Designer Kenneth David on Buying an Engagement Ring
Buying an engagement ring can be a harrowing decision, not only to find a quality ring, but also one that is suitable for the bride-to-be. LoveToKnow Engagement Rings was privileged to speak with innovative designer Kenneth David about his "5th C" philosophy for buying the perfect ring.
About Kenneth David
Kenneth David has been designing jewelry for more than twenty years, and his signature collections feature innovative designs with traditional flair. Though approximately 85 percent of his work involves engagement rings and other bridal jewelry, he also designs men's and women's wedding bands, anniversary rings, earrings, necklaces, three-stone rings, and bracelets. His accessible and reasonably priced collections can be found at Fred Meyer / Littmans, Friedman's Jewelery, and Barclay's Jewelers in addition to many independent chains.
The Interview
When most grooms first consider buying an engagement ring, they study the four Cs of diamond quality: clarity, cut, color, and carat. Kenneth David believes that the most important step adds a fifth C to the process: connection.
Please define your concept of the Fifth C of diamond quality.
Shopping for the perfect engagement ring can be challenging for many men. In fact, when purchasing a diamond, for most men, the four C's - carat, cut, clarity and color, quickly become confusion, challenging, chaos and cost. I developed the 5th C - connection - to highlight the most important yet most often ignored C, which is the emotional connection between a couple that the diamond engagement ring ultimately represents.
How do you suggest gentlemen make that connection before buying an engagement ring?
The key to any good marriage is knowing your bride. The same is true when picking out that special engagement ring. The most important thing to think about is how this design connects to your special someone. If your bride-to-be is bold and outgoing, you may want to choose a big, bold design with a lot of diamonds surrounding the center stone, and if she fairly conservative and demure you may want to pick a solitaire setting bezel set close to the finger. Purchasing an engagement ring is similar to marriage; couples should give it some thought and look before they leap. Remember you will have this symbol of love forever.
Would you recommend using an engagement ring as a surprise, or should the couple shop together?
I still think most women are traditional in that they like the element of surprise. With this in mind, engagement rings should serve as a symbol of a couples' love and connection to each other. Just as couples feel a magical connection to each other, grooms should find a ring that truly symbolizes the bond that forever unites them with their bride. However, this is a decision that you will have to live with for the rest of your live, so for men that aren't totally sure, discuss it with your fiancée. She will defiantly let you know which ring best suits your style and budget as a couple.
How did you make the connection with your wife when buying an engagement ring?
Kenneth David Reflections of Love ring.I've been fortunate to be married for 19 great years and have three beautiful daughters (and one male dog!). When I was shopping for a ring, I just kept in mind the special connection that my wife and I shared, and combined this with both of our personalities, our lifestyle and budget. It's very true that you never truly pick a diamond, but rather the perfect diamond picks you. Just like your soul mate, you will know when you find it. Since I was in the jewelry business at the time my wife felt comfortable with me choosing the setting and diamond and surprising her. I have since reset the stone twice, so you should know that tastes change and it is fairly easy and fun to change a ring and reset the center diamond down the road.
Is there any ring design that, over the years, you've seen to be satisfactory for many different couples?
There has been a resurgence of classic cuts and settings. The classic, round, brilliant-cut diamond set in a "tiffany style four or six prong mounting" is the traditional choice. But, there is a resurgence of the emerald, princess cut, and Asscher cut diamonds.
Do today's brides prefer a radically different ring than years ago?
Trendy pieces tend fade in popularity rather quickly, whereas classic pieces and one-of-a-kind looks typically stand the test of time. Updating classic pieces with a modern twist is a great way for couples to infuse their own personality into their symbol of love. For example, antique designs are now being combined with colored stones such as rubies, emeralds and sapphires, but with a more contemporary slant. It's all about personal style.
Thank You Kenneth David!
LoveToKnow Engagement Rings would like to thank Kenneth David for speaking with us about this important aspect of buying an engagement ring. For more information about Kenneth David's innovative designs, visit www.kennethdavidjewelry.com.
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