When shopping for an engagement ring, men tend to focus on the quality of the diamond, while women are much more interested in the overall style of the ring. They both are involved in picking the metal for the setting. Looking at last year’s real life proposal stories, I was happily surprised to see the diversity of platinum engagement rings purchased by just-engaged couples. Long gone are the days when everyone wanted the same diamond solitaire.
Michael proposed to Gianna over the holidays with a gorgeous 3.01 brilliant cut diamond in a platinum setting. The ring was designed by her aunt Gigi Ferranti. It is absolutely the perfect ring for Gianna. After being diagnosed with PCOS, Gianna decided to turn her life around and focus on loving herself and taking care of her mental and physical health. You can follow her journey on Instagram here. Staring at a beautiful round diamond is a great way to keep oneself centered and remember one’s self-worth.
Susan and Lou decided to get married over Thanksgiving weekend, and planned their wedding for just 3 short weeks later. There was no time for a traditional proposal. It was going to be Susan’s second wedding. At this stage in her life, she had long-known what kind of wedding set would make her very happy. She wanted a tailored look with a sapphire center (her birthstone) and a full Asscher band. Julie Lamb designed both her rings. She added a hidden ruby inside the engagement ring (Lou’s birthstone) and two half-moon side diamonds. Julie only recommends platinum for engagement ring settings because of its strength and the lovely patina it develops overtime. I love the type of rings Susan picked for herself- it shows how confident she is.
Photo Credit: Chris Carter Photography
Joey proposed to Angela during their little boy’s gender reveal party. It was a great way to celebrate both blessings with family and friends, not a minute too late… What happens when you get engaged close to your due date? You get a big diamond! Why? The ring also fulfills the role of a push present. The couple picked a stunning 3 carat radiant cut center set in a dainty platinum setting. I approve!
Photo Credit: Natalie Loizzo Photography
On a visit to Savannah, Josh proposed to Kacci during a horse carriage tour after having her throw a lucky penny in the Columbia Square fountain. Kacci knew exactly what kind of rings she liked and Josh listened. He purchased a beautiful oval-shaped diamond halo set in platinum. Did you know that oval-cut diamond centers come in many different ratios, from elongated to wide? Whichever you pick, they will always look larger on the finger than a round cut of the same carat weight. It is one of the main reasons why they have become so popular.
Photo Credit: Indian Trails Photography
Kathryn and Justin had just moved from New York to Miami. At the end of a romantic weekend at the Biltmore Hotel, Justin, along with four different vendors (photographer, videographer, florist and violinists) pulled off a magical grand proposal. Sustainability is important for this couple, so they picked an ethically sourced 3.10 carat pear-shaped diamond from Botswana. The ring is from Tiffany & Co. The center diamond is surrounded by a diamond halo and the band is set in platinum with pavé diamonds. One of the couple’s favorite movies is the romantic dramedy La La Land. A pear diamond is so romantic, and it’s the perfect fit for this couple. Did you know that if you put 2 pear-cut diamonds together you see a heart shape?
Photographer Credit: Julio Naranjo
Patrick proposed to Gina during an intimate Thanksgiving proposal at home. Gina works for the jewelry store Long Jewelers in Burlington, Massachusetts. Even after seeing all different kinds of stones and beautiful rings, she has always known what her dream engagement ring would look like. Gina always wanted a cushion cut diamond set in a simple, delicate and dainty setting to make the diamond pop. Platinum was the clear choice for her for its durability and protection. The openness of the Mark Patterson setting she picked lets the light shine through the diamond and creates a show-stopping sparkle.
Photo credit: Indian Trails Photography
Robby surprised Josette with a proposal on the Georgetown Waterfront during a weekend trip to DC, the place where their relationship first began. Their family and friends were waiting by the proposal spot to witness and celebrate their special moment. Robby created a custom engagement ring with Kravit Jewelers in Long Beach, NY. His inspiration for the ring was the arrow tattoo Josette has on the inside of her wrist. The ring is platinum, with a tapered split shank setting. The band has custom feather fletchings engraved on each side of the 1.51ct cushion cut diamond. I love how thoughtful and personalized this design is.
Severine Ferrari is the founder of Engagement 101, the first multi-media platform dedicated to couples planning their engagement. Though she resides in New York, her native French sense of style and romance still strongly influences her editorial vision and voice.