We are all aware of the saying that diamonds are forever, yet can the same be said for the shapes the come in? In this blog, with the help of a few other articles’ information based off of studies they conducted, we’re going to rank 8 popular engagement ring shapes from the most timeless to the least.
Keeping in mind that there’s no right or wrong answer, it’s important to weigh your options when making such an expensive decision. This ring needs to keep you satisfied for years to come.
Keep scrolling to get the full ranking of diamond shapes from the most timeless to the least:
1. Round Cut
A round diamond is the most classic of all. The thing that attracts most clients to a diamond engagement ring in the first place is the wow factor of the sparkle. And the round diamond offers the most sparkle compared to any other diamond shape. Moissanite in Round Cut also works well with this design.
Source: www.ralphjacobs.co.za
2. Cushion Cut
Also referred to as a pillow-cut diamond, the cushion shape blends the modern round brilliant and the old-mine facet pattern. It’s another timeless option with a vintage feel.
Ralph Jacobs Engagement Ring
3. Princess Engagement Ring
The princess cut diamond is one of the brilliant-cut shapes. The princess cut diamond feels more modern than the cushion shape, because of its square edges, rather than rounded corners.
Ralph Jacobs Princess Cut Engagement Ring
4. Oval cut
If you prefer the classic lines of a round diamond, yet seeking something a little different, the oval is the perfect engagement ring choice for you. The oval shape is a variation of the iconic, most timeless round-cut diamond.
5. Pear Cut
The pear-shaped diamond looks like a pure, sparkling drop of water. The biggest advantage of the pear-cut diamond is its versatility, seeing as it can be worn with the point facing up or down, basically providing you with two different types of engagement rings.
Ralph Jacobs Pear Shaped Engagement Ring
This Post was first published on https://ralphjacobs.co.za/8-engagement-ring-shapes-ranked-from-most-popular-to-least-popular/
Halcat National Championship held at Trichardtsfonteindam on the past weekend.
The weekend’s races were conducted in good spirits but sailors had to battle low winds for most of the weekend.
The wind did not completely play its part and at times the sailors had to sit and wait before the sailing could continue. Several times there could be no sailing and sailors were stuck on the water.
Photos by Johan Viljoen
Trichardtfontein dam most probably has the cleanest water in the country and is a very popular sport for sailing.
Steve Hegerstrom won the nationals with Roger Hill in second place and Bill Ellens third.
Steve Hegerstrom, winner of the 2021 Nationals
Gavin Tintinger took fourth with Craig van Deventer in Fifth. Local sailor Peter Van der Meer took sixth place.
A rarer choice, the trillion cut is for someone who wants something off the beaten path and different. If you consider yourself a modern bride, this is the engagement ring choice for you. If you’re the type to feel drawn to standing out and being different then the trillion-shaped stones are a stunning and unique choice of style of engagement ring to consider.
Trillion cut diamonds are triangle-shaped stones, which often has rounded sides. This style was first created in the Netherlands. They may not be as popular as their round cut counterparts, but they are beautiful in their own way. If you are someone who wants something a little different and that deviates a bit from the classic round standard, you should certainly consider this cut.
Trillion cut Moissanites also pair well with any metal, and makes a great statement piece.
The trillion diamond cut is so spectacular because of its sharp dazzling brilliance. It works beautifully as a solitaire stone on its own or also looks impressive as side stones.
The trillion cut is a popular shape for accent stones in beautiful jewellery designs but it can also work as a center stone for someone looking for a different alternative to traditional diamond cuts. The thing that is most eye-catching about a trillion cut is it’s symmetry, proportion and unique shape.
Like all cuts, there are some pro’s and cons to the triangle shaped engagement ring. Below we list the pro’s and cons so you can make an informative decision on whether or not you want to go for this unique design:
Pro’s:
Offers excellent brilliance.
It could appear larger than an equal-sized round or princess cut meaning you can make the most of the diamond’s carat size.
As mentioned above and the premise of this blog, it offers a unique alternative.
Cons:
It is more at risk of chipping because of its points.
This cut doesn’t tend to work well with some prongs designs. V-prongs are the best for a trillion cut stone as they wrap the tips of the stone and protect them.
It requires more cleaning and care than other cuts.
This Post was first published on https://ralphjacobs.co.za/lets-talk-trillion-shaped-engagement-rings/
MPUMALANGA ARMED ROBBER SENTENCED TO TWENTY-THREE YEARS IMPRISONMENT FOR ARMED ROBBERY AND ATTEMPTED MURDER
MPUMALANGA – The Bethal Regional Court has on Wednesday 17 March 2021 sentenced Mfundo Muzi Mpondombi (31) to 15 years direct imprisonment for armed robbery with aggravating circumstances and 8 years for attempted murder which the sentence will run concurrently.
The sentence followed the incident which took place on 12 October 2018 whereby the G4S Security guards were collecting money from the OK shop in Bethal Mpumalanga. It is alleged that on the day in question the crew went to the shop to collect money and after collection, he came out with the trolley bag when he was accosted by the suspect who shot and wounded him and grabbed the trolley bag and ran away with it. The police and the security gave a chase and managed to arrest the first suspect, the second suspect who shot the crew and took the money dropped the money on the street and ran away The stolen money was recovered.
On 23 November 2018 information was received about the whereabouts of the suspect and Operation was conducted by Secunda Serious Organised Crime Investigation and Secunda Crime Intelligent and the address was visited at Emzinoni, Bethal, where the suspect was arrested and he was detained until his case was finalized and sentenced on the 16 March 2021.
Accused number one on this matter Sandile Thabani Thabethe ( 29) pleaded guilty and he was sentenced to 10 years direct imprisonment by the same court on 6 October 2020.
The colour rose gold and rose gold engagement rings are nothing new. And even though rose gold started turning heads since 2014, this blush coloured metal has been around since the mid to late 19th century.
Today, rose gold has become the metal of choice for most engagement rings. The trend has actually spread further than just engagement rings and we can now see it on all jewellery and even come so far that rose gold fixtures are at its height in home décor.
This blog is going to delve deeper into this precious metal, how it is made, how it was used in the past, and get ready to be inspired for your engagement ring.
How is Rose Gold Made?
If you weren’t aware, you know now that rose gold by itself does not exist in nature. Pure gold is always the same colour and is able to change in jewellery due to alloys or other metals that are mixed with it.
Rose gold gets its color by mixing pure gold with mostly copper alloys and a small amount of silver. The more copper in the mix, the redder the jewelry appears; the less copper, the pinker it will appear.
If we’re looking at a typical modern-day rose gold of 18k its formula consists out of 75% gold, 21% copper, 4% silver. Once the silver content starts getting closer to 5% or more, the gold starts to look very pink in appearance.
Rose Gold History
This beautiful colour was first seen in Russia when the famous jeweller, Carl Fabergé began incorporating the copper-infused metal in his designs in the late 1800’s.
It was first known as Russian Gold and eventually was renamed Rose Gold when the metal started trending in other parts of the world. In England Victorian jewellery artisans quickly started replicating the metal into their designs in the late 1800’s and early 1900’s.
As quickly as it rose to fame, this metal was forgotten. Favour for luxurious platinum and white gold rose around 1910. It wasn’t until the 1940’s and the beginning of WWII when rose gold became popular again.
WWII played a heavy hand in the reemergence of rose gold because the war created heavy demand for platinum for other war applications, and the metal became expensive and scarce.
Gemstones and Rose Gold
If this blog has no convinced you that rose gold is the only way to go for your engagement ring, we will now inform you on which gemstones work well with this previous, blush coloured metal.
Rose gold also pairs exceptionally well with Moissanites. White shades and different colour shades can be used with Rose Gold.
8 Yea doubtless, and I count all things but loss for the excellency of the knowledge of Christ Jesus my Lord: for whom I have suffered the loss of all things, and do count them but dung, that I may win Christ,
9 And be found in him, not having mine own righteousness, which is of the law, but that which is through the faith of Christ, the righteousness which is of God by faith:
10 That I may know him, and the power of his resurrection, and the fellowship of his sufferings, being made conformable unto his death;
11 If by any means I might attain unto the resurrection of the dead.
MEC Shongwe unvailed the plaque at the handover ceremony of the new library at Thubelihle on Thursday
The new library was planned a long time ago but was only realised now.
The community will surely benefit from this initiative.
“It is fitting that we are gathered here today to witness the Official Opening of Thubelihle Public Library during an important period in the library sector.” said MEC Shongwe, “The Official Opening of Thubelihle Public Library falls within the South African Library Week, which started on March 15. Library Week is regarded as sacrosanct by librarians and all those associated with the sector. Library Week was initiated in 2001 to market services of the fountain of knowledge and create awareness of the important role they play in democratic South Africa.”
This Library is the 117th that was unveiled and they all have the same plans according to the MEC.
The following services will be offered by the library:
Information Communications Technology: 22 computers will be available for the public to use.
Photocopier will be available that can copy, fax and scan.
Printing services will be available.
Free internet and wi-fi.
Library material can be borrowed.
Special Library for the Blind. The room is specially provided for the visually impaired community to use special material such as, special computers loaded with the JAWS Reader, Document reader and other materials
ADDRESS BY MEC THANDI SHONGWE DURING THE OPENING OF THUBELIHLE PUBLIC LIBRARY ON THURSDAY, MARCH 18 AT EMALAHLENI LOCAL MUNICIPALITY, NKANGALA DISTRICT.
Programme Director, BM Mtsweni Executive Mayor of Nkangala District Municipality, Cllr S Masilela Executive Mayor of Emalahleni Local Municipality, Cllr L Malatjie Head of Department, Mr GS Ntombela Members of the Media Ladies and gentlemen
Programme Director, it is fitting that we are gathered here today to witness the Official Opening of Thubelihle Public Library during an important period in the library sector.
The Official Opening of Thubelihle Public Library falls within the South African Library Week, which started on March 15. Library Week is regarded as sacrosanct by librarians and all those associated with the sector. Library Week was initiated in 2001 to market services of the fountain of knowledge and create awareness of the important role they play in democratic South Africa.
The role of libraries in society cannot be overemphasized as they play a key role in shaping the futures of young people and opening new vistas for users.
Ladies and gentlemen, it is for this reason that Government decided to mark this year’s Library Week with a two-word theme, Libraries Matter. These two words speak volume on the importance of libraries in the development and upliftment of our people.
Today, our people, the people of GaNala can access Information and Communication Technology services they were denied before. They now have a state-of-the-art library connected to the Internet, WiFi, a computer room, kids’ play area and MiniLib, which caters for visually impaired users.
The opening of the library is a boon for pupils in Bonginhlanhla Primary and Sibongamandla High schools, who now have access to information that will go a long way to help them improve their grades.
The little ones in local crèches are not left out as they too will learn about their ABCs at this edifice.
Programme Director, indeed Libraries Matter and let me count the ways:
Libraries play an important role in preserving and promoting our literary and cultural heritage.
Libraries play an important role in life-long learning by providing access to learning programmes from the cradle to the grave.
Libraries play a vital role in inculcating and fostering a literate society, from early literacy through storytelling and making materials available to children for reading and play, to providing access to a variety of reading and audio-visual materials for all ages, in all languages and reading formats.
Libraries support academic success by providing access to valuable reference sources and databases; they encourage further research and thus contribute to the growth of the knowledge base of the country.
Libraries provide access to the Internet (WiFi as well as public computer access).
The opening of the library is a testament the Department of Culture, Sport and Recreation is committed and working hard to bring services closer to the people.
Working with each one of you, we can grow Mpumalanga together. We can protect the library against vandalism and other rogue elements. Working together we can use the library as a launchpad to turn this community into a major force that produces well informed and well read citizens.
As a Department, we are duty bound to protect the library from vandals and criminals who see it as get rich quickly schemes by stealing computers and pawning them.
Ladies and gentlemen, I want to appeal to you to be ambassadors of safety and look after this library to ensure that it is not vandalized. After all, Thubelihle Public Library is here to serve you. It has provided full-time job opportunities to three community members and it will assist hundreds others to land their dreams jobs as it is also a resource centre teeming with reading materials to help one prepare for an interview or examinations.
As a community, you must guard it jealously against vandalism that sabotages the Department’s efforts of creating safer communities. During this time of the Covid-19 pandemic, I urge users to always adhere to health and safety protocols of social distancing, sanitizing and wearing facemasks, at all times.
In conclusion, I want to remind you that March is Human Rights Month and the country will commemorate Human Rights Day on Monday, March 21. 61 years on, we must not forget those who lost their lives so that we can live in a democratic dispensation. The theme for this year’s Human Rights Month is, The Year of Charlotte Maxeke: Promoting Human Rights in the Age of Covid-19.
Human Rights Month together with the Bill of Rights recognizes the freedom of access to information as a basic human right.
Programme Director, it is pleasing to note that today we achieved four important things in one event – we opened a library, celebrated Library Week, commemorated Human Rights Month and we learnt that Libraries Matter.
You might’ve never even heard of this cut, but in more recent years this engagement ring’s popularity has skyrocketed and become extremely popular, especially amongst celebrities. So now we want to get to the bottom of, what makes an Asscher-cut engagement ring so unique and popular. Continue reading the blog for fun facts on the Asscher-cut, the history on the Asscher-cut, and which celebrities are sporting this unique engagement ring.
Ralph Jacobs Asscher-Cut Halo Pave Engagement Ring
The Asscher-cut is very similar in appearance to the emerald cut with its step faceting. Yet, the biggest difference between the two cuts are that the Asscher-cut has larger step facets, a higher crown, and a smaller table.
The History of the Asscher-cut
Source: www.hollandart.com
The Asscher-cut was first created in 1902 by Joseph Asscher, head of the Asscher Diamond Company which was founded in 1854 in Holland. As you can imagine, the Asscher-cut design was an instant hit among the locals, with its symmetrical, architectural style.
With the Great Depression on the rise, unfortunately the interest and desire for the Asscher-cut fell out of style. This was mostly due to the fact the jewellery was seen as a luxury and became unaffordable. In this tragic time the Asscher Diamond Company was forced to put an end to production.
During World War II the Asscher family fell further into obscurity. Sadly, the Asscher family and their polishers were rounded up and interned in concentration camps. It is with great sadness to note that only ten members of the Asscher family and fifteen of seven hundred polishers survived the war, however with great spirit and their heads held high they returned to the Netherlands determined to restore the company to its former glory.
In 1980, Queen Juliana of Holland granted the Asscher Diamond Company a royal title, making them the Royal Asscher Diamond Company.
The Ideal Setting for Your Asscher-cut Engagement Ring
There are so many possibilities for an Asscher-cut setting. However, there are certain settings that do showcase its brilliance and shine better.
One extremely popular setting choice for the asscher-cut is a vintage or Art Deco style, which is the most fitting for the Asscher cut, as that style is what led to its initial popularity.
Experts would suggest a prong setting over a channel or bezel setting because it allows the stone to sit elevated from the band and finger, which allows the stone to catch the most light. Along with a channel or bezel setting, another setting that allows the central stone to maintain that pronged elevation is a pavé setting.
The choice most people choose for an Asscher-cut is a halo setting. This popular setting is due to the fact that the flat edges of the Asscher-cut stone provide a natural border for a halo of diamonds. A major benefit of the halo setting is that it can enhance the brilliance and give the appearance of a greater size.
At the end of the day, it doesn’t matter which of these settings you select, the Asscher-cut diamond is already such a unique stone. Now, let’s see which celebrities has opted for this vintage flair engagement ring.
Jewellery Design is a very important step if you decide to go with a custom engagement ring.
We’ve said it once and we’ll say it again, again and again…your engagement ring should not only shine bright but also glimmer with every facet of your personality. If you’ve been on the fence about custom designing your engagement ring, we are here to assist you and make the process as seamless as possible. You should definitely create an engagement ring that are as unique as your relationship. After all, a ring is something you will wear every single day and it should be something you truly love and adore.
Keep reading for a 10 steps how-to guide on creating and designing your own custom engagement ring as unique and special as your relationship.
Step 1: Start the Process Early
Remember your ring doesn’t exist yet. You still have to design and create it. Customized engagement rings take anywhere from a couple of weeks to a couple of months; be sure to start the journey early.
Step 2: Collect Inspiration
One of the most important things to have is visual cues for what you could be interested in. Inspiration can be collected anywhere, but two platforms that are perfect for this are Pinterest boards and Instagram images. Get as many images as possible, because perhaps you like the band on one ring, the setting on another one, and the colour of the stone on another ring. Remember that when you’re creating your own engagement ring design, you can borrow ideas from anywhere.
Step 3: Finding the Perfect Jeweller
The jeweller you choose has to share your style and mirror you aesthetically. Ask family and friends if they have any recommendations when it comes to jewellers. You want to go through the custom ring process with a jeweller that’s reputable and has done this before. Working with a jewellery designer who designs rings that are alligning with your style and relates to your design sensibility will ensure you end up with a ring you absolutely fall in love with!
Its also very important that the jewellery design process is smooth and effortless.
We ate Ralph Jacobs want you to do your homework properly – Designing an Engagement Ring is a big step, and we would like you to make sure of your jeweller before you make any final decisions.
4. The Metal Choice
Now, the designing and creative aspects starts. When you’re creating your own engagement ring, you can honestly choose any metal you like. In addition to the classic choices, consider rose gold, palladium, titanium, and recycled metals (which are made from a blend of metals).
www.ralphjacobs.co.za
5. Choosing Your Special Stone
This is where the fun begins. There are so many options of stones to choose from and they all sparkle in their own unique way. The best thing to do is to choose with your heart.
Whether you choose a Diamond, a Gemstone or a Moissanite, at Ralph Jacobs, we will guide you through the process of selecting the perfect center stone and accent stones for your dream design.
Step 6: Choosing a Cut
Traditional ring cuts include round, cushion, princess, oval, emerald, pear, radiant, Ascher, marquise, or heart. For a unique look, you can also choose to leave your diamond uncut. Uncut or “raw diamonds” aren’t cut to fit any setting. They are placed on the band exactly as they were formed in the ground and how they came from the earth. It is then when the setting is made to fit the stone. Its important to choose the correct custom engagement ring that pairs well with a specific cut.
Step 7: Choosing a Setting
There are even more settings to choose from than there are cuts, including halo, cathedral, prong, tiffany, bezel, bar, flush, suspension, tension style, channel, pavé, vintage, cluster, shank, and three-stone settings. Below are some examples of different settings.
Step 8: The Wedding Band
This seems too early and eager, however, it can save a lot of time and money if you design a wedding band at the same time as you’re designing a custom engagement ring. Not only will it ensure the two pairs perfectly, but jewellers can often work out a deal when you create both together.
Step 9: Collaborate on Every Step; including Sketches
Most jewellers will present the bride-to-be with a sketch of the ring. Be sure that you are present for this and take in every moment. The sketch is presented to ensure that the ring visually satisfies the requirements. Once the sketch is approved by the bride the final step commences.
Step 10: Allow Time for Casting and Further Customization
Once you have approved the sketches of your custom-made engagement rings, the next phase is casting. The ring will be cast and cleaned, and then the stones are set. Certain customizations such as micropavé are created by hand by the jeweller in this stage. After the ring is set and polished, the statement sparkler is ready to slip onto the finger of the lucky bride-to-be.
This Post was first published on https://ralphjacobs.co.za/how-to-guide-on-custom-design/
