“A BEAUTIFUL GIFT”
by Contributor
(May 22, 2020) — Jewelry is both meaningful and fashionable. Yet, each season, it feels like consumers are just going through the motions when they hear about the latest jewelry trends and great buys. Sure, jewelry shopping, in general, doesn’t have to be a serious business all the time. In fact, it’s often fun finding a trendy ring to complement your look for a special occasion or event. Nevertheless, when you purchase high-quality jewelry and rings, it’s probably fair to say that you’re looking for something with some staying power and sentimental value. To put it plainly, you want a fantastic ring or piece that’s a dependable source of joy and happiness. Of course, you may be asking yourself where you can find these mythical pieces, or rather, what rings fit the bill? Well, the answer is, they are the treasured must-have rings that stand the test of time. Just in case you suddenly find yourself looking at rings, here are five of the must-haves.
Signet Rings
Signet rings are definitely trending this year, but by all means, you shouldn’t regard them as the new kids on the block. These particular rings have been around since 3500 BC—that’s staying power, alright. Back in the day, signet rings were a sign of wealth that men used to seal wax on official documents and letters. Today’s signet rings are clearly more of a statement piece. No longer proof of authentication, these rings are simply fun to wear and come in a variety of designs and styles. Typically, expressive enamel and etched images (initials, whimsical and novel designs, modern patterns, etc.) in gold or sterling silver are the most popular signet rings these days. However, you can’t go wrong with a classic flat signet ring, either. Any style of a signet ring makes a beautiful gift for loved ones or yourself. As a whole, this must-have ring is a real contender and is great for adding a little bling to that pinkie finger of yours.
Gypsy Rings
On the other hand, gypsy rings stepped on the scene in the early 1900s. Nonetheless, this is yet another ring whose name says it all. The gypsy in the gypsy ring is actually referring to the single stone style/design setting. Here, this distinctive ring generally showcases specific gemstones like garnets, diamonds, emeralds, sapphires, and other cherished stones. Often made from gold above all alternative metals, modern gypsy rings are a bit flashier than the original rings. For instance, many contemporary gypsy rings have more than one stone or choose to incorporate other non-traditional gemstones and crystals. Moreover, many jewelers are starting to offer customization. Customizing a family keepsake such as this means customers’ family gypsy rings see some contemporary upgrades, ultimately putting a new spin on an old favorite. Regardless, this particular one is a wonderful addition to anyone’s ring collection and is often an excellent self-care gift.
Statement and Mismatched Rings
Better known as cocktail rings, statement rings were typically once worn by ladies who uttered phrases like ‘back in my day’ or ‘let’s have a nightcap’ more than once. If you’ve ever wondered why, well, that’s because statement rings came to be in the mid-1920s during the Prohibition Era. This particular style of the ring didn’t become all the rage or the fashion staple it is now, until the 1950s. Subsequently, as time moved on, statement ring popularity resurfaced in the 1970s, and then again in the 1990s. As you can tell, this durable cocktail ring is on a 20-year or so reemergence plan. But then, if we’re honest, these dramatic rings never left. Now, these rings are for everyone and can be worn for any occasion—even if it’s a Target run. In contrast, mismatched rings are the baby in the family and have only started to gain popularity recently. However, these gorgeous and flirty rings are more than a modern trend. In fact, this unique design is actually a new take on vintage eternity rings with multiple stones, such as the diamond eternity band with a sapphire in the middle (gypsy setting).
Hard Stones and Precious Stone Rings
Rings with hard stones are a prime example of polished modern flare. Though these specific rings don’t have a long and rich history like the others, hard stones definitely aren’t going anywhere. Not only is 2020 all about these chunky, colorful rings, but it’s also more than evident that they are likely this decade’s cocktail ring. Typically, these rings have a contemporary edge to them and utilize such stones as quarts, lazuli, agate, or other hard-as-a-rock stones. Precious stone rings, however, have been around for as long as anyone can remember. What has changed is these stones have been bestowed the title of precious. As of 2020, only diamonds, emeralds, sapphires, and rubies are deemed precious stones. Obviously, there’s no denying that these four stones make amazing rings or make us happy when gifted. Lastly, a fun fact, all other stones are considered semi-precious. Ouch.
Eternity Bands and Vintage Engagement/Wedding Rings
Unsurprisingly, eternity bands/rings date back to Egyptian times. One could reason that eternity is really just 4,000 years, but who’s counting? Nonetheless, eternity bands have been a symbol of undying devotion and love for some time now. These bands usually consist of precious metal bands that have precious stones set in a continuous line. Both full and half diamond eternity rings gained popularity in the modern era, roughly around the 1960s, in part thanks to quality marketing. Up until then, eternity rings were usually made with other precious stones. Finally, along those same lines, the standard engagement/wedding rings followed a similar path since they, too, have precious stones. Now, the modern trend focuses on vintage and vintage-inspired engagement rings. Vintage rings are seen as more unique, and therefore more special and personal. Ultimately, these rings tend to be over 50 years old, or are handmade recreations of the popular styles of the Victorian (1835-1901), Edwardian (the 1900s), and the Art Deco (1920s-1940s) Eras.