Are you looking to make a good impression? Or perhaps you just want to come off as thoughtful in the caliber of the ring you buy. Either way, engagement rings are not cheap, neither are wedding rings. In fact, you have probably heard your father, friend, or relative tell tales about the financial constraints of buying a ring and you are left wondering, “How much is too much to spend?”

If you are looking to get the best value for your budget, this article gives helpful insight that gets you making better shopping and financial choices. But first, here are a few myths and outdated theories that people adhered to when buying engagement rings.

The Myths and Old-fashioned Theories on How Much an Engagement Ring Costs

While there is no standard amount someone should spend on an engagement ring, there are certainly many myths surrounding it. Below are a few of them:

• The Two to Three Months’ Salary Rule

This theory began as a marketing initiative by diamond marketers to enhance sales yet most people still follow it blindly. Initially, it entailed spending your one month’s gross income to buy an engagement ring. Overtime, this notion evolved into spending two to three months’ of gross income after the changing economic times.

However, this theory is highly unrealistic especially because it turns a blind eye on the debt load. Not forgetting how it completely ignores that this person could have other expenses and priorities.

It also has no consideration whatsoever on the long-term effects. Imagine spending the first few years of marriage financially unstable, paying off the debt accrued from buying a ring. Sounds frustrating, right? So yes, feel free to ignore this old-fashioned rule and get what works for you.

• The Myth that the Bigger the Ring the Better

Traditionally, people measured a man’s love for his woman by the size of the ring he got her. A big ring insinuated a lot of love and vice versa. As a result, most men would break their backs and go to great heights just to prove themselves to their fiancés and society.

This myth is by far misunderstood because some women have no regard for big rings. Some women enjoy the aesthetics and appeal of a smaller ring. Besides, quality is better than quantity, right?

The Reality about the Price of a Wedding or Engagement Ring

Whenever someone asks about how much you should spend on an engagement or a wedding ring, the best suited answer is…It depends. It depends on your financial status, type of ring, cut, and so much more. But no one is satisfied by that answer. So here is a breakdown of factors to consider when looking to buy an engagement ring to guide a realistic price.

1. Partner’s Preferences and Expectations

When buying a ring, ensure you get one your bride or groom will love and appreciate. If you thrive in communication, you can outright ask for your partner’s insight on what he or she would like or go window shopping together. Alternatively, if you are looking to surprise your partner ask her friends and family about her wish list.

    2. Consider Your Financial Situation

Remember there is life after marriage. Buy a ring that falls within your budget to avoid future financial constraints later on in marriage. Let your finances dictate what you can afford.

   3. Thoughtful over Expensive

Take your time and effort to choose the most beautiful ring for your bride. It does not necessarily have to be flashy and expensive. Sure, your beloved may have a spectacular ring but she would not be happy if you are struggling to make ends meet because of it. Instead, you can plan an unforgettable proposal to blow her mind away and make that moment unforgettable, be wise.

Fascinating Hacks to Help You Save Money Buying a Ring

While it is considerably easier to pop into the first store you come across and buy a ring, it is not the most ideal move. A good strategy goes a long way. Imagine how amazing it would be getting a good quality ring at an affordable price. Below are a few hacks that can help you save money.

• Do your research, knowledge is power. Familiarize yourself with the different types of rings, their cut, clarity, and setting. Browse through both store and online jeweler prices to have a rough estimate of what to expect. This information will help you negotiate the best deal.
• Do not shop during peak times. Rings tend to be more expensive during new year’s, valentines, and other festive holidays because proposals and weddings are at an all-time-high. Buy your ring during off-peak seasons to get better deals.
• Shop online. Unlike physical stores, online stores offer a wide variety of rings to choose from. You are not pressured into choosing something the store has in their jewelry collection.
• Choose an Ideal Ring Gold and platinum are quite expensive. Silver on the other hand, can give the same glamorous aesthetic effect at a better affordable price. Silver is also neutral, making blends with various stones, and skin tones.

Final Thoughts

At the end of the day, no one can put a price tag on love. It is priceless. It is therefore up to you to decide how much you would like to spend on a ring. Whether you decide to seek your partner’s opinion or not, do not get into debt or put future milestones on hold over getting a ring. There is certainly no ‘set’ amount someone should spend on a ring. So ditch the theories, get shopping today, and make it official. It is about time!

The post How Much Should You Spend on an Engagement or Wedding Ring? appeared first on The Little Jewellers.

From proposing on live TV to surprises on the busy streets of Nairobi, Kenyan men are gradually proving to be way more romantic compared to men from other countries. Some make grand gestures while others go for the simple techniques to impress their fiancé-to-be.

Women are not left behind either, some have gone against the odds and proposed to their lovers despite society’s contrary opinions.

Are you looking to compare notes on how to best propose to your partner? We have curated a short list of the best wedding proposals that took social media by storm. Those that undoubtedly caught the public eye to feed your curiosity on how to stage an amazing proposal.

1. Famous Sauti Sol’s vocalist Bien

Bien Aime Baraza proposed to his long-term Nigerian girlfriend Chiki Kuruka with the help of a few friends and family members. Bien rented out an entire cinema at the West Gate Mall, got on one knee and popped the big question.

He made a collage video of friends and family, starting with Chiki’s dad saying why they love her so much. The video was to pop a few minutes after the movie started.

How romantic, right? An easy excited yes fell out of Chiki’s mouth followed by tears of awe and joy. The two love birds are as in love as ever to date.

    2. The Popular artist, Nameless

In 2005, Nameless proposed to the love of his life Wahu at the arboretum. This is one of the simplest yet exquisite proposals. In fact, most critics frowned upon such a simple and odd place to propose.

However, when Nameless was interviewed about his reasons for choosing that venue, he revealed that it held great sentimental value for them. They would hang out there a lot during their campus years as their love blossomed. It was therefore such a romantic and thoughtful gesture for Wahu.

 3. The Gospel Singer Lady Nanaa

Most developed countries have embraced women proposing to men to the extent of having jewelers make men engagement rings. A good example is countries like Scotland or Finland with the custom that every leap year, 29^th of February, a woman can propose to her partner.

Kenya has not been left behind either, gospel songbird Sarah Nanaa shocked everyone when she proposed to her boyfriend. As much as he was caught off-guard, he said yes. This went viral because not many women would be up to the task. Lady Nanaa defended her bold move claiming  that  she could not wait to be with her soulmate.

Live TV Proposals

  4. The Renown Wajesus Family

Kabi proposed to his beloved girlfriend on the Kubamba Show Live on Citizen TV. Milly gladly said yes to the love of her life despite being caught unawares.

 5. Musician Cece Sagini

Cece’s boyfriend Victor proposed to her on The Trend back when Larry Madowo was still the host. She was just about to perform her new song when he popped the big question. A tearful and astonished Cece said yes.

 6. Vivian the Musician

Sam West proposed to Vivian when she was performing on the Citizen 10 over 10 show. The audience applauded as Vivian said a happy and shocked yes. The couple later had a beautiful traditional wedding in 2018.

 7. Meshack Kimutai

Former MP aspirant in Egwen proposed to his beloved baby mama Karen Ruto while on a chopper tour. He wanted it to be romantic and sophisticated so he pulled off a two day chopper tour, a 17-carat engagement ring, and a luxury date where he proposed.

 8. Sharon Mundia

The famous blogger popularly known as ‘This is Ess’ was out on a chopper ride to Mt Kenya with her boyfriend, Lonina Leteipan, when he proposed. She gladly said an excited yes. However, they later parted ways.

The Dos and Don’ts of Wedding Proposals

If not planned right, sometimes proposals can take a dark turn. Here are some of the dos and don’ts to adhere to when planning to propose:

• Do consider whether your partner wants a public or private proposal. Some people are introverted and laid back in nature while others thrive in being under the spotlight. Assess carefully what your partner would appreciate to achieve a memorable successful proposal.
• Do set a romantic tone for your proposal. It does not have to be extravagant, simple is impressive too. You can personalize it by recreating your first date, taking her where you first met, or making a delicious homemade candlelit dinner.
• Remember, sentimental and thoughtful can beat expensive.
• Do have a plan B. Have a backup plan in case what you intended becomes impossible last minute. A good example is if you planned a tour to Mt Kenya when stormy weather started, have another plan in place.
• Do not make an exact replica of an online proposal you saw go viral or a web search that got you feeling inspired. Your fiancé-to-be would appreciate a personalized gesture that is just for the both of you.
• Do not memorize what you are going to say, just have a rough idea. What if you forgot your lines? That would be so embarrassing. Preferably speak from your heart and not some written script.
• Do not propose without a ring. If you are worried you may not get the ring size right, buy from a jeweler that has favorable policies and can resize the ring if it does not fit.
• Do keep the secret if you are intending the proposal to be a surprise. Only tell limited friends or family that you trust to be discreet about it.

Final Thoughts

Wedding proposals are a grand declaration of love and commitment to your partner. We advise that you have a plan ahead of time so that the moment is unforgettable and special.

While most people are fascinated by fancy things, understand your partner’s preferences. Some people love to keep it simple and private while others fancy extravagant and public, know who you are dealing with.

From grand gestures to sentimental proposals, the article above will inspire a few ideas you may use to propose to the love of your life. All the best!

The post The Most Breath-taking Kenyan Wedding Proposals that Will Absolutely Blow Your Mind appeared first on The Little Jewellers.

Hunting for the ideal ring can be complicated. It consists of more than just browsing through jewelry stores and websites. As you need to consider your partner’s tastes and preferences, your budget, and many other factors before buying the ring to pop the big question.

Are you wondering where or how to go about finding the perfect ring? Worry not. This article explores everything you need to know about engagement rings so that you have an upper hand during your search.

History and Significance of Engagement Rings

Do you ever wonder where engagement rings originated from? Delving into history, this tradition can be traced back to ancient Roman customs where women would wear rings attached to keys. This would symbolize ownership and obedience.

These women would have two sets of the rings, a gold version for going to public and an iron one to wear at home while conducting chores.

Nowadays, engagement rings are used to affirm mutual love and symbolize a formal agreement of future marriage.

In some cultures, only women wear the rings while in others both genders wear them.

Most people wear this piece on the ring finger of the left hand. This is because it is believed that this finger contains the vein of love (vena amoris) that directly runs to the heart.

Things to Consider before Buying an Engagement Ring

Finding the right ring requires thoughtfulness and effort. Here are a few tips to guide you before making your purchase:

1. Your Partner’s Preferences, Tastes, and Style

An Engagement ring is meant to be worn throughout everyday activities. Hence it is important to get a piece that suits and complements your bride-to-be beautifully. The easiest way to ensure you get it right is by asking her what she would like.

However, if you are looking to surprise your partner, that is not entirely possible. Ask for an opinion from their best friend or relative. They know her well and she could probably have mentioned what would blow her mind.

If you intend to surprise your partner, try, and ask indirectly what they would like or have a sneak peek into their Pinterest board or recent jewelry wish list to help you decide. Make a list of the things you are not willing to compromise on and another on the things you could do without. The filter will help you find what you are looking for a whole lot easily.

Pay attention to what jewelry your partner loves. Whether she is fascinated by modern or vintage pieces. It will help you make a bold suitable choice on what they would appreciate and love fondly.

   2. The Metal

Engagement rings exist in many different forms of metals ranging from gold, silver, and platinum. The ideal metal is versatile with many designs that blend well with the wearer.

For a safe and sure option, a silver piece is just what you are looking for. We recommend silver because it is hypoallergenic with sensitive skin, easily customized with gemstones and quite affordable.

  3. Know Your Partner’s Ring Size

It is unfortunate if you propose and the ring refuses to fit them. Ensure you get the right fit. Here are a few tips to ensure that:

• Borrow one of your lover’s rings and take it to a jeweler to measure and estimate size.
• Always buy a size bigger if you are too unsure. It is way easier to resize a bigger than smaller ring.
• If you are worried your significant other may notice if you borrow her ring, press it on a bar of soap to make an impression. You can also make a trace of the inner circle of the ring.

  4. Type of stone

Asscher Cut. popularly referred to as the Square Emerald Cut is a hybrid between the Princess cut and the emerald cut. It usually presents itself with cropped corners along its four sides thereby maximizing the stones clarity.

Cushion Cut. Traditionally called the Old Mine Cut presents itself in a square shape with gently rounded corners giving it a look of a couch cushion or a pillow cut.

Emerald Cut. It is shaped like a rectangle with trimmed corners that emphasize on its color and clarity.

Heart Shape Cut. It resembles a pear shape but with a cleft at the top to mimic a hearts design. It is a very fiery design that offers a superb sparkle.

Marquise cut. It resembles an American football (Rugby ball) it is commonly referred to as the Navette cut and has 57 facets. It is a modified brilliant cut that allows it to reflect the lightest and offer a brilliant sparkle.

Oval Cut. It is an Elliptical shape when viewed from a vantage position. It is a Hybrid between a Round and Marquise shape.

Pear cut. Designed to emulate a pear or a teardrop. It glistens in light thereby highlighting its brilliance and full color.

Princess cut. It is square in shape and number two among the most popular stone cuts. It is a square version of the Round Brilliant cut.

Radiant cut. It is a combination of a princess and a cushion cut. It offers the brilliance of a round cut with a more modern square shape.

Round Cut. Popularly referred to as the American standard it is round in shape and has 57 facets.

  5. Consider Your Budget

When it comes to an engagement ring, it is the thought that counts the most rather than the price. To avoid any future financial constraints, work within your budget.

Compare the different prices offered by different stores then choose your best offer. Start shopping a few months in advance so you can maximize all your options and narrow them down as you go.

Many gems like topaz, opal, garnet, and cubic zirconia are precious stones are also ideal, fashionable, and inexpensive options to consider.

6. The Return Policy and Reliability of the Shop

Shop from renowned and reputable jewelry stores and online platforms. This assures you of getting an authentic piece. Online shops, however, are more preferred to physical stores because they offer a world of options to choose from.

Make sure that the store has a favorable return policy so that in case anything is not to your partner’s liking, you can switch it.

If you are skeptical about buying a ring online, ensure you see it before buying. Have the jeweler send you magnifications of the piece and view it up close to be sure it meets your standards.

Final Thoughts

Find out about the various engagement rings, what to look for, where to buy them with their approximate price. This will ensure you get the best value for your money without getting conned.

Finding the most ideal engagement ring does not necessarily have to be stressful. If you want to avoid uncalled for setbacks, adhere to the tips above in order to effortlessly find the ideal ring.

The post Everything You Need to Know About Engagement Rings appeared first on The Little Jewellers.

The internet is flooded with videos of surprise proposals in different settings that warm the heart. The joy that is involved when giving a ring is often a result of a tricky decision that is picking the right ring.

There is much that goes into the choice of an engagement ring. Mostly because people are attracted by the thought of unique rings to show their love and commitment to one another.

People expect to wear engagement rings for two reasons, the main one being that it is a constant reminder of close emotional bonds. The second reason is the wearing of rings to show other people that one is committed to marrying.

There is a distinct sense of pride in wearing a gorgeous silver engagement ring and being able to show it to family, friends, and colleagues.

This post takes a brief look at some of the considerations that come into play when figuring out how to pick the ideal engagement ring.

The desire for perfection

Engagements and the nature of slipping a ring onto your partner’s dainty finger are exciting thoughts. This is because it symbolizes a willingness to be by each other’s side for life. It affects the decision-making process of picking the right engagement ring.

Of course, one would assume that the perfect ring would symbolize the perfect start to something permanent. This results in many ring seekers ending up on a long-winded quest to find the perfect ring.

A good countermeasure against this risk is to have a budget and certain priorities in mind when looking for an engagement ring. A useful tactic to use when struggling to make a choice is to opt for a simple silver band that leaves room to upgrade if the need arises.

One useful consideration for any ring seeker is to use online shopping to find the ring of one’s choice. This is a mode of searching that allows you to browse hundreds of options, many of which can be customized once received in person.

Size

It is important to understand that the visual appeal of an engagement ring should not negatively affect its practicality. In the sense that it should not affect the usability of the hand on which it is worn.

Large rings feel odd on the finger due to the unusual weight distribution, making them bulky and generally inconvenient to wear in the short term before more wearable wedding bands are worn.

There are benefits to larger rings, given that they are beautiful, attract the attention of onlookers and make bold statements about an individual’s choice. Bigger rings with sizeable precious stones are also significantly costly, making them worth serious consideration.

Smaller rings, while manageable and more understated, may not make as much of a statement as intended. However, it is worth considering them because of the lighter cost implications that are significantly different when it comes to precious stones.

Trends

The aspect of size is partially caused by social trends and public opinion, with many people tending to be swayed by evolving trends. There are usually some general opinions regarding the design of engagement rings and what they should look like.

Public opinion affects people’s choices, by limiting original inspiration on what would be appropriate. An example of this is the arguable opinions of diamond rings as the object of every girl’s dreams.

Silver, gold, and platinum are also used to make beautiful rings. Some of these alternatives are not only more affordable but also easily accessible and with various design options.

Consulting a jeweler

When looking for an engagement ring, it is best to steer clear of the challenges discussed here by consulting a seasoned jeweler directly. After exploring a comfortable price bracket, it is good practice to browse available options with the help of a trusted individual.

This reduces the chances of making rushed decisions, picking something impractical or aligning oneself to a reasonable option.

Furthermore, it is important not to enter a binding agreement with a jeweler. This is especially important to remember when it comes to expensive items, at least until one’s future spouse approves of the choice.

Oh-and one last thing. Prepare yourself for some compromise. It is virtually impossible to come across that one engagement ring that will tick all of the boxes. However, compromise in one aspect means opportunity in another, so feel free to weigh your options carefully so that you find something that you’re perfectly comfortable with.

Conclusion

In summary, choosing an engagement ring is a delicate process that is, ultimately, more about showing genuine love.

Many people are swayed by distractions such as seeking a perfect item, ensuring that it has precious stones set in and is in tune with the latest trends. These considerations, while valuable to an extent, often lead to forgetting the priority of what the ring means.

Popular culture has long idolized characteristics of engagement rings. These include the nature and size of precious stones on rings and other seasonal trends that affect the choices of.

While it is important to consider some these factors when choosing an engagement ring, it is wise not to go overboard. Beauty, as the adage says, lies in the eyes of the beholder.

This is especially true for rings, so take a chance on that silver ring in your cart, it might be the start of something special. Good luck!

The post How to Pick an Engagement Ring appeared first on The Little Jewellers.

There is actually a huge difference between the promise ring and the engagement ring. Here is a guide to help you when you decide whether to get your significant other an engagement ring or a promise ring?

What is a promise ring and what does it symbolize?

The promise ring is given as a symbol of a committed relationship. It is also referred to as a pre-engagement ring.

It symbolizes different things including:

• Purity or a promise to remain celibate until marriage.This is given by couples that have promised each other to abstain and wait until marriage.
• You can gift it to show that you intend to marry the other person and that you are envisioning a future with them.
• It also symbolizes a commitment to the other person and the promise to remain monogamous in the relationship.
• A promise ring can also be gifted as a sign of friendship between two friends who aren’t romantically involved. This type of promise ring is used to pledge friendship.
• It can also be gifted from a parent to a child to mean that they will love them forever.
• Promise rings are also worn to symbolize different commitments. This may include thecommitment to a goal, a pledge, faith or intention to break a habit.

They come in different designs including heart designs, gemstones or diamond rings. They are subtler and smaller than engagement rings and do not necessarily have to be worn on the wedding band finger.

Engraved Silver promise rings or custom-made rings have become popular because theypersonalize rings. Personalizing helps make the intentions clear especially if the promise ring has a gemstone or diamond. (Diamond rings are associated with marriage proposals).

What is an engagement ring and what does it symbolize?

An engagement ring, unlike a promise ring, has only one meaning. It’s a symbolic way of proposing marriage. They are worn on the ring finger (left hand) and show that one is engaged to be married.

As you can see, the ring’s intention is the main difference between an engagement ring and a promise ring. They may look similar sometimes but promise rings essentially make a commitment while engagement rings are a straightforward question-“will you marry me?”

Whether you decide to gift the promise or engagement ring, be sure to stay true to the promise and stand by the commitment.

Still not decided on whether to gift a silver promise or engagement ring? Check out our huge collection of exquisite rings and I am sure you will find something for the one you love.

The post The Difference between a promise ring and an engagement ring appeared first on The Little Jewellers.

If you are having (or anticipating) a hard time finding the ideal ring for her, do not despair. Below is the ultimate guide to choosing an engagement ring that will be sure to warm the heart of your beloved.

Know your style – bear in mind that the ring is a symbol of your love towards this special someone in your life. So choose a ring that both represents and accentuates your style in a more romantic way. It should be an extension of your persona. Show some elegance in taste.

Choose a fitting band – Before making a purchase, be sure you have the right ring finger size. You do not want the embarrassment and disappointment that comes with buying a ring that does not fit. A tad too big or small, wrong ring size will lose you some crucial reputation points. If it doesn’t fit, it plays on the wrong side of wit!

The perfect metal – rings are made of different precious metals: gold, silver and platinum as the most common. The good news is, these metals are easily available in local shops today. The bad news however: if you are not keen enough, you might end up buying fake (gold, silver, platinum and so forth) metals plated. Have a keen eye and remember that ‘all that glitters is not gold’. When possible, consult an expert while determining the authenticity of precious metals.

The perfect stone – Most girls spend their childhood dreaming of ‘the perfect proposal and/or wedding’. So here is your chance to move a step closer to fulfilling her lifelong dream. Whether you go for gemstones, rubies, or diamonds do not forget her style, taste and preference. Look for a stone befitting your partner’s persona. The beauty of the ring lies in the stone. Choose a beautiful stone which will enhance your partners regard for your perception of her beauty.

The shape of the stone – whether round, pear, princess, emerald, heart cut or marquise, the stone’s shape will depend on her personal taste. To be sure, take her to different jewellery shops and pretend to be buying a watch, bracelet or something else. Ask her what kind of rings she would prefer. This way, you will know exactly what to buy. Even if she gets the idea that you might propose she will not know when you will do it.

The colour of the stone – when it comes to colour, it’s hard to guess what she would love. If you are not sure, find out from close family members or friends. Beauty lies in the eyes of the beholder; be sure to get it spot on. Ring colour is essential seeing as she will wear different coloured outfits.

The budget – for some people, an engagement ring might be the most expensive gift they will ever buy. As much as you want her to say yes, you have to be budget-sensitive. Do not break the bank to buy the ring; remember that there is life after engagement. You will have a wedding to plan and cater for. Buy a ring you can afford.

Durability – buy a ring that will last a long time without wearing out.

Tip

Silver rings are the perfect choice for many. You must be asking, why silver? Well, silver is versatile, durable, and pocket friendly

Call us on  0704878717 | 0726815372 and let us know about that big engagement you are planning and we will help you find the best ring.

The post Choosing the Perfect Engagement Ring appeared first on The Little Jewellers.