When it comes to engagement and wedding rings, there are many considerations that couples will deliberate, from style, to price and just how long does the process take? I recently had the pleasure of chatting with Jon Mervis of Mervis Diamond Importers all about engagement and wedding rings. Mervis Diamond Importers is a family owned and operated jewelry store and one of the DC areas leading businesses that specialize in engagement and wedding rings. Their goal is to provide clients with a personalized and incredible experience when purchasing these important pieces.
The Perfect Setting
According to Mervis, there is currently a bigger focus on the ring (i.e. setting), and less of a focus on the diamond (or center stone), when selecting an engagement ring. The diamond is still important, but the setting is the most important element. And most couples are choosing a diamond to fit in the perfect setting. Rather than picking out the perfect diamond and for a simple solitaire band.
Couples are looking for ornate and detailed settings and they want something unique and personal. One of the most popular choices is a halo setting. The halo setting will have a center diamond (or gemstone) set-in a circle of round pave or micro-pave diamonds (or gemstones). It can often make a smaller center stone appear much larger. And it adds a lot more sparkle to the ring.
Buying Together
Today’s engaged couples often do things a little bit different than their parents and older generations. There is much more of a discussion about getting engaged. And Mervis sees a greater involvement for both the bride and groom (or bride and bride and groom and groom J). He says that in the beginning, once a couple has made the decision to get engaged, they will often have an interest in researching together for the perfect stone and setting. The couple will both come in for the initial consult to check out engagement rings. And then once a decision to get engaged is made and a few top contenders are selected, the person who is doing the “asking” will come in and make the ultimate decision.
Something Old, Something New
Vintage inspired rings are hugely popular, and many fit with the trend of something unique, ornate and detailed. Tacori, is the leader of vintage styles, and an exclusive designer at Mervis Diamond Importers. While these vintage inspired rings may have the essence of something old, they will have a better durability than actual antique rings. Mervis says they will last longer, and still have the beautiful details that antique and vintage jewelry are known for.
Heavy Metal
The top metal of choice for engagement and wedding rings is platinum. Platinum is a pure precious metal that is naturally white. It is classic and beautiful. Another type of metal gaining popularity is rose gold, it is a new trend that is considered romantic, due to it’s pinkish hue. But Platinum is still number one. And that’s because, according to Mervis, when buying rings, a couple will consider what are they going to love in 5, 10, 20 years from now.
How Much Time Do You Need
While Mervis Diamond Importers does have ready-made rings, most couples take their time to craft a personal engagement ring. A couple will typically spend a few months doing research. And then once they are ready to get the ring(s) made, they will work with a designer to select the stone, customize the setting, and personally craft each ring. Mervis says that the special order process is around 2-6 weeks for the engagement ring to be ready, once it is purchased.
Wedding Rings
Mervis says that each engagement ring will always have a matching wedding ring. But many couples are choosing something that is more of a mix and match and Mervis Diamond Importers can work with clients to pick something complimentary to the engagement ring, but not necessarily an exact match. The wedding ring would be available the same day, if you are choosing a ready-made ring. Or 3-6 weeks if going with a special order design. Mervis suggests starting the process of purchasing wedding bands around 6 months before the wedding date.
Other Advice
According to Mervis, rings often look different once you try them on vs. just seeing options online. The best way to shop is to make an appointment and try rings on in person. This way you can really see what you like. You can feel free to bring inspiration and any questions you may have. And don’t worry about anything; their staff will work with you to create the perfect ring that will work for you and your partner.
Buyers Remorse
Sometimes you may have buyers remorse or simply want an upgrade later. Mervis Diamond Importers has a lifetime diamond trade-up policy. If at any point you want to, they will trade your Mervis center diamond at 100% of its original cost anytime for anything else. They can also work with you to purchase a different stone or different shape diamond. Also, Tacori gives you credit toward purchasing another ring. More details on their site.
Questions email me at – thebrightoccasions@gmail.com – www.brightoccasions.com
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