JEWELLERY
ASK THE EXPERTS : WEDDING JEWELLERY
EVERYTHING YOU NEED TO KNOW ABOUT CHOOSING THE PERFECT JEWELLERY FOR YOUR SPECIAL DAY
From the ring that starts it all , to saying ‘ I do ’, jewellery is a hugely significant part of your wedding . We spoke to Flic Chapman from family jewellers T & B Cousins of Canterbury who shared her knowledge and advice on picking your perfect wedding pieces .
WHAT SHOULD I CONSIDER WHEN CHOOSING AN ENGAGEMENT RING ? An engagement ring will speak to you when it is right . We often say to our clients that two stones may be the same on paper , but one will ‘ speak ’ to you more than the other - always trust this feeling . Most importantly , do not be afraid to stray from convention . Try styles and gemstones that you would not have necessarily considered before ; you may be pleasantly surprised . As jewellers , we see fashions come and go , but something timeless , rare and unique will always be in style .
HOW DO WE CHOOSE SPECIAL WEDDING RINGS ? When selecting your wedding rings , I think it is important to pick something that has beauty by itself , not just when paired with the engagement ring . This may be a hand-engraved design , or bi-metal detailing - something that makes the ring entirely unique to you and your loved one .
FOR OUR WEDDING DAY IS THERE ANY OTHER JEWELLERY TO CONSIDER ? Wedding jewellery often takes one of two routes , the first being very classic and simple , the second being a touch of colour . Many brides choose classic pearl earrings and a diamond pendant for their wedding day , which keeps the tones neutral and is sophistication exemplified . This being said , the second route is my favourite way of incorporating ‘ something blue ’ into the wedding day , whether it be a classic sapphire pendant or a dazzling pair of aquamarine earrings , this is a wonderful way to bring tradition into the 21st century . Finally , ensure that it is something you will wear again so that each time you put them on , you will remember that special day .
CAN I USE A VINTAGE PIECE OF JEWELLERY ? A vintage engagement ring has many benefits ; if handed through generations it can be sentimental , they are unique in design , and can also be very economical . However , it must be checked by a jeweller to ensure that it is fit for purpose . An engagement ring needs to stand the test of time and after decades of wear it may require some attention , so always get the ring checked . If desired , redesigning using the existing stones and metal can be a way to repurpose and retain sentiment but with your own personal style .
WHAT TRENDS ARE YOU SEEING IN WEDDING JEWELLERY AT THE MOMENT ? Wedding jewellery will always be pearl-centric ; where we see change is in the colours and tones of the pearls that are used as fashions change . However , we are seeing the introduction of more coloured gemstones now .
In regard to engagement rings , there has been a paring back of design over the past few years ; simple gold bands and solitaire diamonds . Over the next few years , I anticipate we will see the comeback of coloured gemstones , particularly sapphires and rubies , but also alternative colours from fancy sapphires , beryls and quartz .
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