Choosing an Engagement Ring

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The first step on the path to wedded bliss is usually the purchase of the engagement ring.  Most brides today are involved in the selection of their own engagement rings.  This new tradition makes it easier for you to select the perfect ring to suit your beliefs.  The ring you choose will be a constant reminder of the love you share and the decisions that you make together.  That’s why it is important to do it right.

There are several things to consider when selecting a ring.  An environmentally conscious option would include avoiding conflict diamonds.  Conflict diamonds are diamonds whose profits have gone to fund wars.  However, even diamonds which are considered conflict-free have been removed from the earth in a manner which is not conducive to protecting the environment or the miners. 

Remember that you are not obligated to wear a diamond engagement ring.  Diamonds do not equal love.  Any ring with or without gemstones can be used as an engagement ring.  If you haven’t yet considered a synthetic stone, consider it.  Large cubic zirconias are far less expensive than diamonds of the same size.  Unless your friends are jewelers who will examine your ring with a loupe, no one will know but you.  Other faux gemstones can be just as beautiful as diamonds and even more striking.  Consider a bright blue faux sapphire or a blood red manmade ruby. 

Diamond mining isn’t the only thing to consider when selecting a ring.  The process of mining for gold is destructive to the earth as well.  It poisons the water supply, and it endangers the miners themselves.  One way to make a better choice is to purchase a ring fashioned with recycled gold.  You can obtain rings cast from gold which has been reclaimed from industrial use or old jewelry.  There are also rings made from recycled titanium.

Used wedding bands and engagement rings are readily available and can usually be adjusted to your size.  Antique or heirloom wedding sets can be purchased.  Spread the word among your friends and family that you are looking for an alternative to buying new jewelry.  You may be surprised by someone who comes forward with used jewelry for little or no cost.  You can even recycle your own used gold jewelry by having it melted down and cast into a new ring. 

It is also acceptable to have an engagement without a ring.  Even wedding bands are not required for the exchange of vows.  Although most weddings contain double ring ceremonies, another alternative is to have a wedding band for the bride only.  It is also becoming more common for the bride to have one ring which serves the purpose of both the engagement ring and the wedding band.