The Knot Chicago Weddings Spring Summer 2020_downmagaz.com

FASHION + BEAUTY
RING
INSU RA NCE
101
In the name of love, insure that precious ring.
Here are the essential questions
to ask before you choose a policy.
218
CHOOSE AN ALTERNATIVE STONE
Colorful gems have been the traditional engagement gift for
royal families for centuries—we’re all familiar with Kate
Middleton’s gorgeous 18-carat oval sapphire ring. Today, hued
stones are even more on trend, catching on with celebs, like
Katy Perry, Scarlett Johansson and Jessica Simpson, as well as
everyday brides. Another bonus of going with a sapphire or
other vibrant gem? They tend to be less expensive than white
diamonds, so you can afford a larger stone. “You can use an
alternative center stone and still have diamonds in your setting
as a halo or a pavé band,” Levine says. “Pick a gem that
complements your skin tone, opt for one with sentimental
meaning like your partner’s birthstone or repurpose an heirloom
stone.” Even if colorful gems aren’t your fave, that doesn’t
mean you’re out of options where this tip is concerned. Gray
sapphires, white topaz and moissanite all look similar to white
diamonds but cost considerably less.
Is the ring still covered if you lose
it accidentally or it’s badly
damaged—or only if it’s stolen?
How will the company replace
the ring? With a check? Will they
require you to purchase a
replacement through a specified
jeweler, or can you choose your own?
How will you need to prove the ring
vanished if you make a claim?
Are there any circumstances of
loss or damage that aren’t covered?
(What if your ring flies off at
the circus and gets trampled by
elephants, for example?)
GO LAB GROWN
If you’re interested getting a sweet deal on a sparkler and
reducing your carbon footprint, consider a lab-grown diamond.
Unlike alternative options that imitate the look of a diamond,
these stones are the real deal. Created from a tiny diamond
“seed” in an extremely hot, vacuum-sealed chamber (basically
a pressure cooker on steroids), they have the same chemical
properties as natural diamonds but cost much less. “Buying a
lab-grown diamond will typically save you around 25 to 35
percent compared to buying a mined one,” says Jeff Brenner,
cofounder of Couple, a luxury lab-grown diamond ring brand.
“We’re seeing a lot of our clients use these savings to upgrade
to a larger diamond of higher quality.” Another plus? Lab grown
also makes it easier to source super-specific diamonds. Since
lab-grown stones are created on command (you know, without
the waiting period of 1 billion to 3.3 billion years Mother Nature
requires), you may be able to have your rock cut to the exact
shape and carat weight you’re looking for.
Is it covered if lost, stolen or
damaged while in someone
else’s possession?
What if it’s a vintage ring or
other unique piece? How will the
quality and size of your diamond—
and that of a replacement,
if needed—be documented?
Is the ring insured to the
full cost you paid for it
or a fraction of the cost?
Are there any geographical
limitations to your coverage?
LACIE HANSEN PHOTOGRAPHY
Find more ring inspo on Instagram @THEKNOTRINGS