All that glitters is not gold, but only because there are so many choices! Picking out your wedding jewelry might be the most important decision you make about your special day, so don’t leave anything to chance.
Here’s a handy list of everything you need to know about the jewelry that will last you a lifetime.
Rings
BAGUETTE: Small diamonds usually channel-set in the metal on either side of the center stone. These diamonds are long and often appear to be emerald cut.
BEZEL SETTING: The stone is set in the metal ring, not above it.
CHANNEL SETTING: Two pieces of metal hold a row of smaller stones together side by side without individual settings.
CONFLICT-FREE DIAMONDS: These diamonds did not finance civil atrocities or terrorism as they were mined.
ENHANCER: A band that embraces a solitaire ring, adding accent diamonds to either side of the original diamond.
FLAW: Also known as an inclusion, they are small black or dull spots within a diamond or gemstone.
MILGRAIN: A finishing detail on metal that creates a beaded appearance on the edge of the ring.
PAVE SETTING: Stones set flush with the metal base create an antique look.
PRONG SETTING: Three to six pieces of metal hold a diamond in place.
TABLE: The flat part of a cut diamond.
TENSION SETTING: A “floating” stone is held in place by pressure.
THE FOUR Cs: Cut, color, carat and clarity, or the four terms used to determine the value of a diamond.
THREE-STONE RING: These rings have a large center diamond with two smaller diamonds on either side and traditionally symbolize the past, present and future. It can also symbolize the Holy Trinity.
Metal
GOLD: A soft metal, gold has to be enhanced by other metals to give it strength. White gold resembles silver or platinum. Gold is still the most popular metal for wedding bands and rings.
PALLADIUM: Palladium is a precious white metal that is part of the platinum family. It requires less maintenance and is rarer and more precious than gold.
PLATINUM: More expensive than gold and five times as rare, platinum is a hypoallergenic, tarnish-resistant alternative for wedding jewelry.
TITANIUM: Titanium is typically used for men’s wedding bands. It’s three times stronger than steel, is lightweight and comes in a variety of colors ranging from silver to black. It is extremely resistant to dents but cannot be resized. Satin, frost and high-gloss finishes can be applied to titanium rings.
TUNGSTEN: This metal is four times stronger than titanium and resistant to corrosion. The polish on tungsten can be made permanent, making it a low-maintenance option. Like titanium, it cannot be resized and is mainly used in men’s wedding jewelry.
Cuts
ASSCHER: A square version of an emerald-cut diamond with more facets for greater brilliance.
BRILLIANT: The most popular cut, these diamonds are round.
CUSHION: A rectangular diamond with rounded corners.
EMERALD: A rectangular diamond.
MARQUISE: Shaped like a diamond you would find on a playing card, the sides of this cut are rounded.
OVAL: These diamonds are cut into an elongated round shape.
PEAR: A diamond shaped like a teardrop.
PRINCESS: A modern square diamond.
RADIANT: Similar to an emerald-cut diamond but with more facets for greater brilliance.
Necklaces
CHOKER: This necklace rests at the base of the throat. Looks best with: jewel or bateau necklines.
COLLAR: Resembles a choker, but collars are composed of multiple strands. Looks best with: plunging or strapless necklines.
GRADUATED NECKLACE: Usually made of pearls or beads that are arranged with the smallest bead at the clasp and the largest bead in the center. Looks best with: high, round necklines.
PRINCESS: A necklace that hits below the collarbone and above the bustline. Looks best with: any neckline that isn’t high.
MATINEE: Grazes the top of the bust. Looks best with: jewel or bateau necklines.
OPERA: This long necklace hangs to the waist and is knotted at the bustline. Looks best with: vintage gowns.
ROPE: This necklace falls below the waist and is knotted at the bust. Looks best with: sleek and vintage dresses.