• http://office.microsoft.com/en-us/clipart/default.aspx?ver=12&app=mstore.exe,http://www.bluenile.com/
  
  The traditional engagement ring is a round-cut diamond placed in a solitaire setting. Although the traditional round cut remains popular, contemporary ring styles are challenging tradition. Today's market offers a vast selection of contemporary rings that feature diamonds, gemstones and pearls.
  
  

Diamonds

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  Diamonds are available in many shapes and colors. Always follow the "four Cs" rule when choosing a diamond: color, cut, clarity and carat. The color of a diamond should be white, also known as colorless. The cut refers to the shape of the stone. Clarity is of the utmost importance. Ask the jeweler to let you view the stone through a jeweler's loop in order to view any inclusions or imperfections of the diamond. Carat is the size of the stone. Now that you know what to look for, here are styles to choose from:
  •Princess Cut
  •Marquise
  •Oval
  •Asscher
  •Emerald
  •Pear
  •Radiant
  •Heart
  
  

Gemstones

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  Exotic and mystifying gemstones are an admirable alternative as well. Gemstones can be natural, synthetic or lab-created. The "four Cs" can also be a rule to gemstones, however there are a few differences. For instance, the stone's inclusions can make the gem more valuable. Inclusions in the gem can show the gemologist where it was formed and possibly its origin. According to the Gemological Institute of America, the color can be one of the most important factors affect value. Many options are available with gems. Here is a list of the most desired:
  •Ruby
  •Sapphire
  •Aquamarine
  •Emerald
  •Amethyst
  •Opal
  •Alexandrite
  
  

Pearls

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  Pearls are famous for their elegance and splendor. Distinguishing a real pearl from a faux pearl can be difficult, but perform the tooth test by rubbing the pearls on your upper front teeth. If the texture is smooth, it is faux. If it is gritty or sandy, it is real. Similar to diamonds and gemstones, pearls vary in color, shape and size. Different classes of pearls are:
  •Freshwater pearls
  •Saltwater pearls
  •Akoya pearls
  •South Sea Pearls
  •Tahitian pearls