Engagement/Fancy Ring - Men's

Hi again,

So, people have requested us to post about engagement rings for men too... and without wasting much time we are back again and this time for Men. =)

Men do find trouble finding their perfect wedding ring that expresses their character and style just as his lady next to him. But this isn't a bad thing.

With such an important piece of  jewellery that has so many happy memories attached to it and which denotes love and unity between you and your partner, it is normal to have some doubts. We are here to clear it.

Making that all-important purchase much easier and as enjoyable as it can be we bring you some important.

The budget 

Your budget will depend more on the weight and the karats of the metal band as very few men prefers other diamonds and other stones over it.

Choosing a Ring Metal and Design

The heavier part is over and you have decided the budget and now it’s time to decide what your perfect ring will actually look like.

How about choosing from the options below

Matching rings and Bands?

Solitaires? 

Nothing beats a single diamond. A solitaire speaks for itself!
Men with solitaire actually look classy, so go ahead and a buy a solitaire in your budget.

Johnny Depp wearing a solitaire ring.

Platinum Bands?

For those who prefer more stronger metal and a rough use.

Engravings?

How about engravings that we discussed in the 'wedding rings for women article'

Choose from different metals - 

See Metals

The band width -

What’s the ideal size? Handy ring size tips

What if you’ve identified two ring sizes, both of which seem to fit just fine? It’s best to go with the bigger size. Plus, as a general rule, the wider the band the larger the size. If you’d like a wide wedding band, move up a size and you’ll find it much more comfortable. Choose your regular size and your ring might feel a bit tight, simply because it’s wider than average.
Can I measure my finger with string?
Yes, and some ring retailers recommend it. But it isn’t a good idea because string stretches and paper can also stretch and twist. You need something a lot more solid for an accurate reading. If you’re spending money on a gorgeous diamond ring, it’s worth making the effort to get the size right.

Big knuckles?

Some of you have bigger, more prominent knuckles than others, and men tend to have bigger knuckles than women. 

1. Measure the base of your finger (at the palm end) 

2. Measure knuckle separately, 

Pick a suitable size somewhere in between the two

Tadaa you're done!!

Sketches #2

Some more sketches!!

Sketch 15 Earring

Sketch 16 Movable Diamonds cocktail ring

Sketch 17 A perfect 4ct ring for someone who admired bigger diamonds!!

Sketch 18 Two finger ring with a unique floral design

Sketch 19 Polki and Diamond Studs

Sketch 20 Emerals and diamonds are forever!!

Sketch 21 Pearl Drops and and diamonds

Sketch 22 Elegant emerald drop earring

Sketch 23 Diamonds with a hint of blue earring

Top Wedding Jewellery Designs - Year 2016

Have a look at this amazing sparkling video which showcases Fine jewellery from India's Top Jewellers.

Spot the trends and ask your jeweller while purchasing your next set and sync in with these styles.

Enjoy the video everyone!!

video courtesy retailjewellerindia and youtube

Trend Alert - Wedding Season Purchases!!

This wedding season, try choker jewellery and polki neckpieces

These are the hottest trends in jewellery, this wedding season.

Jewellery pieces play an important role in a womans life. And this wedding season, choker jewellery and polki neckpieces are in vogue, says an expert.

Sandeep Narang, Chief Designer and Managing Director, Hazoorilal by Sandeep Narang, shares some tips on how to look stunning with the right jewellery pieces:

* Choker jewellery: Choker jewellery is surely in vogue. Add charm to the look of your wedding season with a choker piece. You can pair your choker piece with a long necklace to complete the bridal look. You can also customise your long necklace or polki necklace to match the choker piece for a show-stopping entry.

The polki choker is a timeless piece of jewellery which has a great repeat value. As a classic piece, it can been passed down to the next generation who are fond of wearing such standalone pieces rather than full sets.

* Evening special: Diamonds are forever, and a solitaire diamond neckpiece is the one statement piece which spells grandeur as well as elegance. Club your favourite evening gown with sparkling solitaire set to a wedding reception, a cocktail party or any other do in the evening.

* Polki neckpiece: Polki sets are now becoming a popular choice amongst the women because of the antiquity and royal look it offers. A polki necklace studded with ethereal south sea pearls, diamonds and rubies is a great choice to complement any ensemble – be it contemporary, modern or traditional wedding wear.

Courtesy: indianexpress.com, retailjewellerindia.com

Engagement/Fancy Rings (women)

Buying Guide!

Outside of buying your home or car, an engagement ring is one of the biggest purchases of your life. But for many guys, walking into a jewellery store feels like entering a maze. There are so many wrong turns to make and so many questions to ask. How big should it be? How much should I spend? What if I buy a fake? Don’t fret. This guide will help you get enough bling for your buck and a ring she (hopefully) can’t say no to.

Consider some points:

• Fix your Budget 

Before visiting a jeweller decide on your budget in mind. Be realistic with your budget, know what you can afford. Do not spend all your money on just one ring act smart by playing with the gold karat as well as diamonds's 4 c's.

• Check with the Certifications and jeweller Credentials

When choosing from where to buy your engagement ring, go ahead with your trusted jeweller or one that has good creditable value or one that provides you with the certifications from international labs (see Authenticity ).

• Know her taste

Find the right style that will complement her style and character this will help you out whether to chose a delicate ring or one that is bold in design. To understand this take a look at what she prefers to wear and what her work profile is. Too delicate ring might look very simple if she's into a high profile job and similarly too bold design will look too heavy on her if she can't wear that at work because its too flashy for her work profile. Ask her friends, family and peers if suitable take her along with you to avoid the mess that you might create.

•  Choice of metal

When deciding on buying the ring one major thing to consider is the choice of metal. It comes in varied choices like Yellow, White and Rose Gold or a mix of two or more metals. Platinum can also be considered if there is a preference towards it (consider return value). Whether to chose 14k or 18k or complete 22k gold ring. The karat will also effect your budget. For example a 14k ring would cost you less than an 18k and 22k. Understand that diamonds do not set in 22k ring so you have buy other semi-precious stones but again remember that they do not have a return value. (see Metals ). And of course what she likes is more important while you chose.

• Cross Check your 4 C's

I have already explained in my earlier posts why the C's are important. Make it absolute clear that your choice of diamond quality and its carat will hit your budget as well. You need not buy an absolute flawless diamond (unless its a preference) to make sure it looks good on her fingers. Play with the color grades and different shapes as well. (see Diamond 4C's)

• Look for an attractive diamond shape

Diamond comes in variety of shapes and cuts. Chose from what looks best on your SO. Because shapes do matter and popularity holds a major influence in buying decisions when it comes to diamond shape. (ZOOM for better viewing)

 

Round cuts are the market leader. Trend analysts say cushion cuts (rounded corners with larger facets) and princess cuts (square or rectangular) are the next most popular. But don’t let trends be the driving force of your purchase. Shape should also be a reflection of the woman who’s wearing it. Round is definitely traditional. Princess cuts are very feminine. But cushion cuts are for someone who is trying to make a little more of a statement. She's not prepared to throw tradition to the wind, but she wants to be distinct from the majority of engagement rings. Suggested alternatives are oval, asscher, and emerald cuts. Do ask about the return value. Knowledge courtesy menshealth,com

• Settings for your solitaire

Popular settings include the classic Tiffany (prongs), the contemporary bezel (the diamond entirely is surrounded by the ring’s metal), and the diamond-clustered Pavé. 

If you’re working with a tighter budget and have to purchase a smaller stone, the setting can act as an optical illusion to offset its size. If you have a smaller stone set in a halo setting (set of smaller diamonds surrounding the center stone), the size and brilliance increase dis-proportionality to the rupees spent.

Illusion Setting

Pressure Setting

• Add your personal touch

Engraving on wedding and engagement ring is a fabulous idea and is a great way to add your personal touch to your rings. Be it a simple band or solitare you can have engravings on all of them and you can engrave anything you wish like your D-day dates, your names, just initials, quotes, song lines, etc.

• Your Investment

So after all the trouble you go through at last it will still be your investment. Hence, make sure you buy something that will give you maximum returns with what you have invested and the return policy of the jeweller is flexible.

• Ask the expert

Still unsure how to land to a perfect ring. Don't panic we truly understand. Ask your personal jeweller or an expert to guide you. 

For any queries email us or request our contact no.

At last your lifetime Memorable Moment is about to get created............ Happily ever after!!

Jewels of the Holkars

Hi everyone, time for some royal treat.


For this section I am exploring the royal collection of Maharaja and Maharani from Indore. The reason for posting this first is very obvious that I belong to Indore and my love for this city has never faded out. Being born and brought up here and inclined towards the Royal Families of the world gave me a thought to explore it more.
Now I want you all to see for yourself by reading this and taking a ride back to history. I am sure you'll go wow after seeing these beautiful jewels and the way the Holkars lived their royal life.

Maharani Sanyogita Bai Sahib Holkar wearing an elegant dress topping it with her signature Emerald and diamond long statement necklace, By Boutet de Monvel,1934

Called the "Indore Pears" of around 47ct each worn differently with necklace in the first portrait and here as earrings. Further sold to Jeweller Harry Winston. Presently showcased in the collection of Arab Jeweller Mouward. 

Maharaja YashwantRao Holkar wearing spectacular emerald Jewellery that is a mix of European and Indian style.

It was said that the Maharaja and Maharani of Indore had finely carved and exquisite emeralds and later they were auctioned by the International auction houses for a large sum as HOLKAR EMERALDS.

Model wearing Holkar emerald and diamond necklace which was auctioned by Sotheby's in Tokyo, 1990's

Considered among the finest diamonds found till 1880, called the Porter Rhodes diamond here sett as a ring purchased by Maharaja YashwantRao Holkar. This diamond along with the Indore Pears also stayed for a short while and were later again sold to Harry Winston in 1946.

Maharani Sanyogita Bai wearing her signature Emerald and Diamond Collection comprising Necklace, Ring and Bracelet. Portrait by Bernard Boutet Monvel, 1934

Not much is clear about this beautiful necklace. Only that this once belonged to the Royal Spanish Family and later. Bought by Harry Winston from the Maharaja of Indore in 1940's. Now at the Smithsonian Institution in Washington D.C.

You might be curious as to why did the Royals gave their jewels to  Harry Winston.
It so happened that the estate duty came to 1.14 crore in 1961 valued today at approx. 100 crores. Due to poor tax planning this amount had to be paid in cash which forced Maharani Ushadevi Holkar, daughter of the young Royal couple to convert their exquisite jewellery collection into cash and pay the taxmen.

Fresh Florals

Trend Alert!!

Summer is at end but these floral jewellery are still creating a trend buzz everywhere.
Brazilian jewellery designer Fernando Jorge is renowned for his stunning, contemporary pieces, often set with coloured gemstones sourced from his home country.
Look at the bracelet in shades of amazing rich purple color.

 Orchidea bracelet in white gold set with lavender jadeite, kunzite, amethysts and diamonds (£44,400)

Pasquale Bruni is one of my favorite designer. His Made in Italy art has always fascinated me as a designer. Below is his floral set of earrings that are dedicated to beautiful hidden gardens of Milan

Pasquale Bruni earrings from the Petit Garden collection in rose gold set with champagne and white diamonds ($10,520)

Another designer from Brazil - Carla Amorim, has a very contemporary taste to follow. This statement pair of earring are just perfect to have in your collections. Not too heave not too light. Called Just Perfect.

Categories Earrings
Style Boho Chic Contemporary Floral
Occasion Anniversary Birthday Just Because No Special Occasion
Colour Yellow
Gems White Diamonds
Material Yellow Gold

Authenticity(The big article)

Hi there! 

Much of the customers are worried whether the diamonds they are purchasing are of genuine quality or not and how transparent its pricing are. For this customers are advised to buy diamonds from a trustworthy seller or someone who will provide you with the authentic certifications like GIA, IGI, HRD, AGS and GEL(International or USA).

A diamond certificate is issued following an unbiased and professional examination to authenticate a diamond's attributes. The carat weight, colour and clarity are all validated, together with the diamond's exact measurements. Cut grades are also included for Round Brilliant cuts. Certificates are essential in determining or testifying a diamond's value.

BEWARE: Always buy a certificated diamond - Unless you are purchasing jewellery set with smaller diamonds, with a centre stone 0.30ct or above, to be certain of the quality insist on a certificate - If your diamond is not graded by one of the 5 internationally recognised certificates listed above, chances are the grading stated is misleading and that you are purchasing something of lesser quality than indicated. Unfortunately some retail shops and online stores self certify, for the sole purpose of increasing their margin on the product sold.

Understand the important C's of your diamonds

There were traditionally 4 C's 
THE CUT
THE COLOR
THE CLARITY
THE CARAT WEIGHT

Due to increase in awareness and misleading certifications another C was added eventually.

THE CERTIFICATION

Here's a sample report by one of the laboratories

This isn't a question paper and these aren't just answers. They are extremely important as customers to know what you are buying. The government of India has provided full authority for customers under RTI which is Right to Information. 
So, without hesitating ask as many question you like from the seller. Even if you do not understand some of the information on the spot, write it down on a piece of paper or ask your seller to write it down for you if the time permits. By this after returning home you have ample of time reading it again and again and searching it through web about things that you do not understand or asking it from a trusted knowledgeable person.

We at Shimmering Tales are here to increase your knowledge and bridging the gap that prevails in the diamond jewellery market.

Understand, that some sellers have increased prices because of the brand image they are holding. You are paying for their name too as the final price in their invoices. We do not discourage you from buying elsewhere. Our selling focuses on customized jewellery that might not be there in their company policy and terms. With us you can fully customize your jewellery at your quoted budget. We are flexible with you and we want you to be flexible with us too when we try to explain you what will look good in what budget and in what duration it will take to become a finished product.

Time for other 4 C's.......

Take a look at the pictures below understand what other C's are. Any doubts? feel free to post a comment.

See the black dots? They are inclusions translated in hindi literally as the amount of क च रा in your diamonds. 

Do not be worried if you do not have a budget that allows you to buy a more finer diamond because your eyes can't see it without a microsope and besides the fact is that you are still buying certified diamonds. And as we all say Diamonds तो Diamonds ही है !!

Back in-trend Pearls

Hi everyone, my first post in trends is going to be about my favorite gemstones - Pearls.

For me pearls are something that gives u a graceful look without hitting too much on your budget if thought wisely. Whenever you wear jewellery that has pearls, you literally do not need any other thing to wear as a jewel. I'm a pearl lover and so I want you to fall in love with this beautiful natural gemstone. And for that I would like to guide you before buying them.

Five Things You Need to Consider in Choosing Pearls For You

1. Select pearls with a rich lustrous character.
2. Select pearls that have relatively smooth surfaces.
3. Select pearls with a pleasing shape.
4. Select a color that complements your own skin, hair and eye color.
5. Select the appropriate size.

Pearls come in a lot of variety and shapes. They are called by different names too. Commonly used pearls in the industry are.....

Akoya Pearls also known as saltwater pearls

Fresh water pearls

South sea pearls

Tahitian Pearls

Beautiful pearls jewellery from renowned YOKO London pearls

Sketches #1

Hands on paper collections - Created, Recreated and amended.

STS1 The exotic Solitaires

STS2 Luxury solitaire studs

STS3 Solitaire detachable studs

STS4 Solitaire Detachable Studs

STS5 Solitaire Detachable Studs

STR1 Designer Two Finger ring with diamonds and stones

STP1 Smart Polki Necklace Set

STP2 Polki dangler earrings with carved emerald green stone

STP3 Polki Studs with princess cut aquamarines or equivalent

STR2 Vintage ring with round sapphire and diamonds

 

STN1 Royal Vintage necklace with blood red gemstone, fresh water pearls and diamonds

STN2 Statement Leaves necklace with blue briolette gemstone and diamonds

STD1 Luxury Vintage Earrings with emerald in between and multiple shaped diamonds

STD2 Luxury Vintage Necklace with emeralds in between and multiple shaped diamonds