Shop in the men’s department: If your life is more active, look for a less dainty ring. A plain, thick, or thin gold or platinum band that a man might wear makes a simple, classic statement, sort of like a men’s watch. Skip an engagement ring altogether and go straight for the band. Have it engraved (inside or out) with a favorite lyric, saying, symbol, or line from a poem. Or choose one that’s a mix of metals, such as rose, yellow and white gold, for a versatile ring that goes with all of your jewelry.
Choose a stone that no one died for: Blood Diamond, anyone? Regardless of your politics, who would want to put a ring on their finger that caused a miner to lose a hand? Diamond trading can be an ugly business. So if you’re looking for another way to “act locally,” make it clear that you’d want a less precious stone such as a sapphire, a citrine, or even gleaming moonstone. Or choose a pavé diamond ring, one that’s made of several smaller stones, that aren’t quite as precious.
Design your own: Scan a local arts and crafts show for a jewelry maker whose designs you like and ask if they do custom work (they may upgrade from silver to more precious metals and gemstones, if that’s what you’re looking for). Or contact a local art school to see if their jewelry-making department could refer someone. Jewelers are usually eager for the chance to show off their training and creative side. Rip a photograph out of a magazine or draw a simple sketch with details about your price limit, the color of the metal (white gold, rose gold, yellow gold, or platinum), the size and position of the stone if you want one, and the finish you’re after (polished to a shine, brushed to a dull glow, or hand-hammered). Be prepared for some variation, though, since no two visions, or marriages for that matter, are exactly alike.
