Ring Anatomy 101: All You Need To Know

March 14, 2022July 4, 2022Education, Engagement Rings

Looking to buy an engagement ring but not sure what all the different bits and bobs of a ring are? Let us walk you through the anatomy of a ring so you can find the one that fits you best!

The beginning of your engagement ring shopping doesn’t need to feel daunting. Maybe you’ve already got a clear idea of what you want, and you’re just unsure of all the ring terminology. Or, you have no idea which ring style is best for you or your partner and you need some help from the experts. Whatever side of the equation you’re standing on, we’re here to guide you.

There are many different ring settings to choose from, and each setting has multiple design features. The good news is that once you know what these settings are, the ring buying process will be that much easier and, dare we say, exciting. Knowing the difference between these parts can help you and your partner understand exactly what you want, not to mention, that if you’re going to custom design the ring yourself, you’ll need a little lesson in ring anatomy 101.

Worried you might still be confused? We’ve got plenty of fun infographics to help pinpoint each area of a ring’s anatomy. Let’s get started!

The Different Parts Of A Ring

Center Stone

The center stone of the ring refers to the diamond or gemstone that sits at the center of the ring setting. The center stone is usually the largest stone on the ring and traditionally features a round-cut diamond or gemstone. However, each engagement ring can be fitted with the center stone of your choice, not excluding fancy-shaped diamonds or gemstones like oval, pear, emerald, princess, and marquise cuts.

Basket

A basket is a prong setting that has traditional prongs extending up from the base of the metal band and a horizontal band that connects the prongs to provide enough tension to hold the center stone in place. This creates a basket shape for the diamond or gemstone to sit in.

Bridge

The bridge of a ring refers to the area underneath the head of the ring that sits on the wearer’s finger. This area typically needs to be comfortable with no sharp edges. It’s hardly seen once the ring is on, however, it can feature a small diamond or gemstone accent, or patterned engraving.

Gallery

A functional and decorative feature, the gallery of a ring is located between the basket and bridge on the ring’s head. The traditional engagement rings often featured open galleries, allowing the bottom part of the center stone to be visible. However, on 3 stone rings the gallery might also include these added accents.

Settings

The setting refers to the entire ring and the way added stones have been set on the ring. You’ll find there are various setting types to suit your unique style. But not all settings are created equal. Some settings are simple while others are more complex. Whichever setting you choose will determine how the final look of your ring, but more importantly, your chosen setting will affect the cost and maintenance of it, too. Let’s dive into the different types of settings.

Solitaire

Simple and timeless is how we’d describe a solitaire setting. It’s effortless in design, as a plain or two-toned metal band with a single center stone. Solitaire engagement rings can feature a variety of different prong settings and the band itself isn’t limited to a single design either.

14K White Gold Ten Prong Solitaire Engagement Ring

14K White Gold Woven Solitaire Engagement Ring

Pavé

The French word pavé, meaning to pave stones, might help you to remember this ring setting. A pavé setting refers to small stones featured along the line of the band, like cobblestones. It’s a delicate and often favored setting because it offers the ring-wearer some extra sparkle to complement the center stone.

14K White Gold East-West Pavé Cathedral Diamond Engagement Ring

14K White Gold Petite Pavé Engagement Ring

Channel Set

Channel set settings are side diamonds embedded into a grooved channel of the band. Think of it as if the rows of diamonds are cemented between two walls of metal. Light can still reflect off the diamonds but they’re as exposed as side diamonds on pavé settings.

14K Yellow Gold 0.25ct Channel Set Princess Shaped Diamond Engagement Ring

14K Yellow Gold Thin Channel Set Round Shaped Diamond Engagement Ring

Three Stone

A three stone setting usually features a center stone with two diamonds or gemstones sitting flush on either side of it. What’s fun about this setting is that the two additional stones don’t necessarily need to be the same diamond shape as the center stone.

14K Yellow Gold Three Stone Emerald And Pavé Set Diamond Engagement Ring

14K Yellow Gold Three Stone Pear Shaped Emerald Engagement Ring

Side-Stone

More sparkle for your center stone is how we like to think of side stone settings. A side-stone setting can include any number of additional stones along with the band of the ring. These stones can be cut and placed in any number of beautiful ways and truly bring out the brilliance of the center stone.

14K Rose Gold Scattered Blooms Undulated Diamond Engagement Ring

14K Rose Gold Bypass Marquise Array Diamond Engagement Ring

Tension

Looking for a setting that can be admired from a mile away? That’d be a tension setting. This setting uses compressions to hold the center diamond in place, giving the appearance that the diamond is suspended in midair. The setting is usually made from a thick metal band and is sure to stand out in a crowd.

14K Two-Tone White And Yellow Gold Pear Shaped Swirl Tension Setting

14K White Gold Contoured Twist Tension Set Engagement Ring

Halo

The halo setting is one that typically encircles the center stone with round pavé or micro-pavé diamonds. The small accent stones can make the center stone appear larger. A halo setting can take on the same or a different shape than the center stone.

14K Yellow Gold Scalloped Cathedral Halo Diamond Engagement Ring

14K Yellow Gold Pavé Halo And Shank Diamond Engagement Ring (Pear Center)

Bezel

A bezel setting uses no prongs and instead is designed with a rim of metal holding the center stone. The surrounding metal only leaves the upper portion of the diamond or gemstone visible. This setting is perfectly designed to keep the center stone safe and secure.

14K White Gold Comfort Fit Bezel Set Solitaire Engagement Ring

14K White Gold Pavé Bypass Bezel Set Diamond Engagement Ring

Prongs

The prongs on a ring’s head are small metal projections or claws, either rounded, pointed, or v-shaped. Prongs extend up the ring’s basket and are used to secure the center stone in place and hold it there. There are various types of prong settings, the most popular for engagement rings being four or six prongs – enough to leave the diamond visible and able to reflect light and sparkle.

Side Or Accent Stones

Side or accent stones are the stones that flank the sides of the center stone and are attached to the shoulders or the shank of the setting. Accent or side stone can encircle the entire ring in an eternity style or just decorate a small position of the ring. These accents aren’t limited to diamonds but can be tiny gems, too, of any fancy shape.

Shoulder

Naturally, the shoulder helps to keep the head of the ring up. It’s the area where the shank and the ring setting meet and can be adorned with small diamond or gem accents.

Shank

Shank is more commonly known as the circular metal band that goes around the entire finger. A ring’s shank can take on many unique designs, from, twisted, curved, flat, and even split shank. As with most of a ring’s anatomy, the shank can also feature small diamond or gemstone accents. When choosing a ring it’s important the shank is comfortable and amplifies the appearance of the ring itself.

Build Your Engagement Ring

At JamesAllen.com, we give you the ultimate custom-design experience in our very own ring studio. Watch your engagement ring change to your specifications in real-time. Now that you’ve got a clearer idea about ring anatomy, the only limit is your imagination.

Let’s Sum It Up

We hope this lesson on ring anatomy helps you on your journey to finding the perfect engagement ring. And if you’re planning to design it yourself, take everything we’ve just taught you and give our ring studio a try for the ultimate ring custom designing experience.

Still got questions? Feel free to visit us at James Allen and chat with one of our diamond and jewelry experts, available to you 24/7.

Need some engagement ring inspiration? Check out these helpful posts:

Subscribe to our email list for access to secret sales, practical ring-buying tips, and $100 off your first order!

Jessica Thomas

Jessica is a seasoned content writer with four years of experience and a qualified gemologist. She enjoys educating new shoppers on the best practices for buying jewelry.

The Best Engagement Ring For Each Diamond Shape

March 28, 2022February 7, 2024Diamonds, Education, Engagement Ringsengagement rings

Have your eye set on a particular diamond shape and you are looking for the best mounting to make it shine? Read on for the best engagement ring setting for any diamond shape.

5 different shapes of Diamond engagement rings

Over time, popularity shifts between which diamond shapes are going to offer the most finger space coverage and sparkle. No matter your preference, there’s a unique diamond for everyone and yearly engagement ring trends to help sway you.

You can choose one of two ways to design your custom engagement ring at James Allen: 1) you can start with a setting and then choose a diamond to match, or 2) you can start with a diamond and then choose a complementary setting.

If you’re the latter, this is your how-to guide. Each diamond shape has its own unique qualities and it’s crucial to know how to best show them off.

Deciding Your Diamond Shape

If you’re looking for an elongated shaped diamond for your favorite engagement ring setting, it’s sure to provide two elegant optical illusions.

Because these shapes look larger than they really are, they are quite easy on your wallet. You can definitely spend less and still get a sizable diamond to flaunt. In fact, a 1-carat oval diamond has 10% more facets than a 1-carat round brilliant diamond. And the more facets your diamond boasts, the more it glitters.

These diamonds look larger than their carat weight.
They seem to lengthen the wearer’s finger.

How should you complement the length of a marquise, pear, or oval shape in your ring setting? Tapering.

Ring shanks that widen and taper into the diamond, whether via split bands or side stones, provide an elegant transition that also emphasizes the stone’s breadth.

Marquise Cut

The pointiest diamond shape of them all isn’t for the faint-hearted. This boat-shaped diamond is bold and growing in popularity as a must-have for 2022. Marquise cut diamonds are known for their historical heritage and go back centuries — once being modeled by royalty.

This cut is not only perfect for most diamond engagement rings but compliments other gems like sapphires, rubies, and emeralds.

Our recommendation: Marquise cut diamonds shine their brightest when centered in a bypass shank pavé setting.

Bypass Pavé Kite-Set Engagement Ring

“if the value of the ring was measured in beauty alone it was worth every penny” -Adam S.

Pear Cut

Go asymmetrical! This shape combines the best of two worlds: round brilliant and marquise. The curve of a round diamond gradually leads into the pointed elegance of a marquise. A pear cut diamond can offer more finger coverage and give the added illusion of a larger diamond than a round cut diamond with the same carat weight.

Our recommendation: Pear cut diamonds are best set in a north-south orientation and receive that “wow” factor when complemented by side-stone ring settings.

Laurel Leaves Engagement Ring

14K Rose Gold Laurel Leaves Diamond Engagement Ring

“I am really happy with how my ring turned out. This band is dainty and classic looking. It pairs perfectly with my pear diamond.” -Elvia D.

Oval Cut

Oval cut diamonds are a popular shape with many advantages.

They have no sharp corners, meaning they’re less prone to catching on clothes.
They have all the beauty of the classic round diamond with the perks of a lengthened shape.
Each diamond has a unique length-to-width ratio, meaning you can find a unique shape that suits your style.

Ovals that are longer are considered more elegant, while wider shapes display less of a bow-tie effect. Generally, the appearance of a bow-tie shadow in an elongated shape is considered less desirable, but it’s really up to the personal taste of the wearer. Finally, this diamond has no sharp corners, making it a better investment if you’re afraid of chipping.

Our recommendation: 2022 has deemed oval cut diamond solitaire engagement rings a fan favorite. Hop on this growing trend and slip on a classic in yellow or rose gold.

Classic Split Shank Solitaire Engagement Ring

14K Yellow Gold Classic Split Shank Solitaire Diamond Engagement Ring

“This ring is comfortable, the band is thin and petite just how I wanted it. The diamond is SOOOOO SHINEY!!!! Of course the pictures cannot do it justice. Pure perfection here.” – Kylee B.

Square Shaped Diamonds For Engagement Rings

Squarish shapes are some of the oldest diamond shapes, and they still hold that classic charm. The following four shapes benefit from angular settings that mirror their straight edges.

Lines, squarish side stones, and edged bands all enhance their angular facets.

Princess Cut

Princess cut diamonds, like round cuts, typically contain 58 facets that function to maximize light dispersion for optimal fire and brilliance. All of these facets pack a massive amount of light into a neat little square.

Our recommendation: Princess cut diamonds are for the bold and royalty needs a strong entourage— so the only setting worthy of this firey brilliance is a side-stone setting with stunning diamond accents.

Blossom Tree Engagement Ring

14K Rose Gold Blossom Tree Diamond Engagement Ring

“The rose gold blossom band is wonderful and with the diamond they all glitter and sparkle together so much, that it can’t help but draw everyone’s attention!” -Stephen L.

Emerald Cut

An emerald cut diamond’s limited facets tend to reveal inclusions, making it the perfect cut for flaunting a diamond’s clarity. Aim for an emerald cut stone with minimal inclusions. Emerald cut diamonds also reveal color more easily than other shapes do, so choose a high color grade if you’re setting your diamond in white metal.

However, setting a “warmer” diamond in yellow or rose gold will make the diamond appear more colorless; you can opt for a lower color grade and invest your money in clarity.

Even though an emerald cut diamond is squared, it’s also elongated. This means that its length creates the optical illusion of elegantly “lengthening” the wearer’s fingers.

Our recommendation: Emerald cut diamonds make a statement on their own and so we say keep it simple with a small twist. Set your emerald diamond at an east-west orientation in a timeless solitaire setting.

East-West Knife Edge Engagement Ring

14K Yellow Gold East-West Knife Edge Cathedral Solitaire Engagement Ring

“Would highly recommend this unique east-west setting. I love it!” -Julia W.

Radiant Cut

Made up of a staggering 70 facets on their pavilion and crown, radiant cut diamonds can disperse more light than other square and rectangular-shaped stones. Practically, this translates into way more brilliance and fire than is found in traditional step cut diamonds.

Radiant diamonds tolerate a good amount of inclusions; in fact, when it comes to clarity they’re pretty much the opposite of emerald cut diamonds. If you’re thinking about purchasing a radiant diamond, save money on clarity and invest in the most colorless diamond you can.

Our recommendation: Radiant cut diamonds have a softer side than most square-shaped diamonds. You can make sure your diamond is the center of attention by having it set in an unforgettable channel setting.

Bow-Tie Channel Set Engagement Ring

“It was one thing to be impressed enough on the online shop with how the ring would look, but when it arrived and I saw it with my own eyes I was lost for words!” -Baxter W.

Asscher Cut

The Asscher cut is the even-sided cousin of the emerald cut. It’s all the beauty of an oblong emerald cut, concentrated into a squared shape. The many, close-set concentric facets give off a “hall of mirrors” effect which is undeniably eye-catching.

These stunning diamonds are clear and bright, often sparkling the way they do because of their centralized facets.

They won’t give the same finger coverage as a pear or oval shape, but their unique pattern is enchanting for anyone looking to wear vintage glamor.

Our recommendation: Asscher cut diamonds are the embodiment of art deco making their ideal ring setting a vintage design or a channel setting for the minimalist wearer.

Thin Channel Set Engagement Ring

“I don’t know what I can say. The product in my hand is way better-looking than the model picture.” -Mattias R.

Round Shaped Diamonds For Engagement Rings

Rounded diamonds are some of the most agreeable shapes in that they suit nearly every setting. Their soft edges work well in a range of styles, but they’re the best set off in settings that hug their curves. Go for halos and other settings that surround your main diamond with accent stones.

Cushion Cut

A squarish shape with rounded corners, the cushion cut diamond has been beloved for over a century! It’s a descendent of one of the first widely popular cuts from the 18th century, the old mine cut.

However, cushion cut diamonds contain more delicate facets and a lower crown. This shape is experiencing a resurgence in popularity as couples throwback to the classics.

Their soft pillow-like appearance is a pleasant contrast from our other favorite fancy shaped diamonds, which sport sharper edges. We highly recommend this shape if you’re looking for a delicate temperament diamond.

Our recommendation: Cushion cut diamonds look exceptional in halo settings which will, without doubt, create an enchanting display of glittering brilliance.

Cushion Outline Pavé Engagement Ring

“The cushion frame, the diamonds on the top and around its edge, really gives it originality and intriguing appeal. It showcased my diamond’s brilliance while adding a lot of pop to my fiancé’s finger.” -Ryan L.

Heart Cut

This romantic shape isn’t for the faint of heart. Heart shaped diamonds put a modern twist on the classic round brilliant cut. With a round diamond’s beloved facet pattern, and a cheeky heart shape, these stones are made for ring shoppers who have no problem progressing tradition.

Our recommendation: There’s no denying that a heart cut diamond makes a statement no matter the chosen ring setting. However, a halo setting is the only way to truly amplify this unique diamond shape.

Shared Prong Marquise Halo Engagement Ring

14K White Gold Shared Prong Marquise Halo Diamond Engagement Ring

“Amazing shopping experience and a beautiful selection. My fiancé loves her ring!” – Joseph L.

Round Cut

Boasting 58 glittering facets and in a perfectly symmetrical cut, the round brilliant diamond is, by far, the best-selling diamond shape on the market. After all, how do you improve on perfection? Its peerless charm suits every ring setting.

There’s a reason it’s the most popular center stone for engagement ring buyers. You will never go wrong with a timeless round cut diamond in any ring setting you choose because it shines just as bright in a simple solitaire setting as it would be surrounded by side stones or adorned in a pavé halo.

Our recommendation: If you choose to go with a round center stone, you’ll give yourself the best opportunity to pick any ring setting that truly speaks to your unique personality and style.

Pavé Rope Engagement Ring

“Simple elegance. My now fiancée wanted something that was not just a ring, but that would not overtake her finger!” -Adolfo L.

Need a hand to find the perfect diamond shape to go with your ideal ring setting? Inspect the diamond of your choice in 360° HD and 40x zoom with the guidance of a professional gemologist!

Our Real-Time Diamond Inspection is a game-changer for online ring shoppers.

Make The Most Of Your Diamond Shape:

Subscribe to our email list for access to secret sales, practical ring-buying tips, and $100 off your first order!

Sarah Axelrad

With over 10 years of experience writing and editing on a wide variety of subjects, Sarah is a veteran of the content world. Since joining James Allen, she has focused on all things diamonds and fine jewelry with the goal of educating and empowering consumers.

The Making of A James Allen Engagement Ring

February 3, 2022July 4, 2022Education, Engagement Ringscrafting engagement ring, custom engagement ring, customize your engagement ring, diamond rings, ring settings

Have you ever wondered how a James Allen engagement ring gets made? How the exact diamond that you choose is precisely set in any one of our 500+ unique ring settings? Get ready for a step-by-step look at the crafting of your dream engagement ring.

A James Allen engagement ring is a feat of logistical and artistic execution. From the sourcing of the diamond, to the manufacturing of the setting, to the hand-setting of every unique stone, each ring requires precise craftsmanship performed in a precise order.

Choosing The Diamond

The crafting of engagement rings all starts with a diamond – over 300,000 loose diamonds actually. Our hundreds of thousands of diamonds are one of two types: 1) earth-created diamonds are guaranteed to be sourced from a conflict-free mine, and our 2) lab-created diamonds are regularly manufactured in advanced labs around the world. After multiple inspections and expert cutting, each diamond is then shipped to James Allen headquarters, where our technicians photograph it with our proprietary 360° high-definition cameras in order to provide our customers with a better-than-loupe inspection ability. Each diamond comes with its own GIA certificate, inspected by a nationally accredited gem-grading laboratory.

Choosing The Setting

Each of our over 500+ settings is, like our diamonds, photographed in 360° high-definition. Created by our in-house designers, you won’t find these settings anywhere other than JamesAllen.com. They’re both unique and customizable. All of our settings can be set with a stone of any carat weight, and nearly all of them can be set with any of a number of stone shapes. Whether you’re choosing a 2-carat princess-cut diamond or a 0.5-carat pear-shaped sapphire as your center stone, James Allen engagement ring settings are up to the job.

How to select on ring setting on JamesAllen.com

Computer Imaging

In order to accommodate our customers’ unique stones in the settings of their choice, our jewelers utilize computer modeling. For each setting, they virtually adjust its base and prongs to the precise measurements to snugly hold the ring’s dedicated stones. This assures that, in every engagement ring, every diamond and every mounting are perfectly matched.

Smoothing The Setting

The initial setting, though created to a customer’s specifications, is rough. Our jewelers smooth out the rough edges, ensuring that the mountings are ready to receive their jewels!

Setting The Diamond(s)

Taking the chosen center stone, a jeweler carefully mounts it in the prepared setting. If the ring has side-stones, a halo, or a diamond-encrusted band, the jeweler will also match the accent diamonds in terms of clarity and color, ensuring a sparkling uniformity.

Hand-Polishing

After all the sparkling diamonds are mounted in the custom setting, a jeweler polishes the completed ring. This adds the final touch of shine and removes any lingering rough patches in the metal.

Laser Engraving

Would you like to take your James Allen engagement ring’s customization all the way? Then our jewelry team will add a romantic laser engraving to the inner surface of your engagement ring! Choose your desired text and tell us your font preference: block or cursive. Next, our laser engraving machine will create an extremely precise inscription on any jewelry metal. And it’s durable! Your engraved phrase will withstand a lifetime’s worth of wear.

How much does this cost? Nothing! At James Allen, ring engravings are completely free at checkout.

Engraving machine engraving an engagement ring

Check out some of our finest engagement rings:

Twined Rope Solitaire Engagement Ring

14K Rose Gold Rope Solitaire Engagement Ring

Emerald Side-Stone Engagement Ring

14K White Gold Three Stone Pear Shaped Emerald Engagement Ring

Vintage Glamour Halo Engagement Ring

14K White Gold Vintage Glamour Halo Diamond Engagement Ring

Tapered Sunbeam Halo Engagement Ring

14K Rose Gold Aureola Diamond Halo Engagement Ring

Channel-Set Engagement Ring

14K Yellow Gold Engraved Channel Set Round Shaped Diamond Engagement Ring

Petit Pavé Engagement Ring

Scattered Blooms Engagement Ring

Two-Tone Tension Engagement Ring

The Bottom Line

When you buy a James Allen engagement ring, you’re getting the product of a long line of expert craftsmanship. Each ring is an unparalleled work of art, thanks to the combined efforts of an entire team of jewelry experts.

Tips On Creating Your Dream Ring:

Subscribe to our email list for access to secret sales, practical ring-buying tips, and $100 off your first purchase!

Adam

Cover Image Amethyst Jewelry Amethyst February Birthstone Blog

The February Birthstone: Amazing Amethyst

February 1, 2022June 19, 2024Education, Fine Jewelry, Red Carpet Jewelryamethyst, amethyst birthstone, birthstones, february birthstone, fine jewelry, gemstone earrings, gemstone jewelry, gemstone pendants, gemstone rings, gemstones, purple, stud earrings, valentine's day

Don royal purple with the February birthstone: amethyst! This unusually-hued gemstone will make any wearer into an instant queen.

Amethyst jewelry is the go-to purchase for February birthdays and Valentine’s gifts. The February birthstone is stunning yet graceful, rewarding those bold enough to wear it with plenty of turned heads!

What is the Birthstone for February?

It’s amethyst! Amethyst is a violet type of quartz, the crystalline mineral silicon dioxide. This is a great jewelry gemstone, as it’s not only gorgeous, but also sufficiently resilient to withstand day-to-day wear. It rates a 7 on the Mohs Scale of Hardness, indicating that it’s pretty difficult to scratch. Amethyst is a jewel that’s ready to keep up with your active lifestyle.

The History of Amethyst

Amethyst isn’t only good in the form of birthstone jewelry. This gemstone takes its name from the ancient Greek belief that it could protect its bearer from poison and drunkenness: a- (not) + methysko (intoxicating). Not only was amethyst worn as talismanic jewelry, but it was also carved into cups to prevent over-tipsiness.

With all due respect to the ancient Greeks, we disagree. Amethyst is positively intoxicating!

How to Style Amethyst

Purple can be a tricky color to style, and a trickier one to style well. When it comes to amethyst, it looks best when paired with certain colors of clothes.

similar shades of purple
neutral shades: black, white, gray, silver or gold.

As for who can wear amethyst, everyone’s in luck. Amethystian purple hedges both cool and warm tones, and as such it complements any complexion. Jewelry-wearers of the world, rejoice! This is your sign to rock amethyst jewelry.

Who Wears Amethyst?

Perhaps because of its royal connotations, but most certainly because of its beauty, amethyst is a solid favorite among red carpet celebrities. And as you can see, stars like Diane Kruger and Zoe Saldana are also fans of pairing their jewels with purple fabrics.

Diane Kruger- Amethyst February Birthstone

Zoe Saldana - Amethyst February Birthstone

The Value of Amethyst Birthstone

Amethyst is valued primarily by the quality of its color rather than its carat weight. Meaning that you can score a heftily-sized gemstone for a much more reasonable price than other jewels.

Amethyst Stone Meaning

The February gemstone is also rife with meaning. In the past, Tibetan Buddhist monks considered it holy and carved prayer beads from it and English royalty reserved it for themselves due to its sacred properties. And amethyst became the February birthstone thanks to the legendary St. Valentine, who donned an amethyst ring as he performed illicit marriages; this eventually led to the modern-day practice of gifting amethyst jewelry on Valentine’s Day. Modern-day lore claims that it is a powerful protective stone with cognitive and emotional stimulating properties.

Amethyst Rings

Deck your digits with a purple ring or two (or three), so you can punctuate every gesture with lavender. Choose a small stone for everyday wearing and stacking, or pump up the purple and go crazy with an oversized amethyst cocktail ring.

Petite Amethyst
Birthstone Ring

“Perfect in every way. I chose this for my 9 year old daughter, and she was beyond bedazzled with it. The metal and the gemstone are beautiful.”
– Johanna T.

Doubled Amethyst
and Diamond Ring

“A beautifully designed ring! The few diamonds on the ring next to the amethyst are a subtle compliment overall.”
-Marcin B.

Emerald-Cut Amethyst
Cocktail Ring

Fairy Amethyst
and Diamond Ring

Amethyst Earrings

Frame your face with two delicate purple gemstones. Amethyst earrings look particularly lovely on wearers with blue and brown eyes. And of course, they’re absolutely plum-colored stunning on those with violet-colored irises!

Cultured Pearl
and Amethyst Earrings

“The earrings were well made and delicate. My wife loved it as a birthday gift.”
– Felipe S.

Oval-Cut Amethyst
Stud Earrings

“This was a gift for my daughter-in-law and she was very happy.”
– Josette B.

Baroque Diamond
and Amethyst Earrings

Framed Amethyst
Leverback Earrings

Amethyst Necklaces

A single amethyst worn around the neck is known to protect its wearer from boring jewelry choices. Flaunt your unique personal style with a unique purple gemstone, set in precious metal.

Amethyst Birthstone
Necklace

“The birthstone necklace was stunning; the perfect birthday gift for my wife; she was mesmerized by it.” – Jonathan O.

Victorian Diamond
and Amethyst Necklace

“I bought this to celebrate the birth of our daughter and my wife loves it!” -Jason K.

Diamond and Amethyst
Halo Necklace

White Gold Amethyst
Station Necklace

The February Birthstone: Purple Reign

If you’re a February baby, or you’re looking for the perfect February gift, you are in luck! Amethyst is strong, affordable, and complements every complexion. Take your pick of any of the amethyst fan favorites listed above.

January Garnets * February Amethysts * March Aquamarines * April Diamonds * May Emeralds * June Pearls * July Rubies * August Peridots * September Sapphires * October Opal * November Citrines * December Blue Topaz.

Read up on more birthstone beauties

Subscribe to our email list for access to secret sales, practical ring-buying tips, and $100 off your first purchase!

Adam

Whatsapp Image 2021 11 23 At 18.12.06 (20)

How To Wear Stackable Rings

November 23, 2021September 19, 2023Education, Fine Jewelrydiamond rings, diamond wedding rings, engagement rings, stackable rings, stackable wedding rings, stacking rings, wedding rings, wedding set

Learn how to wear stackable rings based on your personal style for any occasion!

Stackable rings have taken the world of jewelry by storm, providing a versatile and chic way to style your fingers. These delicate pieces offer the freedom to mix and match, allowing you to create a personalized and distinctive look suitable for any occasion.

Whether you lean towards minimalist elegance or prefer to make a bold statement, stackable rings are your ultimate accessory. In this guide, we’ll show you 9 imaginative ways to flaunt stackable rings to elevate your daily and night looks!

What Are Stackable Rings?

Stackable rings are a trendy type of jewelry designed to be worn together on the same finger or across multiple fingers. They’re thinner and more delicate than traditional rings, allowing for easy layering and customization.

Why Should You Wear Stackable Rings?

Stackable rings are a seriously fun and expressive trend. You can mix and match different metals, styles, and designs to create a unique, personalized look that suits your style. And it’s all-inclusive!

Stackable rings offer versatility and endless possibilities for expressing your creativity, whether you prefer a subtle and minimalist appearance or want to make a bold fashion statement.

Minimalist Marvel

Embrace the beauty of simplicity by layering thin bands in the same metal for an elegant and understated aesthetic. Women’s gold rings are particularly popular for minimalists.

Combine metals like rose gold, yellow gold, and silver to create a subtle contrast that complements your overall style.
Opt for delicate designs adorned with small stones or engravings for a touch of refined sophistication.

Mix and Match

Play around with various ring styles, including eternity bands, solitaires, and midi rings, for a dynamic and eclectic appearance.

Fearlessly combine rings with distinct texture, such as hammered and smooth, to create a bold contrast.

Solo Stunner

Allow a solitary stackable ring to shine by either stacking it with midi rings or wearing it as a stand-alone piece.

This approach works exceptionally well with rings boasting larger gemstones or unique focal points.

Ring Party on Every Finger

Spread the love for stackable rings by embellishing each finger with an assortment of rings for a boho-chic vibe.

Select a theme, like earthy tones or ocean-inspired hues, to seamlessly tie together your finger party.

Birthstone Bliss

Craft a stack using rings featuring the birthstones of your cherished ones, adding a touch of meaning and sentimentality.

Experiment with diverse cuts and settings to emphasize the distinctive beauty of each birthstone.

Bold and Beautiful

Make a striking impression by stacking chunkier rings featuring unique textures or intricate patterns.

Experiment with diverse shapes and sizes, pairing broader bands with slimmer ones to generate visual intrigue.
Choose fancy shaped eternity rings or vivid enamel to inject a burst of personality into your stack.

Delicate Midi Magic

Embrace the midi ring trend by placing stackable rings on the upper section of your fingers.

Opt for slim bands embellished with subtle details to create an enchanting and captivating look.

Symmetrical Sophistication

Achieve a polished and well-balanced appearance by wearing an equal number of stackable rings on both hands.

Maintain a consistent style or metal to uphold an organized and refined look.

Vintage Vibes

Infuse your stackable rings collection with vintage-inspired pieces showcasing intricate filigree or art deco designs.

Infuse modern elements into the ensemble to keep your look current and fresh.

Stackable Rings: Additional Tips and Tricks

Stackable rings open up possibilities for expressing your personality and style. Here are some extra tips to maximize your ring-stacking adventures:

Play with Proportions: Experiment with rings of varying thicknesses to create an appealing visual contrast.
Mix Metals with Confidence: Don’t hesitate to blend different metal types; the contrast can add dimension and flair.
Prioritize Comfort: Since you’re layering multiple rings, ensure they fit comfortably without causing discomfort.
Balance Matters: When stacking rings on one finger, try to balance sizes and styles for a harmonious effect.
Theme it Up: Create themed stacks based on your mood or the season, allowing for effortless style transitions.
Coordinate with Nails: Match your nail polish with your ring stack for an added touch of coordination.
Layer with Bracelets and Watches: Pair stackable rings with complementary bracelets and watches for a well-coordinated look.

FAQs

Can I mix different metals when stacking rings?

Mixing metals adds a modern and eclectic flair to your look. Just ensure a unifying element, such as a similar texture or stone.

Can I stack rings on all fingers?

You can stack rings on one or multiple fingers, creating endless style variations. Just ensure the rings on each finger complement each other.

How do I prevent discomfort when stacking multiple rings?

Choose rings that fit comfortably on each finger, and avoid stacking too many thick bands on one finger. It’s all about finding the right balance.

Are there any rules for mixing different ring styles?

While there are no strict rules, sticking to a common theme or metal can help maintain a cohesive look. However, don’t be afraid to experiment and break the rules!

Can men wear stackable rings?

Absolutely! Stackable rings are not limited by gender. Men can embrace this trend by choosing rings that reflect their style and personality.

How can I make my engagement ring work in a stack?

Consider using stackable bands that complement your engagement ring’s design. Opt for a curved band that fits around the engagement ring’s setting.

Start Stacking

Stackable rings are a fantastic avenue to explore your creativity and fashion sense. Whether you opt for a minimalistic approach or relish mixing bold styles, a stackable ring combination is waiting to enhance your individuality. Ready to shop your newest ring obsession? Visit us at JamesAllen.com and we’ll help you find the perfect accessory.

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Buying Your Engagement Ring Online Cover

The Ultimate Guide To Buying An Engagement Ring Online

November 8, 2021August 11, 2024Education, Engagement Rings4C's, buying an engagement ring online, custom-designed rings, fancy shaped diamonds, lab-created diamond engagement rings, the ring studio, true hearts diamond, view diamonds in 360° HD, virtual engagement ring try-on

When it comes to buying an engagement ring online, take it from those who have perfected the art of getting it right time and time again. Join us as we explore the many tools available to you for your online ring shopping experience.

The Choice Between Lab-Created Diamonds Or Earth-Made Diamonds

When buying an engagement ring online, you’ll find you have a wider variety of diamond and gemstones center stones available to you. While some people prefer the traditional natural diamond, the perks for investing in lab created diamond alternatives are growing.

Lab grown diamonds and earth-created diamonds are optically and chemically identical. If you were to have both diamonds professionally inspected, you would find no differences. The only noticeable difference is the price tag. A lab created diamond is by far the more budget-friendly option.

Our wide range of loose diamonds includes a TrueHearts™ collection of cut-to-perfection lab-grown diamonds. Whatever your preference, you’ll have one of the largest collections of loose diamonds to choose from.

Tapered Pavé Engagement Ring

“James Allen made buying an engagement ring the best experience ever! Go James Allen!” – Morgan B.

Knife-Edge Engagement Ring

14K White Gold 2mm Knife Edge Solitaire Engagement Ring

“James Allen removed any doubt of buying a ring online by providing top-notch customer service.” – Carl L.

Custom-Designed Rings

A customized ring is not only a great way to remain in control of the design and online buying process, but it also gives you the best chance to add a personal touch to your engagement ring.

We’ve even got you covered if your ideal ring is something you’d like to design from scratch by yourself.

The Ring Studio is a new feature at JamesAllen.com that allows you nearly unlimited customization options:

Start with a setting or create a custom engagement ring from scratch
Choose your head along with your shank and precious metal
Finally, add your dream diamond or gem in any fancy shape and preferred carat weight.

Our customization technology allows you to go further and add that something special to your ring to make it truly unique.

Twisted Pavé Engagement Ring

“The service was above and beyond my expectations.” – Noah M.

Comfort-Fit Engagement Ring

14K Rose Gold 2mm Comfort Fit Solitaire Engagement Ring

“This beats any jewelry store experience I ever had by a long shot.” -Phillip D.

Full Transparency With 360° Display Technology

Feeling uncertain is not a good look for anyone committed to buying an engagement ring online. That is why every diamond we have is photographed with 40x or greater magnification in 360°. This can help you genuinely understand the diamond’s beauty, shape, cut, color, clarity, and sparkle like never before.

It is the most vivid 360° diamond video viewing experience in the world, and you can have it at your convenience in the comfort of your own home. This technology leaves nothing to the imagination and allows you and your partner to make the best possible decision outside of an actual showroom.

Split Band Engagement Ring

14K White Gold Round Split Band Diamond Halo Engagement Ring

“James Allen knocked it out of the park. Turned out exactly as expected, on time, and gorgeous.” -Justin D.

Three Stone Engagement Ring

Platinum Three Stone Pear Shaped Blue Sapphire Engagement Ring

“Great deal, great company. I will definitely buy another band for an anniversary in the future.” – Ward J.

Virtual Try-On

It looks beautiful on the site, but how will it look on your or your partner’s finger? Believe it or not, technological innovation is making that worry a thing of the past. All you need is a smartphone!

We believe your ring-trying experience should suit your lifestyle. When purchasing an engagement ring, it’s even more important to try it on before making your final decision.

So, how does this make buying an engagement ring online more convenient? With our virtual engagement ring try-on, you’re able to snap a shot of your hand and virtually place your ring of choice on your finger for you to oh and ah at, eliminating any second-guessing you might have. What can be better than trying on an endless selection of rings at any time or place?

FYI: This is an engagement ring-only, smartphone-only feature. Wedding rings and laptops need not apply.

Falling Edge Pavé Engagement Ring

14K Rose Gold Falling Edge Pavé Diamond Engagement Ring

“Fits perfect. Asking questions to the website staff was very easy and helped so much! Will definitely shop here again! – Brittany G.

Flush Fit Petite Pavé Engagement Ring

14K Rose Gold Petite Pavé Engagement Ring (Flush Fit)

“Exactly as expected. I would order this again and James Allen has been very professional to work with.” – Raymond M.

Find The Perfect Diamond Using The Four C’s

Buying your engagement ring online is easy when you have an education center at your disposal. Here are a few key points to understand before picking out that perfect center stone:

Cut

The first, and arguably most important, C is the cut of the diamond. Here you can decide between several fancy shapes like pear, oval, marquise, and cushion-cut, to name a few. If your partner wants their diamond to really sparkle and shine, spend some extra time choosing which cut might match their preference best. The classic round cut is usually the most flawless and brilliant.

Color

The color grade of your diamond can range from D-K. Most diamonds have a visible trace of yellow in their body color, whereas white diamonds are colorless. Fine white diamonds are pretty rare, and you also have some unusual natural colors to choose from, better known as fancy colored diamonds. The closer to a colorless diamond you go, the more expensive it will be.

Clarity

The clarity of your diamond may differ depending on whether it has any natural external blemishes or internal inclusions. Here, you may be looking for a diamond with zero imperfections or maybe one with a bit of character to it. The clarity of a diamond is directly impacted by its cut, something for you to keep in mind.

Carat

The final C is carat, referring to the standard weight of your diamond or gem. One carat is 0.20g, and most couples are comfortable going with an engagement ring that has a center stone from 0.50 to 1.5 carats. Here, your partner may already have a size in mind or might be more concerned with getting a whiter or clearer diamond instead of a bigger one. It always helps to ask or find out.

Most Popular Fancy Shaped Diamonds

As we mentioned before, diamonds can be cut into various round, square, and elongated shapes.

Buying an engagement ring online allows you to choose from a wider variety of fancy shaped diamonds. The most popular center stone choice is the brilliant round cut, followed by the oval cut. Both diamond shapes can offer you maximum sparkle.

For something that’ll give your partner a slimmer-looking hand, try out the elongated diamond cuts like a marquise or the very elegant pear-shaped diamond.

For a bolder touch, take the emerald, princess, and Asscher cuts for a 360° HD spin and watch them shimmer on your setting of choice. Whether you’re looking for the most romantic shaped diamond or one that’ll give your partner the most finger coverage, you’ll have more variety and chances to get it right if you customize your ring online.

Three Stone Emerald And Pavé Set Diamond Engagement Ring

“Great fit and look. Arrived exactly as we expected!” – Claire D.

Round Shaped Comfort Fit Solitaire Engagement Ring

14K White Gold 2mm Comfort Fit Solitaire Engagement Ring

“Prompt service. Extremely well crafted!” -Timothy M.

Are You A “Normal” Ring Shopper?

September 20, 2021February 26, 2024Education, Engagement Rings, Weddingcustomize your engagement ring, engagement ring shopping, lab-created diamonds, ring shopper, SWNS

Want to know how you compare to other ring shoppers? We can tell you thanks to this survey collaboration with SWNS.

A picture of an engaged couple. The woman has her arms wrapped around his neck and is showing off her diamond ring.

When do I know I’m ready to get married?

Half of Americans in a relationship knew they wanted to marry their partner the moment they met. In fact, that statistic holds up across genders! 46% of women and 47% of men immediately knew that their partner was the one.

What about those who are skeptical of marriage? A third of respondents say that their current partner made them want to get married – that’s a quarter of women and half of men.

What does this mean for you? Well, there doesn’t seem to be much of a correlation between how long a couple dates and the strength of their marriage. Whatever feels right is right for you. It doesn’t particularly matter whether it takes months or years for you two to arrive at the altar. Your journey is your own, but the destination is the same for each married couple.

A statistic answering the question: "When do I know I’m ready to get married?"

After the wedding, should I wear my wedding ring, my engagement ring, or both?

If you’re asking yourself, “How should I wear my wedding ring set?” then we’ve got news for you: there are no absolute rules regarding how to wear your rings! After the wedding, most Americans wear their wedding ring closest to their knuckle, paired with their engagement ring just over it.

Other ring options:

Wear your full wedding set, but swap the order: the engagement ring closest to the knuckle, with the wedding ring further down on your finger.
Wear only your wedding ring

If you like your wedding ring best, or if your engagement ring tends to get in the way in your day-to-day life, then you may want to wear your wedding ring exclusively.

Wear only your engagement ring

Do you like your engagement ring more than your wedding band? Then leave your wedding band at home! You’re still celebrating your relationship, just with more emphasis on your sparkling center stone.

Wear your wedding ring and engagement ring on different hands

This can be a great choice for those whose wedding ring and engagement ring don’t sit flush. Or, on the other hand, your local tradition may dictate this. In Spain, for instance, the engagement ring usually goes on the left hand, while the wedding ring usually goes on the right.

Wear your wedding ring and engagement ring on different fingers

Other than for style reasons, this choice is common for those whose fingers have changed size, particularly post-pregnancy. If this strikes a chord, remember that James Allen offers free ring resizing either via mail or in select Jared jewelry stores.

Wear your wedding ring and engagement ring on the right hand

In some cultures, right > left. In fact, Catholic and eastern European tradition dictates that the wedding and engagement ring both be worn on the right hand.

All in all, only about half of respondents constantly wear their wedding rings and engagement rings together. The other half either wear only one ring or forgo wearing rings altogether.

The bottom line: you do you, boo.

How long should I save up for an engagement ring?

This is totally up to you. A quarter of Americans say they don’t believe there’s a set amount of time, while 65% of Americans believe you should save up for a year at maximum.

However, there’s no majority consensus. How do people determine how much a ring should cost?

You can set your ring budget by the amount of money you can save in a certain number of months
You can determine a budget independent of time constraints
You can find your dream ring and save up until you have enough to purchase it

The time necessary to save up money is heavily dependent on both your budget and the price of your desired ring. And if your budget is inflexible, here are some options for lowering the overall cost of your ring!

Important: James Allen offers special financing options if you can’t fully afford your ring right now, but still want to get engaged ASAP!

How much should my engagement ring cost?

Just 15% of Americans believe an engagement ring should cost over $5,000. Why is this important? It means you shouldn’t feel pressured to buy an expensive ring.

If you want to splurge on an impressive ring, go for it! You can always add more diamonds to the basket and shank, upgrade to a more pricey diamond, or choose platinum as your ring metal.

On the other hand, you should know that smaller budgets are extremely common. Additionally, many people’s dream rings fall well within their ring budgets!

If you’re operating within a smaller budget, have a look at our favorite affordable engagement rings. You and your wallet will fall in love!

Is it important to buy an expensive engagement ring?

71% of Americans don’t really care about the cost of the engagement ring.

What seems to be most important is that the ring suits the recipient. If your dream ring is priced higher than your current budget allows, there are plenty of ways to adjust your ring’s cost without compromising on appearance.

Ways to reduce the cost of your engagement ring:

Choose a lab grown diamond, which can cost up to 50% less than a traditional natural diamond.
Go for slightly under full carats. For instance, the price difference between a .95 carat diamond and a 1.00 carat diamond is significant, but the size difference is not noticeable to the naked eye.
Choose an elongated diamond shape, which appears large for its carat weight.
Want a white jewelry metal? Go for white gold rather than platinum.
Compromise on color. The less colorless a diamond is, the more affordable it is. Save money on a diamond with a slightly yellow tint, then pair it with a yellow or rose gold setting. The warm jewelry metal will mask the diamond’s color and no one can tell the difference!

A statistic answering the question, "Is it important to buy an expensive engagement ring?"

Should we share the cost of an engagement ring?

4 out of 10 couples share the cost of their engagement ring. An engagement ring is a big purchase! Not only can sharing the cost be a practical decision (and perhaps one that would allow for a more expensive ring), but taking this important journey together can bring a couple closer to one another.

Whether or not you share the cost of an engagement ring, here’s why we recommend designing your ring together.

A statistic answering the question, "Should we share the cost of an engagement ring?"

Should I get a custom engagement ring or a pre-set engagement ring?

36% of ring shoppers prefer a customized engagement ring, while 26% would rather go with a pre-set ring.

Any of James Allen’s rings can be customized with your unique gemstone and jewelry metal. For additional customization with unique baskets, halos, and shanks, visit the Ring Studio.

A statistic answering the question, "Should I get a custom engagement ring or a pre-set engagement ring?"

What’s the perfect proposal?

Ring in the champagne glass? “Will You Marry Me?” written in the sky? An impromptu proposal at home?

71% of Americans prefer a traditional proposal, in which a partner gets down on one knee and pops the question. It’s traditional, but there are a thousand and one ways to do it! Customize your proposal to your hearts’ content.

Which proposal will suit the two of you?

Just the two of you vs. alongside friends and family
A destination proposal vs. a proposal at home
Simple vs. extravagant
Impromptu vs. planned

Check out our Engagement Moments for proposal inspiration from real-life James Allen customers. And for some currently relevant inspiration, have a look at our list of 9 COVID-friendly proposal ideas.

More ring-shopping guidance to browse:

Subscribe to our email list for access to secret sales, practical ring-buying tips, and $100 off your first purchase.

Adam

Men’s Wedding Rings For Different Lifestyles

July 26, 2021October 2, 2022Education, Engagement Rings, Weddingalternative metals, durable rings, hypoallergenic metals, scratch-resistant rings, wedding rings for active lifestyles, wedding rings for different lifestyles, wedding rings for men

We’ve taken the time to break down all major considerations to help you find the perfect men’s wedding band to symbolize forever.

A man with white All Stars, rolling up his pant leg while showing off his wedding band.

We know how important it is to find a wedding ring that fits your unique lifestyle. There are men’s wedding bands that cater to just about any lifestyle and hobby we can think of. From classic yellow gold to stylish black wedding rings, dynamic metal options make it easier to enjoy your favorite activities without stress.

Whether you’re the kind of man who enjoys leisure or one who spends his time doing extreme sports, there is a metal and style that is the ideal fit for you. We’ve even considered that you might be both these men in one fun package – there’s a ring for that, too.

Take all your possible questions and worries, and allow us to confidently help you find the perfect wedding ring that will sit on your finger the day you say “I do.” Scroll down to see our six important factors to consider when buying the wedding ring your soon-to-be spouse will melt over. And if your partner is sitting right beside you now, remember they know best.

Make Yourself Comfy

Having a comfortable men’s wedding band is essential for any man who might be wearing this type of jewelry for the first time. A softer metal like white or yellow gold is the best option here. Men working with their hands or those in an office space will benefit most from this metal while looking great at the same time. Gold rings may need some minor buffing and polishing in the long term, but they’re a popular classic for a reason.

Both these metals are valuable and less expensive than platinum. White gold is slightly stronger with a cooler undertone, while yellow gold is more malleable and warm. One of the most comforting attributes of these metals is that they suit just about anyone and leave no room for insecurities or fuss.

Slightly Domed Comfort Fit Wedding Ring

A ring to wear for unforgettable comfort with a classic touch.

Slightly Flattened Comfort Fit Wedding Ring

14K Yellow Gold 5.5mm Slightly Flat Comfort Fit Wedding Ring

Classy and elegant: two features that’ll never lead you wrong.

When we talk about comfortability, we’re also going beyond metal and venturing towards ring style. Familiarize yourself with the term “comfort-fit.” This term is generally used to describe a ring that has a domed interior. This style is perfect if you want to avoid irritants to your skin and uncomfortable cuts to your finger.

Titanium is also a softer metal that offers its wearer more comfort and is a lighter weight than steel. It’s perfect for family men who want a durable yet comfy metal that can survive everyday wear.

Black Titanium Satin Finish Comfort Fit Wedding Ring

Black Titanium Satin Finish 6.5mm Comfort Fit Ring

A contemporary satin look for the ultimate style and comfort.

Titanium Comfort Fit Hammered-Finished Wedding Ring

Titanium 7mm Comfort-Fit Hammered-Finished Design Ring

A lighter side of strength with this rounded polished interior.

Durable For Your Lifestyle

Active lifestyles can mean anything from regular sports to high-intensity construction jobs. Investing in a ring with high durability is the only way to save yourself the grief and frustration of having to fix scratches or breaks on your wedding ring.

Platinum is the first metal that comes to mind when we talk about durability. It’s rare and dense, making it suitable for rougher lifestyles. A bonus to look forward to when investing in this metal is the fact that it will likely last a lifetime while maintaining its beauty. Take it from us, this metal is perfect for men’s wedding bands and a smart buy as a future family heirloom.

Next, let’s dive into cobalt chrome™. This metal will maintain its original condition even under the most intense wear and tear. It’s lighter than platinum, making it easier to wear, and it comes in various styles.

Platinum High Polished Beveled Edge Wedding Ring

Platinum 6mm Comfort-Fit High Polished Beveled Edge Band

Polished perfect that slides and rests easily on the finger.

Cobalt Chrome™ Stair Step Comfort Fit Wedding Ring

Cobalt Chrome™ 9MM Stair Step Comfort Fit Ring

A little shatter-proof edge to your ring, sir?

Scratch Resistant Rings

No one enjoys seeing scratches on their property. Not on our phones, cars, and certainly not on our wedding bands. The issue is, no matter what we do, scratches appear out of nowhere regardless of what protective measures we take. This is especially true if you’re a man who enjoys the outdoors or works in an industry where bumping his ring is a given.

Fret not, we have a solution to your problem. Tungsten is, without a doubt, the most scratch-resistant metal that exists. Incredibly, the only material out there that would be able to scratch your wedding ring is a diamond. It’s a tough metal making it impossible to bend out of shape and, unfortunately, impossible to resize.

Another favorite is the metal tantalum. It’s an excellent choice for men’s engagement rings as it’s highly durable against scratching and breakage. It’s an oddly vibrant futuristic metal and is virtually indestructible. Like tungsten, this metal is perfect for men working in harsh conditions, especially fields with chemicals and heat.

Tantalum Channel Set Black Diamond Wedding Ring

Tantalum 7.5mm Channel Set Black Diamond Satin Finished Comfort Fit Ring

Tantalum strength and a touch of elegance with black diamonds.

Yellow Tungsten Bevel Edge Wedding Ring By TRITON

Yellow Tungsten Carbide 6MM Bevel Edge Band By TRITON

A unique high-tech high-style creation using yellow tungsten carbide.

Best Hypoallergenic Metals

Being active may cause your hands to sweat and develop ring rash but there are some metals that can prevent this extremely well. Keep this list of all the hypoallergenic metals in mind when you purchase your ring:

Tantalum and Cobalt Chrome™ (without nickel) are great for medical and chemical applications because it’s both hypoallergenic and bio-compatible.
Tungsten is also hypoallergenic and a great substitute for those allergic to yellow gold wedding bands.
Platinum is hypoallergenic and a perfect replacement for white gold men’s wedding bands because it has no traces of nickel.
Titanium is also safe to wear and anti-allergenic.
Platinum is 95% pure, making it the most hypoallergenic metal choice.
Ceramic contains no unwanted components in its composition.

Ceramic Satin-Finished Wedding Ring

Ceramic Comfort-Fit Satin-Finished Round Edge Design Ring

A lightweight and long-lasting ceramic masterpiece.

Faceted Center Groove Wedding Ring

Platinum Satin Finish And Faceted Center Groove Comfort Fit Band

Shine bright with the highly polished facet and light-reflective groove.

Aesthetically Pleasing

Beauty is in the eye of the wedding band holder, and that’s why we can’t tell you which ring is the most handsome. We can, however, let you in on which of our rings frequently make the bestsellers list and those that have a little extra pizazz. After all, there’s no shame in wanting your ring to be an extension of your unique style and personality.

If you like being outside and active, it’s likely one of these metals will have a pattern that mirrors your hobby. If you prefer office life and are more easygoing, yellow and white gold, along with platinum are softer metals that can be engraved for a more personal and intimate touch.

Tantalum, Cobalt Chrome, Titanium, and Tungsten are high on the list of stylish wedding bands for men who want that extra appeal to their ring. While the classics are always timeless, these metals are making the rounds with their exciting designs and unique styles.

Fractured Texture & Grey Tantalum Wedding Ring

14K White Gold Fractured Texture Center And Grey Tantalum Edges 8mm Ring

We’re here to tell you fractured wall texture and grey tantalum edges are in.

Cobalt Chrome™ Carbon Fiber Inlay Wedding Ring

Cobalt Chrome™ 8mm Comfort Fit Ring With Black Carbon Fiber Inlay

Carved design perfection featuring a hammered-finished center with a milgrain pattern.

Affordable Quality

A wedding band isn’t an easy purchase or one you should take lightly. It’s a long-term investment in a piece of jewelry that you’ll not only be wearing forever but also represents your love and commitment. In short, it’s a pretty big deal.

Lifestyle plays a significant role in how much you’re willing to spend on your wedding band, and so let’s compare two scenarios. If you see yourself in a fast-paced, rough, and tough environment with the need for durable wear, then it’s obvious you’ll need something that is damage-resistant and low maintenance. In this case, your best option is cobalt chrome™. Its combination of affordability, durability, scratch resistance, hypoallergenic qualities, and general look makes it the best choice for very active lifestyles on a budget.

Our other scenario is that you’re the kind of man who is relatively active – not too intense – looking for a high-quality ring with extra shine and immortality. Your ideal wedding ring would be made from Platinum, the rarest metal that needs a bit of upkeep but holds great prestige.

Titanium Satin Finished Beveled Edge Wedding Ring

Titanium 7mm Comfort-Fit Satin-Finished Beveled Edge Design Ring

Lightweight shine with all great qualities on a budget.

Cobalt Lava Pattern Comfort Fit Wedding Ring

Cobalt Lava Pattern 6mm Comfort Fit Ring

The perfect cobalt combination with everything you need for an active lifestyle.

Final Thoughts

When it comes to picking the right men’s wedding band for you, James Allen has all the tools and convenience you need to find the perfect fit. Visit our wedding ring page for all you need to know about the different metals, styles, designs, and more!

Looking for more wedding band inspo? Check out our wedding ring series here:

Subscribe to our email list for access to secret sales, practical ring-buying tips, and $100 off your first purchase!

Jessica Thomas

Jessica is a seasoned content writer with four years of experience and a qualified gemologist. She enjoys educating new shoppers on the best practices for buying jewelry.

Introducing The Ring Studio: Customize Your Engagement Ring

June 15, 2021July 4, 2022Education, Engagement Ringscustom engagement ring, custom ring, customize your engagement ring, customize your ring, design a ring, engagement rings, the ring studio, unique engagement rings

Finally! Full creative control over the entire ring design process! Create a custom engagement ring, from scratch by hand-picking the style and metal of a ring’s head and shank, complete with your specific center stone. Or, tweak a James Allen design you love to make it even better.

At James Allen, you can choose from over 500 unique engagement ring designs. Every single design allows a degree of customization: you choose your ring metal and your specific center stone. However, sometimes that’s just not enough! If you haven’t yet found your ideal ring, we’re giving you the chance to fulfill your ring dreams. That’s why we’ve developed The Ring Studio.

The Ring Studio is an area of JamesAllen.com that allows you nearly unlimited customization options. You’ve got two ways to customize via The Ring Studio: Start with a setting or create a custom engagement ring from scratch. This means using a ring design that’s 90% of the way there, and then perfecting the remaining 10%. Or build it from the ground up! Choose your head, your shank, your metal, your diamond shape, and even your diamond carat.

For the first time, customize your dream engagement ring, even further.

The Ring Studio: Start With a Setting

Every ring setting you see with a rainbow icon can be further customized in The Ring Studio. Click on the icon, where you’ll be taken to The Ring Studio. One by one, you’ll be able to adjust every aspect of your design.

Choose from up to 14 styles of baskets, 12 styles of ring bands, and every metal and stone shape we offer.

As you make your changes, your ring will be updated in real-time. You’ll be able to view it from every angle, spin it in 360 degrees, and zoom in to view the finer details. Take a good look. Be 100% sure that your ring is 100% what you want!

Remember: Some baskets, bands, and stone shapes aren’t necessarily compatible with one another. For example, only certain stone shapes will fit into certain baskets. If your heart is set on a specific combination that’s not available in the Ring Studio, contact our 24/7 customer service team to request a custom ring. They’ll do everything they can to achieve your specifications.

Now, let’s get into the nitty-gritty! How precisely does The Ring Studio work?

Step 1: Select A Head

The head holds your diamond firmly in place. Start by selecting your preferred metal and style.

Step 2: Select A Shank

Choose a shank metal and style and combine it with the head of your choice!

Step 3: Finishing Touches

Complete your ring by previewing your preferred diamond shape and size.

A preview of your preferred diamond shape and size

Once you’re satisfied with everything about your ring, scroll down and choose “Select This Setting.”

Now it’s time to choose a center stone. Choose a diamond, gemstone, or go with a recommended diamond for the custom engagement ring you’ve designed.

Solitaire Engagement Ring Embellished With a Falling Edge Pavé Halo Head

Petite U Shaped Pavé Engagement Ring Embellished With a Scalloped Six Prong Head

The Ring Studio: Create A Custom Engagement Ring From Scratch

This is the time to build your ring up from scratch! You get full creative control of your ring by choosing the style and metal of its head and shank – in addition to your chosen center stone. Start wherever you’d like, either with a head, shank or diamond. And go from there!

We recommend beginning with the aspects you love the most, and then adding ring elements that complement them.

Choose the head that you’ve had your heart set on, and select your preferred metal and style. then play around with your shank.

If a certain shank strikes your eye, try out every one of our 14 available baskets until you find the one!

Love the knife-edge pavé band? And a pavé basket? Now’s the time to play around with the diamond shape and carat that will look best with your lovely pavé-covered ring.

Knife Edge Pavé Engagement Ring Embellished With a Vintage Basket Head

Round Diamond & Sapphire Marquise Shape Engagement Ring Embellished With a Single Row Sapphire Pavé Halo Head

James Allen’s Classic Customization FTW

Like what you see? Skip the Ring Studio and go with James Allens’ always-popular ring design process. There’s a reason we’re an industry leader. What we do – what we’ve done for years – works. Need a little inspiration? Check out our collection of customer-created 3 carat diamond rings and imagine yourself with big diamond sparkle!

Rope Solitaire Engagement Ring Embellished With a Classic Pavé Basket Head

Round & Marquise Shape Diamond Engagement Ring Embellished With a Four Prong Signature Head With Diamond Bridge Accent

Choose a Setting

Browse over 500 ring designs. Take your pick from a huge range of solitaire, pavé, channel set, side stone, three stone, tension, halo, and vintage styles.

Choose a Diamond

Pick your diamond by its shape, color, clarity, cut, carat, and desired price range.

Get excited by our collection of earth-created and lab-grown diamonds in 10 fancy colors.

Lab-grown diamonds and earth-created diamonds are optically and chemically identical, the only difference being their relative origins. And this difference in origin leads lab grown diamonds to flaunt a much lower price point: they’re nearly 30% more affordable!

Choose a Ring Metal

Your Options:

Yellow gold (14k or 18k)
White gold (14k or 18k)
Rose gold (14k)
Platinum

Choose the ring metal that best suits your lifestyle. It’s important to choose a metal you love, but it’s got to love you back.

Yellow Gold:

Why it’s awesome:

Its warm tone masks the slight yellowish hues of non-colorless diamonds. Meaning, you can save a buck on your diamond by choosing yellow gold.

What to watch out for:

Yellow gold is a relatively soft metal, so the more you wear your yellow gold engagement ring, the more tiny scratches it will accumulate over the years. You can remove these via regular buffing with a jewelry polishing cloth. Your local jeweler can quickly take care of any more serious scratches.

Find out whether 14k or 18k yellow gold is the ring metal for you.

White Gold:

Why it’s awesome:

This is the affordable white ring metal! It displays a similar sheen to platinum, without emptying your wallet.
It’s extremely malleable, making it the perfect vehicle for engravings and filigrees.

What to watch out for:

White gold receives its silvery lustre via rhodium plating. Over time, this plating wears down in spots to reveal the yellow gold alloy underneath. To preserve the color of your white gold, you’ll need to take it to a jeweler every 5 years or so for replating.

Here’s how to decide between white gold and platinum!

Rose Gold:

Why it’s awesome:

It’s more durable than both white gold and yellow gold, while boasting a similar price point.
Like yellow gold, its warmth hides the yellowness of less expensive diamonds; you can spend less on a diamond and none will be the wiser!

What to watch out for:

Rose gold receives its unique coloring due to its copper content. While copper contributes to rose gold’s affordability and durability, it’s not hypoallergenic. Anyone with copper allergies should avoid rose gold.

Platinum:

Why it’s awesome:

The most durable metal, platinum will stand up to most anything you throw at it. Plus, it won’t ever tarnish!

What to watch out for:

Platinum’s uncontested strength and sheen means it’s also the most expensive ring metal.

Channel Set Princess Cut Diamond Engagement Ring Embellished With a Four Prong Signature Head With Sapphire Bridge Accent

Sleek Accent Diamond Engagement Ring Embellished With a Single Row Pavé Halo Head

Final Thoughts:

An engagement ring is a piece of jewelry you’ll be wearing for the rest of your life – so make it exactly what you want to wear 24/7. Create a custom engagement ring of your very own, one that you’ll be delighted to wear day in and day out. Design your ring the classic James Allen way or use The Ring Studio to take your ring customization to the next level.

Are you ready? Make your ring yours, your way.

More Engagement Ring Customization Inspiration:

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Adam

1024 500 Earth Created Vs. Lab Created Diamonds A Guide

Natural Diamonds vs. Lab Grown Diamonds: A Guide

January 10, 2022August 7, 2024Diamonds, Educationcushion cut diamonds, diamond engagement rings, earth-created diamonds, fancy colored diamonds, lab diamonds, lab-created diamonds, lab-grown diamonds, princess cut diamonds

Lab grown diamond or natural diamond? We’ve got all the info you need to live your best sparkling life with the perfect diamond for you!

Lab grown diamonds have become increasingly popular and are pretty much the new kids on the jewelry block. Like many new unknowns, people are a little skeptical at first when they hear about lab diamonds, but rest assured, they make for a perfect alternative to natural diamonds. Let’s start with some basic facts so you can decide with 100% confidence which sort of sparkle sets a twinkle in your eye.

What Is A Diamond?

Diamonds are carbon atoms. When they’re arranged in a very particular structure, you get the tough and beautiful stone we know and love. Producing this special carbon arrangement in nature demands conditions that are intense. We’re talking high heat and super-high pressure. Needless to say, very few places in the world are capable of producing mined diamonds.

The Key Difference Between Natural and Lab Grown Diamonds

Natural diamonds are sourced from below the earth’s surface, whereas man-made diamonds are created in simulated “below-ground” conditions in a lab.
To put it simply, their origin is the only difference between these two types of diamonds.
Technology has advanced to the point that we don’t always have to go digging for our precious stones; we can simulate the necessary extreme conditions in specialized pressure chambers in a lab.
Lab grown diamonds are grown from tiny carbon “seeds” that develop in these chambers over months, as scorching gasses deposit carbon atom-by-atom onto the original seed. Lab created diamonds even develop their own unique characteristics (inclusions, clarity, etc.) along the way, and once they’re fully grown, they’re cut into the shape that suits their qualities best.

Factors To Consider When Choosing Your Diamond

Picking a diamond isn’t easy, there’s your budget to consider, your partner’s preference for cut, clarity, carat, and color, and its rarity factor.

Cost

One of the biggest upsides to lab grown diamonds is that they’re generally about 30% more affordable than natural diamonds.

Why?

The diamond-growing process is less resource-intensive than the diamond-mining process. It simply costs less to grow a diamond in a lab than it does to mine a diamond from the earth, and those savings are passed along to diamond shoppers. That means that for the same cost, you can purchase a lab grown diamond that’s 30% larger than a natural one but just as dazzling.

Lab Grown Diamonds price estimation Infographic

Value

Natural diamonds are the classic choice. Lab grown ones are the fresh choice.

There is no doubt that mined diamonds contain millennia of history, tradition, and romance. They are one of nature’s most incredible products. Drawn from deep within the earth, these sparkling treasures have been proudly flaunted by generations, paving the way for you to carry on the tradition.

Do Lab Grown Diamonds Have Resale Value?

Lab grown diamonds generally have lower resale value compared to mined diamonds. Natural diamonds can retain or even appreciate in value over time, while lab diamonds may not hold their value as well in the secondary market due to their lower production cost.

Cuts & Colors

Both natural and lab grown diamonds are available in nearly every shape and color – even fancy colors!

Colorful diamonds, like canary yellow ones, are quite rare. Their shocking hues are caused by trace amounts of non-carbon elements, like nitrogen. By adding these elements to a growing diamond in its pressure chamber, man-made diamonds take on the same fancy colors as mined diamonds.

Good news: any diamond can be cut into any shape. When it comes to diamond cuts, you truly are spoiled for choice!

GIA Certified Lab Created Diamonds

Like all diamonds, lab grown diamonds also come with their very own birth certificate (GIA Certification).

Since lab diamonds are optically and chemically the same as mined diamonds, they come with their own certification. Today, most of these diamonds are certified by IGI, International Gemological Institute.

Additionally, these diamonds are being accepted and certified by the GIA, the Gemological Institute of America, which has developed sophisticated devices that are used to screen and identify the difference between natural diamonds and lab-grown ones.

Should You Get a Lab Grown Diamond Engagement Ring?

The short answer is, why not? Here are 5 reasons to choose a lab grown diamond engagement ring:

1: Budget-Friendly

You’re able to maximize your budget and walk away with a bigger center stone for your engagement ring if you choose a lab diamond. Furthermore, it might not even be about the size of the ring, but more about being able to get the diamond of your dreams for a third of the price.

14K White Gold Bypass Marquise Array Diamond Engagement Ring

2: An Ethical Choice

Lab grown diamonds are an ethical choice because they are guaranteed to come conflict-free since they’re not mined.

3: Stress-Free Shopping Experience

Most online jewelry retailers with customization options, like our very own ring studio, allow you to choose your preferred center stone. That means you’re able to inspect your diamond options (often in real-time), and browse at your own pace.

14K White Gold Marquise Diamond Accents Pave Basket Engagement Ring

4: Lab grown diamonds are REAL

This can’t be emphasized enough, both lab diamonds and mined diamonds have the same chemical, optical, and physical properties. A lab created diamond is not a diamond alternative like moissanite, it’s the real deal.

5: Unique

Lab grown diamonds are unique in their own right. Not only can they be cut and shaped to your heart’s desire, but they can be cut to absolute perfection. Our True Heart™ diamonds are a premier collection of perfectly cut diamonds, known for their flawless internal symmetry and proportions.

FAQs

Are lab diamonds as durable as natural diamonds?

Yes, lab diamonds have the same level of durability as natural diamonds. Both types of diamonds rank 10 on the Mohs scale of hardness, making them highly resistant to scratching and suitable for everyday wear.

Can you tell the difference between lab grown and natural diamonds with the naked eye?

No, it’s impossible to differentiate between the two types of diamonds with the naked eye. They share the same physical and optical characteristics, making visual identification nearly impossible without specialized equipment.

Are lab grown diamonds available in various sizes and shapes?

Yes, these diamonds come in a wide range of sizes and shapes, just like natural diamonds. Whether you’re looking for a classic round brilliant cut or a unique fancy shape, you can find lab diamonds to suit your preferences.

Do lab grown diamonds require any special care or maintenance?

Lab diamonds, like natural diamonds, do not require special care. You can clean them using mild, soapy water and a soft brush or cloth. Regular maintenance, such as checking the setting, is recommended to ensure the diamond stays secure in its setting.

To Sum It Up

Choosing the stone that suits your lifestyle is an important part of designing meaningful jewelry that will last you throughout your life. And if you choose to buy either lab grown diamonds or natural diamonds, you can choose from 500,000 beautiful options at James Allen.

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Jessica Thomas

Jessica is a seasoned content writer with four years of experience and a qualified gemologist. She enjoys educating new shoppers on the best practices for buying jewelry.

14K Gold vs. 18K Gold: What’s The Difference And Which “K” Is Right For You?

February 16, 2021September 18, 2023Education

Whether you’re buying a new piece of gold jewelry or the ring of your dreams, you’ll be considering which type of gold to get and which is the better choice for you. Join us as we explore the differences between 14k gold and 18k gold!

Anyone who has uttered the old adage, “All that glitters is not gold,” didn’t have a sparkly diamond attached to it! As beautiful as gold is, between colors and karats, it can be hard to comb through all the options. Read on to figure out which one is right for you.

What Is A Karat?

K is for Karat and represents the purity of gold used in a piece of jewelry. (Not like carats – which are used when referring to diamonds. For this K, the higher the K, the purer the gold. But be careful; a higher K does NOT necessarily mean a better or nicer piece of jewelry.

In fact, there are multiple factors to consider when deciding what type of gold to use for what piece of jewelry. We will break down the difference between 14K and 18K gold. How does it affect the color, the piece, and if one is better than the other? Why or why not? (Spoiler alert? The answer is no!)

Read on to find out which gold and which “K” is right for you!

14K Gold vs. 18K Gold

Gold is the most popular metal used for all jewelry for a reason. It is strong, flexible, and in its purest form, soft. In order to make the metal usable for jewelry, an alloy (or a mix of metals) is added. Jewelers determine the amount of “K” by the amount of alloy present.

18K Yellow Gold 3mm Traditional Slightly Curved Wedding Ring

14K Yellow Gold Shared Prong Marquise Side Stone Diamond Engagement Ring

For example, 24K is pure gold and, therefore, too soft for jewelry and everyday wear. 24K gold easily dents and scratches and is simply too fragile for even the most careful jewelry expert. 18K and 14K, which still have a high ratio of gold but enough alloy to be workable, are the most popular choices for jewelers and purchasers.

The higher durability of 14K gold makes it an ideal choice for jewelry worn every day, for those with an active lifestyle, and for jewelry with intricate detail and added or placed stones, such as in gold engagement rings.

18K White Gold 3.0mm Low Dome Wedding Ring

18K gold can be preferable for those with allergies or who are very sensitive to alloys since 18K is pure gold. 18K gold is also advantageous because although it is more delicate when it IS scratched, it does so in a way that appears vintage.

Is 14K Gold Or 18K Gold Better For Engagement Rings?

So, is 14K gold better than 18K gold? The short answer is no. Each metal offers different advantages. Therefore the better metal depends on you. 14K gold might be a better choice if you are very active, whereas 18K gold can be better for more delicate pieces of fine jewelry.

The differences in appearance are often relatively minimal and a matter of personal choice; whichever karat you go with, you will surely shine!

Which “K” & Color Is Better For You?

Consider the following four factors when picking the right karat and color for your new piece of jewelry:

The difference in color between 14K and 18K yellow gold, while a factor, is not terribly strong and a matter of personal preference.
Overall, yellow gold is universally flattering but can enhance wearers with warmer skin tones. Both 14K and 18K yellow gold pair well with gemstones.
White gold, in both 14K and 18K, like its yellow counterpart, looks great on everyone. Yet it ever so slightly amplifies those with cooler skin tones.
White gold also pairs well with gemstones. While yellow gold can pair better with more earthy tones, white gold can pair better with more vibrant colors.

What Is The Difference Between 14K Gold vs. 18K Gold?

14 K Gold	18K Gold
Very Durable	Purer Gold
More Affordable	Better For Those With Metal Allergies
Softer Yellow Color	Brighter Yellow Tones

Rose Gold

Rose gold is a gold that gets its soft pink color from a mixture of gold and copper. It is also available in 14K and 18K, and similar to its yellow and white counterparts.

14K rose gold is more durable, while 18K rose gold is more pure.
The romance of both 14K and 18K rose gold allows it to pair well with colors for both casual and fancy occasions.
Rose gold is a great choice for those who love vintage-style jewelry
It complements both cool and warmer skin tones

It is a wonderful choice for engagement rings, wedding rings, and any other piece of fine jewelry.

14K Rose Gold Classic Round Shape Three Stone Engagement Ring

Which Gold Is Best For Engagement & Wedding Rings?

14K gold is the most popular choice for engagement and wedding rings. Whether yellow, white or rose, 14K’s mix of purity and durability makes it an ideal choice for these rings since they are geared for everyday wear. The affordability of 14K gold makes it a very popular choice for both engagement and wedding rings.

18K gold is also an excellent choice for engagement and wedding rings for those who prefer hypoallergenic metals, as 18K gold has more gold and less alloy.

Which Gold Is Best For Fine Jewelry?

Both 14K gold and 18K gold work great for fine jewelry. 18K gold is often a popular choice for fine jewelry rings, as the color is considered more “true,” and its delicacy makes it ideal for pieces meant for special occasions.

So whether you want a gold ring you can wear to the gym every day, or you want a ring you can save for anniversaries and holidays, we have the metal and the ring for you!

What About Earrings, Bracelets, & Necklaces?

Whether you prefer a more durable 14K or a more gentle 18K, white gold, yellow gold, or rose, James Allen has the right gold, at the right K, for any event.

Happy Shopping

As you have probably guessed by now, the perfect gold for you depends on you. Whatever your needs, preferences, and budget, we at JamesAllen.com are here to help you make the best choice!

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Sarah Axelrad

Cover Update Diamond Inspection The Object Of Your Affection Copy

Diamond Inspection: A Free Expert Consultation

March 6, 2022March 12, 2024Diamonds, Education4C's, diamond carat, diamond clarity, diamond color, diamond consultation, diamond cut, diamond education, diamond inspection, diamond shape, diamonds

If you love inspecting diamonds in 360° HD and 40x zoom, wait until you get to do it with the guidance of a professional gemologist! Our Real-Time Diamond Inspection is a game-changer for online ring shoppers.

When shopping for a diamond online, it’s a requirement to be able to examine the stone close up and from every angle. At JamesAllen.com, we take this a step further, allowing you to spin diamonds in 360° HD at up to 40x SuperZoom.

However, not every diamond shopper is a diamond expert. Even with the inspection tools at your fingertips, how do you know what you should be looking for?

That’s where our Real-Time Diamond Inspection comes in! Browse the diamonds you’re interested in alongside a professional by scheduling a free online diamond consultation with a non-commissioned certified gemologist. Ask questions, mark points of interest on the screen while chatting with your diamond expert in real-time, and review everything from the specs to the grading certificate together.

What are the benefits of the Real-Time Diamond Inspection?

Our gemologists can:

Find you the best diamond for your budget
Point out important diamond qualities you might miss on your own
Save you money
Guide you toward the unique diamond that suits your lifestyle

When Can I Use the Real-Time Diamond Inspection?

This feature is pretty much available around the clock. If you don’t see the blue “Real-Time Diamond Inspection” button on your diamond’s page, click the pink speech bubble icon in the bottom right corner of the page to start chatting with a representative. Then, request to use the inspection feature. In no time, you’ll be consulting with a professional about your specific diamond!

How Does the Real-Time Diamond Inspection Work?

We’ll go into more detail below, but here is the rough plan of action:

Select a loose diamond from the gallery
Click on “Real-Time Diamond Inspection”
Inspect your diamond in extreme detail

That’s why we’ve created the first-ever Real-Time Diamond Inspection; a personalized consultation with a bona fide diamond expert. It’s hands-down the best way to get to grips with your diamond.

Step 1: Find Your Diamond

Before you embark on a diamond consultation, it’s important to narrow down your options. When you come with a few diamonds and questions prepared, you’ll get the most out of your conversation with a gemologist.

How should you go about it? If you’ve got a good idea of what you want, search JamesAllen.com for loose diamonds that catch your eye. If you’re unsure, check out our site for comprehensive information regarding the 4 C’s: diamond cut, diamond clarity, diamond color, and diamond carat weight.

If at any step in your research process you feel like you need some help deciphering the ins and outs of the 4 C’s, chat with one of our legendary customer service representatives!

Step 2: Start Your Diamond Inspection

To start your Real-Time Diamond Inspection, simply click the Diamond Inspection button next to any loose diamond on our site. If you don’t see the blue button, you can click the speech bubble icon to start chatting.

You’ll be instantly connected with one of our certified gemologists, who will share their screen with you. No scheduling, no additional software. Just you and your diamond consultant discussing everything you need to know. And because our experts don’t work on commission, you can be sure they’re giving you fair, impartial advice.

Step 3: View EVERYTHING About Your Diamond

View Your Diamond’s Inclusions

JamesAllen.com lets you inspect your diamond up close, but sometimes you need a bit of help interpreting what you’re seeing. To this point, our Diamond Inspection feature is particularly helpful when it comes to identifying inclusions.

If you’ve been doing your homework, you will probably have come across the term inclusions. These are the tiny imperfections that occur naturally in diamonds and can affect their overall beauty. While some inclusions are visible to the naked eye, others require up to 40x magnification to be seen. Using SuperZoom technology, our experts are able to pinpoint any inclusions and mark them directly on the image of the diamond.

View the Grading Certificate

When you purchase a diamond from JamesAllen.com, it comes with a certificate from one of the top three grading labs: GIA, AGS, or IGI. This document contains the diamond’s technical specifications as well as its grading information – all very important stuff.

Now, admittedly, all this technical jargon can seem pretty intimidating at first glance. I mean, what even are grading scales?!

Once our experts break it down for you, you’ll see how metrics such as cut, color, clarity, and carat determine a diamond’s quality and price. They can even show you how to tell two technically identical stones apart and identify which one is superior. In fact, the Diamond Inspection feature allows you to compare up to four diamonds simultaneously.

Step 4: Make Your Selection

Seen a diamond that merits closer inspection? Click the Diamond Inspection button next to any loose diamond on our James Allen site to begin your free consultation. Utilize More Ring-Shopping Tools!

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The Different Parts Of A Ring

Build Your Engagement Ring

Let’s Sum It Up

Deciding Your Diamond Shape

Marquise Cut

Pear Cut

Oval Cut

Square Shaped Diamonds For Engagement Rings

Princess Cut

Emerald Cut

Radiant Cut

Asscher Cut

Round Shaped Diamonds For Engagement Rings

Cushion Cut

Heart Cut

Round Cut

Make The Most Of Your Diamond Shape:

Choosing The Diamond

Choosing The Setting

Computer Imaging

Smoothing The Setting

Setting The Diamond(s)

Hand-Polishing

Laser Engraving

What is the Birthstone for February?

The History of Amethyst

How to Style Amethyst

Who Wears Amethyst?

The Value of Amethyst Birthstone

Amethyst Stone Meaning

Amethyst Rings

Amethyst Earrings

Amethyst Necklaces

The February Birthstone: Purple Reign

Read up on more birthstone beauties

What Are Stackable Rings?

Why Should You Wear Stackable Rings?

Minimalist Marvel

Mix and Match

Solo Stunner

Ring Party on Every Finger

Birthstone Bliss

Bold and Beautiful

Delicate Midi Magic

Symmetrical Sophistication

Vintage Vibes

Stackable Rings: Additional Tips and Tricks

FAQs

Can I mix different metals when stacking rings?

Can I stack rings on all fingers?

How do I prevent discomfort when stacking multiple rings?

Are there any rules for mixing different ring styles?

Can men wear stackable rings?

How can I make my engagement ring work in a stack?

Start Stacking

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The Choice Between Lab-Created Diamonds Or Earth-Made Diamonds

Custom-Designed Rings

Full Transparency With 360° Display Technology

Virtual Try-On

Find The Perfect Diamond Using The Four C’s

Cut

Color

Clarity

Carat

Most Popular Fancy Shaped Diamonds

We’re Here To Help

When do I know I’m ready to get married?

After the wedding, should I wear my wedding ring, my engagement ring, or both?

How long should I save up for an engagement ring?

How much should my engagement ring cost?

Is it important to buy an expensive engagement ring?

Should we share the cost of an engagement ring?

Should I get a custom engagement ring or a pre-set engagement ring?

What’s the perfect proposal?

Make Yourself Comfy

Durable For Your Lifestyle

Scratch Resistant Rings

Best Hypoallergenic Metals

Aesthetically Pleasing