaijewels

This article will help you select a wedding band that will last a long long time. And also help you understand how you can enhance the meaning of your wedding band.

Step 1:
Dimensions of the wedding band: This would include the band width and the ring size of your ring. Most men's wedding bands would have a width of around 8mm to 12mm, ladies would prefer their wedding band to have a width of around 5mm to 7mm. The choice is largely based on personal preference but, there is one feature that needs to be considered. This is the metal weight of your wedding band, a large wedding band with low metal weight cannot be sturdy. It is better to go for a narrow wedding band with good weight rather than, a wide wedding band with low weight. Low weight would mean low thickness of the metal, this will make your wedding band bend or deform easily.

Step 2:
Gemstone choice and mounting: A wedding band could be a plain simple ring without any gemstones or diamonds. You can also have a wedding band with a gemstone or diamond in the ring. A wedding band with many small gems or diamonds needs to have a healthy metal weight. This is required for firm mounting of the diamonds and gems in the ring. Remember to consider the gemstone when choosing the design for your wedding band. Certain gems like rubies, sapphires, emeralds and tanzanite can be very expensive in large sizes. A wedding band with a moderate size for the gemstone would be suitable in such cases. The type of mounting used for the gemstone in your wedding band will also influence the durability of the ring. Flimsy prongs can open up and loosen the gemstone or diamond. A firm mounting with metal all around would be ideal, this will however require the wedding band to have a good metal weight.

Read more...

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Article: South Africa - The Platinum Experience

Ever wonder about the processes and conditions associated with mining platinum? Novell's Bruce Pucciarello visited a few platinum mines in South Africa, and detailed the experience in his article "South Africa - The Platinum Experience."

If I am counting correctly, this is the 14th trade magazine article that I have written. It has been the most difficult one to start and the most difficult to finish. In past articles I have reflected my passion for jewelry and my insatiable hunger to communicate with my peers in an effort to make what we do better and stronger. The times that I have written of my personal experiences, it was usually tongue-in-cheek, poking a little fun, and trying to make sure that the reader understood I do not take myself too seriously.

This time is different. I am still sharing a personal experience, but it is an adventure that will remain one of the defining moments in my long journey up through the ranks of the jewelry industry. It truly was a platinum experience.

I devote a lot of time to developing and promoting platinum. In my mind, part of my motivation is a personal quest. My goal is Novell's constant and successful evolution. Making platinum jewelry gives us the opportunity to challenge, grow, and showcase our design and manufacturing abilities. Platinum is the catalyst for many jewelry designers and smart marketers to get away from an environment that minimizes the value of mid-market bridal jewelry sales. With platinum, better retailers present the very best to the consumer. Because platinum challenges us, it makes us a stronger industry.

When explaining how rare platinum is, jewelry insiders often say, "In order to make one ounce of platinum, they have to mine ten tons of ore." That's a powerful statement, and it has more meaning now that I understand what ten tons of ore look like, how difficult it is to get out of the ground, and exactly who "they" in that statement are.

In October of 2006, my wife, Marion, and I joined an amazing group of people on a trip to South Africa. Platinum Guild International and their sponsors invited us to spend a week talking about platinum, marketing, and South Africa. What we learned, and what we saw, will play an important part in how we work together to provide guidance to our industry in the future.

Read more...

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Article: How to Choose A Wedding Band Pair, The 5 Essentials

How to Choose A Wedding Band Pair, The 5 Essentials
By kaijewels

Wedding band pairs have more meaning and significance as compared to normal wedding bands. This article will help you understand what is meant by a wedding band pairs and how to choose the right pair.

Step 1:
The popularity of wedding band pairs has shown a positive increase in recent times. A better understanding of the meaning and significance of a wedding band pair, has been noticed in almost all countries. Besides the meaning of your pair of wedding bands, you will also need to understand a few technical details of such rings. This will allow you to choose wedding bands that will last long and also have more meaning and significance. In the following paragraphs, we will discuss the 5 most important issues that you should know and evaluate before selecting your wedding band pair.

Read more on eHow.com...

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