How to Upgrade Your Current Engagement Ring Design

The subject of upgrading your existing engagement ring is an interesting one since it assumes that the ring that you have already purchased, is one that you have presumably owned for some time, and one that you are relatively happy with. But now you want a change. You want to improve the look of your engagement ring, but importantly you want to maintain aspects of the original design. So enter the process of engagement ring upgrades.

In this post, we break down the key points you need to consider when opting to upgrade your engagement ring. We will guide you through the key steps you need to be aware of and some useful tips to make the right decision for you.

Why Upgrade your Engagement Ring?

This is an interesting question as our focus is not on a buyer, who, for example, is unhappy with what he/she has purchased, either in terms of ring design, band style, gemstone choice in terms of type or colour, in addition to the question fit, comfort and compatibility with the future wedding ring. So when it comes to upgrading your choice of engagement ring, the focus has to be on preserving key elements of the ring, whilst adding something new. Or in case, when the upgrade concerns major changes such as replacing the centre stone-then careful attention needs to be placed on the band in terms of measurements.

The decision to upgrade your engagement ring at any level needs to be a carefully considered decision. As noted, the idea is building on the existing engagement ring design, so whatever changes that are made need to be thought out. Generally, the reason why choose to upgrade their engagement ring comes down to the following factors:

• To change the type of the main gemstone.

• They wish to change the cut of the centre stone.

• They wish to add embellishments to the band of the ring.

• The wish to add accent stones or increase the number of existing side stones.

Whilst there are other factors that can also play a part in affecting the choice of upgrading one's engagement rings online, let us look at these in more detail.

To Opt for a Different Type of Centre Stone or a Different Cut

This is arguably the biggest reason why someone might choose to upgrade their engagement ring, but interestingly it is not the most common. Often the wearer comes to develop a certain attachment with the main gemstone of their engagement rings online. Thus simply swapping out the main stone may come with some emotional baggage. So if the ring owner wishes to make this upgrade, it is important that they think seriously about it, and consult with their partner.

If the decision is made to upgrade the centre stone, then there are a number of factors to consider. Starting with the original gemstone. If your engagement ring featured a diamond gemstone, then you can either go for different types of gemstone, such as sapphire, ruby, emerald or a different type of precious stone. Or you could, if you are into a premium range of gemstones, then maybe a diamond of a different colour. This means we are now getting into the area of fancy coloured diamonds. This is not for everyone, but it is a key distinction.

When changing the centre stone it is important to consider the structure of the band. The gemstone, depending on the ring setting, is held in place by the head of the ring, which depending on the style can feature specific prongs that keep the main gemstone in place. Change made to the type of gemstone will be fine as long as its carat is the same, however, if the main gemstone replacement is either smaller or larger, often it is larger, then the base of the metal band needs to be considered.

The cut of the gemstone matters less provided the gemstone's overall size remains the same. Though there should be some attention given to its placement. Given the intricacy of ring design and setting, the gemstone cut must fit perfectly on the band of the ring, so it is not a simply gemstone for gemstone sway, even if the carat of the stones are the same.

Adding Embellishments and Engravings to the Engagement Ring

This is arguably the more simpler and straightforward type of upgrade that is applied to engagement rings online. Embellishments to engagement rings are generally applied to the band's surface, often on the exterior of the ring, where they are visible. Filigrees are delicate curves, stripes and other additions that can make the engagement rings Melbourne different from what is out there. Of course, these special changes can be acquired if one opts for such a ring setting from the start, however with expert jewellers, these additions can be later added to the engagement ring’s band. Though it must be noted that the extent of these changes is greatly limited by the size of the band, and other existing features like pave gemstones.

In other words, the additions of embellishment to existing engagement ring designs is limited but possible. However what is possible, and one that is generally followed by those who choose to upgrade their choice of engagement ring is the addition of specific marking, known as engraving on the interior of the ring. This decision is often motivated by engagement rings Melbourne owners who wish to add a greater level of personalisation to their choice of ring. This could take the form of adding custom dates, the initials of the couple or some other special into, which makes the engagement ring all the more precious to the couple. These customisations/upgrades are relatively straightforward, but depending on the expertise of the jeweller, they can be carried out with ease.

Adding Side or Accent Stones to Engagement Rings

This is a popular form of engagement ring upgrading that is worth considering. Generally, solitaire engagement rings online tend to feature a single centre stone, a clear precious metal band that fits the ring finger and little else. And for a lot of people, this works just fine. However, in case, the person decides that their choice of engagement ring is a bit too simple, too plain or simply thinks that throwing in a few additional gemstones live to liven your day, then this might be the pathway for you.

However consider that these changes, once again, greatly depend on the original design of the ring design. It must be noted that certain engagement styles make the addition accent and certain side stones (which are gemstones that are smaller than the centre stone, but larger than accent stones, which are relatively tiny). For example, if your choice of engagement rings Melbourne, falls under the tension ring setting then the chances of incorporating side stones are virtually impossible. However, there are other kinds of upgrades that can be made. For example, top-quality fine jewellery makers can work their magic and incorporate tiny accent tones which can be placed carefully to enhance the look of the engagement ring. Once again this upgrade greatly depends on your choice of jeweller so make this decision carefully.

Other Factors to Consider Before Going for an Upgrade

When it comes to upgrading your engagement ring, things can get confusing as it is generally not a general practice. As mentioned the engagement ring, when purchased for the first time, is often the result of great thought, emotional investment, and time spent. So the idea of upgrading it, for some might seem like too much of a change. And with good reason. The idea of upgrading engagement rings Melbourne, might sound good on the face of it, in terms of enhancing its look and style. However, for some, a lesser ring, that features a dimmer, smaller gemstone, or a plain metal band with no pave stones may be less valuable, but it is likely to be valued more greatly for its meaning and significance that is attached to it.

The next point to consider is financing, time and level of customisation. If you are going for a different gemstone, and if it happens to be a bigger stone with higher clarity and better colour, then it would involve a higher price point. The question is are you ready to make the investment? The same applies to the addition of accent stones.

Arguably the most important factor is your choice of jeweller. This decision has to be made with great care. Since not all fine engagement rings online makers are the same, it is worth investing the time and effort in making the right choice.

And finally, and arguably the most important tip when it comes to upgrading your engagement ring, is a counterintuitive one: which is that it is best to get it right the first time. You see in the world of fine jewellery, a lot of attention is given today when it comes to personalisation. Thus engagement ring buyers must focus more on ring customisation prior to making the final purchase. And if you considering future upgrades to your engagement rings online, then let your jeweller know in advance that it is so.