If you're considering popping the big question today, tomorrow, or sometime in the distant future, it's important to get a good understanding of how to select the perfect engagement ring for your special someone.
In addition to personal style and fashion, another important factor to consider when engagement ring shopping is the way in which the ring itself complements your bride-to-be's "finger type." In the bridal jewellery world, finger type is a way that experts talk about how the various differences and particularities of a person's finger will affect the way that a ring will ultimately look. (Think of the way you would consider your body's figure when shopping for swimwear or when suit shopping.)
So, with the help of the bridal jewellery experts at GMG Jewellers, here is a simple guide to help you understand a little about engagement rings and finger types.
Basic Considerations:
One of the most important things to remember when you are searching for an engagement ring, is to keep in mind the relationship that exists between finger length and finger width when combined with the ring's style, shape, and diamond cut.
Another important consideration to keep in mind is to think about what sort of nail fashions your bride-to-be generally prefers. Are their nails usually manicured or shaped? Or are they usually kept long or short? Longer nails tend to lengthen the appearance of your fingers, so these are important aspects to keep in mind while engagement ring shopping.
While not strictly related to finger shape, you should also take in consideration what sort of job or hobbies your future bride has. For example, if they work primarily with their hands, then look more for halo style engagement rings, as these are less likely to get snagged and hurt. On the other hand, if your special someone spends more time dealing with the general public, then a bright solitaire or sidestone style ring makes an amazing conversation starter.
Guidelines for Every Finger Type:
1. Small Hands
If your special someone's hands are generally on the smaller side, its best to look for a ring that is proportionate to this size. Choosing a large and clunky center diamond may look awkward, as will finding a ring with a wide band.
(From Left to Right: Engagement Rings from the Noam Carver Modern collections.)
Ring Styles that Look Best with Small Hands:
- Solitaire
- Sidestone
- Halo
Diamond Shapes that Look Best:
- Round
- Princess
- Oval
- Pear
2. Large Hands
Alternatively, with larger shaped hands it is important to find an engagement ring that will not appear too small and get lost visually. Get creative, try pieces that are bright, bold, covered with diamonds, or that of an eye-catching shape or style.
(From Left to Right: Engagement Rings from the Michael M Europa and the Claude Thibaudeau Pure Perfection collections.)
Ring Styles that Look Best with Large Hands:
- Three Stone
- Sidestone
- Large Halo
Diamond Shapes that Look Best:
- Large Princess
- Emerald
- Cushion
- Radiant
3. Long Fingers
For the most part, all popular engagement ring styles will work for individuals with long, thin fingers.
Engagement Ring Tips for Long Fingers:
Look for pieces with moderately sized center diamonds, nothing too big and nothing too small.
Rings with wider bands tend to better complement long fingers when compared to thinner pieces.
If your personal style suits it, long and thin fingers are also great for trying more unique styles and diamond shapes. For example, if your look is more vintage-inspired, then feel free to try engagement rings that feature radiant, or even, cushion cut center diamonds.
4. Short Fingers
Despite the width of the fingers, when searching for an engagement ring for a bride with short fingers keep an eye out for rings that will help create the appearance of a more elongated finger.
For example, this can be done by picking solitaire or halo style rings that feature forward "pointing" stones.
Engagement Ring Tips for Short Fingers:
For short fingers, try a ring model that features an oval, pear, or emerald center diamond as the more vertical positioning of these stones will make the finger appear longer.
Additionally, rings with more slender or narrow bands also will create an illusion of finger length.
5. Slender Fingers
With slender fingers, the most important thing to remember is to try not to overpower them by choosing an engagement ring that feature many large stones or too wide bands.
Engagement Ring Tips for Slender Fingers:
Avoid large stones or diamond cuts that appear large, instead opt for more subtle and understated shapes like the round brilliant or princess cut diamond.
Also, you can emphasize the slender finger's natural elegance by picking a solitaire, halo, or other more regal style.
(From Left to Right: Engagement Rings from the Tacori Classic Crescent, Coast Diamond Charisma, and the Hearts on Fire HOF collection.)
6. Wide Fingers
If your bride-to-be has wide fingers, then you have been blessed with the unique opportunity to experiment with a variety of engagement ring styles unavailable to other finger types.
For example, wide fingers look best when paired with a medium or thick band, this means that you will have the chance to pick from styles that can range from simple and timeless to big, bold, and extraordinary.
Engagement Ring Tips for Wide Fingers:
For wide finger types, it is recommended that you try and find an engagement ring that doesn't show too much skin on either side of the piece, as this can sometimes make a finger appear even wider.
Also, big and bright rings make wonderful statements on wide fingers. Go ahead and get creative, try rings with multiple haloes, glamorous sidestone settings, and angular, asymmetrical shapes.
One Last Note
While it is important to keep finger size and type in consideration when shopping for an engagement ring, these are only guidelines. Only your bride can decide what ring she is most comfortable with. Ultimately this is more important than any guideline.
Let GMG Jewellers Help You Find the Perfect Engagement Ring Today!
If you still have no idea what style of engagement ring your loved one would like, then now is the perfect time to pay a visit to GMG Jewellers' Saskatoon showroom.
At GMG Jewellers you will find not only one of the largest selections of designer diamond engagement rings, you're also sure to be greeted by a friendly and experienced sales staff that is committed to helping you find an engagement ring that is sure to bring a lifetime of happiness, enjoyment, and love.
For more information call (800)-209-9154, check out ShopGMG.com, or visit their showroom, located in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan, today!
