An eternity ring is a lady’s ring, worn on the hand, comprising a band of precious metal (usually gold) set with a continuous line of identically cut gemstones (usually diamonds) to symbolize never-ending love, usually given from a husband to his wife on the occasion of a significant anniversary.
The concept of the eternity ring was created in the 1960s by diamond merchant De Beers. Edward Jay Epstein stated that at the time the company had a secret agreement with the Soviet Union which, in return for the creation of a “single channel” controlling the world’s supply of diamonds, ‘required’ the purchase of 90-95% of the uncut gem diamonds produced by Russia. The current fashion, particularly for engagement rings, was for a single, large diamond. The Soviet gems, however, were small. To avoid stockpiling, De Beers embarked on a campaign of promotion of jewelry containing a number of small diamonds culminating in the eternity ring, which was aimed at older, married women. One campaign slogan, aimed at husbands, was “She married you for richer or poorer. Let her know how it’s going.”
If there were one kind of ring that exemplifies eternal sparkle and beauty, that would be the diamond eternity ring. Long before, diamond eternity rings were already described as the as the best “dress” or the “best wedding ring” because its endless or eternal loop is great symbol of love that would last for eternity. Generally, all diamond eternity rings are set with a stone or diamond set. These are categorized as a “full eternity” ring-that has stones set completely around the shank-and a “half eternity” ring-which has stones set partially around the shank. Today, many eternity rings come multi-stranded or plaited, among other themes or designs.
Eternity rings, which make wonderful anniversary gifts, are available in a number of setting styles that display and secure the gems in different ways according to the wearer’s preferences. Some of the most popular types of eternity ring settings are the bar setting, channel setting, four prong setting, pave, micro pave, shared prong, and single prong.
In a jewelry store, two diamonds may look alike but they can be very different and just like two diamonds of equal size that have very different values. The four qualities of a diamond namely color, clarity, cut and carat weight determine the real value of the gem you are looking for. These standards are also applicable to most gemstones.
Eternity rings that are well made with good materials should shine brightly forever, but jewelry does require maintenance to remove buildup of dirt and oil that forms with day to day wear, and the settings should be checked to ensure that the gems remain secure.
As the strongest substance in the world, it is little wonder that diamond rings are an eternally popular choice for the majority of engagement rings. When they are set into eternity rings the symbolism is greater still as the stones encompass the band in its entirety. It is not uncommon for eternity rings to feature two strands of stones as a symbol of partnership, a symbol which has even more significance when the strands are intertwined.
An eternity ring means just that, eternal love. Most engagement rings are diamond because diamonds are one of the toughest minerals on Earth, if not the toughest. It is virtually unbreakable, which makes it perfect for an engagement ring. A promise, a promise of love and commitment that will not be destroyed. Now how can we make that promise, mean even more? What can we wear daily from a loved one, to remind us that no matter what, our love is forever? While one diamond can mean so much, the unbreakable bond, because a diamond is so durable, imagine what a whole band of diamonds can represent for your loved one.
The design of many eternity rings means that the stones are set in such a way that it is not possible for them to be adjusted and retain the completeness of the circle. If you are shopping for engagement rings with this design it is essential that the fit is perfect as it cannot be changed. When buying diamond rings in this style it is usually best to go shopping as a couple. Not only does this guarantee that the fit will be perfect, but it also ensures that the design will be treasured for eternity.
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