InTouch with Southern Kentucky February 2020

I t all starts with the R ing BY JANIE SLAVEN COMMONWEALTH JOURNAL It all starts with the ring. Before wedding planning can begin, someone has to pop the question. Valentine’s Day is a popular choice of occasion but no matter the day, the giving of an engagement ring is the start of a joyous journey. Mark Pilcher, owner of Diamond Design Jewel- ers in Somerset, noted that many couples may have talked about getting married but they rare- ly come in together to pick out the engagement ring. Usually, however, the recipient has indicat- ed her style through one or more pictures of a similar pattern she has found on Instagram or Etsy. Once presented, the search is on for a band to go with it. Of late, the trend has been toward rose gold and stackables, Still the dominant style for bridal sets, Pilcher noted, remains white gold with a round solitaire. Because this is a special moment in your life, wholly unique designs are still extremely popular, according to Tonia Zehrer, senior vice president and chief merchandising officer at Kay, Jared and Zales. If the right style isn’t readily available, couples can always go custom. Diamond Design is the only full-service jewelry shop left in Somerset, according to its owner of nearly years. “Being a small jewelry store, we’re able to keep our costs low,” Pilcher continued, adding that all repairs are done in-house and that 90 percent of merchandise is American-made. “Even purchase of our diamonds is done here in Kentucky.” The store can create a set based on pictures or existing heirlooms. “With custom jewelry, earlier planning is better,” he continued. “It usually takes us about three weeks to a month to build a custom piece. But when we do build a custom piece, it is to the customer’s specifica- tions and it looks fantabulous.” Even if you’re planning to buy from the case, give yourself plenty of time browsing — at least two to three months before the wedding date— to find the right set. Here are some questions to consider when deciding on the perfect wedding rings: • What’s your budget? Keep in mind that ex- tras such as stones or engraving can add up. • What’s your lifestyle? Consider maintenance. If you work with your hands or are otherwise super active, a simple band may be the way to go as gemstones can come loose and carvings can trap dirt. At any rate, when trying a ring on, wear it around the store for a few minutes — writing or texting — as a comfort test. 18 • I n T ouch with S outhern K entucky • Do you want your and your partner’s rings to match? Many couples choose not only different designs but metals as well. While having matching rings can be a public expression of your love, it shouldn’t be more important than personal style and comfort. • Do you plan on wearing your engagement ring and wedding band together, 24/7? Interlocking rings are popular but if you’re planning on wearing your wedding ring alone, you may want a more intricate style that will look great with or without your engagement ring. F ebruary 2020

InTouch with Southern Kentucky February 2020 | Page 18