Buying jewellery for her this Valentine’s Day
How is it Valentine’s day already? It feels as though we are just over the madness of Christmas shopping when, before you know it, February 14th raises its ugly head. But not to worry, Esquire Middle East has secured some expert advice, to guide you through the treacherous waters of jewellery shopping.
Below are some top tips from Fergus Appleton, Founder of Dubai Rocks, the British owned, diamond jewellery specialist in Dubai.
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Diamonds
1. Always buy a GIA certified diamond – the GIA invented the grading standards and are the world’s best certification laboratory – other diamond labs over grade diamonds giving customers a false sense of security
2. Decide upon your budget range up front, this will make everything easier in the long-run
3. Discuss your requirements with a GIA certified gemmologist and request for options
4. Compare prices with internationally recognized websites that retail GIA certified diamonds – this will ensure you know that you are getting a great value for money
5. Select a diamond that feels right for you, or your partner – if it doesn’t feel right do not be pressured into buying it – buying a diamond should be an experience that you enjoy
Sizing
1. Don’t worry if you can’t get the exact ring size – most rings can be adjusted 2 sizes either way
2. Dubai Rocks will resize a ring, or even remake it (for free) if your ring size estimate is not the perfect ring size
3. The average ring size is between 5-7 on the US measurement scale
4. If your partner wears a ring on the engagement ring finger you can measure the diameter of the ring to find the size
5. Engagement rings go on the ‘ring’ finger in between your little ‘pinky’ finger and middle finger – engagement rings are normally worn on the left hand
Style tips and trends
1. The price of most materials used for jewellery fluctuate depending on the supply and demand for that material. In the long term most material values increase. Don’t buy jewellery for an investment unless you are investing heavily buying a very, very rare diamond such as a pink or blue diamond.
2. Customisation is key these days with a special, bespoke touch
3. In general, people are becoming really creative with their design ideas. People are looking for one-of-a kind pieces
4. Trends are moving away from classic styles, towards statement rings with more ‘bling’ on them
5. We always advise customers to buy a ring that suits the tastes of their partner not for themselves
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Fergus Appleton is the CEO of the Dubai-based high end online diamond and diamond jewellery website dubairocks.com