Engagement & Wedding Rings: The Definitive Buying Guide for People in Love

This well-illustrated volume covers diamonds, colored gems, and pearls. It takes the anxiety out of buying engagement and wedding rings, turning it into the magical and romantic experience it should be.The authors explain the romantic traditions of diamonds and colored gems in engagement and wedding rings through the centuries and offer expert advice on how to make this once-in-a-lifetime purchase a perfect one. Included are all the steps to determining the quality of a diamond or colored gemstone and judging value. Advice on how to design the rings, and lots of illustrations to help.Selected contents:Retail Price Guides for Diamonds, Colored Gems, and Pearls.The Romance of the Ring.Engagement and Wedding Ring Traditions and Romance.The Allure of Diamonds: What is Diamond?Selecting the Diamond.Comparing Diamond Prices.The Magic & Mystery of Colored Gems.Getting the Best Value in Colored Gems.What to Ask When Buying the Stone.Design and Style: Getting the Look You Want.The Wedding Bands: Gem-Studded, Gold, & Platinum.Consumer Beware: How to Spot a Fraud.Important Advice Before You Buy; Questions to Ask.List of Certified Appraisers.

Antoinette L. Matlins, P.G., is an internationally respected gem and jewelry expert, author, and lecturer. Her books are widely used throughout the world by consumers and professionals in the gem and jewelry field alike. A popular media guest, she has been seen on ABC, CBS, NBC, and CNN, educating consumers about gems and jewelry and exposing fraud. In addition, Matlins is active in the gem trade.Antonio Bonanno, F.G.A., P.G., A.S.A., was one of America's most distinguished gemologists. For over 40 years he was President of National Gem Appraising Laboratory and Director of Columbia School of Gemology in Silver Spring, Maryland.