The symbolism of your ring will never change, but your ring size might. Things like weight gain, pregnancy, swelling, salt intake, and weather can change your ring size, and that’s normal. Most of us experience changes in ring size throughout our lives, and even throughout the day. 

If your ring is too tight, you may need to get it resized. Here’s how you’ll know:

• You have trouble getting it on or off
• The ring leaves an indent on your finger
• Your ring is painful or uncomfortable to wear
• Your ring won’t turn
• The skin around your ring bulges

Shane Co.’s Free Lifetime Warranty

At Shane Co., our warranty includes free ring resizing for life. No need to make an appointment. Just drop by and we’ll help you out. Learn more about our free lifetime warranty.

How to Remove a Tight Ring

• Use lotion or soap to help slip the ring off. If you do this over a sink, make sure to close the drain first!
• Use the string trick or ribbon. (Google it!) 
• Ice your finger while holding it over your head, then try to remove the ring.

Need Help Finding Your Size?

Maybe you have no idea what your ring size is. You can use our free downloadable ring sizer to find the perfect fit! Or, you can drop by the store and we’ll check your size. But don’t worry, if you’re buying a ring for someone else and you don’t know their size, we can always resize it later.

Ready to find an engagement ring? Browse All Engagement Rings and find the perfect fit. Not sure where to start? Drop by the store, chat with an online jewelry consultant, or book an in-store or virtual appointment.

The post Signs Your Ring Is Too Tight appeared first on The Loupe.

Does size really matter? It’s an age-old question that humans have pondered for generations in a variety of contexts, including in reference to the size of one’s engagement ring diamond. In decades past, the size of the ring was the “be-all, end-all” due to societal pressures, and other engagement ring features like cut, clarity, color, and setting style took a back seat. 

However, in 2021, is it still the size that matters most or have other facets of an engagement ring like quality, brilliance, and style become most important? How do opinions about diamond size vary by gender, generation, relationship status, and even location? 

In our pursuit of answers to these burning questions and more, we asked 3,462 Americans to weigh in. Shane Co. surveyed respondents across various demographics and all 50 states to uncover how much an engagement ring’s diamond size really matters when it comes to proposals. Other questions posed include:

• What is the ideal carat size of an engagement ring?
• Would the diamond size impact your likeliness to accept a proposal from your partner?
• Would you consider upgrading your diamond’s carat size over time?

Read on to see the full survey results and where your state lands on diamond size!

The States Where Large Diamond Sizes Matter Most (and Least)

To start, we asked respondents in all 50 states to rate the significance of an engagement ring’s diamond size on a scale of 1 to 5 (where 1 = low significance and 5 = high significance). The national average rating overall was 2.47 — a bit lower than anticipated. 

With an average rating of 3.18, 28.8% above the national average, Tennessee is the state where residents care about diamond size the most, followed by New Jersey (3.16), Texas (3.14), and Connecticut (3.08). Out of the 10 states where large diamonds matter most in engagement rings, four states are located in the Northeast, and three states are located in the South.

Alternatively, certain states gave diamond size incredibly low significance when it comes to engagement rings. With an average rating of 1.90, 22.8% below the national average, Montana is the state where residents care about diamond size the least, followed by Wyoming (1.96), Iowa (1.98), and Mississippi (2.0). 

Diamond Size Significance by Gender & Relationship Status

Next, we looked at diamond size significance by demographics such as gender and relationship status. Ironically, men and proposers care more about the diamond size of an engagement ring than do women and “proposees”(i.e., the people being proposed to). 61% of men and a strong 70% of proposers think the diamond size is important when it comes to engagement rings, whereas only 47% of women and 46% of “proposees” think the diamond size is truly important. 

According to Cosmo, “women are gravitating towards smaller diamonds now” and are prioritizing features like radiance, setting style, and stone shape above simply having a big rock. New engagement ring trends like stackable rings, yellow gold bands, and vintage settings all featuring smaller stones play a role as well. Wearability in multiple social settings, theft, and security are some of the other reasons people are opting for a smaller diamond. 

What Is the Most Important Feature of an Engagement Ring?

When asking which feature of an engagement ring is most important, more people say shape than size. The largest percentage of respondents (almost 20%) say the diamond shape is most important, followed by carat size (16.6%), clarity (14.5%), and color (12.7%). 

The diamond’s shape is particularly important as it sets the tone for the style of a ring. For instance, princess and emerald cuts evoke an Art Deco vibe. Marquise cuts feel vintage, and cushion cuts are best for a classic, more traditional look. 

When asking which factor is most important while engagement ring shopping, the largest portion of respondents (32%) say beauty/style, followed by quality (29%) and durability (17%). When it comes down to it, aesthetics triumph above all else. The majority of us want to look down at a beautiful ring that matches our taste levels, personality, and sense of style. 

Engagement Ring Statistics: According to Popular Opinion

Surprisingly, 4.3 out of every 10 people say that the diamond size would impact their likeliness of saying “yes” or “no” when being proposed to. 36% of people even admit they would go as far as asking their partner to purchase a larger carat size if they felt unsatisfied. Tough crowd!

The diamond size is far less likely to deter a divorced respondent from accepting a proposal than an engaged respondent. 46% of engaged respondents say that a diamond’s carat size would impact their likeliness to accept a proposal from their partner whereas only 7% of divorced respondents would say the same.

Lastly, the largest portion of respondents say the ideal diamond is 1 to 2 carats and costs anywhere from $1,001 to $5,000 — a range that sits just below Real Simple’s estimated average price of an engagement ring, $5,600. 

Wrapping Up

That wraps up our study on diamond size significance! We’ve learned that depending on geography and demographics, diamond size can be inconsequential or it can be an ultimate deal-breaker! In 2021, we can only hope that at the end of the day Americans will place their relationships above all else.

Know your ideal diamond size and ready to start ring shopping? Shop our Perfectly Preset Engagement Rings or start designing your own!

The diamond size survey ran from January 25 – February 3, 2021.

The post Does Diamond Size Really Matter? appeared first on The Loupe.

Without a wedding band, your engagement ring just doesn’t make the same impression. But choosing just one band can often be difficult – which is why we offer women’s wedding bands in the widest variety of styles, so you can mix and match to create a stylish stack that you can wear year-round. Here’s how to get in on this trend.

Step one:  Experiment with metals

Just because your engagement ring is white gold doesn’t mean your wedding band has to be too. In fact, mixing it up with different colored metals is a great way to create contrast and draw the eye to your sparkling ring finger. Choose from platinum, white, yellow and our signature shade of rose gold to add in an element of playfulness or match perfectly with your ring. Here’s some of our favorites:

It’s true:  simplicity really can’t be beat. This Platinum Comfort Fit Wedding Band is crafted from high-quality platinum for the perfect starter to your stack.

This Knife Edge Wedding Band shines bright in 14k Yellow Gold. It’s a classic style with the on-trend twist of the outward edge, and will look great stacked with other, more intricate designs.

This slim 14k Rose Gold Wedding Band is only 1mm wide, making it just right to add depth to a ring stack. The unique blush tone adds a hint of romanticism to an already gorgeous favorite.

Want something a little different? This Vintage Wedding Band with delicate beaded milgrain detail adds a touch of elegance to a stunning silhouette.

Step two: Add some sparkle

Of course, a ring stack wouldn’t be complete without a little sparkle – this is pretty much a rule at Shane Co. The trick is to find a variety of styles that will add some extra oomph to your look without out-shining your engagement ring.

This Classic Pavé-Set Diamond Wedding Band in 14k Rose Gold holds nineteen round diamonds, offering the best in elegance and radiance.

If you love yellow gold, this Diamond Cluster Wedding Band is just the thing. We love the contemporary style elements paired with graduated diamonds for a modern look.

Sometimes, bigger really is better. Especially when we’re talking about this Round Diamond Band in 14k White Gold. 11 diamonds totaling to 1.11 carats make a splash with this sparkly stunner.

Add a vintage flair with this Vintage Round Diamond Wedding Band in everlasting platinum. Gorgeous diamonds + milgrain details = the perfect ring, in our experienced, biased opinion.

Step three: Experiment with shape

Adding some curves and textural elements to your wedding band stack is a stylish way to draw the focus to each individual ring. We love the look of a contour mixed with straight bands and, of course, your lovely engagement ring.

This Tiara Round Diamond Contour Wedding Band plays double duty with a unique swirl and contour look, mimicking the image of a crown.

Looking for a band that perfectly cradles your engagement ring? We love the look of this Contoured Diamond Wedding Band in 14k Rose Gold!

With baguette diamonds currently trending, this Baguette and Round Diamond Contour Wedding Band in 14k Yellow Gold is a no-brainer. Sparkle, please?

This Vintage Diamond Contour Wedding Band in Platinum is perfect to finish off your ring stack in style. Along with 12 round diamonds, the contoured shape layers beautifully with other rings.

No matter what your style is, you’ll find beautiful wedding bands at Shane Co. Shop all our unique wedding band styles. Don’t forget to use the “drop a hint” feature to let your sweetie know that a new band is the gift you’re dreaming of.

The post Trending: The Wedding Band Stack appeared first on The Loupe.

Procrastination is common — there’s no need to hide the fact that, sometimes, we just need to get something done at the last minute. If the perfect moment for a proposal has suddenly come up, you’re probably beginning to sweat, wondering how you’re going to buy the ring and plan the big moment in a short amount of time.

If you’re looking to buy an engagement ring on a timeline and a budget, here are Shane Co.’s top three tips for doing it well enough to hear that “Yes!”

1. Consider a solitaire ring

If you’re rushing to plan your proposal, chances are you probably haven’t had the time to really figure out what your bride-to-be’s dream ring looks like. In this case, a solitaire ring may be perfect for you. You can still personalize the diamond by choosing a unique shape or particular size, but you don’t have to worry about the engagement ring setting being different from her idea of “perfect.” Not to mention, a diamond solitaire is an all-around favorite for most brides — she can even add a unique decorative crown later on if she so chooses!

“If you want to surprise your fiancée with a proposal,” Shane Co. experts say, “a solitaire ring is a great option. She can always trade it in and select her own setting with you later. Plus, if you’re working on a tight deadline, buying the less expensive solitaire setting first is a great way to make time for you to save up for a more expensive setting, if that’s what she wants.”

2. Look at preset rings

Our perfectly preset engagement rings are rings that you buy with the diamond already mounted in the setting, as opposed to customizing your ring by choosing the stone and setting separately.

“With a preset ring, you may not get to choose your center stone, but you can get a great quality ring with plenty of carat size in a much shorter time frame,” advises an expert. “With personalized rings, it takes more time because you have to set the stone in addition to sizing the ring, which can take up to 3-5 days.”

Psst! If you order a preset Shane Co. ring online, our 2-day shipping comes free with your purchase.

3. Be bold with a sapphire fashion ring

Does your honey love color? Working on a budget not big enough to get her the diamond of her dreams? Looking for a unique ring that will make for a standout proposal? The answer to all of these issues and more lies in a simple stone: sapphire! With royals and celebs alike sporting their very own sapphire rings, you can be sure your bride will be thrilled with this natural colored stone over a diamond.

“Sapphires are the second most popular center stones for engagement rings … and they’re less expensive than diamonds,” says a Shane Co. expert. But remember: “If you’re on a time crunch, custom sapphire rings take more time to build than preset fashion rings. Look for fashion rings with sapphire center stones that still feel ‘bridal,’ and you can have it shipped to you in a matter of days.”

Other advice for the perfect last-minute proposal

Besides buying the right ring, we have a few suggestions on how to make sure your last-minute proposal doesn’t miss a beat.

Keep it simple

Much like going with a solitaire ring, our best advice for mastering your proposal is to keep it focused on the most important part: you and your partner. You don’t need to have planes spelling out “Marry me” in the sky or an over-the-top plan to pop the question to the love of your life. Pick a comfortable setting and take some time to think about what you’re going to say — why do you want to marry them? What’s your favorite thing about them? What are you looking forward to most about married life? Speak from your heart and you can’t go wrong.

Make it personal

Does your love have a favorite movie or song? A certain spot they love to visit, or a memorable location for the two of you? Using these personal details to craft your proposal plan can make it extra special, even if you don’t have the budget for something extravagant.

Do something different

Try switching up your normal routine to add a little excitement to your proposal. If you usually go out to eat or your partner cooks you dinner, try whipping them up a meal from scratch. If you know an instrument, try writing a little song describing all the things you love about them. There are so many ways to make this night special!

The post Tips for a Last-Minute Proposal appeared first on The Loupe.

1. Find their style

An engagement ring is entirely personal. After all, it’s one of the only pieces of jewelry your partner is likely to wear everyday (and forever). So you want to make sure that you’re choosing an engagement ring they really want, rather than just whatever is popular or “in style” at the time of your proposal. Tools like Shane Co.’s engagement ring quiz can help you to figure out what they may want in a ring. But, the best way to discover their style is take hints from your sweetie themselves.

• What kind of jewelry do they wear? 
• Is their style classic, modern or eclectic? 
• Have they brought up engagement rings before?

To gather more information, asking their family and friends is always a good option. Just make sure they know to keep it quiet if you’re looking to make the proposal a surprise.

Browse engagement rings!

2. How much should you spend on an engagement ring?

First, figure out how much you can afford to spend on the engagement ring before you begin your shopping journey. That way, you won’t be presented with rings that are out of your budget so you can more accurately compare styles and stones. Remember that there’s no “rule” to how much you should spend – it relies entirely on your personal finances, priorities and wants. One thing to think about is that an engagement almost always precedes a wedding, so if you want to start saving for an extravagant wedding party, it might make sense to structure your budget accordingly. At Shane Co., you can always upgrade their ring later down the line. With our comprehensive upgrade program, you’ll get the full value of your first engagement ring purchase.

3. How much should I save for an engagement ring?

If you haven’t already begun to save up for a ring, now is the time to start. You can do this by setting a timeline for yourself, putting aside a certain amount per week/month, deciding on a particular amount and simply saving until you reach it, or taking advantage of programs like layaway or credit cards. We recommend, however, having at least half the cost of the engagement ring available at the time of purchase, even if you are able to do monthly payments in the future.

4. Do your research

One of the most important steps in making any big decision is doing your research. Unless you’re already a diamond and jewelry expert (which most of us aren’t), you probably have some questions regarding how to buy a diamond engagement ring, what the 4 C’s mean, what a semi-mount is, and what are the  differences between yellow, white and rose gold – and those are just the first questions that come to mind.

The Four C’s

The four C’s are well-known elements of choosing a diamond. They include the stone’s cut, clarity, color, and carat. Deciding which of the four C’s matter the most to you can help make the process of buying a diamond a lot simpler!

Semi-mounts

A semi-mount refers to a separate engagement ring setting and center stone, that are then put into place by a jeweler. At Shane Co., we sell both preset engagement rings (with the stone already “set” in the ring), and design-your-own semi-mounts.

Diamond shapes

The main diamond shapes include round, cushion, princess, emerald, marquise, heart, oval, pear, and radiant.

Metal types

At Shane Co., we offer engagement rings in a variety of different metals, using high-quality 14k white, yellow, and rose gold as well as durable platinum.

If this seems like a lot of ground to cover, you can just head to a Shane Co. store to speak with one of our jewelry experts. Our staff is noncommission and no-pressure, so even if you’re not ready to buy, it can help to speak with a member of our sales team to learn more about the engagement ring shopping process. You can even conduct subjectivity tests (how do you conduct subjectivity kits?) in-store and compare our diamonds with other jewelers’ to see the Shane Co. difference.

Start with a setting and design your own engagement ring!

5. Where to buy an engagement ring

With the popularity of online shopping rising more than ever, Shane Co. is excited to be able to offer a variety of ways to shop for an engagement ring. You’re always welcome to visit a Shane Co. store near you, but you also have the ability to Browse all of our engagement rings at ShaneCo.com! You can even make a virtual or in-store appointment to get help from one of our expert jewelry consultants. We want to make it as easy as possible for you to create the perfect engagement ring and proposal…because that’s what a friend would do.

6. Buy that ring!

Now that you know how to buy an engagement ring and where to get one,, it’s time to visit a jeweler and make your purchase. You may want to compare a few rings first to see which ones best match the engagement ring you’ve imagined, so it can help to bring in photos if you have a specific idea in mind. Finally, ask your salesperson about any payment plans, re-sizing and purchase timelines before you get ready to pop the question. It will usually take a little time for your engagement ring to be totally ready to go – you’ll probably be informed of this, but now’s the time to ask any questions you still have before taking the jump.

7. Take advantage of exclusive perks at Shane Co.

After purchasing the ring, a lot of scary scenarios may run through your mind:

• What is my partner doesn’t like it?
• What if we want to get a different ring in the future?
• What if it gets damaged or the diamond falls out?

At Shane Co., we offer all our customers a 60-Day Money-Back Guarantee, upgrade program, and Free Lifetime Warranty that even includes your center stone. That way, you can feel confident knowing that your engagement ring is safe. Just bring it in every six months or so for cleaning and inspection, so it can remain as perfect and sparkly as the day you bought it.

Want to start shopping today? You can see all our unique engagement ring settings online, visit us in-store, or shop all pre-set rings for an easy, enjoyable experience.

The post How to Buy an Engagement Ring: The Ultimate Guide appeared first on The Loupe.

Not sure what size diamond is right for you or your sweetheart? Luckily, choosing a diamond for an engagement ring is an entirely personal decision. Whether you’re looking for something simple and understated or something with lots of extra bling, you can find a diamond that’s right for you – and make it sparkle more with a few useful tips and tricks.

What is a good size diamond?

The average engagement ring diamond in the U.S. is between 0.8 and 1.2 carats, according to a survey done by CreditDonkey. This means that if you choose a diamond around that size, you’ll be pretty much in line with the average engaged person. At the same time, there are a lot of other factors that contribute to how big a diamond looks and feels on a person’s hand. The average size of diamonds purchased also varies between states. So while New Yorkers might favor a slightly bigger diamond, in Utah the average size comes in around 0.74 carats. You can read more about the average carat size by state in this helpful article from Shane Co.’s The Loupe.

What about the 4 C’s?

If you’ve begun your diamond buying journey, chances are you’ve heard of the 4 C’s: cut, clarity, color, and carat. Choosing which of these C’s matters most to you can also greatly impact the size of diamond you choose. For example, if you decide that sparkle is most important to you, then you should probably prioritize clarity and cut over carat and color – the less inclusions and better cut a diamond has, the more sparkle you’ll see reflected in the ring.

How to make your diamond look bigger

Of course, there are always a few tricks to make your diamond appear larger than it is.

1. Go for a halo:  Choosing a halo setting can drastically improve the appearance of your diamond, as the surrounding smaller diamonds will create a ring of sparkle that, to the naked eye, achieves the goal of a larger-looking stone.
2. Create contrast with color:  Adding colored stones to your setting can make your diamond “pop” and draw the eye further towards it.
3. Embrace yellow gold:  Much like adding in colored stones, choosing a yellow gold band can have the effect of making your diamond stand out more, creating the illusion of a bigger stone.
4. Choose the right shape:  Shapes like oval and emerald elongate the look of your diamond (and your fingers!), making them appear bigger to the naked eye.

Still want a bigger diamond?

Did you end up with a gorgeous ring but later on are wondering if it might look better with a bigger stone? Luckily, you can always upgrade your diamond at Shane Co. Our upgrade policy is the best in the business – you only pay the difference from what you originally paid. You can upgrade her engagement ring, stud earrings, and more! It’s an easy, no-fail gift she’ll always love to get.

The post What Size Diamond Should I Get? appeared first on The Loupe.

Do you want to surprise your girlfriend with a unique ring? At Shane Co., we have countless ways to build an engagement ring that reflects who she is.

We’ve reached out to Amanda Trevizo, our lead bridal designer, for some ideas on how to make her engagement ring as special as she is.

Julie: Amanda, you and your team stay immersed in ongoing jewelry trends. What are three easy ways to make a unique engagement ring?

Amanda: Personalization is incredibly popular right now, and fantastically easy to do and its as as easy as starting with an engagement ring setting. I would recommend the following:

1. Sapphires! Add some color to her ring with one of our gorgeous hand-selected sapphires. We have over a dozen colors to choose from and a variety of shapes.

2. A decorative crown is a gorgeous point of difference for her ring. It’s not overly ornate — just a simple, sweet touch. You can opt for a halo to add a little more sparkle, or you can select a crown to enhance the setting for the center stone. Both will make her setting truly custom.

3. Another great way to create an original look is by curating a band stack to complement her engagement ring. The more the merrier!

Julie: Thanks, Amanda. What’s the best way to get started?

Amanda: Start online. We have some great online tools, like

Budget Buddy, the engagement ring calculator, and Style Finder, our engagement ring style quiz. You can also chat with our jewelry consultants if you have any questions. Have fun with it! It’s a once-in-a-lifetime experience.

There you have it! To learn more about creating an engagement ring that’s built just for her, head over to ShaneCo.com to get started.

The post How to Make Her Engagement Ring Stand Out: Tips from Our Bridal Designer appeared first on The Loupe.

Ready to propose, but not sure how to shop engagement rings without your partner finding out? Don’t worry! Whether you live with your partner or not, it’s easy to find an engagement ring that’s perfect for them without ever leaving home.

Use your personal computer

Do you and your partner share a computer or laptop? Do you have one you use for work, and one for play? Well, it’s best to use your personal computer (if you can) to do your online shopping if you’re hoping to keep the proposal a secret. If you both use the same devices, make sure to clear your history so as not to leave any trails for your significant other.

Pick up on hints

If you’re thinking about getting engaged, chances are your partner’s been dropping hints in one way or another. Pay attention to what they say when you watch movies with engagements, jewelry, or weddings in them to get a clue of what they’re interested in. Have they been gushing nonstop about their newly engaged friend’s ring? Do they hate the look of the halo their favorite movie star is wearing? Use these comments to make sure you’re getting them a ring they’ll really love.

Log on to social media

See if your sweetheart is following certain brands or influencers on social media to get a hint on what their engagement ring style is. Do you have access to their Pinterest? Check out pinned rings for more inspiration — or even send them a link to Shane Co. with a note about our Virtual Try-On feature.

Recruit their friends and family

Even if you’re stuck at home, you can still enlist the help of those closest to them when it comes to picking out an engagement ring. Is there a family heirloom they’ve mentioned? If you feel comfortable, share your plans with family members and friends to see if they have any words of advice or suggestions to help you along your shopping journey.

Create a shortlist

Shopping for an engagement ring online can be daunting. With so many options to choose from, how do you find the right one? The best thing we can recommend is to stay organized. Favorite some styles you know she’d love, and when they start stacking up, compile a “shortlist” of your top five or 10. It’s a lot easier to choose from a few styles than thousands. You can also take advantage of tools like Budget Buddy, Shane Co.’s engagement ring calculator, to make sure you’re shopping rings within your budget.

Don’t overthink it

Here’s the kicker: If your significant other loves you, and you love them, chances are they’ll say yes no matter what ring you give them. While you’ll probably end up proposing with an engagement ring that they’ll love, you shouldn’t stress too hard over all the little details. The most important point is that you’re asking your love to spend the rest of your lives together — and there’s nothing more romantic than that.

The post 6 Tips on Secretly Shopping for An Engagement Ring appeared first on The Loupe.

Part of our role as your friend in the jewelry business is providing our customers with the easiest and best ways to afford their favorite pieces. With the introduction of the new-and-improved Shane Co. Credit Card, it’s simpler than ever to take home that new pair of diamond studs, a beautiful sapphire necklace, or even the dreamiest of engagement rings.

How does it work?

With the new Shane Co. Credit Card, you’ll get:

• No annual fee^†† and no prepayment penalties
• Convenient monthly payments
• Exclusive cardholder perks
• Easy-to-use bill payment options

Finally, you can choose the financing option that’s right for you — including no interest if paid in full within 12 months.†

Interest will be charged from the purchase date if the purchase balance is not paid in full by the end of the promotional period.

^††Standard purchase APR 29.99%. Minimum interest charge $1.

Apply online today to get started or learn more on our website.

Financing guidelines

Our new credit card makes it easy to take home your perfect ring in any budget. Check out the examples below to get an idea of how it would look to take advantage of our 12 months special financing offer.

For this Pave-Set Diamond Engagement Ring in 14k White Gold set with a 1-carat cushion cut diamond, your engagement ring would cost a total of $3,120. With the Shane Co. Credit Card, payments of $260 per month for 12 months would mean you can take this ring home! Budgeting tip: If you pay down half and put the rest on your card, your payments will only be $130/month.

For this gorgeous Halo Diamond Vintage Engagement Ring in White Gold set with a 1.22-carat emerald cut diamond, the total cost of your engagement ring would be $7,425. When you buy it with the Shane Co. Credit Card, each monthly payment would be $619 when taking advantage of our 12 months special financing. By paying down half up front, your payments come down to $310/month.

This Classic Solitaire Engagement Ring in 14k Rose Gold set with a sparkling 2-carat oval diamond would cost $11,325. Using the Shane Co. Credit Card to avoid paying accrued interest, each monthly payment would be $944 for 12 months to take it home. With half of the cost used as a down payment on the ring, your monthly payments will be $472.

For this show-stopping Round Double Halo Engagement Ring set with a 5.8mm (.89 carat) round traditional blue sapphire, your engagement ring would cost a total of $3,645. By making monthly payments of $304 to your card for 12 months, it’ll be all yours! Pay down half, and your payments come out to only $152.

With this Pear-Shaped Diamond Three-Stone Engagement Ring in 14k White Gold set with a .76-carat pear diamond, the total cost for your engagement ring comes out to $4,485. With 12 monthly payments, that’s $374/month. If you pay half up front, your payments will be $187!

Budgeting made easy

Buying an engagement ring is a big purchase — it’s meaningful, sentimental, and long-lasting. Here are a few more tips to make sure you budget correctly for the perfect ring:

1. Start with a budget. Having an idea of what you’re going to spend on the ring will make it a whole lot easier to find the right one. Start by browsing online, then talk to one of our non-commissioned sales associates and let them know what your budget is before you even begin trying out rings.
2. Save up. Even if you plan on using a credit card or another financing service for the total amount, it’s recommended that you save up at least one-third to one-half the cost of your ring. This is to ensure that you’re able to make your payments on time, and will keep you from going overboard with your purchase.
3. Prioritize. Decide which aspect of the engagement ring is the most important for you or your partner — do they have their eye on a diamond-studded halo setting? Or are they looking for a larger diamond to take center stage? Knowing where you want the bulk of your budget to go can help a lot when you start your shopping journey.
4. Take your time. The ring will be worn (hopefully) forever, so there’s no need to rush! Do your research beforehand and make sure you’re getting something that will withstand the test of time. Whether that means a more classic design, a favorite colored stone, or a ring that you won’t mind upgrading later on down the line, this is a decision that merits a lot of thought.

Need some help?

Want to take advantage of your new Shane Co. Credit Card but not sure where to start? Learn all about how to buy a diamond on The Loupe, or shop some of our favorite ring styles below!

Halo engagement rings

This popular style features a ring of diamonds or another gemstone surrounding the center stone, making it appear even bigger and brighter. Shop all halo rings here.

Classic engagement rings

Solitaire, pave-set and other traditional styles make up this always in-style category of rings. Check out all of our classic engagement rings here.

Vintage engagement rings

Inspired by all our favorite eras, vintage-style engagement rings include filigree detailing and delicate curves. Shop all vintage engagement rings here.

^†Deferred Interest if Paid in Full within 12 Months: To avoid interest, you must pay the full promotional balance before the promotional period ends. If you do not, we will charge interest from the purchase date at the Standard APR. After promotional period ends, the Standard APR also applies to the remaining balance. Minimum monthly payments required, but they will not pay off the balance in time. You must make larger payments to avoid the interest. Prior purchases excluded. Account must be in good standing. Limited time offer. Other finance plans may be available. Standard account terms apply to purchases that do not qualify. New accounts: Standard Purchase APR 29.99%. Minimum interest charge $1. Existing accounts, see your credit agreement for applicable terms. Subject to credit approval. Shane Co. financing account issued by TD Bank, N.A.

The post Financing Made Easy: Introducing the New Shane Co. Credit Card appeared first on The Loupe.

Justin and Heidi

Justin, originally from St. Louis, Missouri, met his now-fiancé Heidi, from northern Iowa, in Minnesota in January 2019. Justin knew he was ready to get engaged to Heidi almost immediately because of her sweet and captivating nature. Once he selected her engagement ring and diamond, he decided that popping the question at Shane Co. might just be the perfect way to make it official. He ran the idea past Bailey, their jewelry expert at the store, and they started planning.

The proposal

When Heidi and Justin showed up at Shane Co., Bailey greeted them and told Justin to go back to the financing area to check out the rings and make sure everything was correct before picking them up. Meanwhile, Heidi went over to the fashion jewelry area to look at some necklaces and stay busy.

While she was preoccupied, Bailey gave Justin the heads up – and in he came, with a bouquet of roses in his hands and his engagement band as well as her perfect ring in his pocket. After handing over the flowers and showing her his own ring, Justin took Heidi’s engagement ring out of his pocket and popped the question. Heidi happily said yes and the store staff celebrated with them, taking pictures and offering congratulations. They finished off the proposal with a kiss and a celebratory dinner.

Buying the ring

We asked Justin and Heidi how they ended up with Heidi’s beautiful ring and what their experience was like with Shane Co.

Justin: We shopped together, both for the ring and the diamond. My experience at Shane Co. is hard to put into words. From the first step into the Shane Co. store to spending quality time with Heidi and seeing her get overjoyed/excited while looking at rings, to the actual proposal experience – it was effortless, amazing, memorable and life-changing. Last but certainly not least, the service; Bailey did such an incredible job, and without her, none of this could have happened.

Heidi: Excellent customer service means a lot to me and Bailey and Shane Co. certainly displayed the highest level of service. The shopping process was easygoing, no hassle and a lot of fun.

Looking towards the future

Finally, we asked Justin and Heidi what they were looking forward to most about married life.

Justin: Spending every day with Heidi. Falling in love with her over and over every day for the rest of our lives together. Being able to have my best friend as my wife is, quite simply, living the dream – my happily ever after.

Heidi: I’m excited to watch our three kids grow up together and I am forever grateful to be able to share that experience with my soulmate.

The post Customer Stories: Justin and Heidi’s Shane Co. Proposal appeared first on The Loupe.

Engagement ring stacks

Sure, one diamond ring is gorgeous…but two is always better than one. Adding a band to your engagement ring and wedding stack can create a stand-out look that allows you to add some extra bling to your ring finger. Plus, a new band to stack is a great anniversary or birthday gift (psst – you can drop a hint on your favorite styles on ShaneCo.com!).

To create an Instagram-worth engagement ring stack, try pairing different but similar metals with different styles of rings. Check out the videos below for examples.

For our white gold stack, we paired this stunning Vintage Knife Edge Solitaire Ring featuring an emerald-cut diamond with this Baguette & Round Diamond Wedding Band and this Pavé-Set Diamond Wedding Band in 14k White Gold. The result? Sparkling, modern designs that create a cohesive look.

For our rose gold stack, we chose this stunning Solitaire Engagement Ring with an oval diamond center stone, paired with this Classic Pavé-Set Diamond Wedding Band and this Vintage Diamond Wedding Band. This creates a unique vintage-inspired stack in our signature shade of blush-toned rose gold.

Right-hand ring stacks

Of course, you don’t need to be rocking an engagement ring to pull off a sophisticated stack. The trick to pairing up right-hand rings? Get creative! Mix and match metals, styles, heights and more to create something totally original. The more contrast you can create, the more interesting the ring stack will appear on your finger.

For this stack, we paired a Diamond Cluster Wedding Band in 14k Yellow Gold with this Round Diamond Band in 14k White Gold, a Pavé-Set Baguette Diamond Wedding Band and this Oval & Round Diamond Cluster Band in 14k Rose Gold.

For a more delicate stack, try this: pair our Diamond Criss-Cross Wedding Band with this Vintage Wedding Band, this Diamond Wedding Band in Rose Gold with Pave Setting and that gorgeous Pavé-Set Baguette Diamond Wedding Band.

Multi-finger stacks

Want to add allure by wearing your rings on a few fingers? Create this contemporary look by pairing thin, similar rings in different sizes according to how you wish to wear them.

To recreate this look, pair our 14k Yellow Gold Wedding Band with this 14k Rose Gold Wedding Band. You can also stack a band with some diamonds to add a little more sparkle.

Want to try out this trend? Send your ring stacks to socialshane@gmail.com or message us on Facebook or Instagram to see if your look will be featured on our feed!

The post How to Create the Perfect Ring Stack appeared first on The Loupe.

Step one: Learn the 4 Cs

The grading criteria that jewelers use to determine the quality of a diamond. Here’s a quick tutorial just in case:

Carat:  Diamonds are measured in carats, which is a unit of weight. One carat weighs 200 milligrams, and, generally, the higher the carat amount, the more expensive the diamond will be.

Clarity:  Clarity refers to internal flaws in a diamond. The most recognized and commonly used GIA scale ranges from I3 (inclusions visible to the naked eye) to F/IF (completely flawless under 10x magnification).

Color:  At a glance, you may think all diamonds look about the same, but diamonds range in color from light yellow to colorless and are graded from a range of W (light yellow) to D (colorless).

Cut:  Diamonds are meticulously, thoughtfully and very carefully cut to produce the most sparkle. This attribute, the cut, is graded on a scale of “Poor” to “Ideal.” A cut that is too shallow or deep will make the diamond appear smaller and less sparkly than it actually is.

Step two: Choose your budget

Deciding on a budget can be helpful to do early in the engagement ring buying process so that you don’t end up choosing one that’s completely out of reach. Most people decide on a price range they’d prefer to stay in and move forward from there. Note that your budget will most likely include the loose diamond you choose in addition to the setting, which leads us to the next step…

Step three: Decide on a setting style

Whether or not you buy the setting beforehand, it’s important to at least have an idea of what you or your partner is looking for, as there may be certain settings that look better with particular diamond shapes. In addition, if you’re looking for a simple setting, you’ll have more room in your budget for the center stone – or less, if you’re looking for a more detailed setting.

Step four: Determine what you value the most

Is size a priority when searching for the perfect diamond? Or would you rather have a beautiful cut, even if it means sacrificing the carat weight? Figuring out which aspects of the 4 Cs you value the most will help you immensely on your diamond-shopping journey. Often, deciding to go for a slightly lower grade in clarity or color can give you more wiggle room when looking for a larger, well-cut diamond.

Step five: Choose a shape

Diamonds come in 10 shapes: round, cushion, princess, emerald, marquise, heart, oval, pear, asscher and radiant. They all vary in price and can create unique looking rings. Knowing which shape you or your partner is looking for beforehand can make it easier to look at options when you’re working with a jeweler. If you’re purchasing an engagement ring for your significant other and are not sure what shape she likes, a round brilliant is usually a safe bet – 53% of engagement ring sales consist of a round diamond. To learn more about diamond shapes, study up with this blog post.

Step six: Find a jeweler you can trust

Building an engagement ring is a special experience, and it should be treated as such. This is a rare purchase, one that probably has more sentimental value than financial. Finding a jeweler that will offer a personalized, easy, informative and stress-free experience will help you enjoy the journey, rather than spending any time worrying if you’ve made the right choice. Shane Co.’s non-commission staff of diamond experts will help guide you to the perfect stone, even if you’re not sure where to start.

Step seven: Compare, compare, compare

The easiest way to find out if you’ve found the perfect diamond is to compare them to others. Did you know that even diamonds within the same grade can appear quite different? At Shane Co., we offer a diamond subjectivity kit that allows you to compare diamonds – even those of the same grade – so you know exactly what you’re getting. Here’s a tip: the grade of a diamond is simply a marker of its attributes. The best way to determine how it’s going to look in an engagement ring is to inspect it in person, in natural-looking light.

Step eight: Complete your ring

Once you’ve decided on a diamond, it’s time to put together your ring! At Shane Co., you can choose a loose stone and engagement ring setting at the same time and our expert jewelers will assemble and size your ring to your specifications. You can even customize further with engravings and unique decorative crowns.

That’s it! If you have any other questions about the diamond buying process, visit us in-store or contact us to speak with one of our jewelry experts. We love providing our customers with the tools they need to make an informed decision that they’re truly satisfied with – because that’s what a friend would do.

The post How to Buy a Diamond: The Ultimate Guide appeared first on The Loupe.

Trending rings

This stunning Vintage Halo Diamond Engagement Ring is one of our most-loved styles on social media. We decided to show what it would look like paired with this gorgeous Vintage Filigree Contour Wedding Band, since they go so perfectly together. The gentle contour wraps around this ring beautifully, and the filigree detailing works in tandem with this engagement ring’s classic style. This wedding band will also work for the newest iteration of this popular ring.

It’s no surprise that halos are trending well – after all, who doesn’t love some extra sparkle? This Round Diamond Double Halo Engagement Ring features two layers of pave-set diamonds surrounding your center stone, for an eye-catching look that would also look gorgeous with a sapphire. We recommend adding these Diamond Wedding Bands in 14k White Gold for this ring. They are the same width as the band, and one on either side of your engagement ring will balance out your look – plus, more diamonds!

Classic styles

This Solitaire Yellow Gold Engagement Ring is absolutely perfect in its simplicity. We love the classic design, which would look beautiful with any shape of diamond, sapphire or ruby. To add a little flair to this simple style, we recommend pairing it with our Bezel-Set Diamond Wedding Band or this dazzling Round Diamond Solitaire Engagement Ring Wrap – keep in mind, this one will only work if you have a round center stone.

Did you know that a three-stone engagement ring is meant to represent the past, present, and future with your future husband or wife? That’s just one of the reasons we love this Classic Three-Stone Princess Cut Engagement Ring. This ring goes beautifully with our Round Diamond Vintage Wedding Band in 14k White Gold. The intricate details will bring out the vintage style of your three-stone stunner perfectly.

Made to match

Did you know that Shane Co. also has pre-matched engagement ring and wedding ring sets available? If you’re looking for the perfect pair, these matching styles will leave you breathless.

Add a splash of color with this Traditional Blue Sapphire and Diamond Wedding Set in 14k White Gold. This vintage-inspired design stands out with 13 round traditional blue sapphires and 76 round diamonds.

Three rings come together as one in this Vintage Diamond Wedding Set in our signature shade of 14k rose gold. Gorgeous detailing makes for a unique set in this unforgettable style.

Discover the ultimate in elegance with this Frame Halo Platinum Wedding Set with Round Diamond Accent. A center emerald cut diamond shines beautifully surrounded by intricate details and pave-set diamonds.

Want to see more wedding bands? Head over to ShaneCo.com to find the right one to match your engagement ring, or shop all wedding band and engagement ring sets.

The post Which Wedding Band Matches My Engagement Ring? appeared first on The Loupe.

1. Not setting a budget

Listen, we get it – talking about how much it’s going to cost is probably the least romantic part about buying an engagement ring. But figuring out how much you’re willing to spend is vital to finding the right ring. Take into consideration other expenses down the line – are you saving up for a big wedding? A house? Still struggling to pay off student loans? Or, conversely, do you have a nice chunk of change set aside for this once-in-a-lifetime purchase? It’s your jewelers’ job to find something amazing within your budget, not the other way around. P.S. don’t forget about financing and other options available to you when considering the cost of the ring!

2. Doing it all on your own

It’s likely that you’re still hoping your proposal will be a total surprise for your sweetheart. However, trying to tackle buying an engagement ring without the help of those that know your partner well, in addition to someone who’s an expert in all things bridal, is a common mistake that can be easily avoided. You can keep aspects of your engagement a surprise while dropping hints to your future fiancé to figure out what ring she’d like best. If you want to stay tight-lipped, try asking her friends and family what style she would be into. In addition, make sure you’re dealing with an expert jeweler that can help educate you on the ring-buying process – the salespeople at Shane Co. don’t work on commission, so you’ll be in a no-pressure environment and can ask all the questions you’re unsure about.

3. Not doing your research

What’s the first step to making any big decision? Research! In the digital age, there’s a plethora of resources available to you online to learn about diamond shapes, quality, engagement ring setting styles and more. Plus, you and your partner can use tools like our engagement ring style finder quiz and Matchmaker to figure out what style ring she really wants. Walking into a jewelry store without having done any research is like walking into battle without any weapons – you want to be as prepared as you can be.

4. Focusing too much on the paper

It’s important to know the 4 C’s before you begin your diamond buying journey, and asking for a diamond certification is definitely a smart move. But relying solely on how your ring looks “on paper” can be a major misstep. Did you know that diamonds of the same grade can still vary greatly in appearance? That’s why you should always examine your ring in-person before making a decision. A less expensive diamond with a lower clarity grade may even appear similar to a highly graded one, if the inclusions aren’t visible to the naked eye, or can be easily hidden by prongs or other elements of the setting. Ask your jeweler to compare different diamonds to see for yourself what your options are.

5. Trying to stay “trendy”

If you’re paying attention to all the latest trends, you may notice that certain styles receive a lot of attention, then seem to fizzle out after a couple of months. Even if you’re honey is a fashionista, you should probably think twice before opting for “trendy” over “classic.” Everyone’s style is different, but remember that this is one piece of jewelry your significant other isn’t just going to replace when it goes out of style.

6. Getting carried away in the moment

Shopping for an engagement ring is an emotional experience. It symbolizes the love you share with another person, a sign that represents your lifelong commitment and intent to form a beautiful family of two. That means that it can be easy to find yourself spending way more than you planned to or going for extravagance instead of thinking about what your partner really wants. We’re not saying you shouldn’t get passionate and enjoy the experience – of course you should! But keep your goals and budget in mind while you’re waxing poetic about this big decision.

7. Rushing your purchase

You most likely haven’t rushed your decision to get engaged, so why would you rush your decision to pick the perfect engagement ring? Here’s one of the best tips we can give you:  take your time. The perfect proposal will still be waiting for you whether you decide on the first ring you see or take the time to compare a few. The salespeople at Shane Co. are happy to spend their time discussing the attributes of each ring, comparing similar diamonds, showing you different shapes, and educating you on the entire ring-buying process.

8. Forgetting about the warranty

It’s easy to get caught up in price comparison when making a big purchase like a diamond. What most people forget, however, is that perks like the warranty and re-sizing can add a significant amount to your total at the end of your shopping journey. Shane Co. offers a completely free lifetime warranty that includes the center stone of your engagement ring. That means that your ring is protected – for free, for life. Most other jewelers charge additional fees for their warranty, which often does not take into account the center diamond.

The post 8 Mistakes to Avoid When Shopping for an Engagement Ring appeared first on The Loupe.

At Shane Co., we feel honored to be a part of so many engagements each year. Getting engaged is a huge milestone, and with so many components and decisions leading up to getting engaged, it’s no wonder there are so many traditions surrounding it.

Tradition helps us determine how to act in situations we might not know how to navigate otherwise. They are not set in stone (forgive the pun), however, and often have interesting, meandering histories. Did you know that men kneeling to propose might have originated in the Medieval era with men devoting themselves to their Earthly ideal, often a noblewoman? That’s why it’s so appealing for us to find out what proposals look like today. How many of these traditions have lasted and how many have changed with the times?

We decided to conduct a survey to determine what proposals and engagements look like today in the United States. We surveyed 1,376 married or engaged U.S. adults about what their proposals, from the relationship beforehand to the photos taken after looked like.

Read on to discover our findings! 

Average Relationship Timelines

First, we decided to dive into what relationships, from the first date to the wedding day, look like on a timeline. We asked our participants how long they dated their partner before they got engaged, how long they lived together before their engagement (if they did), and how long their engagement lasted. We then broke down each segment into averages by generation and by sexual orientation. 

So what does the average relationship timeline look like by generation? According to our findings, Gen Xers had the longest relationships before getting engaged, with an average of 25 months or just over 2 years. Couples of the “latchkey generation,” which is noted for its emphasis on independence and individualism, lived together the longest before getting engaged, with an average of 14 months. 

We also found it remarkable how engagement lengths have varied greatly over the generations. Baby Boomers were engaged for less than a year on average, while Gen Xers were engaged for 18 months. Millennials had engagement periods of around 16 months, which is the average overall. We suppose Gen Z will determine whether the average engagement period increases or decreases over time! 

Similarly, we observed differences between the relationship timelines of opposite-sex and same-sex couples. Same-sex couples dated for much longer before getting engaged, an average of 29 months, which, of course, must be considered in the light of marriage equality in the United States. Same-sex couples also had longer engagement periods and lived together longer than opposite-sex couples.

Of course, there are many other reasons engagements and relationships prior to marriage might look different among various couples. We also asked questions about our respondents’ lives when they got engaged; what stage of life were they in when they became affianced? 

Life Around Engagement

As engagements and proposals have changed, so have the lives of those getting engaged. More often than ever, couples may own a home together or have children together before they get engaged. After all, there isn’t one right way to get engaged!

In fact, traditions aside, 47.3% of couples moved in together before they get engaged. Although they tended to live together for a relatively short period (46.7% lived together for a year or less before getting engaged), living together is a noteworthy precursor to getting engaged.

While the majority of couples surveyed did not own a home together before getting engaged, our results indicated that opposite-sex couples (38.1%) were more likely than same-sex couples (31.5%) to close on a house before their wedding day. 

Popping the Question

Picture a proposal in your head. We’d venture to bet the image that comes to mind involves a man on one knee, a diamond ring, and a wonderfully surprised girlfriend. Of course, popping the question has a highly traditional element to it. But are people today following tradition? 

The median engagement age of our respondents was 26, close to the national average of 28 for women and 30 for men. This stat is on trend that the age at first engagement has been steadily increasing for decades. In 81% of couples, the standard picture of men doing the proposing remains accurate, as does the element of surprise, which is still the case in 73% of engagements.   

A feature of 21st-century engagements is their public setting, such as at sports games or concerts. However, the fact remains that 68% of engagements are private, with only 4% of engagements taking place in a highly public manner. 

The Ring

It’s no surprise that at Shane Co., we have a huge interest in the ring part of engagements. Not just in the most popular stone or setting chosen, but the cultural norms that surround them. Historically, it was expected for a male fiancé to purchase a ring, which he gifted to his betrothed for her to wear throughout the engagement period.

Naturally, things have changed over time. 85% of proposals still involve a ring, with 13% of couples splitting the cost of that ring. When you break it down by sexual orientation, 24.8% of same-sex couples and 11.5% of opposite-sex couples split the cost of the ring. 

Shopping for engagement rings has changed too. 60% of opposite-sex couples and 70% of same-sex couples pick the ring out together, instead of one partner choosing for the other. When it comes to getting engaged, however, 53% say the ring doesn’t matter at all, while 6% of people would turn down the proposal if they didn’t like the ring. 

Finally, we decided to take a look at how deeply some popular engagement trends of recent decades have influenced proposals. 

Engagements and Culture

Popping the question is a huge moment. It can be the culmination of months of planning and years of being together. There’s also plenty to consider when it comes to culture and trends: will you ask your partners’ parents’ permission? Will you have a photographer present? Will it be exactly how you and how you envision your partner always wanted?

Interestingly, though only 4% of engagements are fully public, 56% of people reported that they would prefer a public proposal. Even still, only 19% of engagements have a photographer present to capture the moment, although having engagement photos taken after the fact have become increasingly popular with each generation.

Still erring on the side of traditional, 52% of people ask for parents’ permission before proposing. Unfortunately, 22% of respondents stated their proposal was not exactly what they wanted. Luckily that means more than three-quarters of people DO have the engagement of their dreams. 

What About You?

We’d love to hear your thoughts on our survey results, as well as hear about your own experiences with proposals and engagement norms. What did your engagement look like? Did you follow tradition or do something completely your own? Did you have an awesome photoshoot, or are those memories simply left in your head? We welcome your comments and pictures via email (social@shaneco.com) or on social media (@shanecompany).

The post Engagement and Proposal Traditions in the United States appeared first on The Loupe.

DO:

Print out inspirational photos ahead of time. It can be super helpful for your engagement ring consultant to get a general idea of what your style is and what inspires you before beginning your shopping experience — and what better way to do that than to literally show them what you like? Narrowing down your options, even to something like metal type, makes it much easier to start looking…and will be way less stressful for you in the long run.

Discuss your budget. While this may not be the most romantic thing to think about, it’s important to have an idea of what you’re able (and willing) to spend before you walk into the store. Determining things like who is paying for what and how much you can spend will ensure there are no awkward in-store conversations or confusion. Instead, you can focus on your dream ring and help your engagement ring consultant find you the biggest, brightest diamond and setting you can afford.

Create a timeline. If you find “the one,” are you planning on buying the ring that day or at a later date? Options such as financing and layaway will nearly always be on the table — or maybe you want to pick out your ring with your sweetheart, but have him come back and make the final call so your proposal will be a surprise.

Make it an experience to remember. While it can be tempting to just wander around, remember that this is a purchase that holds a lot of meaning and symbolism. You may want to plan a lunch or dinner, dress up, or schedule specific times to go ring shopping — that way, you won’t just have the ring, you’ll have an engagement ring shopping experience you can think back on and remember fondly.

DON’T:

Try to go everywhere in one day. We don’t recommend trying to see more than three stores in one day (or weekend). Simply choose your top three and visit those. Having too many options can often lead to making an impulse decision, rather than choosing what you really love most.

Set hard goals. Far too often, we see couples come into the store looking for a specific carat weight, only to find out that it’s well over their budget. It’s important to do research to determine what you’re looking for and what you can afford with your budget, but we do not recommend setting any hard goals. For example — if you said you wanted a 1.00-carat diamond, you may not have known that you could also afford a 1.50-carat stone with a lower color and clarity. You’ll miss out on a lot of gorgeous options if you come in with too many set goals in mind.

Make a decision based solely on the ring. Before purchasing your ring, be sure to ask about added benefits like warranties, returns, sizing and upgrades. Many jewelers charge after the ring purchase for these options, and you may be surprised at how much it all adds up. A jeweler who offers all of these free with purchase may be a better option, even if the ring itself is a little more expensive.

Expect to wear your ring the day of purchase. Many times, your ring will need to be resized or set before you can actually take it home. This is especially true if you’re customizing your ring by choosing the stone and setting separately. Keep this in mind when you go engagement ring shopping, so you aren’t taken by surprise when you hear there’s a waiting period.

The post Engagement Ring Shopping Dos and Don’ts appeared first on The Loupe.

What is shape?

The “shape” of a diamond or other precious stone is the outline of the stone, looking at it from the top down. We typically think of 10 diamond shapes — round, cushion, princess, emerald, asscher, marquise, heart, oval, pear and radiant. Each shape is carefully cut by expert diamond cutters to obtain maximum sparkle and create a specific style. Let’s take a closer look at each of our favorite diamond shapes.

Round

Round diamonds are by far the most popular diamond shape, taking up 75% of the market for all diamonds sold. They look great with any style of engagement ring setting and are considered the go-to for maximum sparkle. The mechanics of the round shape allow for the perfect reflection of light, if cut with the right quality standards. They are also the only non-fancy “traditional” shape.

Cushion

Cushion cut stones get their name from their resemblance to pillows — square with rounded corners. They tend to have an “antique” feel to them and look particularly appealing when paired with vintage-style settings. For the first century it was around, cushion cut diamonds were actually the most popular diamond shape, surpassing round cuts until the early 20th century.

Princess

Princess cut diamonds were created in 1980 and are now the most popular fancy cut, particularly for engagement rings. With a square, sometimes slightly rectangular shape, they do a beautiful job of reflecting light and creating sparkle. Like round cut diamonds, they tend to blend well with almost all engagement ring setting styles.

Emerald

Emerald cut stones are rectangular-shaped, with unique facets that produce a “hall of mirrors” effect, as opposed to the traditional sparkle of a round or similar cut. This emphasizes the dark and light areas, offering drama and elegance to this unique shape. If you’re looking to elongate the hand, emerald diamond shapes are the way to go — just remember that inclusions are often easier to see in an emerald cut, so you may need a higher clarity level for that perfect-looking stone.

Marquise

The marquise cut is similar to a football shape and was named after the Marquise of Pompadour. Their narrow shape gives off the illusion of length and size, and with the largest crown surface area of any diamond shape, they are great to maximize your budget for size. They can vary in narrowness depending on the cut and look great in many engagement ring settings, including solitaire, three-stone, and pavé.

Heart

Heart-shaped stones are exactly what they sound like — the well-known symbol of love cut from a diamond. While less popular in traditional engagement rings, they can often be found ornamenting right-hand rings, pendant necklaces and more.

Oval

Ovals combine the traditional brilliance of a round diamond with a more contemporary, standout cut. They also have an elongated shape, which can sometimes give the illusion of making them appear larger and lengthen the finger of those wearing them. They look particularly beautiful in a solitaire setting, but can easily blend into any setting because of their sophisticated shape.

Pear

As a combination of a round and marquise shape, pear-shaped diamonds offer the best of both worlds. They provide the finger-slimming effects of the marquise with the superior sparkle of the round cut. If you’re looking for a diamond shape that offers uniqueness and chic style, pear cuts are the way to go. Whether it’s partnered with baguette side stones, a gorgeous halo, or taking center stage in a solitaire setting, pear-shaped stones always make an impact.

Radiant

Radiant cut diamonds are a cross between a cushion and princess cut, with a square shape and cropped, angular corners. They provide amazing sparkle and a vibrant stone that offers a little something different. With this simple but not understated shape, solitaire or pavé settings will bring out the particular sparkle of radiant stones.

Why we sell loose stones

We aim to make it easy for our customers to create the engagement ring of their dreams — without the hefty price tag that comes along with it. Selling our diamonds, rubies and sapphires loose allows you to prioritize your budget and shop from the largest variety of stone shapes and colors to find the perfect one. You can begin your journey by choosing a setting, or pick your favorite stone first to start the process of creating your engagement ring.

High quality standards

We buy our diamonds directly from the cutters, getting rid of the middlemen and passing the savings on to you. Because of our long-standing relationships in the industry, we get first pick of all newly cut stones, and we choose to prioritize based on each stone’s particular sparkle and beauty, choosing the prettiest diamonds, rubies and sapphires in every grade. Shop all engagement rings on ShaneCo.com, or visit your nearest store to get started.

The post Everything You Wanted to Know About Diamond Shapes appeared first on The Loupe.

Did you know that Shane Co. has the best lifetime warranty in the business? Well, now you do! Our 100% Free Lifetime Warranty covers even the center stone of your engagement ring, as long as you stay up to date on cleaning and checkups. With our noncommission, no-pressure sales team and expert in-store jewelers, your piece will receive the love and attention it needs — even when accidents happen.

Still aren’t convinced? Well, you don’t need to hear it from us — take it straight from our customers with these warranty stories.

Lisa R. says:

“Recently my center stone fell out of the setting. GONE! I searched high and low and turned the house upside down easily 100 times. I panicked. I’ve kept up with my cleanings and inspections and my husband reminded me about the warranty and we called Shane Co. They said to come on in to see what they could do. I wasn’t very optimistic. I came in on a very busy day and went toward the back to try and find anyone available. I must’ve looked distressed, because when Michelle saw me she instantly asked what was wrong and if everything was okay. I immediately began to tear up and told her what happened. She calmly said to come with her and that we would figure it out together. After a short amount of time looking up my information, Michelle informed me that she found a comparable stone and that she’d have it mailed in to be mounted in just a few days. I was speechless. I’ve since picked up my ring and it was perfect. Although the original stone held more sentimental value for me, Shane Co. and Michelle went above and beyond to help me. The customer service, authentic compassion and caliber of professionalism that Michelle showed me was exceptional. She was so genuine and even called me a few days later to check up on me. Michelle and Shane Co.: THANK YOU. I appreciate you so much and am so grateful. My husband and I thank you from the bottom of our hearts. You have loyal customers for life. I keep telling everyone I know to ONLY buy from Shane Co. Thank you!!!”

Tucker H. says:

“My fiancée and I had her engagement ring for only three weeks when her diamond fell out (due to far more than normal wear and tear…whoops). We were absolutely terrified we would have to deal with insurance, claims, etc., but Shane Co. made it as easy as coming in and explaining what happened. Their lifetime warranty COMPLETELY covered the lost main stone and damaged band. Kat took amazing care of us and put us at ease that this would all be covered by Shane Co. and we could breathe again. We will never shop anywhere except Shane Co. for jewelry again. Best warranty in the industry.”

Carol P. says:

“We bought my ring here back in ’06. We bring it in about 2x a year for cleaning, rhodium, etc. In 13 years, I lost two accent diamonds: once at the beach, then another while wrenching on our Jeep. Because we take it in regularly, it has a lifetime warranty and both times they replaced the diamond for free. They’re very professional and helpful. I’m soooooo glad my hubby bought my ring here.”

Tanya H. says:

“My husband bought me some Tahitian pearls for Christmas of 2006, with matching earrings, and he accidentally broke them while he was helping me take them off last week. We took them back to Shane Co. in Roseville, which is where we bought them, and their customer service was amazing! Anna was so attentive and helpful and even took down our anniversary and birthdays, so they would be sure to send us a card or email! The good news is that we won’t have to pay a dime out of pocket since the pearls were under their lifetime warranty, which is standard for Shane Co. jewelry! So, if you are looking at getting your special someone a ring, necklace or any kind of jewelry and want excellent customer service, Shane Co. is your place!”

Dana J. says:

“Shane Co. went above and beyond our expectations when I managed to lose the center stone from my engagement ring at work. I was so worried and they were reassuring and stood by their warranty to replace the center stone and make my ring stronger so this wouldn’t happen again. Cannot thank them enough!”

Diana M. says:

“Just received my wedding ring in the mail after getting repair work done and I am in tears. Last week, I was devastated when I smashed my hand in a ladder, flattened my ring and lost a diamond. I called Shane Co. just to see what size the diamond was so I could begin to look for a replacement. They told me, “Oh, it’s under warranty.” Guys. I just got a diamond replacement (smaller one) and repairs FOR FREE. I’m so grateful my husband got my ring at Shane Co. and will forever sing their praises. You’re not just buying THE ring. You’re buying protection for when life happens and you damage one of the most sentimental pieces you own.”

There you have it! Besides having the most comprehensive lifetime warranty in the industry, Shane Co. creates pieces that are built to last. Learn more about our superior standards of quality.

The post Tales From the Warranty appeared first on The Loupe.

Did you know that if you went online today to compare the prices of a 1.00-carat round diamond to a sapphire of the same size, you’d end up spending nearly five times more for the diamond? Combined with the rising trend of colorful center stone engagement rings, it’s no wonder that brides-to-be are letting go of the age-old tradition of a diamond engagement ring, opting instead for budget-friendly alternatives.

“Our customers’ interest in colored stones is rapidly increasing,” says a Shane Co. jewelry expert. “Traditional blue, white and peach sapphires are three of our most requested-for engagement rings.”

A long journey to the perfect ring

According to popular wedding site The Knot, consumers are looking at 26 rings over a period of 3.5 months throughout their engagement ring shopping journey. And according to Shane Co. stores, at least part of the reason they’re doing so is because they’re on the search for the largest diamond they can afford within their budget.

“We can thank celebrities and royals like Princess Eugenie, Lady Gaga and Gwyneth Paltrow for starting this trend and giving women the confidence to consider colored center stones for their engagement rings,” says our expert. “But it’s the price and rarity of these stones that truly closes the deal.”

Durable and beautiful

Much like diamonds, sapphires make great options for engagement rings because of their hardness and ability to withstand daily wear. They also come in every fancy shape from oval to emerald, making them easily accessorized with a unique setting.

Alternatively, semiprecious gemstones, like aquamarine or emerald, don’t function as well in engagement rings because of their relative softness and low rating on the Mohs scale of hardness. This means they are more prone to damage and better suited to fashion jewelry like pendants.

Customer testimony

Don’t just take our word for it — our customers absolutely love the unique look that goes along with sapphire center stones.

Bonnie Olian, who was engaged in 2017 and married in 2018, recently traded in her diamond for a 2.00-carat colored sapphire.

“I loved my engagement ring — but I really envied the look of a larger center stone,” says Olian.

“Since Shane Co. opened over 40 years ago, diamonds have been and always will be our No. 1 seller for engagement rings,” Davis comments. “But we love how much fun these new brides are having with playing with color and sapphires as a modern twist for their rings.”

Celebrity inspiration

Here are some of our favorite engagement rings celebrities are rocking today:

• Princess Eugenie’s ring shows off a rare padparadscha sapphire, complete with a gorgeous halo of diamonds surrounding the oval stone.

• Lady Gaga favors a beautiful sapphire engagement ring in a fun floral-inspired halo design. Her 6.00-7.00-carat bright pink sapphire certainly turns heads!

• We’ve probably all fawned over Kate Middleton’s stunning blue sapphire ring. By wearing another popular halo, Kate stays on trend while evoking past traditions — the ring originally belonged to Princess Diana.

• Elizabeth Hurley’s 9.00-carat blue sapphire engagement ring is flanked by two triangular diamonds, creating an unforgettable look.

• Gwyneth Paltrow’s bling-tastic traditional blue sapphire engagement ring features a diamond-studded band that highlights her show-stopping stone.

• Penelope Cruz sports a vintage-inspired 3.00-carat blue sapphire ring framed by a flower-shaped halo of diamonds.

To find the perfect sapphire for your engagement ring, visit ShaneCo.com and start creating your dream ring when you shop by stone. You can also start by picking out your favorite setting and completing it with the sapphire, ruby or diamond of your choice. To learn more about diamond alternatives, you can read up on white sapphires and lab-created diamonds.

The post Sapphire Engagement Rings Are Trending appeared first on The Loupe.

Besides offering premounted rings for a simple way to propose, Shane Co. also allows you to customize your engagement ring in an easy three-step process:

1. Pick your favorite setting from over a thousand exclusive designs.
2. Choose the perfect diamond, ruby or sapphire center stone.
3. Make it yours with personal engravings, decorative crowns, matching bands and more.

But how can you make the most out of our customization options? Let’s take an in-depth look at building your dream ring.

Engraving

If you’re looking to make your engagement ring even more meaningful, getting a unique engraving is definitely the way to go. We offer a flat $50 fee for engraving, no matter the message, in a variety of fonts. This way, you can choose a look that’s special to you and your partner, and a message that will last as long as your love. Here are some ideas for engraving your engagement ring:

• Your names or initials
• The date you met
• The date of your wedding
• Your favorite song lyrics
• A meaningful Bible verse
• The coordinates of where you met
• “I thee wed”
• “I love you”
• “My heart is yours”
• “Always and forever”
• “To have and to hold”
• “To infinity and beyond”
• “I do”
• “Happily ever after”
• Split messages
• Sweet nicknames
• Foreign language phrases

Decorative crowns

Halo decorative crowns: A halo engagement ring contains a ring (or two, or three) of pavé-set diamonds that encircle your center stone. Besides being a unique and contemporary style, decorative crowns can also have the effect of creating a bigger-looking stone. We offer halo decorative crowns in different metals to either match your ring or introduce a chic splash of color.

Other decorative crowns: We also offer unique fashionable mountings that add a personalized touch to your center stone. Choose from options like this Diamond Decorative Crown to add vintage-style detailing to 1-carat stones, or this Diamond Alexa Head for an extra layer of sparkle on a gorgeous ring.

Add a wedding band

Did you know that you can find prematched wedding bands for your engagement ring? Click here to start shopping all prematched bands, or visit your nearest Shane Co. store to speak with a member of our no-pressure, noncommission staff about finding the perfect matching band for your dream ring. You can also add a band by browsing our selection of high-quality wedding rings and choosing the right one for you. Whether you decide on something simple, contemporary or perfectly unique, we know you’ll be able to create the perfect match when you shop the largest selection of women’s and men’s wedding bands.

Band stacking

Of course, you don’t need to stop with a wedding band. Shane Co. is also your hub for all things bridal — that means we have beautiful anniversary rings, promise rings and more. Creating a stack of bands is a great way to update your wedding jewelry without switching your ring, and our selection of anniversary rings makes the perfect gift to celebrate your years as a married couple.

Ready to find the ring you’ve been dreaming about? Start customizing your engagement ring today in person or online at ShaneCo.com.

The post How to Customize Your Engagement Ring appeared first on The Loupe.

Dreaming about getting engaged, but can’t figure out what kind of ring you want? With so many gorgeous options to choose from, it can be hard to decide on just one. Luckily, we have tools to help you find the perfect engagement ring without spending hours searching through images.

Our newest tool, MatchMaker, allows you to tap “like” or “dislike” on a wide variety of ring images and gains information about your preferences that you may not even realize yourself. Then, we’ll provide you with a personally curated list of engagement rings that we think match your style. It’s fun and easy to play — even with your partner looking on!

To try out MatchMaker for yourself, click here. If you’d rather browse all Shane Co. engagement rings, visit our website to get started.

The post It’s Time to Meet Your Match appeared first on The Loupe.

If you’ve been paying attention to all the latest fashion trends, you’ve probably seen baguette stones pop up on a pretty regular basis. In engagement rings, they complement an emerald cut center stone beautifully. With a clean and modern look, these stones make an impact whether they’re set east-west or north-south. Because of their unique facets, the quality of baguette stones must be higher in order to create a cohesive style, giving baguette bands an incredibly sparkly and elegant appearance.

The history of baguettes

The baguette stone gained popularity during the early 1900s throughout the Art Deco period, largely because of its geometric, symmetrical shape, which was extremely fashionable at the time. In this era, fine jewelry largely disobeyed conventional norms, instead leaning toward diamond shapes and metals that weren’t just the more traditional round diamond set in platinum that was popular years earlier.

Two of the most famous baguette rings in history were worn by style icons Audrey Hepburn and Marilyn Monroe in the early 1950s. Not only did they break the convention of a traditional engagement ring, but their baguette rings began to shape a new culture of unique, personalized wedding jewelry.

Emerald + baguette = a match made in heaven

Since the introduction of these uniquely shaped stones, they tend to be seen alongside each other because of their similar appearances. From a distance, one can even mistake an emerald cut for a baguette — the main difference is that while emerald cut diamonds feature polished corners, baguettes feature more angular ones. Emerald diamonds also tend to come in larger sizes than baguettes.

These diamonds are popular with celebrities because of their exquisite shape, but they are also known for the way in which they show flaws — both in clarity and color. Because of their stepped faceting, emerald cut diamonds show inclusions and yellow coloring to the naked eye much more clearly than other cuts. In order to have a great-quality emerald cut diamond, it needs to be nearly flawless, meaning graded between a VVS1/2 and F-D, thus making it more expensive for a larger carat size.

Today’s glamour

The steadily maintained trend of classic, dainty engagement rings can absolutely be attributed to the rise in popularity of baguette wedding bands. They pair especially well with stones that are similarly faceted, such as asscher, radiant and emerald cut diamonds. Because alternative diamond shapes have been steadily rising in popularity, this style is especially relevant for a vintage-style look that fits into all the latest trends.

How are brides wearing their bands?

Rather than choosing an engagement ring that speaks to their personal style, on-trend brides have begun choosing simpler engagement rings and showing off with a unique wedding band. Historically, baguette bands were only shown in white gold, but with rose gold and yellow gold growing in popularity, customers are loving the new modern appeal of these combinations. Brides are wearing their baguette bands both as a single wedding band and styled with vintage and classic pavé bands in a stylish stack.

Get the look

Try this unique style for yourself with some of our favorite picks:

This unique Baguette & Diamond Wedding Band almost gives the appearance of a band stack, with a layer of baguette diamonds sitting gracefully on top of pavé-set round diamonds in 14k white gold.

For a chic and simple look, try this Pave-Set Baguette Diamond Wedding Band. This popular style looks great with any style of engagement ring by adding a hint of Hollywood glamour.

Made with timeless 14k yellow gold, this Baguette and Round Diamond Wedding Band provides the ultimate sparkle. With seven brilliant round and six baguette diamonds, it’s the ring you’ll love to wear.

This Baguette and Round Diamond Contour Wedding Band provides the perfect resting place for your engagement ring, combining two popular trends in one beautiful ring. The round and baguette diamonds complement the sleek yellow gold band perfectly.

The post Stay On-Trend With Baguette Wedding Bands appeared first on The Loupe.

Myth #1: The three months’ salary rule

You’ve probably heard of the old adage that an engagement ring should cost the equivalent of three months’ salary. But how much should you spend on an engagement ring? The answer is more variable than you might think. A poll of 1,640 adults confirmed that the “three months rule” may be going out of style.

While the numbers vary, it’s estimated that the average spend for an engagement ring is between $5,000 and $7,000. The most important thing to remember when deciding how much to spend on an engagement ring is that this decision is entirely personal: Take into account your budget, the type of ring and stone your loved one wants, and the emotional significance of the purchase.

Myth #2: The bigger, the better

Maybe you’ve been dreaming of the giant rocks you see on the hands of celebrities, or maybe you’ve just bought into the idea that a bigger diamond is always better. Either way, this myth is simply untrue. A bigger diamond doesn’t necessarily mean it will look prettier on her hand, nor does it mean that the diamond will have all of the sparkle you’re looking for. You may find that, when looking at diamonds, a smaller one is much more brilliant than a duller, larger stone. The appearance of your diamond is much more dependent on cut, color and clarity than on carat weight, so you can stop worrying that you’re not going big enough.

Myth #3: Engagement ring shopping is a solo act

Engagement ring shopping can be complicated and even stressful, especially if you’re unsure of what your partner wants. So why make it harder on yourself? There shouldn’t be any stigma behind shopping with your significant other; instead, think about the benefits. To start, she’s the one who’s going to be wearing the ring. As well as you may know your future fiancée, we can pretty much guarantee that they know themselves better.

Remember: This and your wedding bands are probably the one purchase you’ll make that will truly last forever. For those of you worried about ruining the surprise, keep in mind that this is something she’s been thinking about for a long time — we can all but promise she’ll be glad you included her in the decision. You can also choose to window shop and save the final unveiling of the ring for the real proposal. Either way, you’ll feel much more confident knowing that she already loves her ring.

Myth #4: Yellow gold is outdated

Yellow gold is sometimes perceived as old-fashioned, but this classic metal is making a big comeback. With vintage engagement rings becoming more and more popular, yellow gold is no longer just appearing on your grandma’s ring. In fact, Meghan Markle and Emily Ratajkowski both recently sported yellow gold engagement rings that were the hit of the fashion world. Luckily, Shane Co. carries a huge variety of stunning yellow gold engagement ring settings as well as unique rose gold engagement rings that you can easily personalize with the center stone of your choice.

Myth #5: Engagement ring = diamonds

One of the biggest myths you may believe about engagement rings is that they must have a diamond as the center stone. This one makes sense — after all, diamonds are forever, right? While it’s true that diamond engagement rings are the most traditional route (74 percent of all engagement rings in 2018 highlighted a diamond), that doesn’t mean it’s your only option. Actually, it seems like alternative engagement rings are becoming more popular than ever, with celebrities like Halle Berry and Jessica Simpson jumping in on the trend with their gorgeous emerald and ruby rings. Shane Co. carries popular ruby engagement rings, pink sapphire engagement rings and more to complement your tastes.

Myth #6: Custom designing is expensive and difficult

An engagement ring is much more than just a piece of jewelry, it’s a symbol of commitment between two people who love each other. And if your love is unique, why shouldn’t your ring be, too? That’s the thought process of many hopeful couples beginning their search for a custom engagement ring. However, you may have been dissuaded from customizing your ring on the premise that it will cost more and take much longer to make than the thousands of mass-produced designs currently available on the market. This is simply not true.

At Shane Co., we make it easy to customize your engagement ring with the stone and setting of your choice. We carry over 1,000 exclusive Engagement Ring designs, the majority of which require you to pick out a center stone in a shape, color and cut that fits your personal style. We even have engravable designs to better personalize your piece, as well as customizable setting options that are sure to make your ring one of a kind.

Myth #7: Engagement rings are for women only

It’s 2019, and the traditional idea of an engagement is ever-changing. According to a survey done a few years ago by the media group responsible for The Knot, XO Group Inc., 5 percent of men were wearing engagement rings, and the trend has only grown since then. With marriages becoming more egalitarian and the idea of gender equality in all areas making its way into the mainstream, there’s no reason why engagement rings shouldn’t follow. Men’s engagement rings can come in a variety of styles. In any case, it’s certainly something to keep in mind as you prepare to begin your journey as an engaged couple.

Myth #8: A diamond can never break

Because diamonds have the highest rating of 10 on the Mohs scale of hardness, many people incorrectly assume their diamond can’t chip, crack and suffer other surface damage. Unfortunately, it’s still possible for your diamond to break if it is struck with sufficient force and in just the right way, which is why we always stress the importance of picking out a setting that works with your lifestyle. Remember to remove your ring when engaging in sports or other activities that can potentially cause harm to your stone, and make sure to inspect it for any new damage on a regular basis.

On the bright side, Shane Co. offers a Free Lifetime Warranty with all of their engagement rings, including the center stone. So even if your diamond takes a tumble, we’re here to make sure your ring remains as beautiful as the day he proposed.

Myth #9: You must know her ring size first

Contrary to popular belief, you don’t need to know your loved one’s ring size before you pick out the ring. Most jewelers will be able to resize your ring after the proposal if it’s within about two sizes of her actual size. As long as you have an idea of what fits, you shouldn’t have a problem picking out the ring beforehand. At Shane Co., resizing is even included in your purchase, so you don’t have to worry about any extra fees. If you’re committed to keeping your proposal a surprise, inquiring about her ring size is a dead giveaway. Keep your cool and resize at a later date.

Myth #10: Diamond fluorescence is bad

You may have heard the phrase “diamond fluorescence” being thrown around and believed the rumors that it connotes a less valuable diamond. This is a myth. But let’s get to back to basics: What is diamond fluorescence, and how does it affect the value of your stone? Diamond fluorescence is the glow you may see when the diamond is viewed under ultraviolet light. Some diamonds emit a bluish or (rarely) yellowish light when exposed to UV rays. However, there is no grading factor for fluorescence, despite it being relatively common in gems. About 25 to 35 percent of diamonds exhibit fluorescence — it’s not unusual and it certainly doesn’t lower the grade of your diamond. In fact, some experts believe that blue fluorescence can even enhance a diamond’s appearance, making a yellowish diamond appear more colorless in UV light.

In the end, it’s really more of a personal preference than anything else. If you don’t like the look of a more fluorescent diamond, don’t take it home, and always make sure to carefully inspect the stone you’re considering before buying.

Myth #11: You get a better deal when you don’t buy retail

It may be tempting to think that purchasing a ring through an online auction or wholesaler will save you money, but there’s no hard-and-fast rule when it comes to engagement ring prices. You also have to take into consideration that this is potentially a purchase you will only make once in your lifetime — so figure out what aspects of the ring matter the most to you and make sure you are not just getting a good price, but a good value. Buying from a retailer also offers additional advantages, like working with an experienced jeweler to help you select the right stone and setting, as well as free repairs and other benefits that would otherwise end up costing you more money in the long run.

Shane Co. is dedicated to offering you the highest-quality jewelry, whatever your budget, as well as cleaning, inspection, maintenance, resizing, upgrade and trade-in policies, and more.

Myth #12: Your jeweler is trying to upsell you

Another myth people hold about retail jewelry stores is that your jeweler is always trying to get you to spend beyond your budget. At Shane Co., this is absolutely untrue. Our staff is dedicated to delivering an enjoyable and personalized experience for every customer. Because our staff doesn’t work on commission, you’ll never feel pressured into spending more than you can afford. We also use store lighting that replicates natural daylight so you can see the true color and sparkle of whatever you’re buying, without feeling disappointed in your purchase once you exit the store.

Our goal is to educate you, show you as many options as you want to see, and help you make the best decision. We make the process of buying an engagement ring something to celebrate by removing the stress from the equation. We’ll answer any questions you have and work together with you so you can leave confident in your buying decision and ready for your proposal.

The post Engagement Ring Myths Debunked appeared first on The Loupe.

Looking for affordable engagement ring options? You’re not alone. A recent survey conducted by TD Ameritrade revealed that younger Americans don’t think engagement rings should cost more than $3,000. At the same time, high-end fashion trends seem to be at an all-time high, popularizing expensive inspiration that may not be giving you the most bang for your buck. Cluster engagement rings may be the style we’ve all been waiting for.

As more millennials are considering taking the next big step (with smaller budgets), we can expect them to be on the search for nontraditional looks that offer a more reasonable price range but still give that classic “wow” factor. Luckily, there are now innovative engagement ring styles available that offer budget-friendly options for a standout ring.

Cluster engagement rings

Cluster engagement rings offer a big-sparkle look without the hefty price tag. Made up of a collection of smaller gems that come together to create the appearance of a bigger diamond, these rings are the perfect alternative to pricey center stones, if you’re open to a more contemporary style.

Trendy and modern

Besides offering a lower price point, cluster engagement rings have been growing in popularity over the years — even some of our favorite celebrities have been seen sporting this distinctive style:

Katy Perry showed off her engagement ring from fiancé Orlando Bloom in February, featuring a unique flower design highlighting a bright red ruby.

In her previous engagement, Scarlett Johansson wore an Art Deco-inspired cluster engagement ring that offered just the right amount of bling.

Christina Applegate combined her wedding and engagement ring for a cluster ring style worthy of an encore (or two).

Exclusive designs

Want to try out this distinctive style for yourself? Here are some of our favorites:

This Pear-Shaped Cluster Diamond Ring comes in our signature shade of 14k rose gold, giving it a unique and feminine look. With 12 round diamonds and a sweet pear-shaped design, this ring is a stunner for only $1,185.

If you’re not a fan of diamonds, our White Sapphire Cluster Ring in 14k Yellow Gold is a steal that offers superior sparkle. Twenty-one round white sapphires come together in this gorgeous cluster design paired with a classic yellow gold band. Shop now for only $680.

For an added pop of color, this Traditional Blue Sapphire and Diamond Cluster Ring is elegant and sophisticated. Sixteen round blue sapphires surround 21 brilliant round diamonds for the ultimate bling — and at $577, you don’t have to worry about going over budget.

Featuring a unique floral-like design, this diamond ring shines brightly with a diamond-encrusted face and band highlighted by 14k white gold. Not to mention, this showstopper is available for just $2,570.

For more rose gold sparkle, this Diamond Floral Ring in 14k Rose Gold has vintage-inspired details complemented by an on-trend design. Fifty-seven round diamonds create gorgeous patterns encircling five larger diamonds, which act as the focal point. You can take this ring home for $1,497.

Other affordable options

If you’re looking for other ways to ensure you and your partner will stay on budget when choosing affordable engagement rings, it can be extremely beneficial to create your own engagement ring by picking out a center stone and setting separately. Doing this allows you to prioritize your budget based on what matters most to you. For example, you may decide to choose a simpler setting, such as a white gold solitaire, so that you have more money to spend on a bigger center stone. Or you may choose to opt for a sapphire or ruby rather than a diamond, which can cut down the price of your ring significantly.

Why shop Shane Co.?

Shane Co. makes it easy to customize your engagement ring in three easy steps: 1. Choose your favorite setting. 2. Choose the perfect center stone. 3. Personalize it with engraving and more! You can even shop by price online or speak with a member of our no-pressure, noncommission staff to figure out how to create your dream ring without breaking your budget. We also offer preset rings in every price range and all our favorite styles.

Because we buy our diamonds directly from the cutters, we are able to get rid of the middlemen and pass the savings on to you. As fourth-generation jewelers, we’ve developed long-standing relationships with our cutters and jewelry vendors, allowing us to get first pick of all newly cut stones. We optimize for quality and offer fair prices that give you the best value in the business.

Still struggling to find the perfect ring? Take our ring style finder quiz to see a list of exclusive Shane Co. designs curated especially for you.

The post Now Trending: Cluster Engagement Rings appeared first on The Loupe.

At Shane Co., we feel lucky to be a part of such a special day in so many couples’ lives. Hearing our customers’ engagement stories reminds us of the importance of love and companionship and the many meaningful moments along the way. Getting engaged is a big step, but finding the perfect ring is only the beginning, which is why we’re highlighting some of our customers’ love stories and sharing them with the world.

Karrie and Casey are an incredible couple that have had to defy long-distance odds to start planning their life together. We asked them about their journey and how they ended up at Shane Co.

Who are Karrie and Casey?

Karrie is originally from Southern California. She moved to sunny Colorado eight years ago and currently lives with their eight-year-old and four-year-old. She works in the mental health field and focuses on helping people find recovery and treatment across the nation. She’s studying to become a personal trainer, though her dream is to start a food truck company with her now-fiancée, Casey. They have two dogs: a Chihuahua named Rocky and a French bulldog named Frankie. 

Casey is an East Coaster from a small town in Connecticut. She grew up with her eccentric Italian family, working in her family’s restaurant before moving to Colorado seven years ago to finish school. Last year, she opened a private practice focusing specifically on providing mental health/addiction services to the LGBTQ+ community. She was offered a job in Thailand shortly after meeting Karrie and just couldn’t pass up the opportunity for new adventures and experiences. She is now the primary therapist at an LGBTQ+ treatment center in Chiang Mai. Karrie and Casey’s dog, Frankie (a.k.a. Meatball), lives with her, while Karrie and the kids remain in the United States. She shares Karrie’s vision of opening up a food truck and sharing her family’s recipes with the world.  

Q: How did you two meet?

Casey: It was a Friday night in July. I went to see my friend perform in a play. After the performance, he said, “I want you to meet a couple of my friends.” I met Karrie and she blasted me with information! She asked me so many questions that I left thinking, “What just happened?” On the drive home I thought, well, she’s attractive but probably off limits. My intentions were strictly business … little did I know …

Karrie: Our story is quite dreamy! Honestly, it was love at first sight for me. We had a mutual friend that was in a play, but we didn’t know each other yet. As the play began, the stage lights lit up the first row of seats and I happened to glance over and see Casey. I remember saying to myself, “Wow, she is strikingly gorgeous!” I couldn’t stop looking at her big, beautiful eyes and incredible smile. At the end of the play, she ran up and hugged our mutual friend. I began to introduce myself, talking a mile a minute with excitement. We ended up meeting for coffee a few months later and our love story began.

Q: What is your favorite thing about her?

Casey: I mean, I think I’m hilarious, but Karrie’s catching up to me. I love her humor.

Karrie: My favorite thing about Casey is she has this positive, infectious energy that I instantly felt the moment I met her. She wears a smile and loves to laugh as much as I do!

Q: What are you looking forward to most about married life?

Casey: I was trying to think of something sappy, but honestly just the little things … coffee in the mornings, cooking dinner at night, venting about work, singing in the car, traveling around the world and just laughing our asses off.

Karrie: I’m looking forward to the ordinary and simple things in everyday life. I’m really looking forward to cooking, cleaning, shopping and walking the dogs together. I can’t wait to go on weekend dates to the movies and out to dinner. Most of all, I can’t wait to fall asleep and wake up next to her.

Q: Where do you see yourselves 10 years from now?

Casey: Ten years from now, I’ll be planning Karrie a surprise 50th with all of her friends and family … and lots of tacos.

Karrie: I see us either living in Hawaii or outside of the country and traveling the world together. We’ll have our own businesses and continue to discover, grow and create an adventurous life together for us and the kids. We would like to write a book together as well.

Q: What does “love” mean to you?

Casey: To me, love is a choice and I choose Karrie every day.

Karrie: Love is when you want your partner to be joyous and free to evolve, change and discover what truly makes them happy. Love is when you respect and rely on one another for support, but you don’t lose your own identity.

Q: How did you know you were ready to get engaged?

Casey: I’ve never met anyone like Karrie. Things just fit — she sees me. And have you seen her? Fire!

Karrie: I knew I was ready to get engaged because I couldn’t imagine doing life without Casey. I knew Casey was my person when she encouraged me to truly accept and love myself. She encouraged me to be vulnerable, honest and authentic, while still unconditionally loving all the dark and bright parts of me.

Q: Were you surprised when Karrie popped the question?

Casey: Yes and no. We had talked about marriage. I was actually going to ask her to marry me, but she beat me to it.

Q: How did you plan the proposal?

Karrie: I started working on different ideas a few months before my trip to Thailand. I wanted it to be outside and captured at our favorite time of day, the “Golden Hour” just before the sun goes down. We drove up to a cute mountain town called Pai and stayed at the Quarter Boutique Hotel. I had photographers waiting in a garden and got down on one knee while she sat on a cute little bench. We had a private dinner in the garden as well. I wanted to incorporate a Thailand tradition, so I had us light up wish lanterns and release them.

Q: What was your favorite thing about the proposal?

Casey: My favorite thing was she planned everything from the other side of the world and it was flawless. Every time I turned around, there was another surprise.

Q: What are you looking forward to most about the wedding?

Casey: The endless amounts of pizza, tacos, doughnuts, dancing, karaoke and so much love in one room!

Karrie: We’ve discussed planning a private ceremony in Italy, which I’m really excited about. I’m also really looking forward to celebrating with her family in Connecticut. I can’t wait for karaoke, dancing and laughs.

Q: What advice do you have for couples that are thinking about getting engaged?

Casey: I think Karrie getting a photographer was the best idea ever. They captured everything!

Karrie: Just make sure you always do what works best for the two of you. Don’t worry about what other people think or outside opinions.

Q: What made you choose Shane Co.?

Karrie: Casey sent me a few pictures of rings she really liked. I looked up what company made her first choice and it was Shane Co. I really loved the five-stone setting and the design reminded me of Casey’s style.

Q: What was your favorite part of the shopping experience?

Karrie: My favorite part of the experience was my salesperson, Mitchell Richards! The store was super busy because it was just two days before Valentine’s Day. I walked in and people were waiting in line. I walked around and happened to find the exact ring Casey had picked out. Mitchell approached me and asked if I wanted to see the ring before beginning to explain the design, saying that my boyfriend would love it. I corrected him and said it was actually for my girlfriend. Mitchell didn’t waver or change his enthusiasm and was super supportive! He started to ask about Casey and the proposal. I explained that she lives in Thailand and I had set up an epic engagement in the mountains of Chiang Mai. He began to tell me about the owner, Tom Shane, and how he is often in Thailand and imports many of his gems from there. The connection blew my mind. Mitchell’s knowledge and passion about Shane Co. and his sincere interest in our engagement truly made the whole experience so memorable and exciting.

Q: What do you love about your ring?

Casey: I love wearing my ring, partly because I thought this day would never come. One of my favorite parts of the ring is that it’s simply me. The five diamonds represent each one of us in the family: my fiancée, Karrie; myself; daughter, Lila; son, Holden; and, of course, our dog, Frankie.

Q: Do you have any ideas about what your ring will look like?

Karrie: I’ve looked at a few styles and I’m leaning toward either a cushion or radiant halo diamond design.

Q: Are you going to shop for Karrie’s ring together?

Casey: Shop together? Of course! However, I want to surprise her.

Karrie: Right now, we can’t shop together because Casey is still in Thailand. However, I’m visiting her again in June, so maybe that’s something we can look at together to get ideas. I wish there was a Shane Co. store in Thailand!

The post Shane Co. Customer Stories: Karrie and Casey’s Engagement appeared first on The Loupe.

Getting your dream engagement ring can seem daunting, especially when you can’t seem to find a design you truly love. While many people believe customizing their engagement ring will be expensive and time-consuming, the truth is that it can actually end up helping you stick to your budget, not to mention leaving you with a ring you’re wild about. Of course, you can also shop our most popular premounted rings or take our ring finder quiz if you’re feeling overwhelmed by options. Find out the advantages of building your dream ring at Shane Co. and decide for yourself how unique you want your engagement ring to be.

Buying loose vs. prebuilt rings

Shane Co. specializes in letting you build a customized engagement ring. If you’re feeling overwhelmed by the thought of having to put together a ring or are simply looking for beautiful designs that are ready to propose with, our rings already preset with center stones are the perfect option for you. Created by our world-class design team and crafted with exceptional care, our preset rings are made with high-quality metals and feature hand-picked stones in the most popular sizes and shapes. However, if you prefer to build your dream ring using our customization options, the possibilities are endless. Here are some of our favorite benefits to buying loose:

Made just for you

If you have the option to choose your setting, stone, metal type, prong setting options and more, you are actually collaborating with your jeweler in a shared vision. Knowing that your ring reflects your own personal preferences makes it all the more meaningful.

Quality you can see

By choosing your stone and setting separately, you are able to judge the quality of each component much more accurately. For example, a stone already set in a ring may have imperfections hidden by prongs you might otherwise notice if you’d been looking at it loose. When you have the ability to choose from a variety of settings and hand-picked stones, you can prioritize quality and find something you can feel good about.  

Tailored to your budget

When you design your own engagement ring, you’re not only skipping out on brand-name markups, but you can actually pick where you want to put your money. If you’d rather have a bigger, higher-graded stone, you can concentrate on that while choosing a less expensive setting, or vice versa. If you’re in love with a particular setting, you can shop many stone options within your budget to find the perfect one. This makes it easy to personalize without breaking the bank.

Skip the mass production

This is one purchase that you want to be unique. It’s one of the only things you’ll wear on a regular basis, and it should feel special every time you put it on. Mass-produced, prebuilt designs that you find at other jewelers can be trendy, but do they really show off your love story like a personalized ring?

Build an emotional connection

Because you have a part in the design process, you’ll probably end up feeling more connected to your ring if it’s customized for you. If you choose to, you can talk to your jeweler to find out exactly who is putting together your ring, making this experience as personal as can be. You also have the opportunity to engrave your ring, which can help make it even more sentimental.

Get what you really want

Whether your loved one is picking out your ring for you or you’re doing the shopping together, choosing a separate setting and stone gives you the opportunity to highlight the aspects of the engagement ring you love the most. With a prebuilt ring, you may appreciate the overall look but not love certain details and end up with a ring you’re not 100% happy with. With customized rings, we can guarantee you’ll be happy with your ring forever.

How does Shane Co. let you customize engagement rings?

With the advantages of building a personalized ring made clear, let’s talk about how you can create the ring of your dreams at Shane Co.

Start by picking a setting OR a loose stone

Choose from the largest selection of exclusive ring designs, from classic to vintage-inspired to modern. You can shop by price or style, or find settings that fit certain stone shapes. Whether you want to show off a sparkling diamond or something a little more nontraditional, our rubies, sapphires and diamonds come in a variety of shapes and sizes for you to choose from. We offer settings in high-quality 14k yellow, white or rose gold and platinum, so you can find the one that’s right for you.

Look through head/prong options

Did you know that virtually all Shane Co. engagement rings give you the option to change the prong setting to a different style? The prong setting (also sometimes called the head) is the part that holds the center stone. We offer a variety of prong setting designs to choose from to let you further personalize your ring. You can also choose how your stone sits in your ring. If there’s a ring you truly love but you’d rather have four prongs than six, no problem. Our Shane Co. jewelers can personalize the head of your engagement ring to fit your needs.

Add an engraving

After you’ve finished putting together your dream ring, you can add an engraving for an extra touch of customization. This is the perfect opportunity for your significant other to slip in a personal message, date, name or another engraving to make this ring truly yours.

Show off your new engagement ring

At Shane Co., we create jewelry that’s built to last a lifetime. The final step in our ring building process is always making sure you really love your ring. Let us know by snapping a picture and posting it on Pinterest, Instagram or Facebook, leaving a review on our website, or sharing your Shane Co. experience with friends and family. If you’re not totally happy with your purchase, we offer a 60-Day Money-Back Guarantee. You never have to worry about your ring losing its shine because of our Free Lifetime Warranty, which includes unlimited cleaning and polishing and any maintenance it may ever need.

You have your ring – what’s next?

After you’ve fallen in love with your engagement ring, you can get ready for the wedding by shopping our wide selection of women’s and men’s wedding bands. Whether you’re looking for a band that matches your ring or creates a striking contrast, we offer handcrafted designs for every style and budget. Virtually all of our wedding rings can also be personalized with an engraving. Feel confident in your choice when you shop Shane Co., your friend in the jewelry business®.

The post Build Your Dream Engagement Ring at Shane Co. appeared first on The Loupe.

What are lab-created diamonds?

Lab-created diamonds, also known as synthetic diamonds, man-made diamonds, lab-grown diamonds and many other names, are artificially created stones. They are sometimes confused with cubic zirconia, another diamond alternative. Cubic Zirconia is quite different in makeup, as it is a crystalline form of another element, zirconium dioxide. Cubic zirconia does not contain the same brilliance, fire, or durability as a natural diamond. Lab-created diamonds are generally sold at a lower price than natural diamonds. However, they still remain at a higher price point than other diamond alternatives.

Sapphires: the natural alternative

If you’re looking for an affordable alternative to lab-grown diamonds, white sapphires are a great option. Like diamonds, sapphires are created over millions of years beneath the earth’s surface. Sapphires receive their color from trace elements present within the earth during the formation of the stone. White sapphires are particularly rare because they have no trace elements and therefore appear very similar in color to diamonds. Pink, blue, green and other colored sapphires are a beautiful and unique option for those wanting to make their engagement ring especially distinctive. Here are some reasons why we love white sapphires for engagement rings.

They cost less than natural and lab-created diamonds.

Not only are sapphires in general more affordable than diamonds, white sapphires tend to come at a lower price than some other colors of sapphires. Though they are rarer in nature, there is a higher demand for blue sapphires, so the market follows as such.

They are very durable.

While diamonds remain the most durable stone, with a rating of 10 on the Mohs scale of hardness, sapphires are a close second, coming in at a 9. Sapphires are a great option for engagement rings, and of course they are protected under the Shane Co. Free Lifetime Warranty.

They are versatile.

White sapphires come in a variety of shapes and sizes, just like diamonds. You can have a round white sapphire engagement ring that mimics a diamond ring style, or choose something in a different shape to fit your style.

They can appear “whiter” than diamonds.

Whereas diamonds appear colorless, white sapphires can be appreciated for their stark white color. Since white stones are hard to come by, this makes for an intriguing and sophisticated engagement ring.

If you decide that a white sapphire engagement ring is right for you, you’ll probably have the opportunity to spend more on the perfect setting because of the money you’ve saved on the center stone. You can design your own engagement ring at Shane Co. by choosing your favorite setting and then picking a sapphire in your preferred cut.

Why is a natural diamond a better choice than a lab-created diamond?

If you decide that you really desire the sparkle of a real diamond, there are a variety of reasons why buying a natural diamond is a better choice than a lab-created stone.

Value

Historically, natural diamond and sapphire prices tend to hold their value, which means if you’re buying a natural stone and intend to one day sell it, you’ll likely get back most, or possibly more, of the investment you put into it. Man-made diamonds, on the other hand, have no resale value whatsoever. If you try to sell your lab-created diamond later on, it may not be accepted by jewelers and will end up going for pennies on the dollar in online marketplaces.

Sentimentality

Natural diamonds are formed over millions of years below the earth’s surface. Plus, the supply of natural diamonds is finite. Synthetic diamonds are manufactured in a lab in a matter of weeks. It only makes sense to choose a rare and natural stone, such as a diamond or sapphire, to symbolize the rare and enduring nature of love and commitment. In addition, because lab-grown diamonds have only been around for a short amount of time, it’s impossible for them to embody the emotion and tradition of natural diamonds that have been passed down from one generation to the next.

Ethics

One of the reasons some people may consider a synthetic diamond is because they’re unfamiliar with ethical practices in the diamond mining industry. The fact is that the industry has programs in place, such as the Kimberley Process and the System of Warranties Guidelines, to help prevent “conflict diamonds” from entering the supply chain. Shane Co. adheres to the highest standards of ethics and practices and only works with partners who value the importance of ethically sourced stones as much as we do.

Making the ethical choice

In 2003, after much attention was drawn to “conflict diamonds,” the Kimberley Process Certification Scheme was established to help prevent these diamonds from entering the mainstream market. It requires buyers and sellers of diamonds to verify that their stones are being purchased from legitimate sources that do not fund conflict, and prevent those in the business from buying or selling diamonds to companies with unknown or suspect suppliers. This process has reduced the amount of “conflict diamonds” being sold all around the world.

How does Shane Co. fit in?

Shane Co. takes ethical sourcing seriously, even beyond the requirements of the Kimberley Process. The Shane family has bought from the same families of stone cutters for generations — it’s one of the reasons why we’re offered first pick of all newly cut stones. Tom Shane personally travels to Bangkok, the colored gemstone capital of the world, to hand-pick our rubies and sapphires, and makes it a point to intimately know the reputation of the sources we deal with. “There’s a right way and a wrong way to do business,” he says, and he believes that as a leader in the diamond industry it’s our responsibility to take control at a local level to prevent dishonorable practices from occurring. We have always maintained the highest ethical standards, even before the implementation of the Kimberley Process.

When these measures were passed, Tom Shane remarked, “As Shane Co. was doing all the diligence already, and had been for years, we were unimpacted. There was nothing for us to change!” You can feel good knowing that Shane Co. gems are 100% ethically sourced.

Deciding what’s right for you

Ultimately, your choice in fine jewelry, particularly when it comes to engagement rings, has to be something you feel confident about. Whether your goal is finding something affordable, meaningful, beautiful or all of the above, Shane Co. is here to help you make the best informed decision. You can shop all of our loose white sapphires in a variety of shapes and sizes on our website or explore our natural diamonds for the perfect engagement ring. We offer natural stones because we truly value their story and meaning — it’s one of the reasons why our customers keep coming back.

The post White Sapphires: An Alternative to Lab-Created Diamonds appeared first on The Loupe.

What does it mean to buy only a diamond setting?

There are two ways you can purchase a diamond ring: choose a premounted ring or choose the setting and center stone separately. Premounted refers to what you’re probably imagining when you picture an engagement ring ― a band with a diamond sitting on top, perhaps surrounded by metalwork or other smaller stones. For people who want the ultimate in ring buying simplicity, this may be the ideal option, and Shane Co. has a great selection of premounted rings to choose from.

However, this is not the only way to purchase a ring. By purchasing an engagement ring setting first, then picking out a loose diamond or other stone to display in the center, you can find the right look for her style as well as hand-pick the best diamond for your budget. Shane Co. has a tremendous selection of rings that allow our customers to create custom jewelry that perfectly fits their needs.

Benefits of buying engagement ring settings only

When you buy your engagement ring setting separate from the center stone, you’re able to create a unique engagement ring that’s guaranteed to be different from everyone else’s. Being able to hand-pick a stone for its color, cut, clarity, size and shape allows you to better take into consideration your budget in addition to your style. Plus, certain diamond shapes will look better in particular settings.

Types of settings

Engagement rings are made up of two parts: the shank (body of the ring that goes around the finger) and the head (the metal that holds the center stone in place). There are a variety of different styles of settings, each with their own unique attributes. We encourage you to take a look at some of the options available to you below, as well as talk to a certified jeweler, before making any final decisions.

Prong setting

A prong setting is the most common and popular setting for diamond engagement rings. It can accommodate a variety of different diamond cuts and shapes. The prongs act as small claws, grasping the diamond and holding it to the band. This type of setting is typically used to hold a larger center stone, though it can accommodate any number of diamond sizes.

Pros: Prong settings are so popular because they allow the diamond to be raised up and therefore disperse light more easily, allowing for the maximum amount of sparkle. They are also crafted with less metal and in less time, making them one of the more affordable diamond ring settings you can buy. They are generally quite easy to clean, as there is a lot of stone surface area visible and within reach.

Cons: Though these settings are quite secure, they may not feel as safe as other options. It’s also not a great setting to choose if you live a very active lifestyle or have to work with your hands a lot, as the prongs can snag or scratch, potentially putting the raw diamond at risk.

Halo setting

A halo setting secures the center stone underneath a rim adorned with pavé, invisible-set or channel-set diamonds. This style has become increasingly popular with celebrities because of its contemporary and unique appearance.

Pros: Very secure and will keep your center stone safe and snug, protecting it from knocking or scratching against surfaces. It can also make the center diamond appear larger because it is surrounded by smaller stones.

Cons: If your center diamond has a good color grade and you choose a colorful halo, the surrounding stones can alter the appearance and color of your diamond. In addition, lots of little diamonds means more opportunity for them to come loose and a harder fix for your jeweler.

Channel setting

A channel setting is depicted by a row of diamonds side by side, suspended by individual seats cut into each side of the channel. This setting is often used for wedding bands or for the side stones accenting the center diamond of an engagement ring. The uninterrupted stones are said to symbolize the harmonious continuity and commitment of love.

Pros: Channel settings are great for active lifestyles and health professionals because they lock each diamond securely into the band and set them flush against the ring, virtually eliminating the opportunity for snagging or catching. Lots of diamonds also means lots of sparkle!

Cons: Because of the excess metal and labor, channel settings can be more expensive than their counterparts. They are also not recommended for fragile gems and can be difficult to resize later on.

Bezel setting

In a bezel setting, the metal is formed around the shape of the diamond so that the top of the stone sits flush to the perimeter of the setting. You can get a full bezel, which encircles the entire stone, or a partial bezel, which holds two sides of the stone but leaves openings on the other two.

Pros: Perfect for an active lifestyle and health professionals, this ring offers a clean, modern look. It can also easily conceal nicks or chips on the diamond girdle. A white gold bezel setting can make the center diamond appear larger.

Cons: It may be more expensive because of the extra metal and labor, and it can conceal up to 10% of the diamond (though a well-cut diamond’s light enters and exits primarily through the top of the diamond, which will remain uncovered).

Three-stone setting

With a three-stone setting, the center diamond is flanked by two other stones. This is a classic engagement ring style we’re sure you’ve seen before.

Pros: This setting offers the opportunity for more customization. For example, you can choose a ring that has sapphires or rubies as the side stones. When paired properly, the two side stones can add a lot more sparkle and personality.

Cons: Larger diamonds on the sides can make the center stone appear smaller. This setting also requires more cleaning and maintenance than some of the other options.

Cathedral setting

A cathedral setting uses arches of metal to hold the diamond high above the band. It adds height and a vintage feel to the ring.

Pros: Adding height can make the center diamond appear larger. It’s also a very elegant style and allows for more detail near the underside of the diamond, such as filigree metalwork or pavé diamonds. It securely holds and highlights the center stone.

Cons: This setting can look a bit more cluttered than others. It’s also more difficult to clean and may snag on clothes or furniture.

Pavé and micro-pavé setting

This setting gets its name from the French word for “paved” and uses tiny beads or prongs from surrounding metal to hold tiny diamonds into place. When using the smallest version of these diamonds, it’s called a micro-pavé.

Pros: Pavé settings provide lots of sparkly flair and flash and can be found on all ring styles from contemporary to vintage in style. It’s a smooth surface that can work with active lifestyles.

Cons: It carries the risk of diamonds falling out, particularly because they’re so small. This setting is also not recommended for fragile gems.

How to make your diamond ring look better

Did you know that choosing the right setting can actually make your center stone look bigger and better? Whether you’ve chosen a 1.00-carat diamond ring or something much larger, taking the diamond clarity, cut, color and shape into consideration can vastly improve the stone’s appearance. Here are some tips to make your diamond appear bigger and brighter in your new ring:

• Fewer prongs = more room to sparkle.
• White gold bezel settings will surround a colorless diamond and trick the eye into thinking it’s larger than it is.
• Halo settings use surrounding smaller diamonds to create the appearance of a larger stone.
• A thin band means your diamond is the center of attention.
• 3-stone settings with small side stones can complement your diamond’s natural beauty.
• Yellow gold and rose gold settings can cover up the yellowish tint in a diamond that’s lower on the color scale.
• Shiny metals reflect light and make your center stone have more sparkle.
• Try out an alternate center stone shape, like an emerald cut or princess cut diamond, instead of traditional round for a unique look.
• Keep it clean: A clean diamond is always a stunner.

You can shop all of Shane Co.’s engagement ring settings before picking out a gorgeous center diamond or gemstone to complete your look. We’re proud to offer the highest-quality diamonds in every GIA grade, as well as over a thousand exclusive engagement ring styles. Get the best value for your budget at Shane Co.

The post All About Engagement Ring Settings appeared first on The Loupe.

Step One: Choose your setting

The first step to getting the “yes” is creating the dream ring. Our rings are completely customizable because you start with the setting first. From vintage-inspired to classic, we have endless engagement ring options to choose from. Decide whether your bride-to-be has more of a simple style or if she loves the extra bling, and then find the ring to match! Most of our settings can be made in white, yellow or rose gold, as well as platinum.

Step Two: Choose your stone

Get ready to see your ring come to life in this next step. As a direct diamond importer, we offer the prettiest diamonds for your money because we buy directly from the diamond cutters themselves. We hand-pick the diamonds with the most sparkle in each grade, leaving the others behind. By cutting out all the middlemen and their markups, we are able to pass along the best price to our customers. No matter your budget, we have the diamond for you.

If your future fiancée isn’t wowed by diamonds, we have other options that will make her jaw drop. We have thousands of loose sapphires in the prettiest hues, from our exclusive Ice Blue sapphire to our stunning peach sapphires. If she’s more traditional, opt for our gorgeous traditional blue sapphires that are a rich, deep blue. We also have loose rubies as well, making her ring one-of-a-kind. White sapphires are also a great alternative to a diamond with similar color and sparkle for a lower price!

Step Three: Choosing a financing option

We understand that cost is a big factor for many. That’s why we offer ways to make buying the ring easier on your finances.

One option is financing your purchase with our Shane Co. credit card through Wells Fargo. There are no annual fees and no prepayment penalties, and you’ll enjoy the convenience of monthly payments. You can pay your bill, view statements and set up automatic payments online. You can find out even more information about our credit card here.

Another great option is our free (and easy!) layaway program. There are no applications, no contracts, no interest or fees and it’s 100% refundable and returnable. This can be done in-store or online! If you’re shopping online, add your items to your shopping cart, check out using the layaway option and schedule your payments. Then, once the final payment is made, we’ll FedEx your jewelry straight to your door! We do require at least one payment a month and a down payment towards the piece. Learn more here.

Step Four: So what are you waiting for? It’s time to propose! Need help? Read these five tips on how to propose, or let us help! We can create a personalized proposal just for you.

Go online to ShaneCo.com or stop by any one of our stores to find the dream ring for her dream holiday proposal!

The post 4 Easy Steps to the Perfect Holiday Proposal appeared first on The Loupe.

This moment should be filled with excitement for the future and the anticipation of surprise. Money shouldn’t get in the way of that.

As your friend in the jewelry business, we’re here to help. Here are five ways to build the perfect engagement ring with spectacular sparkle that won’t break the bank.

1. Consider a solitaire style. Classic, simple and chic. And wallet-friendly too. Solitaire rings typically cost less than similar styles with accent stones and let that perfectly cut center stone steal the show. With a solitaire, you have the flexibility to put more money toward the center stone and still stay within your budget.

2. Try a pear shape. We carry thousands of sparkling loose stones in a variety of gorgeous shapes. While a round diamond may be the traditional route, shapes like pear, marquise or oval cost less than round stones of the same grade and carat weight. They also have a greater surface area that creates the appearance of a larger stone. It’s a win-win.

3. Go with a halo. Aside from the cut, there are other ways to accentuate the size of the center stone. Give it a bigger look by encircling it with a sparkling halo of smaller diamonds. These eye-catching rings make any size diamond look even more impressive while keeping you, her and your wallet happy.4. Choose a sapphire instead of a diamond. Color her world with a gorgeous sapphire center stone instead of a traditional diamond. If she loves to add a pop of color to her outfits, why not do the same with her engagement ring? Sapphires cost less than diamonds of the same size. We offer thousands of hand-picked natural sapphires in over 12 stunning shades like pink, yellow and even classic white!

5. Take advantage of our upgrade policy. While your budget may say one thing today, it may speak a completely different language a year from now. Build the perfect ring for your budget today and you can always upgrade your center stone down the road. With our upgrade policy, you can take her diamond to the next level for as little as $1.

The post 5 Ways to Build an Affordable Engagement Ring appeared first on The Loupe.

We’ve gathered our favorite engagement rings from our Valentine’s Day collection and matched each style to a unique personality. From vintage and timeless to beautifully romantic, the perfect engagement ring for the love of your life can be found here.

Timeless Beauty

With each passing trend and fading fad, her sense of style  stays consistent. She never lets the next big thing in fashion get the best of her. She likes styles that will continue to stand the test of time and these sparkling engagement rings surely will. With milgrain detail and intricate swirls, these rings allow her to not only follow trends, but to set them.

All Things Vintage

She loves to browse through antique stores, dusting off old books to reveal their history. She’s fascinated with the way life was in the past, and that reflects in her present style. These vintage inspired engagement rings are especially appealing to her with their intricate and sparkling design. With elegant details and shimmering hand-matched diamonds, it’s no question that the girl who loves all things vintage would swoon over these rings.

Classically Chic

She’s simple but chic. Her go-to accessory is a pair of diamond studs, while her closet has never seen stripes or polka-dots. Her uncomplicated personality lends itself to our classic designs. The refined sparkle from these bezel-set and pavé engagement rings will catch the light and her eye with every movement. The pear-cut diamond is classic, while the heart-shaped diamond satisfies her desire to be chic at all times. Believe us, she won’t be able to stop staring.

Hopeless Romantic

She buys herself fresh cut roses every weekend at the farmer’s market and can recite every Nicholas Sparks movie. Her ideal date night is watching a Rom-Com she’s seen a thousand times. For a girl this romantic, these settings are sure to leave her breathless. The brilliant sparkle of each of these rings will sweep her off her feet and the delicate design will last forever, much longer than any bouquet of roses.

The post Engagement Rings for Her Style appeared first on The Loupe.

1. It stands the test of time.

Platinum does not require rhodium plating like other metals do. This gorgeous metal is naturally white and will stay that way forever. Interestingly, platinum does develop a finish called “patina” over time, resulting from scratches over the years. Unlike gold, platinum will not lose metal when scratched, it will just displace. Many jewelry collectors deem the patina look to be highly desirable, but if you do not like patina, just polish your platinum piece and it’s back to looking like new. Talk about low maintenance!

2. It has super strength.

Platinum is not only stunning in appearance, it is also a very strong metal. Because of this, many jewelers will make the prongs on jewelry out of platinum because it is far less likely to break and lose a stone. If you want a metal that’s really durable, pick platinum.

3. It has a completely unique color.

Place a piece of white gold, sterling silver and platinum jewelry next to each other and you will be able to tell the difference in color immediately! Platinum has an incredibly white shine and a silky finish that looks entirely unique from the other white metals. Even better, this exceptional, truly white color sets off any gemstone to its ultimate advantage.

4. It is rare. Really rare.

The amount of gold found in the world in one year would only fit in a 20-by-30-foot room with an 8-foot ceiling. That’s not much, right? Now take platinum. All of the platinum ever mined in the history of the world would fill a 25-by-25-foot room with a 25-foot ceiling. If you have a piece of platinum jewelry, you truly possess a treasure.

5. It is hypoallergenic.

The metal purity standards for platinum jewelry are very high because it does not need other alloys mixed in to make it durable. All platinum jewelry is between 90-95% pure platinum, while in comparison 14 karat gold is 58.5% gold. If you’re allergic to other metals commonly mixed in with gold, this purity standard for platinum is great news for you!

Have we convinced you to consider platinum for your wedding ring purchase? If so, make sure you check out these beauties.

The post Top 5 Reasons to Love Platinum appeared first on The Loupe.

Solitaire

Are you a simple gal who’s always on the go? Then the classic solitaire design could be for you! Elegant in its simplicity, the solitaire setting features a single sparkly gemstone set high on the band. It’s the perfect blend of sparkle and classic style, and it won’t get in the way of your daily routine.

Vintage

Do you love unique pieces with intricate details? A vintage setting may be just what you’re looking for. Sophisticated and eye-catching, a vintage setting is ideal for those who have a refined and elegant look. And as the decades go by, its delicate design will continue to melt your heart.

Halo

Does your style fall more on the modern side? A halo design will give you the look you’re going for! Featuring a shimmering halo of diamonds surrounding a center stone, this setting makes your center stone appear larger.

Infinity

Are you a romantic at heart? A charming infinity design could be your dream ring. Featuring diamonds swirled together along the band, this design is the perfect reminder of your everlasting love!

Ruby & Sapphire Accent

Do you prefer to stand out from the crowd? Deep ruby or sapphire accents will give your setting a fresh, modern look. You will love how the gemstones pop with every outfit you wear.

Which engagement ring setting is for you? Let us know in the comments below!

The post Which Engagement Ring Setting Is Perfect for You? appeared first on The Loupe.

The Pinterest Solution

Pinterest is your new best friend. Follow Shane Co. on Pinterest, and start looking through our selections. Pin what you like and then send him a link to your page. This way you aren’t telling him exactly what to get, but you’re giving him a taste of what you like. When he comes into Shane Co., he can show us your Pinterest board and we’ll help him pick out the perfect ring for your style.

Top Three

Come shopping with us and pick your three very favorite rings. We’ll write down the item numbers, and then he can come in and pick out his favorite. This works twofold— you will be happy with any of the rings he selects and he has the freedom to turn down something that doesn’t fit his taste.

The 50/50 Compromise

With everything in life, there are aspects you can’t live without and aspects that don’t matter quite as much. When it comes to engagement rings, girls often have their heart set on a particular setting, or they want a particular diamond cut. Pick out the details that mean the most to you, and have him weigh in on what you’re flexible on.

Shop Together

Modern couples are warming up to the idea of shopping for an engagement ring together. Remember, knowing what the ring and the diamond look like does not ruin the romance—he can still sweep you off your feet with a proposal you were not expecting.

The post How to Help Him Find Your Dream Ring appeared first on The Loupe.

Start Your Search Early

Don’t wait until the last minute to pick out your wedding bands! It’s best to start the search six months before the wedding. This will give you extra time to get your ring sized and to add a unique engraving, if you’d like.

Set a Budget

Shane Co. has wedding bands that match any budget. A simple gold wedding band is going to cost a lot less than a platinum band with diamonds. Before you start shopping, discuss how much you want to spend with your partner.

Keep Your Lifestyle in Mind

You and your partner will likely wear your wedding bands every day, so you should make sure the bands fit into your daily lifestyles. Platinum or alternative metals like cobalt are great options for those who live an active lifestyle.

Narrow Down Your Choices

Deciding what style you are naturally drawn to before you start shopping can help you narrow down the options. Maybe you admire little details and would prefer a band with a vintage look. If you love color, you might want a band with rubies or sapphires. On the contrary, a clean, polished style could catch your eye.

Shop Together

Wedding band shopping is a lot more fun and productive if you go together. Some couples coordinate the wedding bands to match, while others select completely different styles. Either way, visiting the store together will give you both more insight into which bands to choose. Ready to start shopping?

Visit your local Shane Co. or go to ShaneCo.com to find the perfect wedding bands to celebrate your love.

The post Picking Out Your Wedding Bands appeared first on The Loupe.

Communication Is Key

Before shopping, make sure you are both on the same page and are ready to take the next step together. When you are positive it’s the right time, sit down and discuss what she wants in a ring. Talk about styles, diamond shapes and center stone options. Communicating this with each other beforehand can help make the ring shopping process much easier. Talking about how much you want to spend and how you will pay for it is also very important.

Do Your Research

There are so many places to shop for engagement rings. Check out jewelers’ websites to see what they have to offer. Review sites such as Yelp and WeddingWire are also great places to do your research and read customer reviews. When you do start shopping, ask plenty of questions! This isn’t something you shop for every day and asking questions will help you make the most educated decision. At Shane Co., our sales people do not work on commission and they are happy to teach you everything you need to know about engagement rings and the 4 Cs of diamonds.

Relax and Have Fun

Buying a ring is a big decision and it’s easy to get caught up in all of the stress. The most important thing to remember is to have fun. Taking your fiancée-to-be engagement ring shopping is something she will remember for the rest of her life.

Be Ready if You Find “The One”

Once you find the perfect ring, make sure to buy it soon after. You don’t want the ring of her dreams to be sold to someone else. If you are worried about surprising her, your sales associate at Shane Co. can help you make sure the purchase is still a secret. Plus, you will have plenty of opportunities to surprise your special someone during the proposal.

The post A Couple’s Guide to Purchasing an Engagement Ring appeared first on The Loupe.

For the couple that wants a simple wedding band style, I suggest these matching white gold rings engraved with an infinity symbol and featuring a single diamond. These rings are a great way to celebrate your love that has no end.

If you can’t make up your mind between white or rose gold, you can have both. White gold and diamonds perfectly complement the warmness of rose gold in these beautiful rings. I love how they represent a couple—the two metals and two diamonds living in harmony.

If you are a bold couple, go for a bit of color!  These striking rings showcase the allure of black sapphires. They are completely unique, perfectly on trend and very eye-catching!

Ready to shop for your matching wedding bands? Come into your local Shane Co. to find rings that you both will treasure for a lifetime.

The post A Perfect Match: The Unity Collection appeared first on The Loupe.

1. Leave a Clue on the Computer

If you share a computer, “accidentally” leave clues online to drop the hint. Whether it’s bookmarking jewelry pages or leaving a tab open with ring styles you love, he will appreciate the hints.

2. Create a Ring Board on Pinterest

Pinterest is a great way to store photos of the ring styles you love all in one place. Create a board with a title that won’t easily be missed like “Rings I love” or “My dream ring,” and let him know that you are actively posting. I can’t tell you how many times a guy has come into our store with no clue what his girlfriend would like, until I ask if she has a Pinterest account and… voila!

3. Tell Friends and Family

A lot of guys rely on their significant other’s friends and close family members for help. Make sure to share photos, your ring size and preferred diamond shapes with them so they can help him find your dream ring. He might even want your bestie to accompany him to the jewelry store. Even better!

4. Subscribe to a Bridal Magazine

Yes, subscribe, but discreetly leave it in plain view. Bookmark a photo of a ring you love and literally scrawl “Love!” or “OMG!” next to the photo. This might seem too obvious, but he will be happy to get the hint.

5. Give Him a “Hint” Card

There is nothing wrong with getting ahead of the game and pre-shopping for your ring! Narrow the search to your top three, have a Shane Co. sales associate write down the information for those rings on a hint card, and then give it to your guy. Your Shane Co. sales associate will take it from there when he visits the store.

6. Go Window Shopping

Next time you two pass a jewelry store, suggest that you go inside to look at rings “just for fun.” Casually show him the engagement rings you like and talk about the styles you prefer. He will definitely take a mental note for later!

No matter what ring he chooses for you, it will be more than platinum, gold and diamonds. It will be a symbol of love and commitment and a promise of a long and beautiful life together.

Good luck and happy hinting!

The post 6 Sneaky Ways to Hint Your Ring Style appeared first on The Loupe.

1. Set a Budget

Things add up quickly when you start looking at rings. It is important to know how much you want to spend from the beginning. Understanding how much you can afford from the start helps eliminate the issue of finding yourself with crippling monthly payments. Spend what is comfortable for you, not what is traditionally expected. At Shane Co., the diamonds are sold separately from the setting, allowing you to find the perfect one for your budget.

2. Find Her Ring Style

Rings come in a variety of styles, including solitaire, vintage, halo, infinity and many others. You have options for the metal type too: white, yellow and rose gold, as well as platinum. Look at the type of jewelry she wears and use that information to narrow her style. Another sneaky way to find her style is looking at her Pinterest page! Having a good idea of her ring style before you start looking will help you find the perfect match.

3. Know Her Preferred Diamond Shape

Diamonds come in many shapes and sizes. Knowing the shape of the center stone she will like best can help narrow things down considerably. Shapes like the brilliant round or princess cut are most common and are available in many sizes and prices. These shapes are perfect for someone with timeless, classic taste. The fancier shapes, like heart, pear or Asscher cut, are not as common and are ideal for women with a trendy and unique style.

4. Learn About Diamonds from a Professional

Doing research on diamonds online is great, but it can be very misleading. There is no right or wrong diamond! Diamonds are graded by their 4 Cs: clarity, color, cut and carat weight. But with so much subjectivity in grading, you should see diamonds up close for yourself. It is important to see diamonds under 10 times magnification with a professional diamond consultant who can guide you on what to look for.

5. Look for a Warranty in Writing

Many jewelry stores say they offer a warranty, but you need to look for one that is in writing. A guarantee is nothing without documentation. At Shane Co., we offer a Free Lifetime Warranty that spells out everything we cover. Don’t let a salesperson talk you into purchasing a ring with false promises! We also recommend putting your wedding rings on your insurance policy. You never know what can happen, and if the ring goes missing, insurance can save you a bundle.

There are a lot of things to think about before purchasing her ring, but it does not need to be chore. The important thing to remember is we want to help you and we do not work on commission here at Shane Co., so you won’t feel pressured to buy! Visit your local store and an associate will be happy to assist you every step of the way.

The post 5 Helpful Tips for Purchasing an Engagement Ring appeared first on The Loupe.

1. Brilliant Round

The full cut round diamond is the most popular shape on the market. It maximizes light, creating dazzling sparkle.

2. Princess

Square-shaped with many sparkling facets, the princess cut is a fancier choice and works in almost any ring style.

3. Cushion

A marriage between the round and princess cuts, the cushion cut ranges in shape from square to rectangular with rounded corners. It’s gorgeous in vintage-inspired rings.

4. Emerald

The emerald shape is a rectangle with corner facets and broad, flat planes. It is given a steep cut, creating rows or “steps” of elongated facets.

5. Radiant

The radiant shape is similar to an emerald cut. Radiant cut diamonds have angled corners and can range from square to rectangle.

 6. Oval

The oval cut is an elliptical shape based on the brilliant cut. Because it creates the illusion of length, it is a popular style for a woman with a small hand or short fingers.

7. Marquise

A variation on the brilliant cut, the marquise has an elongated shape with pointed ends. Its shape is flattering for small hands because it makes the finger appear longer.

 8. Pear

The teardrop-shaped pear diamond makes a beautiful ring. The cut is a cross between brilliant and marquise, and it is also well-suited to women with petite hands or short fingers.

 9. Heart

The heart-shaped diamond is the most romantic of all diamond shapes. It is like a pear shape, but with a cleft at the top.

 10. Asscher

The Asscher shape has a “stepped” square cut with cropped corners. It is a wonderful choice for fashion-forward women who desire a dramatic engagement ring.

Every diamond shape has its own loyal following, and there really is no wrong choice, as long as she loves the way it looks on her finger. At the Shane Co. store in Roseville, California, Diamond Consultant Brian Hendricks says he personally likes the emerald cut the most because, “It is classic and tranquil.” The Roseville store manager, Tanner Brannam, has a different preference in a diamond. He said, “I prefer the radiant cut because it has a very unique sparkle that is different than any other diamond.”

I also asked a Shane Co. customer for his preference when he was upgrading his wife’s center diamond. He chose an Asscher cut diamond, explaining, “I like the Asscher mostly because it’s rare, but it also has a unique look that I like. I looked all over Sacramento and Shane Co. was the only jeweler that had it.”

So what’s my favorite diamond shape, you ask? I have to go with the most popular diamond shape—the brilliant round. I personally like this cut because of the overall symmetry and sparkle. Let us know which one is your favorite in the comments below!

The post 10 Popular Diamond Shapes appeared first on The Loupe.

YOUR BUDGET

The first thing you should think about is your budget. Some sources might say you need to spend two months of your salary on the ring, but what you really need to consider is the amount you are comfortable spending. If you have never shopped for fine jewelry before, you might not know how much certain metals and diamonds can cost. Engagement ring prices range from hundreds of dollars to thousands, and there is a ring out there for any budget.

When you are deciding how much to spend, you also need to think about when you want to propose. Do you have time to save enough money or is it a purchase you might want to finance through a credit line? Maybe a layaway is the perfect opportunity for you. Taking this into consideration will help you figure out what engagement ring you can afford.

THE RING STYLE

There are hundreds of different styles of rings, so how do you know which one is the one? You will want to find a ring your sweetheart will love and you are proud of purchasing. Think about what metal types she might prefer. Rings are available in white, yellow and rose gold, as well as platinum and mixed metals. If your girlfriend has never hinted at the styles she likes, think about what jewelry she tends wear most often. Once you have the metal preference down, think about whether she would like a traditional engagement ring with a diamond or something a little more colorful, like a sapphire or ruby center stone. After you take some time to consider these things, you will start to picture the ideal engagement ring.

IT WILL TAKE TIME

You need to be prepared to spend some time shopping for her ring and deciding which one is perfect for her. What you first pictured might be completely different than the ring you propose with.

Shopping for a ring can be an emotional experience, but don’t forget that you are doing this because you are ready to ask someone to spend the rest of their life with you. So don’t stress and be open-minded. Good luck on your hunt for the perfect engagement ring!

The post 3 Things to Consider Before Engagement Ring Shopping appeared first on The Loupe.

One wonderful thing about Shane Co. is that most of our engagement rings do not have a pre-set center stone, which means you get to select the center stone for your ring. We have loose sapphires in a variety of shapes and sizes to choose from, and we also have many beautiful engagement ring settings that feature sapphires. The possibilities are endless!

I know when most people think of sapphires they think of blue, but sapphires come in every color of the rainbow and each individual sapphire has a slightly unique color and tone. A very popular choice right now is a pink sapphire set in a rose gold ring. I’ve also seen a lot of ladies select a sapphire that represents their birthstone color or favorite color.

Although they’re growing in popularity, sapphires have been used in engagement rings throughout history. Sapphires are said to symbolize a relationship based on faithfulness and sincerity. Royalty used sapphires in their rings to symbolize their blessings as divine holders of knowledge and wisdom. It’s safe to say these bold and colorful rings are here to stay!

To create your dream sapphire engagement ring, visit ShaneCo.com or visit your local store.

The post Swoon-Worthy Sapphire Engagement Rings appeared first on The Loupe.

When shopping around for an engagement ring, many couples are looking for something that expresses not only their personal style, but also makes a statement about their love for each other. What better way to make that statement than to have the infinity symbol as a part of the theme of your ring? That way every time you see it, you will be reminded of your commitment to each other and your eternal love.

Here at Shane Co., we have an entire collection of engagement rings and wedding bands that focus on the infinity symbol. I absolutely love to show this collection to my guests because I am so proud of the craftsmanship and thought that goes into creating each and every ring. Seeing the smile on someone’s face when she tries on one of these rings is what motivates me to show the collection to everyone!

There are several other wonderful features of these rings. First of all, they are available in a variety of styles. Whether she prefers something with a simple band or has her heart set on a center halo, there is a ring in this collection for her. The rings also come in a variety of colors: white, rose and yellow gold, and even two-tone! I love mixing metals, so those rings are particularly appealing to me!

The infinity symbol adds width and dimension to the setting without making it bulky or taking attention away from the center gemstone. We also carry a halo-style ring with an infinity band, which accommodates different shapes for her center gemstone. My favorite ring in the collection has an oval-shaped halo around the center.

We also carry wedding bands with the infinity symbol. This means that couples looking to add a band for an anniversary, birthday or other special occasion can wear an infinity band in addition to their wedding set, or even as a right hand ring. There are two of these on my Wish List right now. I may even get them both and stack them on top of each other, since stackable rings are trending!

With so much variety, our infinity rings are definitely worth checking out. You may be surprised by how Shane Co. has taken the very trendy infinity symbol and turned it into a timeless, classic collection that will represent your love forever. Happy shopping!

The post Swirling with Love: Infinity Engagement Rings appeared first on The Loupe.

You Complete Me

Whether or not you’ve seen the movie, you’re probably familiar with this well-known line from Jerry Maguire: “You complete me.” Feeling so close to and completed by your significant other is often a strong emotion you experience right away. You just knew he or she was “the one.” Sometimes, the perfect wedding band happens in a very similar way. Shane Co. offers a wide selection of pre-matched wedding sets that take the guesswork out of the selection process. If the engagement ring you selected is part of a wedding set, then your search for the wedding band is over!

Like Peas and Carrots

Are you compatible with your significant other because of how well you complement each other? Do your individual personalities just go well together? If so, then you are like Forrest and Jenny’s childhood relationship in the movie Forrest Gump. Finding your wedding band could be thought of like this as well. Being open to a style that complements your engagement ring, as opposed to a perfect match, can create an overall look that is completely you. For example, this vintage bezel-set engagement ring has a unique look when paired with a similar-style wedding band featuring blue sapphires.

Another way to complement your engagement ring is with a contour band. Many of our halo-style engagement rings find their mate in this particular style. The contoured shape of the wedding band allows it to nestle up close to the engagement ring. This enhances the overall look without detracting from the beauty of the engagement ring on its own. If you are interested in a contour band, Shane Co. has a large variety with different types of curves and angles.

Opposites Attract

She’s serious and organized, he’s relaxed and spontaneous. She likes art, he likes sports. In many ways, the relationship shown in the movie When Harry Met Sally is the perfect example of how opposites attract. Sometimes you find yourself in love with your polar opposite, and for some reason it just works. Solitaire engagement rings are a wonderful start to an overall unique look. Don’t be afraid to pair a more ornate wedding band with a solitaire. This is a great way to represent your style as a couple!

Another way to customize your look is to mix metals. Playing with different combinations of white, yellow and rose gold can be a fun way to create a fresh style.

Remember, there really aren’t any rules. We’re here to help you explore all your options and to help guide you in the right direction. Whether you know instantly or the search is a long one, finding the right wedding band is an experience unique to each person. Visit ShaneCo.Com or your local Shane Co. store to pick the one that’s perfect for you!

The post Falling in Love with Your Wedding Band appeared first on The Loupe.

If you’re fortunate enough to receive a ring from the love of your life, congratulations! If that particular ring’s style is really not what you had in mind, not to worry! Here at the Shane Co., we have the best trade-in and exchange policy around. Our exchange/return policy is a full 60 days. That means you have two months to be sure the ring on your finger is THE ring! You can literally wear your ring for a month and half, suffer buyer’s remorse and then come in and exchange it for something else. If you aren’t head over heels in love with the ring and there’s absolutely nothing else you like at Shane Co. (though with over 900 ring styles to choose from, we surely have a ring style for everyone!), you can return it for a full refund. There are zero restocking fees, and every penny will go back into the love of your life’s pocket.

Not only do you have two months to alter the final touches on your ring, but you have our trade-in policy for LIFE! That means if years down the road you decide you want a heart-shaped diamond instead of a cushion cut, or you want a rose gold ring instead of platinum, you will get the value that you paid for your original purchase towards the cost of your new ring. If you want to trade in your ring, you just double the cost of the original. So if your original setting was $500, you will get $500 off a new setting that’s $1000 or more. And then you only have to pay the difference. If you want to trade in your diamond, you just have to choose one that is at least one dollar more than your original. One whole dollar, that’s it! So you could have a radiant cut diamond for a few years, then change it to an oval cut. Or if you want a bigger rock (because really, what woman doesn’t want a bigger stone?) you can upgrade it as many times as you want. I know one couple that started an anniversary tradition of upgrading their center stone. They started with a 0.20-carat marquise and now they have a 0.72-carat diamond. Talk about a sparkling tradition!

Here at Shane Co., we not only have the best styles and selection for your initial purchase, we also have many options for changes, upgrades and enhancements down the road. Whatever your style is today and no matter what it may be down the road, there is something for everyone at Shane Co. Aren’t you even more excited about your ring now?

The post Is it Your Dream Ring? appeared first on The Loupe.

Get Educated 

The average person simply has no idea as to how to approach the purchase of a diamond engagement ring. At Shane Co. we give all of our bridal customers a detailed presentation on the “Four C’s” of diamond grading (cut, color, clarity and carat weight).  We sell our diamonds loose because we want to give our customers a full understanding of the diamond they’re purchasing. Our presentations will help you understand rarity, and discover what you really want in a diamond.

Get Decisive 

Once you know all about the four C’s of diamond grading, you can better understand the value of your diamond as it relates to price. If you haven’t already, now would be the time to decide how much you want to spend on your diamond and engagement ring. We have beautiful rings and diamonds for every price range so, honestly, just set your price and let the Shane Co. Sales Associate go to work for you. As an associate, I find​ it fulfilling to put together a beautiful ring and diamond for all of my customers, especially the customers who think they have a challenging budget.​

Get Settled

By now you’re probably comfortable with the idea of “settling down,” so now is the time zero in on the ring and diamond that best suits you and your love. Once you’ve found your perfect ring, you can begin to consider financing options. At Shane Co. we have a great relationship with Wells Fargo, which offers our customers 6-month, zero-interest financing. In addition to financing, we also offer a free layaway option.

It would be easy for me give to give you arbitrary advice, such as ‘you should save two months of your paycheck or a certain percentage of your annual income,’ but, regardless of our incomes, we all have unexpected expenses, and some of my couples are even buying a ring and a home at the same time. So my advice to you is to take everything into consideration when budgeting for your ring and diamond.  Also keep in mind, at Shane Co. you get FULL TRADE VALUE for your diamond and ring. So if she ever wants to upgrade, you can trade in your first diamond for another and simply pay the difference!​

The post Budgeting for an Engagement Ring appeared first on The Loupe.

My personal style influences the type of jewelry that I love and wear. I love the idea of a ring that allows you the opportunity to change things up the way you do your style. Because of the open peg head style of this setting, anyone can take this bridal set and make it their own.

Adding one of our unique and fun decorative crowns customizes it one step further. You can give this set a vintage feel with the Tatiana head, or go for something diamond encrusted Alexa.

You can also make this style really bling with the addition of a halo. Halos go around the outside of your center stone and can give the appearance of a larger ring.

Whether you want a decorative crown, a bezel set diamond, or a simple four prong head, your ring will look completely different from any other.

As a lover of emerald cuts, I love a that this setting allow me to show one off. One idea that I love is the thought of setting an emerald cut horizontally. It changes the look of the set completely, and the diamonds set in the band sparkle in the background adding contrast to the step cut of the emerald.

The number one reason I love this ring is that it allows me to layer other bands with it. Whether you like your rings knuckle to knuckle or just a little differentiation between bands, it’s a fun look that I can change with my mood. With as many band styles as we have, it is as easy as the addition of a band to the other side of my set.

As the years go on, I can add more bands to the stack. It is a constant reminder of our relationship together and all we have been through to get where we are now. Ultimately I know this is a set that I will always love because it is beautiful, unique, and the perfect addition to my ring finger.

The post My Favorite Wedding Look appeared first on The Loupe.