Fine Jewelry Adds Delight and Meaning to Wedding Celebrations

(WMS) - Wedding days are filled with the most special things: love, flowers, family, music, feasts and of course --fine jewelry. A treasured ring typically kicks off the engagement and wedding festivities, so it is natural to note that fine jewelry, including gold, platinum, colored gemstones, diamonds and cultured pearls play a special part of the institute of marriage. In fact, 52 percent of brides are still choosing the round brilliant cut diamond for their engagement ring. Visit www.adiamondisforever.com to see other shapes, design your own engagement ring or simply learn more about the "4 C's" of diamonds: color, cut, clarity and carat weight.

"Brides are realizing that unlike the wedding dress, destined to be worn just once, the fine jewelry they choose for their special day will be enjoyed for decades to come," says Elizabeth Florence, executive director of the Jewelry Information Center (JIC), a nonprofit trade organization representing the fine jewelry and watch industry. Here is a look at what smart brides, grooms, attendants and relatives are giving and wearing this season.

Ode to a lady: Cameos from years past are among the most romantic jewelry ever worn. Once depicting gods and goddesses, cameos were typically worn as pins on the lapel of a lace collar. Today, newly purchased cameos carved from conch shells and worn on an ivory silk cord or velvet ribbon are just as special and nostalgic as those borrowed from one's mother or grandmother.

Non-traditional attire: Strapless gowns or those with simple necklines cry out for jewels to adorn the exposed neck, collarbone and decolletage. Drop or stick earrings in 18-karat gold or platinum skim the neck, while sky blue aquamarine chunky beads provide a dash of that "something blue." A fiery diamond brooch pinned to the waist is also a classic, memorable choice. Fine jewelry also provides the perfect personal touch when worn in unique ways. For example: fashionable bride Jennifer Lopez pinned a brooch in her hair as a festive addition to a beautiful upsweep.

Pearl-fect: Cultured pearls are to brides as bow ties are to grooms -- it's just not a wedding without them. Classic Akoya pearl button earrings and significant-sized pearl bracelets with fancy clasps are staples for blushing brides. South Sea cultured pearls can grow to be the largest type, with thick nacre and lustrous hues of gray, green and gold. This variety can create the perfect pendant when suspended from a beautiful platinum or gold chain. Freshwater cultured pearls are an ideal choice for brides on a budget. Layer creamy white strands gathered together with a geometric clasp covered in scintillating pave gemstones. For a little more drama, opt for a platinum lariat with uniquely shaped Baroque pearls as tassels, which can be draped down the back of a low cut satin sheath dress.

Get me to the church on time: Fine jewelry and watches are being enjoyed by grooms more than ever. Tourneau and Seiko have created handsome pocket watches reminiscent of days past at differing prices, which can be engraved with a loving message from the bride or act as a symbol of appreciation when given to the best man or beloved father. Dapper choices for ushers or groomsmen also include money clips, cufflinks, fountain pens, cigar lighters and sterling silver key chains.

Pretty maids all in a row: Dangle cluster briolette earrings in colored gemstones, like mandarin garnet, amethyst or pink tourmaline to match the dress or complement personalities are perfect gifts for the bridal attendants. Delight flower girls with tiny lockets, diamond pendant crosses, stars of David or heart necklaces that acknowledge their special role in the wedding.

The most important step in selecting any piece of fine jewelry is to shop at a reputable and professional jeweler. Look for a jeweler who is a member of a professional trade association, such as Jewelers of America (JA), which requires high ethical standards of members and provides them with ongoing education. For more information on fine jewelry and to find a list of professional jewelers near you, visit the Jewelry Information Center's Web site at www.jewelryinfo.org.