Showing posts with label rings. Show all posts

5 Reasons You Should Consider A Moissanite Engagement Ring

Moissanite is among one of the most ethical, sustainable and affordable engagement ring choices out there and is fast becoming a staple in the world of engagement rings and all for the right reasons! This is an advertorial with Lily Arkwright. 

Moissanite rings make for a beautiful choice and today we have comprised a list of 5 reasons why you should join all the other savvy couples who are opting for this fantastic gemstone as their engagement ring.

If you didn’t already know, moissanite is a white gemstone that is strikingly similar to a diamond and extremely rare in nature. Moissanite is made up of the material, silicon carbide.

It was first discovered in 1893 by Nobel Prize-winning scientist Dr Henri Moissan who discovered small quantities of natural silicon carbide. It was found in a meteorite and was later named "moissanite" in honour of Dr Moissan. However, silicon carbide supply was too limited for jewellery use and it wasn’t until over 100 years later scientists were able to replicate the natural growing process in a lab and manufacture it on a large scale. Taking us to today, where almost all moissanite set in jewellery and engagement rings is lab-grown.

So Why Should You Opt For A Moissanite Ring?

Moissanite ring

Moissanite is affordable

When we think of an engagement ring the conventional idea tends to be a bright gold band with a big shiny diamond but as we all know, this can be very expensive. Of course, diamond rings make a beautiful and classic choice for an engagement ring but the reality is, a diamond ring is not within everyone's budget and if it is you’re very lucky. However, what if we told you you could get that same brilliance and fire from a diamond ring for just a fraction of the price! Moissanite costs around 90% less than mined diamonds, making them a really affordable choice for those budget-conscious couples and consumers.

Moissanite is durable

The durability of a piece of jewellery is something that should be strongly considered during your buying process. It’s well known that diamonds are the hardest mineral on the planet with a score of 10 on the Mohs Scale of Hardness, which is a measurement of scratch resistance a mineral has. Moissanite is the second hardest mineral used in setting jewellery, with a score of 9.25, making moissanite an amazing choice for jewellery designed to be worn every day, such as engagement rings.

Ethical and sustainable

A considerable factor of moissanite are its ethical and sustainable credentials due to it being exclusively grown in a laboratory. Unlike mined diamonds, lab-grown jewellery such as moissanite and lab diamonds have a significantly smaller carbon footprint as all of the ethical implications involved with mining practices are eliminated. As consumers become more aware of the ramifications of their purchases, more and more couples are opting for moissanite as a green choice that also happens to look stunning!

Moissanite is super sparkly!

Moissanite is almost indistinguishable from a natural diamond, thanks to meticulous lab growing processes and checks by expert scientists. The chemical structure and refractoriness of this gem mean that it can slow down and bend the light entering it much better than other minerals, giving off an almost rainbow-like sparkle effect. It makes for a wonderful alternative as a colourless stone, and due to its optical properties displays a remarkable brilliance and fire displayed only in the highest quality gems.

Moissanite is fully certified and traceable

Thanks to the way in which moissanite is produced, it means there is a far smaller production line. Lily Arkwright are proud authorised sellers of premium Charles and Colvard forever one moissanite which always comes with a certificate of authenticity. Charles & Colvard are the leading architects in moissanite and are the original creators of the fabulous gemstone. Lily Arkwright are also Assay Assured retailers and can guarantee that all of their jewellery meets and exceeds legal requirements having been independently tested, proving outstanding quality to their customers.

Final Thoughts

If the idea of moissanite engagement rings has piqued your interest or you would like to find out more information about Lily Arkwright and their lab diamond collections simply call them on: 0161 537 6773, or alternatively, you can email their jewellery consultancy team at: hello@lilyarkwright.com or book an in-person consultation.

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Tips To Help You Select The Best Engagement Ring

An engagement is an exciting and important event however buying the ring and preparing for the proposal can be nerve-wracking. The ring can be a considerable expense therefore it is vital you get it right for your loved one.

engagement ring


The following are some tips to help you select an engagement ring and make it a perfect proposal:

Figure out the ring size

It is important that the ring fits properly. It should slide on easily and must also possess a little resistance making it certain that it does not come off at the time it is worn. When couples shop together then it is not tough to get the right size. However, if you want the proposal to be a surprise then you need to be a little more secretive.

A ring size chart is helpful here. You will have to measure the finger of the person you want to give it to and get the one that is the correct size. An idea is to find a ring in her jewellery box that she wears on the same figure on her other hand.  There may be a slight difference in the size though. Or buy a ring with a plain shank on the back so it can be resized later. 

According to where you want to buy the ring there are many engagement ring London stores and as well as stores nationwide where you can pop in and have her ring size measured.

Select the ring setting style

A ring’s setting is the surround of the precious stone . It is part of a ring's personality. The setting must reflect her personal style. Would she prefer something chic and simple in style or does she like sparkle? A simple solitaire in a plain shank would be good for the former and a diamond set band for the latter could work well. Does she like antique rings or a vintage style? All these considerations will help you when you choose an engagement ring.

Choose the ring’s precious metals

The setting can be composed of different metal types as well as colours. The ring’s metal adds to the personality of its design. It can also enhance the appearance of the gems that it is supporting. The following are popular choices when it comes to engagement rings:

  • Platinum- This is the sturdiest jewellery metal and will hold a diamond securely. It is rarer than gold so is more costly also. It is hypoallergenic as well. 
  • 18 carat gold - Gold tends to the most popular precious metal for engagement rings. Pure 24 carat is too soft for daily wear, 18 carat is better for an engagement ring. It is softer in comparison to platinum but more affordable too.
  • 14 carat gold- This is cheaper than 18 carat and popular in the US.
  • 9 carat gold- This is often used in the UK and is the cheapest precious metal to buy, although if you are on a tight budget you can get silver engagement rings.

Different alloy mixes create various colours of gold. The most popular precious metal colours for engagement rings tend to be yellow, white and rose gold.

It is important to choose the best engagement ring UK as this is a precious ring and the memories of it will stay forever. Look at the options available and do your research before choosing one.

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How to Measure Your Ring Size

So, you've seen that beautiful ring in store or online and want it badly. Maybe it's a cocktail ring for that chic party, a silver ring for everyday wear or a beautiful precious engagement or wedding ring. Perhaps you just love rings and want to add to your gold or silver jewellery collection. The important thing is, you need your ring size.

Now you can measure your ring size at home but it's always best to get it double checked at a reputable jeweller as your ring size can vary due to a number of factors. 

Here are some things to take into consideration when measuring your ring size. 



Measuring your ring size at home

Many people will try the method of cutting a thin strip of paper, wrapping the paper around the finger, making a mark and then measuring with a ruler. This way you can find out your size in millimetres then convert into the more recognisable size using a guide. This way supplies you with a good starting point, however, consideration should be given to the design of the piece.

The size of the band



The size of the band or the shank width can make a difference to the size of the ring. Wide bands will grip your finger more and make it feel tighter. A jeweller will have different width ring gauges so you need to tell them what width of ring you are looking to be measured for. The greater the width of the ring, the bigger size you will generally need.

The temperature of your fingers

In the morning your fingers are general cooler and warm up during the day. This affects the size of your fingers as they will swell slightly. Also if you exercise, your fingers can also swell. It is always best, therefore, to get your ring size measured later in the day and after your body has cooled down from any exercise.  This can be the difference of a half to one whole size. Bare in mind you don't want your rings to be too tight in the summer months too.

Large cocktail rings

If you have a ring that is heavy on top you may want to go for a snugger fit, as this can minimise and reduce spinning. A well-fitted ring sits neatly, doesn't move around too much but still has 'wiggle' movement to remove over the knuckle if needed.

An existing ring

If you have a well-loved ring that you know already fits and is of a similar design and width you can also have this measured on a jewellery ‘ring stick’ otherwise know as a mandrel sizing tool. This is a great way to get an accurate reading and is a brilliant way to surprise a loved one as well!
Pin for later 


So these are things you need to think about when you need to measure your ring size, I hope you have found this article useful.

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Meditating With Spinning Rings

Many people have yet to try the marvellously calming practice of meditating with spinning rings. Spinning rings, also known as meditation rings, are an ancient part of Tibetan culture as they symbolise the Tibetan prayer wheel, one spin of which harmonises your environment and increases empathy. They are formed of a main ring body which encloses the wearer's finger, as in any ring, and then a separate band which revolves around the main body of the ring when the wearer spins it with either of their thumbs. This unusual jewellery design, with motion in mind, is to allow the practice of meditation using the rings. 



Spinning rings are also known as worry rings as they are fantastic for relieving anxiety. This is because they offer the wearer something to do with their hands at any given moment. Movement of the hands has been shown, through use in therapeutic settings, to enable a person to process difficult emotions.

Upon wearing a spinning ring, you will find yourself fiddling with it at all times of the day, whether you're on the train, watching television or speaking with people, as it can be both soothing and absorbing, depending on your activity. This small action can ease the wearer into a meditative state which is deeply beneficial for mind and body. 


Traditionally, these beautiful rings would have been a meaningful aid to more focused meditation, and indeed you may find that you would like to give this a try. As with any meditation, it's best to find a quiet, temperate place, away from distractions and noise. Some people choose to sit, some lie down, but really any way in which you are comfortable is fine. 


A common misconception is that it is necessary to completely clear your mind of thoughts in order to meditate effectively. This is impossible and will lead you to spend the entire time chasing thoughts out of your mind. The best practice is to allow thoughts to wander freely through your mind, but simply not engage with them and let them drift out again, unanalysed. You may introduce the motion of the ring at any point to aid this unengaged processing of thoughts, and may also chant if you so wish.

Spinning rings are not only a wonderful, interactive and spiritual piece of jewellery, and a tonic for the mind, but they're also fashionable, contemporary silver rings, which can be worn as a beautiful accessory to your everyday attire. They align your whole being with beauty and harmony, inside and out.

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Ever Us - A Ring For Your Best Friend And True Love

I'm a romantic at heart. I always have been and I always will be. Being in love is at the centre of what being a romantic is all about. It's the best feeling in the world. Every person who has ever been in love can identify with this. It could be a feeling of love that grows over time, starting with friendship and turning into true love or it could be that heart thumping. magnetic love at first sight that happens once in a lifetime.  This is when a best friend, and a true love ring can be a cherished posession. 


Copyright A Stock-Studio Shutterstock

Love means many things to many people. It means you fit together like two parts of a jigsaw. It also means you care for that person unconditionally. Yes, you may not like their actions sometimes but you still love them. You commit to them, invest in them, spend time with them. 

 To me, it's the little things you do to make them happy that show you care. You search all the stores far and wide for that perfect gift because they will love it, you buy their favourite blu-ray although you really hate it because it will make them smile, and you bring them a cup of tea in bed, with their favourite biscuits... just because.

 You feel lucky to be with them, to know them, to love them. 

 The best relationships also have a strong friendship at the core. You try not to take each other for granted and take into consideration their feelings. You go along to support them in their favourite sport when you've no interest in it, something I always find myself doing with my husband. You listen to them when they need to talk, really listen and you are nice to them. Yes I know being nice can be thought of as an old-fashioned concept but being nice, saying they look good, smell nice, and that they have done well in work is very underrated in my opinion.

 Love and friendship aren't always perfect. Both can be hard work at times, but love and friendship are always one hundred per cent worth it.

Showing you love that person can be as simple as giving them a hug, a kiss, being there for them when they need you. However, at other times only a grand gesture will do to show them that they mean the world to you. A grand gesture like an Ever Us diamond ring.



The Ever Us diamond ring is made of two sparkling diamonds - one symbolising your best friend and one symbolising your true love, The Ever Us meaning is the diamonds sitting together side by side are 'us' - you are each other's best friend and each other's true love. 

With the Ever Us logo engraved in the shank to remind you of the meaning, this pretty white gold ring has diamond enrobed shoulders, holding the two brilliant-cut precious diamonds in place. 

 The ring is a beautiful gift to show how much you care. It can be for any occasion - birthdays, anniversaries, Christmas. It is the perfect commitment ring.  A special ring to show the bond you have with your true love and your best friend, whether you have been together two years or twenty years, or even if you are celebrating 50 years of wedded bliss.

If you want that special ring for that special woman in your life the Ever Us ring is that perfect heartfelt gift.

 Available from selected stockists in the UK and the US.

* a sponsored post, all words and opinions are my own
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