Dare to Heir
Sometimes the best engagement ring already is in the family. Here’s what makes a great heirloom ring and how you go about giving one
By Kate Sullivan
CTW Features
Jennifer Love Hewitt may don a bauble from another decade for her upcoming wedding to Scottish fiancé Ross McCall, but you don’t have to be Hollywood star to go the heirloom route for your ring.
Sometimes the best engagement ring doesn’t come from the local jeweler. It’s a family affair when you choose the family jewels. Here’s how to do it right.
Match Point
Mike Cagney of Evanston, Ill., may have only been 8 when he inherited his late grandmother’s 1930s 3-carat platinum banded diamond engagement ring, but he knew there was something special to this sparkler. As years passed, this ring – and more importantly – the potential gal to wear the gem became family buzz. “After years of watching my mother, aunts and sister parade the ring around during family parties, I knew it was a piece of jewelry that any woman would like.” And once his now-fiancée revealed her admiration for antique, Mike knew it was time for this rock to shine.
Heirloom How-To
Not every guy gets as much pre-proposal ring input as Cagney and for some ladies, tradition isn’t a turn on. Follow these tips to make sure all goes perfectly.
Modern Twist
Something old meets something new. Think outside the setting and use the original stone but with a modern design. A jeweler can give you ideas for different settings that will better suit your lady’s style. Web sites like Novori.com and aDiamondIsForever.com also let you test-drive settings.
Handle with Care
Like any antique, vintage engagement rings require some additional TLC. Before giving your gal the gem, take it to a jeweler to assess the setting strength, make any adjustments and get a thorough cleaning.
Be Sure to Insure
It might have been secure in home for years, but now that the ring will be worn on a regular basis, get it appraised and insured as you would any other expensive piece of jewelry.
Family First
Your family jewel quickly becomes a family feud if you don’t get the blessing from those that may have been eyeing the prize. Keep the peace with open lines of communication and a little social etiquette. With your new bride-to-be donning a family jewel, some may feel this opens the door to their input. Just remember, when they see your happiness, all gem jealousy fades to the past.
