15 Oct

Unique Engagement Rings

Gold or Platinum Diamond solitaire rings are the traditional choice for engagement rings, but what if you’re for unique engagement rings?  An engagement ring is one that may be worn for a lifetime, so it’s important that you carefully consider what would be most loved and enjoyed by the wearer.

Unique Stones

Diamonds are the traditional choice for engagement rings, but diamonds don’t have to be white.  Colored diamonds like yellow, pink, or even chocolate diamonds can add an unconventional twist to a conventional choice.  You might opt for a non-diamond engagement ring, like Emerald, Ruby, or Sapphire.  Another option would be to incorporate the birthstones of the couple into the ring. Schwanke-Kasten has a wide range of non-diamond engagement rings

Unique Metals

Platinum and Gold are traditional choices. However colored metals like tri-color gold or rose gold rings can add a unique twist.

Custom Designs

Don’t feel restricted to choosing a design off the shelf.  An engagement ring is a very personal purchase. The wearer will love and appreciate a custom design ring for the time and effort put it.  Working with a jeweler to create a custom engagement ring can often result in a ring as unique as the bride.

unique engagement rings by Schwanke-Kasten jewelers

15 Sep

Exchanging Wedding Rings

One thing to consider for your wedding is how your will be exchanging wedding rings.  Who will be responsible for exchanging wedding rings? How will they be presented?  This major part of your wedding ceremony can be traditional or infuse special guests into the mix.

The Ring Bearer

Traditionally a male child brings the rings down the aisle on a pillow, who then hands them off to the Best Man and/or the Maid of Honor.  Some people don’t feel comfortable giving such a big responsibility to a child, so often “fake” pillow rings are carried for ceremonial effect.

The Best Man / Maid of Honor

If you choose fake pillow rings or if you have no ring bearer, rings are most often the responsibility of the best man.  The best man may hold both rings, or the groom’s ring may be held by the maid of honor.

Man’s Best Friend

Occasionally, you may wish to enlist a beloved canine friend as ring bearer.   Having a dog ring bearer is only recommended if the dog is highly trained and can be relied upon to be calm in that situation. Furthermore,  a cute ring pillow collar or harness can be made or purchased for the task. However, we recommend taking a few practice runs with the dog.

Ask Schwanke-Kasten about how we recommend exchanging wedding rings

exchanging wedding rings

15 Aug

Bridal Sets, Solitaires or Switching Hands?

Do you choose from bridal sets or a solitaire engagement ring to go with a wedding band? When shopping for an engagement ring it is important to also give some consideration to the wedding bands. The engagement bands you select could limit your future wedding ring options. Therefore, it is important to consider both with the initial purchase.

Bridal Sets

The least complicated way to go about this is to purchase a bridal set. Bridal sets is a set of rings (wedding band and engagement ring) that are designed to match each other. This can be the easiest solution, but requires an investment in both rings at once. Schwanke-Kasten Jewelers carries a wide selection of bridal sets.

Solitaire Ring

Another option is a solitaire engagement ring with a simple band.  Wedding bands that stack or wrap can be chosen at a later date.  It is best to see how the ring looks with different style wedding bands to make certain that you keep your options as open as possible for later selection.

Switching Hands

If a bridal set is not desired and the engagement ring style is elaborate, many brides may simply choose to wear a band on their left hand and move the engagement ring to their right.  This can also be a simpler option since it leaves the engagement ring open to any style or design.

Bridal Sets | Naledi Engagement Ring and matching Wedding Band

29 Jul

Diamond Jewelry – Rahaminov Engagement Rings

Moshe Rahaminov left Russia for Israel as a young man and soon found himself cutting diamonds to make diamond jewelry and to help support his family.  He soon discovered his natural talent for cutting diamonds. Moshe – and his older brother – then decided to move to Italy were they thought they’d have a chance to succeed using their diamond cutting skills. They were correct in their thinking!  It was here Rahaminov Diamonds was born. The brothers found their talents in demand and soon developed a stellar reputation for superior customer service and the highest quality cut stones.  For over 70 years, Rahaminov Diamonds has continued that reputation worldwide.

Tamara, Moshe’s daughter, continues the Rahaminov Diamonds tradition.  With her husband, Amir, she opened the Los Angeles office of Rahaminov Diamonds in 1989.  Amir’s personal relationships with customers and Tamara’s remarkable designs have skyrocketed their brand to new levels of success.  In fact, Rahaminov Diamonds has evolved from purveyors of loose diamonds to a jewelry design house. Tamara’s passion for jewelry design has made Rahaminov Diamond Jewelry known for its chic and highly collectible jewelry that today’s women want to wear.

This fantastic Rahaminov engagement ring shown below is one of their superior rings.  It has .55 ctw diamonds on the split shank surrounding a 1 carat Forevermark round brilliant diamond, G/VS2. This engagement ring has a total carat weight of 1.55 and a platinum mounting.

Rahaminov Diamond Jewelry - Engagement Ring

Learn more about Rahaminov engagement rings on our Schwanke-Kasten website.

20 Jul

Wedding Date – How to Choose

Congratulations!  The engagement ring has been bought.  The question has been popped! And you’re about to get married to the love of your life.   But what wedding date should you choose to hold your public celebration of love?

Schwanke-Kasten Wedding Date

Schwanke-Kasten understands there a number of factors involved when choosing your wedding date and we’d like you to consider the following questions before the “big day” is announced!

What’s the weather going to be on your wedding date?

Rain on your wedding day may be considered lucky in some cultures, but it can become a logistical nightmare and make your guests feel miserable.  While you can’t predict the rain, you can be sure that you have contingency plans in place in the event of rain and that a portion of your budget allows for expenses related to weather (i.e. umbrellas for rain, fans for excessive heat, heaters for extreme cold, etc.).

What’s the most popular months to get married?

Related to the above, weather in most regions of the United States tends to be pleasant during the months of June, September, and October and these are the most popular months to get married.  As a result, they can also be among the most expensive.

What are the benefits of choosing an off-season date?

Getting married during off season months could save you considerable money in certain areas.  For example, your chosen venue could be less.  It’s also likely you’ll have to be prepared to make sacrifices in other areas, however. For example, your favorite flowers that you must have in your wedding may be out of season.  It could be difficult, if not impossible, for your florist to get those flowers.  It could also cost considerably more if they can.  Certain food items, particularly fruits, may also be out-of-season and cost more.

What days are special to you?

Some couples try to choose a date that is on (or close to) a day of special significance.  Your first date, the date of the wedding proposal, or your parent’s wedding date.  Other couples may want to avoid particular wedding dates.  A person who isn’t marrying for the first time, for example, typically will avoid choosing a wedding date on – or near – their first wedding.  Finally, some couples belong to cultures or religions that have rites or practices to help them choose the most auspicious day for their wedding.

What about holiday-themed weddings?

This is a tricky decision.  Holiday themed weddings can be beautiful and are relatable to many people in attendance.  Many guests may already have time off from work which could make it easier for them attend.  On the other hand, some guests may not want their holiday plans disturbed by a wedding.  Costs could also run higher.  For example, using roses for your wedding during Valentine’s Day may be more expensive.  You also may want to consider if the holiday may overshadow the special significance of your wedding.

How much time is enough time to plan?

There are beautiful, meaningful weddings that are planned in a matter of weeks and there are equally gorgeous weddings that take months – or over a year – to plan.  Anything is possible.  If you’re attempting to plan your wedding fairly quickly, and hoping to have something more than a very small wedding or reception, there are factors to consider.  First, rush jobs cost more.  Be prepared to spend more.  Second, fewer guests will be able to attend.  Make sure the VIPs can make it.  Third, custom wedding gowns take time (often over a year).  Finally, you want your Schwanke-Kasten wedding bands to be ready for the wedding.  Be sure to check in with one of our Schwanke-Kasten professionals to be certain you understand when the wedding rings will be ready for pickup if they are to be customized or special ordered.

In closing, when considering how much planning time you’ll need, the main point is that you want to give yourself enough time to address those factors that are most important to you!

09 Jul

Schwanke-Kasten Engagement Rings

Since 1899, Schwanke Kasten Jewelers has been the go-to for engagement ring shopping. Schwanke-Kasten Engagement Rings are known for their unique and beautiful designs, impeccable quality and for being robust. One of the most popular Schwanke-Kasten Engagement Rings is the Naledi Collection Ida engagement ring.

In addition, the Ida engagement ring is available in white, rose gold, platinum, or yellow.  This gorgeous ring has .35 ctw side diamonds and looks beautiful with a round brilliant, asscher, emerald, or cushion cut diamond.  Depending on the center stone that you choose, this ring can accommodate carat weights of .55 to 5.0 diamond.

Schwanke-Kasten Engagement Rings

The Naledi Collection has created timeless engagement rings for over a century.  In fact, Naledi ethically sources their diamonds. Furthermore, Naledi uses diamonds of the highest quality so that the beauty goes far beyond what the eye can see.

Learn more about the Ida Engagement Ring on our Schwanke-Kasten website.

21 Jun

Wedding Trends – 2016 to 2017

If you’re a couple planning for a wedding for late 2016 or early 2017 this article is for you.  Schwanke-Kasten invites you to consider the information below that explores the hot wedding trends!

Hot Wedding Trends

The Dress!

One of the biggest decisions for brides, pink wedding gowns are on trend.  While white is still the timeless and elegant choice for traditional looks.  Brides with modern sensibilities are choosing dresses that are a shade of pale pink or blush pink.  Dresses with texture will also take center stage in 2017.  Wispy feathers, floral embellishments, or hand-sewn beading can add a chic, modern touch to your dress.

Wedding Trends - Schwanke-Kasten : The Dress

The Wedding Party!

Matching the attire of all of your bridesmaids or groomsmen is losing favor.  Instead choose an array of shades in the same color family to complement your chosen décor, or pick a mix of textures in similar tones.  If your wedding colors don’t work for the groomsmen, have them wear various shades of a neutral color.  Think different shades of brown, grey, or white/cream.

The Cake?

One of the latest trends for the cake are animated cakes where animation sequences are projected onto an all-white wedding cake.  Other couples are choosing to forego the traditional wedding cake and instead opting for tiered displays of other delectable desserts.

 Schwanke Kasten Whats Hot - Cake

The Flowers?

The next big thing in wedding florals is no florals.  In place of florals couples are choosing simple arrangements of green leaves, branches or palms.  Greens can add more elegance and nature to your wedding and typically help to make your guests feel much more fresh and comfortable.

 

The Rings!

In addition, stacked rings for women remain very popular.  Can’t decide on a stone, metal, setting, or style? Stacked rings are the solution.  They allow you to get a little bit of everything you like and find creative ways to place them together.  Stacked rings also allow flexibility.  You can alter the look depending on an occasion, what you’re wearing, or what becomes trendy in the years to come.  Explore our line of engagement rings and weddings rings on our Schwanke-Kasten website for some ideas.  For men, cobalt wedding bands remain popular.  In fact, they have a lightweight feel which is welcomed by men not accustomed to wearing rings.  Furthermore, they’re elegant, durable, scratch-resistant, and easy to clean.  Explore our Schwanke-Kasten colbat wedding bands for men.

Schwanke Kasten Whats Hot - Mens Wedding Bands

02 Jun

Schwanke Kasten Wedding Bands: Ida Wedding Band

Schwanke Kasten Wedding Bands

Stop by our store to peruse our selection of Schwanke Kasten Wedding Bands. One of the many Schwanke Kasten Wedding Bands is part of the Naledi Collection. The Ida Wedding Band comes in 14K white gold, 18K gold or platinum ring.  Moreover, the Ida Wedding Band perfectly pairs with the Ida Engagement Ring.

Schwanke Kasten Wedding Bands

In addition, the Ida Engagement Ring is comes yellow, white, rose gold or platinum. Furthermore, the Ida Engagement Ring looks gorgeous with a round brilliant, asscher emerald, or cushion-cut diamond.

It has .35 ctw side diamonds and, depending on the center stone you choose, this ring can accommodate carat weights of .55 to 5.0 diamond.

Schwanke Kasten Jewelers encourages you to consider the Ida Wedding Band and the Ida Engagement Ring on our Schwanke Kasten website.

24 May

Wedding Rings and Bands for Women

In addition to a beautiful engagement ring, you will have to choose from a wide variety of wedding rings for your finance. Schwanke-Kasten Jewelers has provided you some ideas for wedding rings.

Wedding Rings - White Gold Half Round Milgrain Band, 5mm

Source: Schwanke Kasten Jewelers

This 2.5mm, comfort-fit, milgrain wedding ring is made with 14K white gold, but can also be created with platinum or yellow gold – as well as in other widths.  While this stunning band can be worn alone, its beauty really shines when banded with one of our eternity bands such as:

Non-Diamond Wedding Rings

Pink Sapphire Eternity Band

Created by Spark Creations, this eternity band includes a .65 ctw pink sapphire and is set in 18 karat yellow gold.

Ruby Eternity Band

In addition, Spark Creations made this .65 ctw ruby set eternity band set in 18k yellow gold.

Sapphire Eternity Band

This gorgeous eternity band has a .65 ctw sapphire set in 18 karat white gold

Tsavorite Eternity Band

Also created by Spark Creations, this eternity band includes a 1.30 ctw channel tsavorite set in 18 karat yellow.

Black Diamond Eternity Band

Furthermore, Spark Creations created this .59 ctw black diamond band set in 18 karat white gold.

Schwanke Kasten Jewelers invites you to explore more about this gorgeous white gold wedding band on our Schwanke Kasten website.

 

 

 

13 May

Mother’s Day Spending (Press Release)

(May 10, 2016) Mother’s Day was this past weekend. and families were ready to splurge on gift cards, jewelry, flowers, breakfast at I-Hop, and other gifts and accessories for mom. While the typical Mother’s Day gifts tend to remain the same, the amount American consumers will spend on them has been steadily increasing year after year. According to a survey by the National Retail Federation, we spent an average of $172.63 on mom in 2015. Almost $10 higher than the prior year. This average is higher than any other year in the 12-year history of the survey.

A Successful Mother’s Day

Schwanke-Kasten owner Tom Dixon was recently interviewed about Mother’s Day spending.

“Having been in the jewelry business for so many years, we have seen this trend supported by increased sales over time,” said Schwanke-Kasten Jewelers owner Tom Dixon. In fact, Tom is the 4th generation owner of Schwanke-Kasten Jewelers.

Total national spending in 2015 exceeded $21.2 billion dollars and is projected to be even higher in 2016. According to recent trends, 80% intend to give a greeting card. However, over two-thirds will buy flowers (amounting to approximately $2.4 billion in sales). Those looking to give mom the ultimate “wow” with jewelry make up about 34.2% of Mother’s Day shoppers. These shoppers will spend over $4.3 billion for items like necklaces, rings, and bracelets on Mother’s Day.

“Moms are very special. To many, Mother’s Day is a very special holiday for many consumers,” Dixon said. “No matter what someone spends, the most important thing is the way we make mother’s feel on their day.”

For jewelry store owners and other retailers, this means making sure they have the appropriate inventory and are running competitive promotions. Each year there is no shortage of sales to choose from. Retailers look forward to this holiday for an annual boost in sales.

“In the 27 years that I have owned Schwanke-Kasten, we have definitely seen our fair share of people purchasing jewelry for the special women in their life.”

Mother's Day jewelry - Diamond Pearl Drop Earrings