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While some guys can be a little unfazed by the metal of their wedding bands, more and more are looking for low maintenance better wearing wedding rings. As time goes on, new technology and advancements are bringing new metals to the market. The latest metal out is now even better than the current range of platinum wedding rings.
Normal platinum wedding rings are stamped with 950 (when means there is only a 5% alloy added), whereas with the new Dora platinum 600 they have added in a new alloy – tungsten (which is considered one of the best scratch resistant metals available). The downside of tungsten is that like titanium, it can’t be resized. To combat this the metallurgists came up with a solution – combining it with platinum. By doing this they have combined the best of both worlds – a strong scratch resistant metal that can also be resized. There is also another benefit of being alloyed with platinum – the Platinum600 never has to be rhodium plated, as it is a naturally white metal.
Here are the facts according to the vickers hardness scale of hardness (an international hardness testing application).
Hardness Rating
375: 110750: 150
Pt950: 200
Pt600: 220-240
Conclusion
Plat600 is 2 x harder than 9ct.
Plat600 is 50% harder than 18ct.
Plat600 is also 20% harder than plat950.
So as you can see it is harder than all the other metals. The hardness has a direct impact on scratch resistance. As it is a hard metal, it will be very resistant to getting scratched.
If you have been considering purchasing some platinum wedding rings and would like to know more about our range of Plat600 platinum wedding rings, please feel free to shoot me an email.
P.S. Interesting Fact – Platinum is only found in 7 countries on Earth where gold can be mined from all countries. Which is another factor that shows the rarity of platinum.
If you’d like to know more information about Platinum 600 or any other metals then consult our experts at the Xennox Diamonds luxury showroom by booking a Discovery Session and arrange to speak to one of our experts who can answer any questions you may have about metals.
Matching a wedding band to your engagement ring should be an easy process if your engagement ring has been designed with this in mind. Almost every engagement ring can be made to sit flush with a wedding band. It just takes extra time and precise direction to angle the wires to a small base. While some ladies might be inclined to change their engagement ring at one time or another, most feel extremely sentimental about their wedding bands. So it is important to choose a band that you can see your self wearing for the next 40 -50 years.
Having your wedding band compliment your engagement ring perfectly can make all the difference to the way the set looks. An expert craftsmen can shape the profile of the wedding band to match the engagement ring so it looks like the two were made at the same time.
1.Solitaire
The great thing about a classic solitaire engagement ring is that you can have either a classic wedding band or a diamond wedding ring. It really depends on whether you love the”traditional” look your mum used to have or whether you would like something that reflects a bit more or “your style” The traditional wedder will generally give a a constant level of wear all around that band, as it will constantly spin on your finger.
2. Engagement rings with shoulder set diamonds
If your engagement ring has diamond set shoulder stones, the best matching option is to hand make the matching diamond band with the same setting. For example – If you have channel setting in the engagement ring, then your perfect match would be a channel set wedding band. Ideally one that starts and finishes as the same spot as your engagement ring.
When choosing the size of the diamonds in your wedding band, I always recommend choosing the same size, and shape. Remember it is not just the wedding ring you have to think of, in a years time there will be an “eternity ring” on the other side. If you do want to go bigger in the diamond size, then make sure it is noticeably bigger. Otherwise it will look like you tried to make it matching but couldn’t.
Micro pave – the philosophy behind this setting style is to make the beads holding the diamonds in as small as possible to accentuate the diamonds. The problem with this is that the settings are not as secure and the diamonds are more likely to fall out. Unfortunately with this style it is not a case or IF your are going to loose a diamond it is a matter of WHEN.
If you are looking for some advice on the best wedding ring to compliment your engagement ring, our friendly and helpful staff are always on hand to offer guidance and help you pick the perfect match to your engagement ring.
Wearing the engagement ring during the wedding is a question I often get asked when brides are picking up their wedding band. As is the custom in most western countries, the wedding band is the first ring on your wedding ring finger, followed by the engagement ring and then the eternity ring. In light of this though, the last thing most brides want to be thinking of when they are exchanging their vows is taking off their engagement ring.
Provided your hands are similar in size, most brides choose to wear their engagement ring on the right hand ring finger temporarily. Being such a special day filled with love and lifelong memories, it is certainly nice to have both rings on. In doing so, you won’t have to worry about your engagement ring as it is never too far away. It is a good idea to check how close your fingers are in size prior to the wedding day, as there is usually a half a size difference between your two hands. The last thing you want is to get the ring stuck on the wrong finger the morning of the wedding.
Similar to the best man carrying the wedding rings, you might entrust your engagement ring with your maid of honour. If the bridesmaids’ dresses don’t have anywhere to discreetly carry the engagement ring, you might also consider giving it to the best man. It’s certainly a good idea to ask your jeweller for a jewellery pouch or something similar for the best man to carry the rings in safely, as ideally you want it to be less bulky than a ring box. Then, at an appropriate time, after you have exchanged your vows (usually just before signing the marriage certificate), add your engagement ring to your ring finger. That way you will be photo ready should your photographer choose to take a photo of your hands whilst you sign the marriage certificate.
Another nice way to include a family member that may not have a job is to give them the task of looking after your engagement ring. Consider asking your mother to hold on to your engagement ring during the ceremony. This is a lovely way of assigning the mother of the bride with a very important task on what is undoubtedly a very special day for her daughter. Another option might be a younger sister or a sister in law that may not have been heavily involved in the wedding prior.
If you are wearing some bridal jewellery, sometimes you might be able to clip your engagement ring into it. Much like a charm bracelet, your engagement ring will adorn your bracelet until you need it. Just be sure to check that the bracelet is secure enough, as the last thing you want to be doing is searching down the isle for your engagement ring.
However, in saying all of this, everyone is different. Ultimately, you want to feel comfortable and stress free on your wedding day, so we recommend you choose the option that works best for you. After all, it is your special day.
If you need further advice or tips for your wedding day, feel free to contact one of our team members on (07) 3210 6288. We are always on hand to help wherever we can!
Diamonds….. Is there such a thing as too many ? In years gone by, a traditional wedding band was considered just a plain band, either in white gold or yellow gold. However these days the traditional band is more an exception rather than the rule. In my experience only 1 in 50 brides will ask for a traditional wedding band. If you are trying to decide whether you should have a diamond wedding band, here are a few important things to consider.
If your diamond engagement ring is a traditional solitaire, then either a diamond wedding band or a traditional wedding ring will suit. However If your engagement ring has diamonds in the shoulders, then the complimentary wedding band is almost always a matching diamond wedding ring. Usually the width of the band compliments the engagement ring. Unless of course the engagement ring is quite wide (greater than 4mm), then it is quite acceptable to have a finer wedding band (around 2mm-2.5mm).
As mentioned in the previous paragraph, if you are matching the width, then it is a good idea to match the setting style as well. If you are going finer, then a great style to utilise is a grain setting. A grain setting, so named, because the beads holding the diamonds in, look like little grains, is ideal for creating a diamond border. This diamond border affect can really accentuate the centre engagement ring. Sometimes if you are choosing a wedding band that is much finer than the engagement ring, it is a good idea to go for a split diamond wedder. This is usually done to create symmetry with your ring. Depending on your need for symmetry, some brides will wait for the first year eternity ring, others will jump at the opportunity for some extra “bling”.
If a grain set wedding band is not your style, another style to consider is a shared claw wedding band. When selecting this style it is crucial that you ensure the band width is 3 tenths of a millimetre wider than the diamond. For example, if the diamond used is a 2mm diamond (0.03ct) than the width of the band should be 2.3mm. This is done to ensure the diamonds are not over hanging the band. If this was to occur, it will cause the diamonds to come loose more often, as they bump against the engagement ring.
Normally it is a good idea to match your wedding band diamonds to the shoulder diamonds of your engagement ring. The exception to this is with a princess cut diamond. Princess cut diamonds are best suited for channel settings, where the corners can be protected. If you would like to create a contrast, round brilliant cut diamonds seem to be the ideal all rounder, particularly if you need a fitted (curved) wedding band. The claws that sit in between the round diamonds create a more square effect, yet still allowing the wedding band to curve around the setting.
If you want to vary the width of your wedding band, then it is a good idea to vary it by at least half a millimetre. That way the variation will look intentional, rather than you tried to match the engagement ring unsuccessfully.
Whether you decide to have a diamond set wedding ring or a traditional band, will come down to your own personal taste. Ultimately there is no right or wrong ring, as long as you like the way that it looks and that it meets all of your requirements. If you are ever unsure what wedding ring suits your engagement ring, we are always here to show you all the options, so that you can see whether diamonds in your wedding band are for you.
As an award-winning jeweller, we would love to work with you and help you create your dream wedding ring.
Alternatively, why don’t you come to our luxury showroom and we can talk in person? We would love to have you here for a Discovery Session where we can help you choose the wedding rings that will suit you best.
Let us take some of the pressure off some of those things on your wedding to-do list so all you have to do is book an appointment today.
A honeymoon can sometimes be the thing that couples really look forward to, one week out from the wedding. Especially if you have been planning this amazing event for the last 12 months. All the stress of deciding which table decorations to use, and who isn’t going to sit next who at the reception, can sometimes take its toll. The honeymoon is a great way to recharge the batteries and reconnect with your new loved one.
With the average Australian wedding now costing over $40,000, a relaxing overseas tropical honeymoon is something high on the wish list for brides today. If you have been trying to decide where to go for your honeymoon, this might make the decision making process a little easier.
Lucky couples who purchase their wedding or engagement ring from Xennox Diamonds between July and August 2013, will see themselves soaking up the sun with seven nights accommodation in Fiji or Thailand for free. Although all couples will receive their accommodation for free, each month one lucky couple will also win free return airfares to their destination. Saving the stress and expense of planning that dream honeymoon and leaving nothing to do but relax and bask in the beauty of that sparkling new ring.
While the concept for this promotion was designed around honeymoon’s, there is no reason why it can’t be used to plan a surprise proposal, Hint, Hint !!!! Gentlemen, please take note, all three locations would be ideal for popping the question. Now there really has never been a better time to take the plunge. It will truly be a proposal she will never forget.
There are three levels of accommodation on offer, with customers spending over $3500 receiving seven nights in Phuket. Those spending over $8000 receive seven nights on Fiji’s The Pearl and those spending over $15,000 will be spending seven nights in luxury on Fiji’s Taveuni Island. All accommodation packages are valid for 12 months from the purchase date.
Its location is the perfect setting for a quiet, peaceful holiday only a 5-minute drive from the lively exciting resort of Patong Beach, with the fabulous long powder sand beach of Karon a similar distance for daytime lazing and swimming in the gentle waters of the Andaman Sea.
The “Secret cliff resort”, opened in 2007, which lies hidden in Luxurious rain forest setting on the slopes of coast of Andaman Sea between Patong Beach and Karon beach.
The Pearl South Pacific, an elegant, sun-drenched resort within the sublime environs of Pacific Harbour, between Suva and Nadi. Perfect for leaving a frenzied world far behind. Refresh, renew and indulge in world-class facilities and consummate service.
Set by the beach and surrounded by lush, tropical landscape, The Pearl is an idyllic escape where chic accommodation, exquisite cuisine and as much – or as little – adventure and relaxation await you.
Taveuni Island Resort & Spa is the jewel of the Pacific. It is set in ten acres of immaculate manicured tropical gardens, and accommodates only 12 privileged couples. There are only twelve accommodations with each house positioned for maximum privacy and to take advantage of the spectacular views over the azure ocean and surrounding islands.
Wedding rings are sometimes one of the last things people think about when organising a wedding. The worst scenario i have ever seen was a couple looking to organise their wedding rings the day before the wedding. So if this isn’t you, then maybe you are not doing too badly.
The usual guidance i give most couples is to order their wedding rings as soon as they can. Better to have the rings on lay-by and paying them off over a period of 6 months, than be worrying about another thing on your to do list. Here are a few minimum guidelines that we as jewellers need to ensure your rings are perfect for the big day.
While the usual time frame to make a ladies wedding ring is about 3-4 weeks. The last thing you want to be thinking when you are in the home stretch is, do my bands match. Are their enough diamonds in the band to line up with my engagement ring ? Is the profile of the band matching.
If your engagement ring is a little more intricate or requires a particular kind of diamond like a long baguette or asher cut diamond, it is not a bad idea to allow an extra month to source the right stones.
A lot of the more unusual gents wedding rings these days are made overseas in Europe. While the recommended time frame for these is 4-5 weeks, I have seen some of them take 2 months.
While sizing problems are rare, it is not uncommon for clients to loose weight in the lead up to the wedding. Allowing some extra time up your sleeve, ensures that should a problem arise, you have plenty of time to rectify it.
While the last week before your wedding can be quite hectic. There are a few important things that are important to add to your must do list to make sure your wedding goes off without a hitch.
If you really want your rings to sparkle on your wedding day, book them in to be polished the week of the wedding. That ensures that they will not only look good for the photos, but will start their married life together to age and wear at the same rate.
2. Check that hubby’s ring fits
The last thing you want to do after you say your vows is to find out that his wedding ring doesn’t fit. Wedding rings are usually ordered 6 – 9 months before the wedding. So to avoid any nasty surprises on the wedding day, check to make sure the ring still fits well the week before. That way if any alterations need to be made, there will still be enough time.
3. Insurance
For most couples, the wedding is followed by a honeymoon. If you are going to a tropical resort-style destination, it is a good idea to make sure that all your jewellery is insured by Q report before you go. The last thing you want is for your ring to fall off while you are snorkelling, and find that it is not insured.
At Xennox Diamonds we can rhodium plate and polish your ring within the same day, and sometimes even within a few hours. We can also do minor alterations while you wait, and help you organise your Qreport insurance for complete piece of mind.
Our Discovery Sessions at our luxury showroom open up a space for you to talk one on one with our team who are dedicated to helping you find the perfect wedding rings for your special day
Come join us for a drink and a chat and let us help you find your rings
Rhodium plating is one of the key things of interest for anyone who wears white gold. Often when i find a client whose rhodium plating has worn out within a year, it is because of a few factors. Which if you can help to reduce or eliminate, will prolong the life of your rhodium plating, and keep the ring shining for longer. While this is a short list of the things that you can do to help prolong the rhodium plating, there are things jewellers can do to ensure that your plating lasts more than a year, which i will cover in a future blog.
1. Avoid rubbing the rhodium plating off your ring.
The rhodium plating on a white gold ring is exactly that – a plating or coating. A rubbing motion, like rubbing your hands together, will wear down your plating faster. So if you are in an occupation like nursing or another professional where you need to constantly wash your hands, be mindful of rubbing your hands together. If the rubbing of your hands is unavoidable consider wearing your rings on a necklace around your neck.
2. Avoid heavy cleaning products
Some chemicals may react with the white gold rhodium plating, so if you are dealing with strong chemicals, it is advisable to take off your rings while you are working with them. Another alternative it to make sure that you are wearing suitable gloves to protect your hands and your engagement ring.
3. Metal on metal rubbing
Rings that are loose and constantly spinning, are more likely to wear away the rhodium plating on the inside of the ring. While this may only be a cosmetic effect that you will only see when you take off the rings, it will become noticeable if you don’t put them back on in the same order. If your rings are spinning a lot, it might be time to have your finger size checked and have the rings adjusted.
If you would like a free assessment on the state of the rhodium plating on your white gold ring, bring it in to us, and we’ll also give your ring a complimentary professional clean.
Cleaning your diamonds at home doesn’t need to be an expensive exercise. While ultrasonic cleaners can make the job of cleaning your diamonds easier, you don’t need to spend a lot of money on expensive solutions. Below are 5 tips on cleaning your diamond and how you can keep your diamond looking sparkly whether you are at home or travelling on holiday.
Cleaning the dishes with cold water wouldn’t be very effective, and it is the same with cleaning your diamonds. Hot water is perhaps the most essential ingredient, as it helps to break down any soap and hand cream which has accumulated on the jewellery. While it is a case of ‘the hotter the better’, I normally recommend just under boiling temperature for cleaning your diamonds. The melting points of gold and diamonds are much higher than 100 degrees Celsius. Please be aware it is not advisable to do this with pearls, opals, or emeralds.
2. Add a small amount of detergent
While almost any detergent that you have in the kitchen will do, a squirt of dish washing liquid is ideal for cleaning your diamonds.
3. Use an old toothbrush to clean around diamonds
An old toothbrush is a great tool for getting into all those tricky areas. When using the toothbrush, use a dabbing motion rather than a scrubbing action. The dabbing motion will help the bristles to find their way underneath the diamond.
4. Time to soak
Leave your rings or jewellery in the hot solution for around 5 minutes. Then after giving them a scrub, re-soak them for another 5 minutes if required.
5. Avoid using hand cream while your rings are on
To keep your diamonds looking as bright as they can be for as long as possible, try removing your rings when you are putting on hand cream. When your hands are dry, it is safe to put your rings back on.
If you find that you are not able to clean your diamonds well enough at home, we offer a free professional cleaning service that can be done while you wait.
Ten years ago, the traditional wedding rings for a bride and groom were plain white or yellow gold bands. To have a diamond band was considered something extravagant or indulgent. However these days the trend has reversed completely, with only 1 in every 40 brides or grooms choosing a traditional band.
For the ladies, the popular choices are either channel set or claw set diamond wedding rings. While the diamonds are almost always set in white gold. However it is quite popular to have a yellow gold band when the engagement ring is in yellow gold. One of the most important factors is to make sure that your diamond wedding ring matches your engagement ring, not just in the style of the setting, but also in the number of stones you choose and the width of the band. Normally 9 stones is the minimum number, and it is preferable to aim for an odd number (one for the center and then one stone for each side moving out). It is usually advisable to have the wedding ring’s band width the same width as your engagement ring, and it is important to choose a stone size that compliments this. Lastly, the benefit of asking a jeweller to custom-make a wedding band to match your engagement ring, is that the jeweller can match the profile at the bottom of your engagement ring. That way, the two rings will always look like they were made at the same time, by the same jeweller.
For the gentleman, the range is much more varied and diverse. Today’s groom can choose between a multitude of metals for his band, such as Platinum, Palladium, Titanium, 18ct and 9ct gold, with many choosing a combination of more than one option. Not to be outshone by the ladies, some men today are also choosing to have diamonds in their wedding rings. A diamond’s ability to stand the test of time echoes the symbolism of the wedding ring as representing a never-ending love. As the saying goes, “Love runs out at the circle’s end”.
Rule of Thumb
As a general rule, if your engagement ring has diamonds in the shoulders, you should match it with a diamond wedding band. If the engagement ring is a solitaire, then you can either have a traditional or diamond wedding band. While this is a general rule, you are the one who will look at it for the rest of your life, so always make your decision based on personal preference.
