Kimberfire Blog

Designer Spotlight: Borguesse Mozaffarian

Wed, 26 Nov 2025 00:04:22 GMT

Six Generations of Jewelry Expertise Meets Canadian-Inspired Design

While employed at Kimberfire, Borguesse was given an exciting challenge: design our first-ever ready-to-wear line of jewelry. Coming from six generations of jewelers, she brought both heritage and fresh perspective to the project — and the results speak for themselves.

Though Borguesse has since relocated to sunny Arizona, the team stays in close contact with her. She generously took time to answer our questions about the collection, her design process, and what makes these pieces special.

What’s the moment that pulled you into jewelry design?

Despite my best efforts, I think jewelry is in my blood. My family has been in the jewelry industry for six generations, but I didn’t feel a personal connection until I took a jewelry class one summer in high school. That experience completely changed my perspective — and the rest, is history.

What was the creative brief/vision behind this ready-to-wear collection, and how did it fit Kimberfire’s brand?

When I joined the Kimberfire team, Jonathan shared his vision of launching the brand’s first-ever ready-to-wear collection. We agreed that the line should embody everything Kimberfire is known for: elegant, high-quality pieces with an option for customization. I started with timeless, classic silhouettes and added some subtle twists that made the collection uniquely ours.

Who did you envision wearing these pieces? Did you have a specific lifestyle or person in mind?

These pieces were designed for everyone. Their classic aesthetic makes them versatile — perfect as meaningful gifts or for everyday wear. Whether you prefer a minimalist, dainty look or love to layer and stack, the collection offers flexibility. The necklaces are adjustable in length to wear however suits you best!

What inspired these designs?

Nature has always played a big role in my creative process. I grew up in British Columbia and spent several years living in Nova Scotia before moving to Toronto, so I’ve always felt connected to the landscapes around me. The pieces in this collection are meant to reflect that — from the constellations in the night sky to the smooth river pebbles you’d find on a walk through the woods. These small details are familiar sights to so many Canadians, and I wanted to honour them in a subtle, but special way.

What did you learn during your time at Kimberfire that influenced your approach to this collection?

So much — more than I could fit in one answer! At the end of the day, this line was a collaboration of the whole team. Coming in fairly fresh-faced to the company, there was a lot of guidance and sharing different ideas between me, Jonathan, and the other consultants. Each person came from a different background of the industry, so they were able to offer so many insights that I wouldn’t have thought of on my own.

What jewelry-making techniques do you have hands-on experience with, and how did that technical knowledge influence your designs for this collection?

I received my BFA in Jewelry and Metalsmithing from NSCAD University, where I learned traditional jewelry-making techniques such as casting, stone setting, enamelling, and so much more. There are a lot of things that need to be considered when designing a high-quality piece of jewelry, beyond just the aesthetics. Seemingly small things like the weight of a pendant, position of the bails, types of chains, clasps, etc. can make or break the whole design. Understanding the technical side allowed me to design with both beauty and function in mind.

Walk us through your workflow. What changed mid-way, and why?

My process always starts with sketching — lots of messy, freeform drawing to get ideas out of my head and onto paper. I refine the silhouettes I’m most drawn to before moving into the CAD stage. As a visual thinker, seeing the designs in 3D is extremely important, as it often reveals things that aren’t obvious in a flat sketch.

From there, we produce prototypes and wear-test them to evaluate things like the scale of the studs or how a necklace moves with the body. (There’s nothing more annoying than a pendant that flips backwards in my opinion.)

Finally we can manufacture the final pieces, but the work doesn’t end there. In true Kimberfire spirit, every item goes through a rigorous quality checking process before being approved for sale to the public.

Style the collection: everyday and formal.

For an easy day-night look, I love a good jewelry stack. I would style the Petite Constellation Necklace worn short, paired with the Pebble Necklace on a longer setting. My ears are double pierced, so the Pebble Earrings are a great first hole option, and the slightly smaller Constellation Earrings are perfect seconds.

For a more formal look, I would choose a set. The Constellation Necklace and matching Constellation Earrings will add the perfect sparkle to any attire. Luckily, diamonds go with everything!

Do you have a favourite piece from this collection, and what makes it special to you?

The Pebble Necklace ! I wear mine almost every day, and there is an emerald set on the back to represent my mother’s birthstone.

What are you doing now, and where can readers follow your work?

At the beginning of 2025, life took an exciting turn — I relocated to Arizona with my fiancé. I’ve since transitioned out of sales and currently work with a luxury resale company, authenticating fine jewelry and watches. When the opportunity arises, I am looking forward to doing more design work!

Favourite gemstone cut, and why?

Marquise. I have 3 of them on my engagement ring, and the first piece of jewelry my fiancé ever gifted me was a marquise diamond pendant, also made by Kimberfire. I guess you could say I am the president of the marquise fan club.

Jewelry piece you never take off?

I have a permanent gold bracelet on my left wrist that is a memento of a trip we took a few years ago. All of my other jewelry comes off at least on a weekly basis for a good cleaning!

Shop the Collection

Explore Kimberfire's ready-to-wear collection , where timeless design meets Canadian-inspired details. Each piece is crafted with the same attention to quality and craftsmanship that Kimberfire is known for.

Engagement Ring Stories: Garnet & Hannah

Mon, 29 Sep 2025 22:52:59 GMT

Engagement Ring Stories, From Vancouver to the Toronto Islands

For our first edition of this new feature, we would like to introduce you to Garnet and Hannah, a truly lovely couple living in Toronto. We worked with them to design a beautiful and one-of-a-kind art deco-inspired engagement ring, featuring a Sri Lankan lilac oval sapphire. They have graciously shared their story and photos with us.

How did you two meet - and when did you know they were “the one”?

Hannah lived in BC, Garnet in Ontario - thankfully the magic of the internet exists! We met in person for the first time 3 months later. We found ourselves at the Vancouver Science World, being goofy and playing the games in the exhibits, and at one point Garnet looked back to see Hannah standing, staring, frozen in a deep blush. Garnet asked "What's that look for?", but both of us knew the answer.

Tell us about the proposal (where, when, the little details!).

Since we'd started dating, Garnet tried to convince Hannah that Lake Ontario would be a good enough replacement for the Pacific Ocean she grew up with (unsuccessfully, of course). He'd talked about showing her around the Toronto Islands , knowing she'd love it. So on a foggy summer Saturday afternoon, we took the ferry over, planned a big picnic, and found a spot beneath a willow tree to sit and watch the water. Unbeknownst to her, Garnet had recruited his Dad to sneak up and take pictures of the moment - and he had arrived on the island a whole FIVE hours earlier just to "make sure he didn't miss it", and was perfectly hidden among the crowd - not even Garnet could find him before they made their way to the Centre Island pier, where Garnet had scoped out just the right spot.

Leaning on the railing facing south to the uncooperatively foggy, but still picturesque view of the lake, Garnet pulled out a scrapbook with blue and purple flowers on the cover - our favourite colours. He read to her an explanation for the 99 little cards he'd hidden around the apartment the past few weeks - proof she could always re-read of all the little ways she is perfect. Hannah is very perceptive, and picked up on Garnet's nervousness at least an hour ago, but knowing what was coming didn't stop her from crying and beaming with joy as Garnet went down on one knee and produced the showstopper. And of course, Dad was there to take pictures of the tip of his finger - and the couple. (But he still got some great shots of the proposal after cropping!). Apparently at some point Hannah said "Of course I will" to the proposal, but Garnet had to ask what she said after the embrace - he blames the glare from the shining of the ring. She reiterated it was indeed an enthusiastic "Yes", so he flipped to the scrapbook's second page - containing the 100th card little reason for why she is perfect:

She said yes.

Was the ring/proposal a surprise, or did you design/plan it together?

She knew it was coming - we'd known we wanted to get married ever since she moved from Vancouver to Toronto, and we wanted to get a move-on. But she didn't know when it would come, except for small signs like Garnet taking her "window-shopping", saying he was "beginning to think about it" (even though he had already met with Kimberfire's ring designer and was arranging the finishing touches). He did thorough research through her friends and sister to ensure he made the right choices in the design, from the shade of the sapphire, to the intricate gold leaves on the band. The one diversion from her stated preferences: she said she liked white gold or silver; with this sapphire and design, he knew the yellow gold was the right call in the end.

What was most important to you when choosing an engagement ring?

Getting it right. I knew I wanted something unique, something that screamed "Hannah": capturing and reflecting her quirkiness, her love of nature and connection, and her stunning beauty.

What do you love most about your ring? Any special details (shape, setting, metal, engraving, hidden gems)?

It's a tie between the 3-stone setting and how the colours play off each other, and the gold leaves in the band that hold them. I found a reference that had elements of both that really inspired the design.

What inspired your choice of diamond/centre stone (natural vs. lab-grown, coloured gem stone vs diamond, size, look, etc.)?

Hannah is a whimsical artist who finds and appreciates meaning and intentions associated with gems and colours. Garnet is a rock-science nerd. She likes purple and lilacs, and he knew Sri Lankan sapphires don't come in JUST the traditional blue, so he wanted to push the envelope with the centre stone. Then, he flanked the sapphire with lab-grown trilliant diamonds to anchor the design in a gentle touch of traditional brilliant white. In Hannah's words: "It SHINY!" "You did good."

Why did you choose Kimberfire, and how was your experience working with us?

I was recommended by my friend, who had a great experience with Kimberfire as well. I liked how responsive everyone in the process was - there was some natural back-and-forth with the artist that had to be addressed, but Kimberfire was extremely accommodating for all the design edits and made effective suggestions to bring down costs. They also delivered the ring in the nick of time for such a delicate piece - just 6 weeks from confirmation to delivery. Perfect timing to announce our engagement at a big family gathering the next weekend!

What surprised you about the process, and what did you learn along the way?

How much he likes designing non-traditional rings! Garnet can't wait to save up enough to do another for her.

For Hannah: How attached she got to the ring; immediately. We both miss it anytime she had to part with it for more than 10 minutes.

Do you have any advice for other couples shopping for an engagement ring?

Window shop and dream throughout the process. There are lots of intricate details, and beautiful materials and gems out there with unique geological stories - there's more to ring crafting than a rock on a band.

Also: even if you're not good at art and design, just try it anyway. I found - despite never being an artist - that by practicing my ideal designs, I was able to get a picture I could communicate to the artist better than explaining with reference images (though they help of course too!).

Lastly: don't fall for impractical details from google searches. Take elements of them that you like, but research common design mistakes to make sure you avoid pitfalls. Kimberfire helped advise on what kinds of things were workable or not; make sure to ask that question frequently!

A favourite reaction from friends or family after you got engaged?

The night of the proposal, Garnet's baseball team had scheduled a karaoke night, and Hannah joined too - she was brazenly displaying the new ring the whole night, but somehow, no once noticed. So Garnet got fed up, put on "Beyond the Sea" by Bobby Darin, and announced as the music came on: "This one goes out to my fiancée". Half the room stared from him to her and back; the other half screamed "WHAT? WHEN?"

Describe your ring in three words.

Natural. Gentle. Magical.

Your song / your spot in the city / your ideal date night.

I Get It Now - Sammy Rae and the Friends / Hana Don donburi (duh!) / Aquariums, Museums, and other nerd spots.

One word to describe your proposal day.

Perfect.

Any photographer to credit?

Yes - proposal day credits to Paul McGrath (Dad), engagement photo credits to GEM . The rest were taken by us.

That's a Wrap!

We hope you enjoyed the first edition of Engagement Ring Stories. Thank you again to Garnet and Hannah for sharing their story and photos with us!

If you're at the point in your journey where it makes sense to purchase an engagement ring , then don't hesitate to reach out to our team . If you're not yet ready to speak to someone, you can start your search by learning more about our custom engagement ring process . We'd be so thrilled to be a part of your engagement ring story too!

Natural Diamonds' Positive Global Impact

jgoldberg@kimberfire.com (Jonathan Goldberg) — Tue, 09 Apr 2024 19:45:42 GMT

Natural diamonds, formed over billions of years under extreme pressure and heat deep within the Earth's mantle, are not just symbols of luxury and romance but also remarkable feats of nature. These precious stones, composed of pure carbon, are renowned for their exceptional hardness and brilliance. The journey of a natural diamond, from a rough stone embedded in the depths of the earth to a polished gem adorning jewelry, is a testament to both nature's prowess and human ingenuity.

Exploring the Positive Global Impact of Natural Diamonds

While diamonds are often celebrated for their beauty and used as symbols of love and commitment, their story extends far beyond personal adornment. This article aims to shed light on the lesser-known, yet significant, positive impacts of natural diamonds on a global scale. From economic contributions and technological advancements to environmental stewardship and social development, the multifaceted benefits of the diamond industry play a crucial role in various aspects of global development.

The narrative around diamonds has not always been positive, with concerns over ethical sourcing and environmental impacts often taking center stage. However, recent strides in ethical practices, sustainable mining, and community development initiatives have begun to reshape this narrative. By exploring these positive contributions, this article seeks to provide a balanced and comprehensive understanding of the role natural diamonds play in our world today.

In the following sections, we will delve into the historical context of diamond mining, examine the economic and technological benefits, explore the environmental and social initiatives associated with diamond mining, and look at the future prospects and challenges of this industry. Through this exploration, we aim to present a holistic view of the natural diamond industry and its far-reaching impacts on our world.

Historical Context of Diamond Mining

Early History and Discovery of Diamonds

The fascination with diamonds dates back thousands of years, with the first recorded diamond discoveries in India around the 4th century BCE. These early diamonds were found in alluvial deposits of rivers and were revered for their strength and brilliance. Historically, diamonds were not just ornamental but also symbolized power, strength, and invincibility, often adorning the crowns and armor of royalty.

Evolution of Diamond Mining Techniques

Over centuries, the methods of diamond mining have evolved significantly. From the initial alluvial mining in riverbeds, the discovery of diamond mines in Brazil in the 18th century marked a shift to more systematic mining operations. The 19th century saw a diamond rush in South Africa, leading to the opening of the famous Kimberley Mine and the establishment of De Beers Consolidated Mines Limited. This period marked the beginning of large-scale, industrial diamond mining.

The 20th century brought further advancements with the introduction of open-pit mining and underground mining techniques. These methods allowed for the extraction of diamonds from deeper within the earth, significantly increasing the yield and efficiency of diamond mining operations.

Major Diamond Mines Around the World

The discovery of diamond mines has had a profound impact on various regions around the world. Some of the most notable include:

The Kimberley Mine, South Africa : Often referred to as "The Big Hole," it was one of the first major diamond mines and played a crucial role in the global diamond industry's development.
The Argyle Mine, Australia : Known for producing a high volume of diamonds, including rare pink and red diamonds, Argyle significantly contributed to the global diamond supply.
The Diavik and Ekati Mines, Canada : These mines, located in the Northwest Territories, are known for their high-quality gemstones and stringent environmental standards.
The Mirny Mine, Russia : One of the largest man-made holes in the world, the Mirny Mine is a testament to the scale of modern diamond mining operations.

These mines, among others, have not only contributed significantly to the global supply of diamonds but have also played pivotal roles in the economic and social development of their respective regions. The historical journey of diamond mining is a story of human endeavor, technological progress, and the transformation of natural resources into valuable assets that have shaped economies and societies across the globe.

Economic Contributions

Job Creation in Diamond Mining Regions

The diamond mining industry is a significant source of employment, particularly in regions where economic opportunities may be limited. In countries like Botswana and South Africa, diamond mining has created thousands of jobs, not only within the mining operations themselves but also in supporting industries such as transportation, equipment manufacturing, and service sectors. This employment has a multiplier effect, stimulating growth and providing livelihoods in local communities.

Contribution to National Economies

Diamond mining can be a major economic driver for countries with significant deposits. For instance, in Botswana, diamond revenues have transformed the country from one of the poorest in Africa to a middle-income nation. The revenues from diamond mining contribute significantly to national GDP, finance public services, and support infrastructure development. In a country like Canada, diamond exports are a valuable part of the national trade portfolio, enhancing foreign exchange earnings.

Role in Global Trade and Industry

Diamonds play a crucial role in the global luxury goods market. The trade of rough and polished diamonds contributes to the global economy, involving a complex supply chain that spans from mining companies to diamond cutters and polishers, and finally to retailers and consumers. This trade not only supports economic activity in diamond-producing countries but also in countries that specialize in cutting, polishing, and jewelry manufacturing, such as India, Belgium, and Israel.

The diamond industry's contribution to the global economy is multifaceted. It not only generates direct economic benefits through mining operations but also creates indirect benefits by stimulating related sectors. Moreover, the industry has adapted to changing global economic conditions, with efforts to ensure that the benefits of diamond mining are shared more equitably and contribute to sustainable development in producing countries. This economic impact is a key aspect of the positive global influence of natural diamonds, demonstrating their role not just as symbols of beauty and luxury, but as catalysts for economic growth and development.

Technological and Industrial Advancements

Innovations in Diamond Mining Technology

The diamond mining industry has been at the forefront of technological innovation, driven by the need to locate and extract diamonds more efficiently and sustainably. Advanced geophysical and geochemical techniques, such as aerial surveys and magnetic resonance imaging, have revolutionized the way diamond deposits are discovered and evaluated. In the extraction process, technologies like X-ray fluorescence (XRF) sorters and laser cutting tools have increased efficiency and reduced environmental impact. These advancements not only improve the profitability of diamond mining but also minimize the ecological footprint of operations.

Diamonds in Industrial Applications

Beyond their allure as gemstones, diamonds possess unique physical properties that make them invaluable in various industrial applications. Their extreme hardness and thermal conductivity are harnessed in cutting, grinding, and drilling tools for a wide range of industries, from automotive to aerospace.

Research and Development in Diamond-Based Technologies

The unique properties of diamonds have spurred research and development in high-tech applications. For instance, diamonds are being explored as semiconductors in electronics, potentially leading to devices that are faster, more durable, and more energy-efficient than those made with traditional materials. In the field of optics, diamonds are used in high-precision laser systems and in the medical field, they are being researched for use in drug delivery systems and as components in advanced imaging technologies.

The impact of diamonds extends far beyond their role in jewelry and luxury goods. The technological advancements driven by diamond mining and the industrial applications of diamonds are contributing to progress in various sectors, fostering innovation, and offering solutions to some of the modern world's technological challenges. This aspect of the diamond industry underscores the broader significance of natural diamonds, highlighting their contribution not only to economies and communities but also to scientific and technological advancement.

Environmental Stewardship

Sustainable Mining Practices

The diamond industry has increasingly focused on sustainable mining practices to mitigate environmental impacts. This shift is driven by both regulatory requirements and a growing recognition of corporate social responsibility. Key practices include:

Reduced Energy Consumption: Implementing energy-efficient technologies and renewable energy sources to power mining operations.
Water Management: Employing advanced water recycling and treatment systems to minimize water usage and prevent contamination.
Ecosystem Preservation: Careful planning of mining sites to avoid ecologically sensitive areas and protect local biodiversity.

Rehabilitation of Mining Sites

Post-mining land rehabilitation is a critical aspect of environmental stewardship in the diamond industry. Companies are required to develop comprehensive closure plans before the commencement of mining activities. These plans often include:

Restoration of Land: Replacing topsoil, recontouring landscapes, and planting native vegetation to restore the ecological balance.
Creating Sustainable Ecosystems: Developing habitats that can support wildlife and contribute to biodiversity conservation.
Community Use: Transforming former mining sites into areas for community use, such as parks, wildlife reserves, or agricultural land.

Contributions to Conservation Efforts

Many diamond mining companies actively contribute to conservation efforts, recognizing their role in protecting the natural environments in which they operate. Examples include:

Biodiversity Conservation Projects: Partnering with local and international organizations to protect endangered species and habitats.
Environmental Research and Education: Funding research on ecological impacts and promoting environmental education in local communities.
Carbon Footprint Reduction Initiatives: Implementing measures to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and offsetting carbon footprints through various environmental projects.

The diamond industry's commitment to environmental stewardship reflects a broader trend in natural resource extraction towards sustainability and responsible management. By adopting and promoting these practices, the industry not only ensures its own long-term viability but also contributes positively to global environmental conservation efforts. This aspect of the diamond industry is crucial in demonstrating how natural resource industries can operate in harmony with the environment, providing a model for sustainable development.

Social and Community Development

Educational and Healthcare Initiatives in Mining Communities

The diamond mining industry has played a significant role in improving the quality of life in mining communities through various social initiatives. Education and healthcare are two primary areas where these efforts are concentrated:

Building and Supporting Schools: Many diamond mining companies invest in building schools, providing scholarships, and enhancing educational infrastructure in mining communities. This investment in education helps in increasing literacy rates and providing children with better opportunities for the future.
Healthcare Facilities and Services: Companies often establish healthcare centers and fund medical programs in mining areas. These facilities provide essential health services, including maternal and child healthcare, HIV/AIDS prevention and treatment, and general medical care, significantly improving the overall health of the community.

Empowerment of Local Populations

Empowering local communities is a key focus of the social responsibility initiatives undertaken by the diamond industry. This includes:

Skill Development and Training: Programs aimed at skill development and vocational training help locals gain employment both within and outside the diamond mining industry, fostering economic independence and resilience.
Supporting Local Entrepreneurs: Initiatives to support local businesses and entrepreneurs, such as providing microloans and business training, help stimulate local economies and reduce dependency on mining activities.
Inclusive Employment Practices: Efforts to employ local residents in mining operations, along with policies promoting diversity and inclusion, ensure that the benefits of diamond mining are shared with the community.

Cultural and Heritage Preservation

The diamond mining industry often operates in regions with rich cultural heritages. Recognizing this, many companies engage in:

Protecting Cultural Sites: Working with local communities and governments to identify and protect cultural and historical sites in and around mining areas.
Promoting Local Culture: Supporting cultural events, museums, and educational programs that celebrate and preserve the unique traditions and histories of the local communities.
Community Engagement and Dialogue: Establishing regular communication channels with community leaders and members to ensure that mining activities are aligned with the community's interests and needs.

Through these social and community development initiatives, the diamond mining industry contributes to the overall well-being and sustainable development of the regions in which it operates. These efforts demonstrate the industry's commitment to not just extracting value from the land, but also giving back to the communities, ensuring that the benefits of diamond mining extend beyond economic gains to foster social and cultural growth.

Ethical Sourcing and Transparency -

Measures to Combat Conflict Diamonds

The diamond industry has faced challenges regarding the sourcing of diamonds, particularly in conflict zones. To address this, significant measures have been implemented:

The Kimberley Process: Established in 2003, this international certification scheme aims to prevent the flow of conflict diamonds. It ensures that diamonds are mined and shipped in a humane, legitimate way.
Corporate Social Responsibility Initiatives: Many companies in the diamond industry have developed their own ethical sourcing policies, often going beyond the requirements of the Kimberley Process.
Monitoring and Auditing: Regular monitoring and third-party auditing of diamond sources help ensure compliance with ethical standards.

Certification Processes and Standards

To enhance transparency and consumer confidence, the diamond industry has adopted various certification processes:

Chain of Custody Certification: This ensures that each step of a diamond's journey, from mine to market, is documented and ethically managed.
Quality Assurance and Origin Reporting: Certifications that detail a diamond's characteristics and origin help consumers make informed choices.
Labor and Environmental Standards: Certifications that focus on labor rights and environmental impact are increasingly being adopted by diamond mining companies.

Consumer Awareness and Responsible Buying

The role of consumers in promoting ethical diamond sourcing is crucial:

Educating Consumers: Efforts to educate consumers about the origins of diamonds and the importance of ethical sourcing have increased.
Demand for Ethical Products: A growing segment of consumers is demanding ethically sourced diamonds, which in turn encourages retailers and suppliers to prioritize ethical sourcing.
Support for Ethical Brands: Consumers are increasingly supporting brands that are transparent about their sourcing and committed to ethical practices.

The focus on ethical sourcing and transparency in the diamond industry is a response to global concerns about the social and environmental impact of diamond mining. These efforts are crucial in ensuring that the industry operates responsibly and that the diamonds reaching consumers are not only beautiful but also ethically and sustainably sourced. This commitment to ethical practices not only enhances the reputation of the diamond industry but also ensures its sustainability and relevance in a socially conscious global market.

The Future of Natural Diamonds

Emerging Trends in Diamond Mining and Trade

The diamond industry is evolving, with several trends shaping its future:

Technological Advancements: Continued innovation in mining technology and gemstone processing is expected to increase efficiency and reduce environmental impact.
Synthetic Diamonds: The rise of lab-grown diamonds presents both a challenge and an opportunity for the natural diamond industry. Adapting to this shift by emphasizing the unique qualities and heritage of natural diamonds is key.
Global Market Dynamics: Changing economic conditions, consumer preferences, and trade policies will influence the global diamond market. Adapting to these changes is crucial for the industry's sustainability.

Potential Challenges and Solutions

The industry faces several challenges that it must address to remain viable:

Ethical and Sustainable Practices: Continuing to improve ethical sourcing and sustainability practices is essential to maintain consumer trust and industry reputation.
Environmental Concerns: Addressing environmental impacts of mining and finding ways to minimize the carbon footprint are ongoing challenges.
Economic Fluctuations: The diamond industry must navigate economic uncertainties, including fluctuating demand and pricing, to remain resilient.

The Role of Technology and Innovation

Technology and innovation will play a pivotal role in the future of the diamond industry:

Blockchain for Traceability: Implementing blockchain technology can enhance transparency and traceability of diamond sourcing, building consumer confidence.
Advanced Gemmology: Innovations in gemmology, including new grading technologies and synthetic diamond detection methods, will continue to evolve.
Sustainable Mining Technologies: Developing and adopting more sustainable mining technologies will be crucial for environmental conservation and operational efficiency.

The future of natural diamonds is intertwined with advancements in technology, shifts in consumer behaviour, and the industry's ability to adapt to ethical and environmental concerns. By embracing innovation and maintaining a commitment to sustainability and ethical practices, the natural diamond industry can continue to shine brightly and make a positive impact globally. This forward-looking approach will ensure that natural diamonds remain not only a symbol of beauty and luxury but also a testament to human ingenuity and responsible stewardship of natural resources.

Case Studies

This section highlights three distinct case studies from around the world, showcasing how the natural diamond industry has positively impacted various regions, each with its unique challenges and successes.

Botswana: A Success Story in Diamond-Driven Development

Economic Transformation: Botswana's partnership with De Beers has turned diamond revenues into a catalyst for economic growth, transforming it from one of the poorest countries to a middle-income nation.
Investment in Public Services: Significant portions of diamond revenues are invested in public services, including education and healthcare, greatly improving the quality of life for citizens.
Sustainable Practices: Botswana has set a benchmark in balancing diamond mining with environmental conservation and community development.

Canada: Pioneering Environmental Standards in Diamond Mining

Environmental Stewardship: Canadian diamond mines are renowned for their stringent environmental regulations and practices, setting global standards in sustainable mining.
Community Engagement: The diamond industry in Canada has been proactive in engaging with Indigenous communities, ensuring that mining activities are conducted with respect for local cultures and traditions.
Economic Impact: The diamond industry has contributed significantly to the economies of the Northern Territories, creating jobs and supporting local businesses.

Russia: Technological Innovations in Harsh Climates

Adapting to Extreme Conditions: Russian diamond mines, particularly in Siberia, operate in some of the world's most challenging conditions, leading to innovative mining techniques and technologies.
Economic Significance: Prior to the conflict in Ukraine, diamonds were a key export for Russia - playing a significant role in the national economy.
Community Development: The diamond industry has contributed to the development of remote regions, providing infrastructure, education, and healthcare facilities.

These case studies illustrate the diverse ways in which the diamond industry can positively impact countries and communities. From economic growth and technological innovation to environmental stewardship and social responsibility, these examples provide a comprehensive view of the potential benefits that responsible diamond mining can bring to societies around the globe. They also highlight the importance of adapting to local conditions and needs, ensuring that the benefits of diamond mining are shared equitably and sustainably.

Conclusion: Natural Diamonds' Global Impact

The journey through the world of natural diamonds reveals a multifaceted industry with significant positive impacts. From the economic transformation of nations like Botswana to the pioneering environmental standards in Canada and technological innovations in Russia, diamonds have proven to be more than just symbols of luxury. They are catalysts for development, innovation, and positive change. The industry's contributions span across various domains, including economic growth, technological advancements, environmental stewardship, social and community development, and ethical sourcing.

The Ongoing Role of Natural Diamonds in Global Development

Natural diamonds continue to play a vital role in global development. Their enduring value and appeal drive economic activity, create jobs, and contribute to national economies, especially in countries where diamond resources are a significant part of the economic landscape. The industry's evolution towards more sustainable and ethical practices reflects a broader commitment to responsible business and environmental stewardship, aligning with global efforts towards sustainable development.

As the industry moves forward, it faces the challenge of balancing the allure and value of natural diamonds with the ethical and environmental responsibilities that come with their extraction and trade. The future of natural diamonds lies in the industry's ability to innovate, adapt to changing market dynamics, and uphold high ethical and environmental standards. By continuing to invest in community development, embracing technological advancements, and prioritizing sustainable practices, the diamond industry can ensure that it remains a source of positive impact and enduring value for generations to come.

In conclusion, the story of natural diamonds is not just about the stones themselves but about the broader impacts they have on the world. It's a narrative of transformation, responsibility, and hope, illustrating how natural resources, when managed responsibly, can contribute to the greater good of society and the planet.

Discover the timeless beauty and exceptional craftsmanship of Kimberfire's natural diamond collection , where each one tells a unique story - with a positive global impact.

Engagement Ring Calculator: How Much Should You Spend?

jgoldberg@kimberfire.com (Jonathan Goldberg) — Fri, 05 Apr 2024 21:20:06 GMT

In the quest for the perfect engagement ring, the age-old adage of spending two months' salary has given way to a more nuanced, personalized approach. At Kimberfire, we understand that an engagement ring symbolizes a profound commitment and a promise of a shared future. It's a show of love, unique to every couple, transcending mere monetary value. Our philosophy centres on guiding you to a ring that not only matches your aesthetic and emotional desires but also aligns with your financial comfort.

How Much to Spend on an Engagement Ring?

The journey to finding an engagement ring with Kimberfire is marked by expert guidance, transparency, and unparalleled value. We believe that the process should reflect the individuality of your relationship, focusing on the quality, craftsmanship, and the personal significance of each piece. This article is designed to navigate the myriad considerations that come into play when deciding how much to spend on an engagement ring. From understanding the intrinsic value of a ring to exploring budgeting strategies and the impact of customization, we aim to equip you with the knowledge to make an informed choice that resonates with your personal love story.

With Kimberfire, your engagement ring journey is a collaborative adventure. We're committed to transforming your vision into reality, ensuring that every aspect of your ring reflects the depth of your bond. Whether you're in the initial stages of exploration or ready to make that all-important decision, we're here to provide a seamless, personalized experience that honours the uniqueness of your love.

Let's delve into the essentials of selecting an engagement ring, where practical advice meets the art of fine jewelry, all tailored to celebrate the beauty of your individual story.

The Kimberfire Difference

At Kimberfire, our ethos is built around reimagining the traditional engagement ring selection process. We stand apart in the industry by offering direct access to wholesale diamonds, bypassing the conventional retail markup. This unique approach allows us to present our clients with the largest, highest-quality diamonds and jewelry possible within their budget. Our commitment to transparency and value is unmatched, ensuring that every client receives the best possible advice and options for their investment.

Explaining Engagement Ring Pricing

Our custom manufacturing process is at the heart of the Kimberfire difference. Unlike traditional jewelers, we collaborate closely with our clients to create bespoke engagement rings that are as unique as their love stories. This personalized journey begins with a consultation, where we explore your vision, preferences, and budget. Our expert team then guides you through selecting the perfect diamond, discussing the significance of the four Cs—cut, colour, clarity, and carat weight—and how each impacts the beauty and value of your ring.

Craftsmanship is paramount at Kimberfire. Each ring is meticulously crafted by our skilled artisans, who combine traditional techniques with modern technology to create pieces that are not only beautiful but also enduring symbols of love. This dedication to quality extends to our selection of diamonds and gemstones, all of which are ethically sourced and certified by the world's leading grading laboratories.

The Kimberfire experience is designed to be as stress-free and enjoyable as possible. We offer virtual consultations and meetings, allowing clients to engage with us from the comfort of their own homes. For those who prefer a more tactile experience, our private offices in Toronto provide a comfortable and discreet setting for in-person consultations.

Choosing Kimberfire means investing in a piece that truly reflects your personal style and values, backed by a team dedicated to making your engagement ring journey unforgettable. Our direct access to wholesale diamonds, custom design expertise, and commitment to craftsmanship set us apart, making Kimberfire the clear choice for discerning couples.

Understanding Engagement Ring Value

When embarking on the journey to select an engagement ring, understanding its value is crucial. At Kimberfire, we believe that the value of an engagement ring transcends its price tag, encompassing craftsmanship, diamond quality, design, and the personal significance it holds. Our approach is designed to help you navigate these aspects, ensuring that your choice is informed by more than just cost.

Calculating the Price of an Engagement Ring

Craftsmanship is a cornerstone of value. A well-crafted ring not only showcases the beauty of its materials but also stands the test of time. Our artisans are masters of their craft, employing both time-honoured techniques and cutting-edge technology to create pieces that are not only visually stunning but also structurally sound. This meticulous attention to detail ensures that every Kimberfire ring is a masterpiece of quality and durability.

Diamond quality significantly influences a ring's value. We prioritize the four Cs—cut, colour, clarity, and carat weight—educating our clients on how each aspect affects a diamond's brilliance and overall appearance. Kimberfire's direct access to wholesale diamonds allows us to offer exceptional stones that meet our stringent standards for quality and ethical sourcing. Whether you're drawn to the timeless elegance of natural diamonds or the sustainable allure of lab-grown diamonds , our selection is curated to include only the best and brightest.

Design plays a pivotal role in defining a ring's value. A design that resonates with your personal style and story adds immeasurable value to your engagement ring. Our custom design process invites you to be a part of creating a ring that truly reflects your individuality and relationship. From classic elegance to modern innovation, our designs are tailored to celebrate your unique love story.

Personal significance is the ultimate measure of an engagement ring's value. A ring that captures your love story, symbolizes your commitment, and reflects your shared values is priceless. At Kimberfire, we're dedicated to creating rings that are not just beautiful but also meaningful, serving as enduring symbols of your love.

Understanding the value of an engagement ring is about appreciating the artistry, quality, and personal relevance that make it truly special. At Kimberfire, we're committed to guiding you through this process, ensuring that your engagement ring is a cherished symbol of your unique love story.

How Much to Spend on an Engagement Ring

Deciding how much to spend on an engagement ring is a deeply personal choice, one that varies significantly from one couple to another. At Kimberfire, we believe that this decision should be guided not by outdated rules or societal expectations, but by your own financial situation, priorities, and the unique story you share with your partner. Our approach is to empower you to make a choice that feels right for you, ensuring that the ring you select not only symbolizes your love but also respects your budget.

Engagement Ring Calculator Explained

The traditional guideline of spending three months' salary on an engagement ring is a benchmark that no longer fits the diverse financial landscapes and personal values of many couples today. Instead, we encourage you to consider a range of factors when setting your budget. These include your current financial obligations, future plans, and the importance you place on the ring's size, quality, and design. It's about finding a balance that allows you to celebrate your engagement without compromising your financial health or future goals.

Kimberfire's expertise lies in helping you navigate these considerations. Through our personalized consultation process, we offer insights into how different choices—such as the type of diamond, the metal of the band, and the complexity of the design—can impact the overall cost of the ring. Our goal is to help you find or create a ring that meets your aesthetic desires and financial needs, without ever feeling pressured to exceed your comfort zone.

Remember, an engagement ring is a symbol of your love and commitment, and its value is not determined by its price tag. Whether you decide on a modest band or a lavish diamond, the most important aspect is the love it represents. At Kimberfire, we're here to ensure that your engagement ring perfectly reflects that love, within a budget that makes sense for you.

Customization and Its Impact on Price

Customization is at the core of the Kimberfire experience, allowing each couple to create a ring that truly reflects their unique relationship and personal style. This bespoke approach to engagement ring design not only ensures a one-of-a-kind piece but also offers flexibility in managing the overall cost. Understanding how customization impacts price is essential for making informed decisions that align with both your vision and budget.

How Much Should You Spend on a Ring for Your Engagement?

The process of customizing an engagement ring with Kimberfire begins with a personal consultation, where we explore your preferences, inspirations, and budgetary considerations. This collaborative journey is about bringing your vision to life, whether it's a simple modification of an existing design or a completely custom creation. Our expert team guides you through every step, from selecting the perfect diamond to choosing the right metal for the band, ensuring that each element contributes to the ring's beauty and significance.

One of the key benefits of customization is the ability to control the cost. By selecting the size, type, and quality of the diamond, you can significantly influence the ring's price. Kimberfire specializes in offering direct access to wholesale diamonds, presenting a range of options that meet your specific criteria and budget. Whether you prioritize carat size, clarity, colour, or cut, we provide transparent advice on how each choice affects both the ring's appearance and cost.

The metal of the band is another area where customization can impact price. Options range from classic golds—yellow, white, and rose—to more durable metals like platinum. Each has its own price point and aesthetic appeal, allowing you to choose a material that fits your budget and style preferences.

Design complexity is a further consideration. Intricate designs with multiple diamonds or detailed craftsmanship can increase the cost. However, Kimberfire's expertise in custom manufacturing ensures that we can offer creative solutions to achieve a luxurious look within your budget. For example, opting for a simpler design with a focus on a single, high-quality diamond can create a stunning effect without unnecessary expense.

Customization with Kimberfire means having the freedom to prioritize what matters most to you in an engagement ring, whether it's the diamond, the design, or the metal. Our commitment to transparency, quality, and value ensures that your customized ring not only captures your personal story but also respects your financial boundaries. By embracing customization, you're investing in a symbol of your love that's as unique as your relationship, crafted to your exact specifications and budgetary needs.

Financing and Payment Options with Kimberfire

Understanding that an engagement ring is a significant investment, Kimberfire offers a variety of financing and payment options designed to make the purchase more accessible and budget-friendly. Our goal is to ensure that every couple can acquire their dream ring without financial strain, aligning with our commitment to transparency, value, and customer satisfaction.

We provide tailored financing solutions that cater to different financial situations, allowing clients to spread the cost of their ring over time. These flexible payment plans are designed with our clients' best interests in mind, offering manageable monthly payments without compromising on the quality or design of their ring. By discussing your budget and preferences during the consultation process, we can recommend the most suitable financing option for you.

At Kimberfire, we believe that everyone deserves to celebrate their love with a beautiful, high-quality engagement ring. Our financing and payment options reflect this belief, providing the flexibility needed to make your dream ring a reality, within a financial plan that works for you.

Ethical and Sustainable Choices

At Kimberfire, we are deeply committed to ethical practices and sustainability in every aspect of our operations, from diamond sourcing to the creation of our jewelry. We understand the importance of making choices that not only reflect our clients' values but also contribute positively to the global community and environment.

Our diamonds are ethically sourced, ensuring that they adhere to strict standards of labor, trade, and environmental impact. We offer a selection of natural, earth-mined diamonds that are certified conflict-free, as well as lab-grown diamonds, which provide a more sustainable alternative without compromising on quality or beauty. This commitment to ethical sourcing is fundamental to our mission, providing our clients with peace of mind and a sense of pride in their purchase.

Choosing Kimberfire means investing in a piece of jewelry that is not only beautiful and unique but also ethically and sustainably crafted. We are proud to offer our clients the option to celebrate their love with a ring that embodies their values, ensuring that their special moment has a positive impact on the world.

The Flexibility of Upgrading or Changing Your Look

Kimberfire recognizes that tastes, preferences, and circumstances can evolve over time. We offer unparalleled flexibility in upgrading or modifying your engagement ring's appearance to reflect your current style, celebrate a milestone, or simply because you desire a change. This adaptability is a cornerstone of our service, ensuring your engagement ring can grow and change with your relationship.

Add Stacking Rings

For those who feel their initial choice might benefit from enhancement, adding stackable rings is a stylish and effective way to augment the appearance of your engagement ring. This option allows for personalization and versatility, enabling you to adapt the ring's look for different occasions or milestones.

Reset the Diamond

Kimberfire provides the option to reset your existing diamond into a new setting. This service caters to those who wish to rejuvenate or enhance their ring as their budget or preferences change. The beauty of diamonds and gemstones is their timeless nature, allowing them to be repurposed and reset, giving your jewelry new life and meaning.

Give It Some Time

It's not uncommon for perceptions to shift with wear. A diamond that initially seems too large or prominent may become a cherished feature of your ring as it becomes an integral part of your daily life. We encourage clients to allow some time to adjust to their ring's presence and appearance, as familiarity often breeds fondness.

Kimberfire's commitment to flexibility ensures that your engagement ring can adapt to your life's changes, symbolizing your evolving love story. Whether through adding to your ring or resetting it we're here to make sure your engagement ring continues to be a perfect fit for your journey.

Consultation Process: Finding Your Perfect Ring Within Budget

Kimberfire’s personalized consultation process is designed to demystify the journey of selecting the perfect engagement ring, ensuring it aligns with both your vision and budget. Our approach is centred on understanding your unique preferences, style, and financial considerations, making the experience as informative and stress-free as possible.

During the consultation, our experts engage in a detailed discussion about your desires for the ring, including the type of diamond, the metal for the band, and any specific design elements you envision. This conversation helps us to tailor our recommendations to your exact needs, ensuring that every option we present is both desirable and financially viable.

We pride ourselves on our transparency, providing clear explanations of the factors that influence the cost of your ring, from the choice of diamond to the complexity of the design. Our aim is to empower you with the knowledge to make informed decisions, ensuring that you feel confident and satisfied with your final choice.

The consultation is not just about selecting a ring; it's about building a relationship. We take the time to understand what's important to you, offering expert guidance and support every step of the way. With Kimberfire, you’re not just finding a ring; you’re crafting a symbol of your love that respects your budget and exceeds your expectations.

Conclusion: Engagement Ring Calculator - How Much Should You Spend?

Choosing an engagement ring is a significant decision, symbolizing love, commitment, and a shared future. At Kimberfire, we believe this choice should reflect more than just financial investment; it should embody the quality, craftsmanship, and ethical values that align with your unique love story. Our dedication to personalized service, ethical sourcing, and custom design ensures that your engagement ring is not only a beautiful piece of jewelry but a lasting symbol of your bond. As you embark on this journey, remember that the true value of an engagement ring lies in the love it represents, a principle that guides everything we do at Kimberfire.

Discover the perfect symbol of your love with Kimberfire's bespoke engagement rings, where quality, craftsmanship, and ethical sourcing meet to create your dream ring.

Can You Negotiate Engagement Ring Prices?

Wed, 27 Mar 2024 18:04:59 GMT

In the search for the ideal engagement ring, many couples find themselves navigating the intricate world of diamonds, settings, and jewelers, each with its unique offerings and pricing strategies. At Kimberfire, we pride ourselves on being more than just a destination for exquisite engagement rings and fine diamond jewelry ; we are your partners in making one of life's most significant moments truly unforgettable. Our approach combines the best of both worlds: the personal touch of a private jeweler and the value and selection you'd expect from a large online retailer, all within the heart of Toronto, Canada.

Can You Really Negotiate the Price of an Engagement Ring?

The question of whether engagement ring prices are negotiable is one that many of our clients ponder. It's a valid question, given the traditional jewelry buying experience often involves a dance of numbers and percentages, leaving buyers wondering if they've truly received the best value for their budget. At Kimberfire, we approach this topic with transparency and honesty, reflecting our commitment to providing not only the finest jewelry but also the best purchasing experience.

Our unique business model is designed to demystify the buying process, offering clarity and insight into how engagement ring pricing works and where the true value lies. This article aims to shed light on the nuances of engagement ring pricing, offering guidance on navigating these waters with confidence. Whether you're drawn to the allure of a custom-designed piece or the timeless beauty of a pre-designed setting, understanding the factors that influence price can empower you to make informed decisions that align with your vision and values.

As we delve into the intricacies of the engagement ring market, the impact of diamond selection, and the advantages of choosing Kimberfire, our goal is to arm you with the knowledge needed to approach your engagement ring purchase with confidence. The journey to finding the perfect ring should be as joyful and love-filled as the proposal itself, and we're here to ensure that every step of the way is marked by excitement, not uncertainty.

Understanding the Engagement Ring Market

The engagement ring market is vast and varied, where the dreams of countless couples meet the realities of craftsmanship, design, and economics. At Kimberfire, we've positioned ourselves uniquely within this market, leveraging our expertise and direct access to some of the world's most beautiful diamonds to offer an unparalleled engagement ring buying experience.

The Engagement Ring Pricing Market Explained

Traditionally, the engagement ring shopping journey has been one of visiting multiple retailers, comparing prices and designs, and often, engaging in negotiations to feel confident in the value of the purchase. This process can be overwhelming, with the added pressure of making a choice that symbolizes a lifetime commitment. Kimberfire simplifies this experience. By offering a personalized, one-on-one consultation, we guide our clients through the selection process, ensuring that each engagement ring reflects the individuality of the relationship it celebrates.

Our approach is grounded in transparency and education. We believe that an informed buyer is a satisfied buyer. Therefore, we take the time to explain the nuances of diamond quality, the significance of various settings, and how each choice affects the overall price of the ring. This educational process is crucial, as it demystifies the factors that traditionally influence engagement ring prices and often lead to the question of whether these prices are negotiable.

Kimberfire's model is designed to offer the best possible value from the outset. By providing direct access to wholesale diamonds and crafting each piece from the ground up, we eliminate the need for the traditional haggling process. Our clients can rest assured that the price they are offered is a reflection of the true value of their chosen piece, tailored to fit their specific desires and budget.

Factors Influencing Engagement Ring Prices

When embarking on the journey to select an engagement ring, understanding the myriad factors that influence its price is crucial. At Kimberfire, we are committed to ensuring that every client is well-informed about these elements, empowering them to make choices that align with their preferences and budget.

Diamond Quality and Certification

The centerpiece of most engagement rings is the diamond, and its quality is determined by the four Cs: cut, color, clarity, and carat weight. Each of these factors significantly impacts the price of the diamond. At Kimberfire, we offer a curated selection of diamonds, including both natural earth-mined and lab-grown options, each accompanied by a certificate from a reputable diamond grading laboratory . This certification provides an unbiased assessment of the diamond's quality, ensuring transparency and trust in your purchase.

Size Matters

The carat weight of a diamond is often the most visible indicator of its value, with larger diamonds commanding higher prices. However, it's important to consider the cut and quality of the diamond as well. A well-cut diamond will exhibit more brilliance and fire, making it appear larger to the eye. Kimberfire's experts are adept at helping clients find the perfect balance between size and quality, ensuring the diamond's beauty is maximized within the budget.

Custom Design and Craftsmanship

Beyond the diamond, the design and craftsmanship of the ring itself play a significant role in its overall cost. Custom designs, which allow for a personal touch and uniqueness, often require more time and skill to create, traditionally reflecting in the price. Kimberfire specializes in custom engagement rings, working closely with clients to bring their vision to life within their budget. Our design and manufacturing process ensures that each ring meets our strict quality standards, providing incredible value without compromising on the bespoke experience.

The Kimberfire Difference

Leveraging our direct access to wholesale diamonds and custom manufacturing, we offer competitive pricing that bypasses the traditional retail markup. This unique business model allows us to provide our clients with high-quality, beautifully crafted engagement rings at prices that reflect true value. Our transparent pricing policy means that clients do not need to negotiate; the best possible price is presented upfront, ensuring a straightforward and enjoyable purchasing experience.

Understanding these factors is key to navigating the engagement ring market confidently. Kimberfire's commitment to transparency, quality, and value ensures that our clients are not just purchasing a ring but making an informed investment in a symbol of their love and commitment.

The Kimberfire Advantage

At Kimberfire, our mission is to redefine the engagement ring buying experience by offering a unique blend of personal service, expert craftsmanship, and direct access to high-quality diamonds. This approach sets us apart in the market and provides our clients with several distinct advantages.

Direct-to-Consumer Pricing

One of the most significant benefits of choosing Kimberfire is our direct-to-consumer model. By eliminating the traditional retail markup associated with brick-and-mortar stores, we offer our clients the opportunity to invest in larger, higher-quality diamonds and more intricate designs for their budget. This model ensures that the value of every dollar spent is maximized, providing unparalleled quality and beauty in each piece.

Customization and Craftsmanship

Kimberfire specializes in custom engagement rings, offering a personalized design process that allows clients to bring their vision to life. Our team of skilled jewelry designers works closely with each client, utilizing today's technology to create 3D renderings for approval before any crafting begins. This process ensures that every ring is as unique as the love it symbolizes, crafted with precision and care to last a lifetime.

Expert Guidance and Transparency

We believe that an informed client is a satisfied client. Our experts provide comprehensive guidance on all aspects of the engagement ring, from the selection of the diamond to the design of the setting. We pride ourselves on our transparency, ensuring that clients understand the value and quality of their purchase. This open communication builds trust and confidence, making the engagement ring buying process enjoyable and stress-free.

The Kimberfire Experience

Choosing an engagement ring is a significant moment in a couple's journey. Kimberfire's commitment to excellence in service, quality, and value ensures that this experience is not only memorable but also reflective of the depth of their relationship. Our approach offers a brilliant way to buy an engagement ring, combining the best aspects of personalization, quality, and value.

Negotiating Engagement Ring Prices: What You Need to Know

The tradition of negotiating for jewelry, especially engagement rings, has deep roots in the buying process. However, at Kimberfire, we approach this aspect differently, aligning our pricing model with our core values of transparency and fairness. This approach provides a reality check on the traditional expectations of negotiation and underscores the unique advantages we offer to our clients.

Transparent Pricing

Kimberfire's pricing strategy is straightforward and transparent, reflecting the true value of each piece without hidden costs or inflated markups. This transparency means that the price presented is carefully calculated to offer the best value for the quality and craftsmanship of the ring. Our clients appreciate this honesty, as it simplifies the buying process and ensures they are making an informed decision.

Value Beyond Negotiation

We believe that the true value of an engagement ring goes beyond the price tag. It encompasses the quality of the materials, the craftsmanship of the piece, and the personalized service that accompanies each purchase. Kimberfire's model is designed to maximize this value, offering exceptional diamonds and custom designs at competitive prices. This focus on value rather than negotiation ensures that every client receives a ring that is worth more than its cost.

Building Relationships

At Kimberfire, we see the engagement ring purchase not as a one-time transaction but as the beginning of a lifelong relationship. Our goal is to support our clients through this significant milestone with integrity and expertise. By removing the pressure of negotiation, we foster a more positive and trusting environment, allowing our clients to focus on the joy and significance of their engagement.

While the idea of negotiating for an engagement ring is common, Kimberfire offers a refreshing alternative. Our transparent, value-focused approach ensures that clients receive the best possible experience and product, making the question of negotiation a thing of the past.

Tips for Maximizing Value When Buying an Engagement Ring

Purchasing an engagement ring is a significant investment, both emotionally and financially. At Kimberfire, we understand the importance of this decision and are committed to helping our clients find the perfect ring that offers the best value for their budget. Here are some expert tips to ensure you maximize value without compromising on quality or significance.

Understand the 4Cs

Knowledge of the diamond's cut, color, clarity, and carat weight is crucial. Each factor affects the diamond's beauty and price. At Kimberfire, we guide our clients through the 4Cs, helping them understand where to invest their budget for the maximum impact on the diamond's appearance.

Consider Alternative Diamond Options

Exploring both natural, earth-mined diamonds and lab-grown diamonds can provide more choices within your budget. Kimberfire offers a selection of both, allowing clients to compare and choose based on their preferences and values. Lab-grown diamonds, for instance, can offer excellent value, providing the beauty and durability of diamonds at a more accessible price point.

Customize Wisely

Customization allows for a personal touch but doesn't have to break the bank. Work with Kimberfire's designers to focus on elements that matter most to you and your partner. Sometimes, subtle adjustments to the design can significantly impact the ring's look without substantially affecting the cost.

Prioritize What Matters Most

Decide what aspects of the ring are most important to you. Is it the size of the diamond, the intricacy of the setting, or perhaps the overall design? Prioritizing these elements helps focus your budget on what truly matters, ensuring you get the best value in those areas.

Trust the Process

At Kimberfire, our process is designed to maximize your value through direct access to wholesale diamonds, expert craftsmanship, and personalized service. Trusting this process and leveraging our expertise can lead to significant savings and a more satisfying purchase experience.

By following these tips and partnering with Kimberfire, you can confidently navigate the engagement ring buying process, ensuring you find a ring that symbolizes your love and commitment without compromising on value or quality.

Real Testimonials

At Kimberfire, we take pride in the experiences and satisfaction of our clients. Their testimonials reflect the quality, dedication, and personal touch we strive to provide with every engagement ring and piece of jewelry we craft. Here are just a few testimonials from our valued customers:

Ariel S. from Richmond Hill, ON shares: Amazing ring! I bought my now fiance's ring here. It's beautiful. The process is very professional, they take you through all kinds of rings, stones, and designs. Then let you build the ring the way you want it. Best part, the prices here are very good (compared to retail) and the product you get back is very high quality.
Felix W. from Ottawa, ON recounts his experience: These guys rock! I was looking for a sapphire ring, and Michael got back to me fairly quickly... The entire process took about 7 weeks, from placing an order to receiving the ring... In the end, I got a beautiful ring and paid way less than what I would have at another store I visited. My fiance can't stop looking at the ring!
Oreo C. from Richmond Hill, ON describes: Read a bunch of reviews and my co-worker referred me here during my hunt for an engagement ring... I had a particular date I needed the diamond by and Michael helped to note it down and make everything happen. We went with a customized ring and everything came together with a week of time buffer. I couldn't be any more happy with how it turned out especially now with my fiancé getting so many compliments.
Bianca W. from Toronto, ON expresses her relief: My fiancé and I had about 6 months of looking for the right engagement ring and coming up with nothing... Thankfully, the entire experience with Jonathan and Kimberfire was the complete opposite of what we had experienced up to that point... The ring itself was somehow even more perfect than I could have asked for.
Ramli S. from Toronto, ON recommends: My experience with Michael and Jonathan from Kimberfire was amazing... They made the whole process painless and quick. Michael showed me the different factors that I should be looking at. And they both helped me pick a ring within my budget that my fiancée ended up loving!

These testimonials highlight the Kimberfire difference, a commitment to quality, value, and personalized service that turns the process of buying an engagement ring into a memorable and joyous journey.

Conclusion: Can You Negotiate Engagement Ring Prices?

In navigating the complexities of purchasing an engagement ring, the journey with Kimberfire becomes not just about finding a piece of jewelry but about making an informed, value-driven decision that reflects the depth of your commitment. Our transparent, direct-to-consumer model, coupled with personalized service and expert craftsmanship, ensures that every client leaves with a ring that exceeds expectations, both in beauty and value. As you embark on this significant chapter, let Kimberfire be your guide, offering a seamless, trustworthy experience that culminates in the perfect symbol of your love and commitment.

Discover the perfect symbol of your love with Kimberfire's exquisite custom engagement rings – where your dream ring becomes a reality.

What is the Average Carat Size for a Diamond Engagement Ring?

jgoldberg@kimberfire.com (Jonathan Goldberg) — Tue, 19 Mar 2024 21:28:28 GMT

When it comes to declaring your love and commitment, nothing speaks louder than the perfect custom engagement ring . At Kimberfire, we understand the profound significance of this momentous occasion. That's why we've dedicated ourselves to providing an unparalleled engagement ring shopping experience, ensuring that every proposal is as brilliant and unique as the love it symbolizes. With over 1,800 proposals and counting, our award-winning, personalized approach has established us a symbol of excellence in Toronto and across Canada.

Average Carat Size for Engagement Rings

The journey to finding the perfect engagement ring often begins with the choice of diamond, particularly its carat size. With so many options and considerations, the process can feel overwhelming. That's where Kimberfire shines. Our expert guidance, full transparency, and unmatched value are designed to illuminate your path to the perfect choice.

At Kimberfire, we offer a curated selection of the finest engagement rings, wedding bands , and diamond jewelry, without the traditional jewelry store markup. Our direct access to wholesale diamonds, combined with custom manufacturing and a non-retail office space, allows us to provide incredible value. Whether you're looking for the largest, highest-quality diamond within your budget or a custom piece that tells your unique love story, we're here to make your dream a reality.

Choosing the average carat size for your diamond engagement ring is a decision that balances personal taste, budget, and the desire for a symbol that truly represents your love.

Understanding Diamond Carat Size

The term "carat" refers to the weight of a diamond and is a primary factor in determining the gem's size and, consequently, its visual impact. One carat is equivalent to 200 milligrams, and while carat weight contributes significantly to a diamond's value, it's crucial to understand that bigger doesn't always mean better. At Kimberfire, we believe in educating our clients about the nuances of diamond selection, ensuring that you make an informed decision that aligns with your desires and expectations.

Average Carat Size Explained for Diamond Rings

Carat size is often the most noticeable attribute of a diamond engagement ring, capturing the eye and symbolizing the magnitude of your commitment. However, it's essential to consider that the perceived size of the diamond can also be influenced by its cut, shape, and setting. A well-cut diamond can appear larger than its actual carat weight, showcasing the cutter's expertise in maximizing beauty without compromising quality.

Budget plays a significant role in the choice of carat size. Larger diamonds are rarer and, therefore, more expensive. However, Kimberfire's unique business model, which bypasses traditional retail markups, allows our clients to purchase a larger, high-quality diamond within their budget. Our goal is to help you find a balance between carat size and other quality factors such as clarity, color, and cut, ensuring you receive the best value and a diamond that sparkles with brilliance.

Understanding carat size is just the beginning of your journey to finding the perfect diamond engagement ring. At Kimberfire, we're committed to guiding you through every step of this process, combining our expertise with your personal vision to create a ring that's as unique and enduring as your love.

Average Carat Size for Engagement Rings: Current Trends

In the ever-evolving world of diamond engagement rings, trends come and go, but the allure of a beautifully crafted ring with a stunning diamond at its center remains constant. At Kimberfire, we stay at the forefront of these trends, ensuring our clients have access to the most sought-after designs and diamond sizes. Currently, the average carat size for engagement rings varies significantly around the world, influenced by cultural preferences, economic factors, and individual tastes.

Average Carat Size of Engagement Rings in North America

In North America, the average carat size for an engagement ring hovers around 1.0 to 1.2 carats. This size strikes a balance between visibility and affordability, allowing for a significant presence on the finger without stretching budgets too thin. However, it's not uncommon for couples in larger metropolitan areas or with higher budgets to opt for diamonds that are 2 carats or larger, seeking that extra sparkle and statement.

Trends also show a growing interest in quality over sheer size. Many of our clients prioritize the cut, clarity, and color of a diamond, understanding that a well-crafted, smaller diamond can often outshine a larger stone of lesser quality. This shift towards quality ensures that the diamond's brilliance and fire are maximized, capturing the essence of the love it represents.

At Kimberfire, we've also observed an increase in the popularity of lab-grown diamonds, which offer a more affordable option for those desiring larger carat sizes without compromising on the ethical sourcing and environmental impact. Whether natural or lab-created, our diamonds are selected for their exceptional quality and beauty, ensuring that every Kimberfire engagement ring is a masterpiece of craftsmanship and design.

As trends continue to evolve, the choice of carat size remains a deeply personal decision. Our commitment is to guide you through this choice, ensuring that your engagement ring perfectly reflects your individual style, values, and love story.

Choosing the Right Carat Size for Your Engagement Ring

Selecting the perfect carat size for your engagement ring is a decision that intertwines personal taste, lifestyle, and the unique story of your love. At Kimberfire, we understand the significance of this choice and are dedicated to guiding you through the process with expertise and care. Here are some tips to help you choose the right carat size for your engagement ring, ensuring it complements your life and symbolizes your love beautifully.

Consider Your Lifestyle

The way you live your day-to-day life should influence the carat size of your engagement ring. If you lead an active lifestyle or work with your hands, a more modest carat size or a setting that protects the diamond might be advisable. This ensures your ring not only looks beautiful but is also practical for daily wear.

Think About Finger Size

The size of the diamond should be proportional to the finger it will adorn. Modest diamonds can look more prominent than expected on smaller fingers, while larger fingers may require a bigger diamond to achieve the desired visual impact. Our experts can help you visualize how different carat sizes will look on your hand, ensuring the perfect balance and proportion.

Reflect on Your Personal Style

Your engagement ring should be a reflection of your personal style. Whether you prefer a more understated elegance or a bold statement piece, the carat size of your diamond plays a crucial role in achieving the desired aesthetic. We offer a bespoke design service that allows you to create a ring that truly represents you.

Budget Considerations

Your budget is a significant factor in choosing the carat size. At Kimberfire, we pride ourselves on providing exceptional value, allowing you to opt for a larger carat size without compromising on quality. Our direct access to wholesale diamonds and custom manufacturing ensures you get the most out of your investment.

Choosing the right carat size is a journey we're honored to be a part of. Our commitment to personal service, expert advice, and quality craftsmanship ensures that your engagement ring will be a timeless symbol of your love, perfectly tailored to your life and your love story.

Maximizing Value and Appearance

At Kimberfire, our mission is to help you find an engagement ring that not only symbolizes your love but also offers the best value and appearance. Understanding how to maximize these aspects can lead to a more informed and satisfying purchase. Here are strategies to ensure your diamond engagement ring stands out, without stretching your budget.

Focus on Cut Quality

The cut of a diamond significantly affects its brilliance and fire. A well-cut diamond, regardless of its carat size, will display a dazzling array of light. We recommend prioritizing cut quality above all else, as a superior cut can make a smaller carat diamond appear larger and more luminous.

Opt for a Slim Band

A slender band can make the diamond appear larger by contrast. This optical illusion allows for a more prominent display of the diamond, enhancing its visual impact on the finger.

Consider Shape and Setting

Certain diamond shapes and settings can amplify the perceived size of the diamond. For example, elongated shapes like oval, marquise, or pear can appear larger than round diamonds of the same carat weight. A halo setting, where small diamonds encircle the main stone, can also add to the overall sparkle and make the center diamond seem larger.

Explore Lab-Grown Diamonds

Lab-grown diamonds offer the same physical, chemical, and optical properties as natural diamonds but at a fraction of the cost. This option allows you to invest in a larger carat size or allocate your budget towards a better cut or setting.

At Kimberfire, we're dedicated to ensuring you receive unparalleled value and beauty in your engagement ring. Our expertise and personalized service guide you through selecting a diamond that maximizes both appearance and value, crafting a symbol of your love that shines brightly for a lifetime.

Conclusion: What Is the Right Carat Size for Your Engagement Ring?

Choosing the right carat size for your diamond engagement ring is a journey that intertwines personal preference, lifestyle, and budget. At Kimberfire, we are committed to guiding you through this significant decision with expert advice and personalized service. Our direct access to wholesale diamonds and custom manufacturing ensures that you find the perfect balance between beauty, quality, and value. As you embark on this exciting chapter of your life, let Kimberfire help you create a symbol of your love that is as enduring and brilliant as the bond you share. Together, we'll make your engagement ring dream a reality.

Explore Kimberfire's engagement rings and begin your journey to finding the perfect symbol of your love.

FAQ: Choosing the Right Carat Size for Your Diamond Engagement Ring

Q1: What does "carat" mean in diamonds?

A1: Carat refers to the weight of a diamond, with one carat being equivalent to 200 milligrams. It's a measure that significantly influences the size and appearance of the diamond in an engagement ring.

Q2: Is a bigger carat size always better for an engagement ring?

A2: Not necessarily. While a larger carat size can offer more visual impact, the overall beauty of a diamond also depends on its cut, clarity, color, and how it complements the wearer's hand. It's important to balance carat size with these other factors and personal preferences.

Q3: What is the average carat size for engagement rings in North America?

A3: The average carat size for engagement rings in North America is around 1.0 to 1.2 carats. However, preferences can vary widely, with some choosing larger or smaller stones based on personal taste and budget.

Q4: How does budget affect the choice of carat size?

A4: Budget plays a significant role in choosing a carat size. Larger diamonds are rarer and more expensive. It's important to find a balance between the carat size and other diamond qualities within your budget to ensure you're getting the best value.

Q5: Can the design of the ring make a diamond appear larger?

A5: Yes, certain designs can make a diamond appear larger. For example, a slim band can enhance the diamond's size by contrast, and specific settings or diamond shapes can also create the illusion of a larger stone.

Q6: Are lab-grown diamonds a good option for larger carat sizes?

A6: Lab-grown diamonds can be an excellent option for those seeking larger carat sizes without the higher cost of natural diamonds. They offer the same physical, chemical, and optical properties as natural diamonds but are more affordable.

Q7: How should I choose the right carat size for my engagement ring?

A7: Consider your lifestyle, the size of the wearer's finger, personal style, and budget. It's also helpful to consult with a diamond expert who can provide personalized advice and help you visualize different options.

Q8: Does Kimberfire offer guidance on choosing the right carat size?

A8: Yes, Kimberfire offers expert guidance to help clients choose the perfect carat size for our engagement rings. Our personalized service ensures that clients make informed decisions that align with their preferences and budget.

Q9: Can I get a custom-designed engagement ring to fit my preferred carat size at Kimberfire?

A9: Absolutely. Kimberfire specializes in custom-designed engagement rings, allowing you to create a unique piece that perfectly fits your preferred carat size and overall design vision.

Q10: Where can I learn more about Kimberfire's engagement ring options?

A10: You can explore Kimberfire's exquisite collection of custom engagement rings and learn more about our custom design process, whether you live in Toronto or anywhere in Canada, by visiting our Toronto custom engagement rings page. If you're hoping for something already designed then you can buy an engagement ring here .

How to Figure Out Your Partner's Ring Size (Secretly)

jgoldberg@kimberfire.com (Jonathan Goldberg) — Mon, 18 Dec 2023 05:18:12 GMT

Welcome to the enchanting journey of engagement ring selection with Kimberfire – where we understand that the little details make the grandest statements. As you embark on this thrilling quest to buy an engagement ring for your significant other, one crucial detail stands out: the ring size. It's the golden key to ensuring your symbol of love fits just right. But how do you unlock this secret without spoiling the surprise?

The challenge of discovering your partner's ring size discreetly is akin to a covert operation, requiring stealth, creativity, and a touch of ingenuity. Fear not, for we're here to guide you through a variety of clandestine techniques that promise success without raising an ounce of suspicion. From borrowing a ring incognito to leveraging technology and understanding the nuances of ring sizing, we'll ensure you're equipped with all the savvy strategies necessary to reveal the perfect fit.

Let's begin this delicate dance of discovery, ensuring that when the moment of proposal arrives, the ring slips on effortlessly, just like your shared love story.

Indirect Methods of Determining Ring Size

At Kimberfire, we know that subtlety is your ally in the mission to ascertain your partner’s ring size. Here’s how you can play detective with finesse:

Borrowing an existing ring

The stealthiest of moves involves borrowing one of your partner's rings. Opt for one that they wear regularly but not daily, reducing the risk of immediate discovery. It should be from the correct finger, though, if possible, because size varies across the hand.
Once in your possession, be swift. Take it to a jeweler for sizing or use an online sizing guide. If you're in a pinch, press the ring into a bar of soap for an impression or trace the inside onto paper, but these methods are best paired with a professional sizing for accuracy.

This indirect approach requires a mix of cunning and quick action but remember, the momentary subterfuge will be worth it when you see the joy and surprise on your partner’s face.

The Art of Subtle Inquiry

Mastering discreet inquiry is akin to an art form, one that we have refined to ensure you can deduce your partner's ring size with the subtlety of a whisper.

Enlisting the help of friends and family

Recruit those closest to your partner who might have the inside scoop. Approach them with the discretion of a confidant, ensuring they understand the importance of maintaining the surprise.
Choose an accomplice known for their vault-like secrecy. They might already have the information you seek or could ingeniously obtain it without arousing suspicion.

Observational tactics

Keep your ears perked for any offhand comments your partner might make about rings, whether it’s about a friend’s jewelry or a ring they tried on for fun.
Take note if they wear rings that seem snug or loose, and observe the fit. These clues can be invaluable when speaking with a jeweler or using a ring sizing tool.

Through these methods, you’ll gather the intelligence needed for a perfect fit, ensuring the moment you present a Kimberfire engagement ring is nothing short of magical.

Creative and Stealthy Tactics

Unveiling the perfect ring size can be a crafty endeavor. Engage in these clever tactics to discover the right fit, all while keeping the element of surprise intact.

The string method while they sleep

If your partner is a heavy sleeper, gently wrap a piece of string around their ring finger and mark where the ends meet. This must be done with great care to avoid an untimely awakening.
Measure the string against a ruler and then match this length to a ring sizing chart. We suggest double-checking with a jeweler to ensure the sizing is as accurate as a heartbeat.

Deploying a decoy

Ingeniously stage a scenario where you gift a ring for another finger and make a note of that size. It can serve as a good reference, keeping in mind that a jeweler's advice may be needed for adjustments.
Alternatively, entice your partner into trying on costume jewelry, under the guise of interest for another person's gift. This ruse not only measures their size but also their taste in ring styles.

These resourceful methods intertwine creativity with stealth, laying the groundwork for a proposal that sparkles as brightly as a Kimberfire diamond.

Professional Help and High-Tech Solutions

Navigating the nuances of ring sizing can sometimes require a more professional touch. At Kimberfire we offer expert advice and high-tech options to guarantee an impeccable fit for your beloved.

Consulting with a jeweler

If the undercover tactics seem daunting, our knowledgeable consultants are your confidants. They can provide invaluable guidance on sizing, often with tools that ensure precision.
Bring any information you've gathered, like a borrowed ring, and our experts will help you deduce the correct size.

Utilizing ring sizing tools and kits

For those who prefer a DIY approach, we recommend using a ring sizer kit, which you can order discreetly online.
These kits come with detailed instructions to help you compare sizes and find the perfect match. Just ensure the measurements are taken at room temperature, as fingers can swell or shrink with heat and cold.

Making an Educated Guess

Sometimes, despite your best efforts, you may need to rely on an educated guess. We are here to help you make the most informed estimation possible.

Understanding average ring sizes can be a starting point; for many women, the average ring size is between 5 and 7, while for men it's between 8 and 10 ½.

Consider your partner's unique attributes:

Finger shape and size can provide visual cues; slender fingers tend to require smaller sizes, whereas wider bases may need larger sizes.
Keep in mind that ring size can change with weather changes, being slightly larger in the warmer months and smaller during the cold.

With our expertise, even an educated guess is close to precision, ensuring a proposal that's as right as the ring you choose.

Plan for Adjustments Post-Proposal

After the proposal, we remain at your service to perfect the fit. Our engagement ring resizing policies are designed for your peace of mind. We encourage you to discuss potential adjustments with us beforehand, ensuring a seamless transition to the ideal size for your partner's lifelong comfort and happiness.

Conclusion: Figuring Out Your Partner’s Ring Size

In the tapestry of proposal planning, Kimberfire has woven these strategies to help you stealthily determine your partner's ring size. With care, creativity, and a sprinkle of cunning, your proposal will be as flawless as the diamond that represents your enduring affection. Here's to a surprise that fits perfectly.

For further guidance, our team of professionals is just a consultation away , ready to assist you in ensuring your proposal is as brilliant as our diamonds. We'll help you answer all the important questions, such as whether natural or lab grown diamonds are the right choice for you.

Introducing the Gift Edit: Ready-to-Wear Jewelry

jgoldberg@kimberfire.com (Jonathan Goldberg) — Sun, 10 Dec 2023 04:58:05 GMT

Introducing the Gift Edit

When you think of ‘Kimberfire’, most people think of exceptionally crafted, luxury-quality, custom engagement rings and diamond jewelry (and they’re not wrong!). With each passing year, we continue to grow, and we are thrilled to announce the launch of our first-ever ready-to-wear line, the Gift Edit .

The Inspiration Behind the Jewelry Designs

The Gift Edit came to life after we noticed our clients' demand for a Kimberfire quality piece of jewelry - on the fly. Without our typical 8-week waiting period for custom work, now anyone can get their hands on one of our luxury pieces for an affordable price, making it the perfect gift for any occasion.

Behind each design is a story waiting to be told. In creating this line, we looked to design timeless pieces - with a twist. Inspired by nature, the Gift Edit captures the essence of everything between the shimmering constellations above to the smooth pebbles nestled in our flowing rivers.

With our first-ever drop, the Gift Edit introduces three necklaces and two complementary earring designs, each meticulously crafted with a level of care that is synonymous with the Kimberfire name.

Every item from the line can be purchased in either 14k yellow or white gold, and necklaces are adjustable between 16-18” in length. Our necklaces are perfect for wearing solo or layering with your other favourite staple pieces. The accompanying earrings are equally striking and versatile. They can be worn independently as a stand-alone piece or paired with your other favourite studs for a customized and impactful look.

In a commitment to quality at the core of Kimberfire's values, the Gift Edit comes with a lifetime warranty. This warranty covers manufacturing defects, providing peace of mind to those who invest in our pieces.

Caring for Your Pieces

Visit our office in downtown Toronto for a complimentary 20-minute quick cleaning. Just give us a call beforehand so we know to expect you!

Can’t make it to the office? Soak your jewelry in a mixture of warm water and dish soap. After a few minutes, brush away any dirt/oils using a soft toothbrush. Rinse thoroughly and pat dry with a gentle, lint-free cloth.

Join Our Journey

Whether you are in the market for your one-of-a-kind custom piece or a ready-made diamond gift, Kimberfire invites you to be a part of our growing story, creating lasting memories and cherished moments through the art of jewelry. Our commitment to providing excellent craftsmanship and unparalleled customer service remain with our very first fashion line, and are sure to impress both gifter, and gift-ee!

Are you looking for something a little different? Contact us here to schedule a consultation and let our team bring your vision to life!

Best Places to Propose in Toronto: Top 12 Romantic Spots

jgoldberg@kimberfire.com (Jonathan Goldberg) — Thu, 19 Oct 2023 03:10:17 GMT

Welcome to our guide on the best places to propose in Toronto! At Kimberfire, we specialize in creating stunning engagement rings and wedding bands that will make your proposal or wedding day unforgettable. Whether you're looking to buy an engagement ring in Toronto , or anywhere else in Canada, our expert team is here to help you find the perfect one. If a custom engagement ring is what you're seeking, then learn more about our custom engagement ring process and start crafting the ring of your dreams.

Best Places to Propose in Toronto: Top 12 Romantic Spots

Conclusion

Additional Tips

Toronto, often dubbed as Canada's crown jewel, is not just a bustling metropolis known for its soaring skyscrapers and vibrant culture. Beneath its urban exterior lies a city teeming with romantic spots, each offering a unique backdrop that can turn a marriage proposal into an unforgettable moment. From its iconic landmarks to its hidden gems, Toronto provides a plethora of locations that resonate with love and commitment. Choosing the perfect spot to pop the question is not just about the place, but also about capturing the essence of your shared journey and the promise of a future together. In this guide, we'll journey through the top romantic spots in Toronto that have witnessed countless 'yeses' and have become a part of many couples' love stories.

1. The Iconic CN Tower

Standing tall at 553.3 meters, the CN Tower is not just an architectural marvel but also a symbol of Toronto's skyline. This iconic landmark, once the tallest freestanding structure in the world, offers a breathtaking panoramic view of the city, making it a top choice for those looking to add a touch of grandeur to their proposal.

Proposing at the Observation Deck

Elevate your proposal, quite literally, by choosing the tower's observation deck. With the city sprawled beneath you and the horizon stretching infinitely, this spot provides a dramatic setting as you present the ring. The glass floor, if you dare, can add an extra thrill to your special moment.

360 Restaurant Proposal

For those who prefer a more intimate setting without compromising on the view, the 360 Restaurant is an excellent choice. As the name suggests, the restaurant offers a 360-degree view of Toronto while serving exquisite Canadian cuisine. Plan a romantic dinner, and as the city lights begin to twinkle, pop the question for a moment that's as magical as the view.

Tips:

Consider booking in advance, especially if you're planning to propose at the 360 Restaurant.
Sunset or nighttime proposals offer a mesmerizing view of the city illuminated in lights.
Inform the staff beforehand; they might have special arrangements or suggestions to make the moment even more memorable.

2. Toronto Islands

A short ferry ride away from the bustling downtown core, the Toronto Islands offer a tranquil escape that feels worlds apart. Comprising several small islands, this oasis provides a serene backdrop of sandy beaches, lush greenery, and shimmering waters, making it a picturesque location for a heartfelt proposal.

Centre Island

The largest of the Toronto Islands, Centre Island is a popular spot for both locals and tourists. With its beautiful gardens, quaint bridges, and panoramic views of the Toronto skyline, it offers numerous intimate spots perfect for getting down on one knee. The romantic atmosphere is enhanced by the gentle sounds of lapping waves and rustling leaves.

Ward's Island

For those seeking a more secluded setting, Ward's Island, with its charming residential community and quiet beaches, is an ideal choice. The island's boardwalk, with views of Lake Ontario on one side and cozy cottages on the other, provides a dreamy ambiance for your special moment.

Tips:

Plan your visit during weekdays or off-peak hours to avoid crowds.
Consider packing a picnic basket with your partner's favorite treats to celebrate post-proposal.
The islands are especially enchanting during sunset, with the golden hues reflecting off the water and the city skyline in the distance.
If you're looking for an added touch of romance, consider renting a tandem bicycle or a canoe to explore the islands together before or after your proposal.

3. Distillery District

Steeped in history and brimming with old-world charm, the Distillery District stands as a testament to Toronto's rich past. With its cobblestone streets, red brick Victorian buildings, and art installations, this pedestrian-only village offers a blend of historic elegance and contemporary culture.

A Glimpse into the Past

Once home to the largest distillery in the British Empire, the district has been meticulously preserved to retain its 19th-century charm. As you walk hand in hand, the gas lamp-style streetlights and the aroma of freshly brewed coffee from local cafes transport you to a bygone era.

Best Spots to Propose:

Love Locks: Inspired by the famous love locks bridge in Paris, the heart-shaped installation in the Distillery District is a favorite among couples. Attach a padlock as a symbol of your unbreakable bond and then pop the question.
The Historic Courtyard: This central square, surrounded by heritage buildings and adorned with string lights, provides a magical setting, especially in the evening.
Art Galleries: For art-loving couples, the numerous galleries in the district offer a unique backdrop. Choose a piece that resonates with your relationship and propose in front of it, adding another beautiful memory to your shared journey.

Tips:

The district hosts various events and festivals throughout the year. Check the calendar to ensure your proposal isn't interrupted by large crowds.
Consider making a reservation at one of the district's renowned restaurants to celebrate your engagement.
If proposing in winter, the Christmas Market in the Distillery District, with its twinkling lights and festive ambiance, can make the moment even more magical.

4. High Park

Nestled in the heart of Toronto, High Park is the city's largest public park and a verdant haven for nature lovers. Spanning over 400 acres, this urban oasis boasts a myriad of landscapes, from tranquil ponds and lush woodlands to beautifully manicured gardens, providing an idyllic setting for a romantic proposal.

Cherry Blossoms at High Park

One of the most anticipated events at High Park is the annual blooming of the cherry blossoms. These delicate pink and white flowers create a dreamy canopy, turning the park into a wonderland. Proposing under these blossoms, with petals gently falling around you, is nothing short of magical.

Grenadier Pond

This serene body of water, reflecting the sky and surrounded by greenery, offers a peaceful backdrop for your special moment. The wooden boardwalk along the pond is a popular spot for couples, providing a picturesque setting as you kneel and present the ring.

High Park Zoo

For those looking for a unique twist, the High Park Zoo, home to various animals like bison, llamas, and peacocks, can add a fun element to your proposal. Choose a spot overlooking the animal enclosures and let the zoo's inhabitants be witnesses to your love story.

Tips:

If you're planning to propose during the cherry blossom season, aim for weekdays or early mornings to avoid the crowds.
The park's numerous trails and secluded spots offer ample opportunities for a private, intimate proposal.
Consider packing a picnic to enjoy post-proposal, allowing you to soak in the beauty of High Park and celebrate your newly engaged status.
If you're both nature enthusiasts, a sunrise or sunset proposal in the park can add an extra touch of romance.

5. Casa Loma

Perched on a hill overlooking Toronto, Casa Loma is a majestic Gothic Revival-style castle that transports visitors to a world of elegance and grandeur. With its turrets, secret passages, and ornate interiors, this historic landmark offers a fairy-tale setting for a proposal fit for royalty.

A Castle Steeped in Romance

Built in the early 20th century by Sir Henry Pellatt as a testament to his love for his wife, Casa Loma embodies romance. The castle's history, combined with its architectural beauty, creates an ambiance of timeless love.

Gardens of Casa Loma

The meticulously maintained gardens, spread over five acres, are a visual treat. From the vibrant blooms in the Rose Garden to the tranquil beauty of the Fountain Garden, each section offers a unique backdrop for your special moment.

Inside the Castle

The grand rooms of Casa Loma, adorned with opulent furnishings and intricate woodwork, exude luxury. The Great Hall, with its 60-foot high oak beamed ceiling, or the Conservatory with its marble flooring and stained glass dome, are perfect for an indoor proposal that feels straight out of a storybook.

Tips:

Consider visiting Casa Loma during the evening when the castle is illuminated, adding to its enchantment.
The castle often hosts events and concerts. Check the schedule to ensure a quiet and intimate setting for your proposal.
Inform the staff in advance. They can assist in making the moment even more special, perhaps by playing a romantic tune on the castle's organ or guiding you to a secluded spot.
For an added touch of magic, consider proposing during winter when the castle is adorned with festive decorations and the gardens are blanketed in snow.

6. Scarborough Bluffs

Stretching along the eastern shores of Toronto, the Scarborough Bluffs are a geological wonder that offers a stunning juxtaposition of towering cliffs and serene waters. With the vast expanse of Lake Ontario at its feet and the sky as its backdrop, the bluffs provide a dramatic and natural setting for a memorable proposal.

Nature's Majestic Canvas

The bluffs, rising as high as 90 meters, have been shaped over thousands of years by natural elements. The layers of sedimentary rock, interspersed with greenery, tell a tale of time and transformation, much like the journey of a relationship.

Best Spots to Propose:

Bluffers Park: This is the main park area providing access to the beach, marina and a spectacular view of the cliffs. A proposal on the sandy shores, with the bluffs towering behind you, is both intimate and awe-inspiring.
Cathedral Bluffs Lookout: As the name suggests, this spot offers a panoramic view of the bluffs, resembling a natural cathedral. The elevated viewpoint, overlooking the lake, is perfect for a sunset proposal.

Tips:

The bluffs can be quite busy during weekends and holidays. For a more private moment, consider visiting on a weekday or during off-peak hours.
Wear comfortable footwear, especially if you plan to explore the trails or walk along the beach.
If you're both adventure enthusiasts, consider renting a kayak or canoe and proposing on the waters, with the magnificent bluffs as your backdrop.

7. Royal Ontario Museum (ROM)

Situated in the heart of Toronto, the Royal Ontario Museum is a blend of art, culture and history. With its vast collection of artifacts and stunning architectural design, ROM offers a unique setting for those who wish to infuse their proposal with a touch of intellectual charm and elegance.

A Journey Through Time and Art

ROM, one of the largest museums in North America, houses a diverse collection that spans from ancient civilizations to contemporary art. Each exhibit tells a story, making it a symbolic place to begin your own lifelong narrative.

Best Spots to Propose:

The Crystal: ROM's modern architectural extension, known as the Michael Lee-Chin Crystal, is a masterpiece in itself. Its geometric design and ambient lighting create a modern and sophisticated ambiance, perfect for a contemporary proposal.
Biodiversity Gallery: Surrounded by colorful and exotic displays of life from around the world, this spot adds a touch of nature and vibrancy to your special moment.
Ancient Egyptian Exhibit: For a touch of mystique and history, propose amidst ancient artifacts and sculptures, evoking the timeless nature of love.

Tips:

If you have a specific exhibit or theme in mind that resonates with your relationship, plan your proposal around it.
Inform the museum staff in advance. They might offer special arrangements or guide you to a quieter spot.
Consider proposing during one of ROM's "Friday Night Live" events, where the museum transforms into a lively venue with music, food, and drinks.

8. Toronto Botanical Garden

Nestled in the city's north end, the Toronto Botanical Garden is a green sanctuary that celebrates the beauty and diversity of nature. With its themed gardens, tranquil water features, and a plethora of vibrant blooms, this location offers a serene and picturesque setting for a nature-inspired proposal.

A Symphony of Flora

The botanical garden, spread over 17 acres, is a tapestry of colors, fragrances and textures. Each garden, from the aromatic Herb Garden to the serene Water Garden, offers a unique ambiance, making every corner a potential spot for your special moment.

Best Spots to Propose:

The Perennial Border: This garden, with its year-round display of perennials, offers a vibrant and colorful backdrop, symbolizing the perennial nature of love.
The Kitchen Garden: For those who share a love for gardening and sustainability, this garden, filled with edible plants, herbs, and flowers, offers a unique and meaningful setting.
The Garden Hall Courtyard: With its central water feature and surrounding greenery, this enclosed space provides an intimate and romantic ambiance.

Tips:

Visit during spring or early summer when the gardens are in full bloom, enhancing the romantic setting.
The garden often hosts workshops and events. Check the schedule to ensure a quiet setting for your proposal.
Consider a twilight proposal when the garden is bathed in the soft glow of the setting sun, adding a magical touch to your moment.
If you wish to capture the moment, hiring a photographer who can blend in with the visitors and take candid shots can be a great idea.

9. Harbourfront Centre

Located along Toronto's scenic waterfront, the Harbourfront Centre is a vibrant cultural hub that offers a mix of arts, entertainment and breathtaking views of Lake Ontario. With its bustling atmosphere and panoramic vistas, it's a perfect spot for those who want their proposal to be as lively and dynamic as the city itself.

A Blend of Urban and Natural Beauty

The Harbourfront Centre seamlessly merges the urban pulse of Toronto with the serene beauty of its lakeshore. Whether it's the shimmering waters, the distant Toronto Islands, or the boats sailing by, the waterfront provides a picturesque backdrop for your special moment.

Best Spots to Propose:

Harbourfront Boardwalk: This wooden pathway, lined with benches and dotted with art installations, offers unobstructed views of the lake. Choose a quiet spot, let the gentle waves set the rhythm, and pop the question.
HTO Park: Known for its iconic yellow umbrellas and sandy beach, this urban beach park provides a relaxed and playful setting for your proposal.
Toronto Music Garden: Inspired by Bach's First Suite for Unaccompanied Cello, each section of this garden is designed to interpret different dance movements from the suite, making it a harmonious spot for music and nature lovers.

Tips:

The Harbourfront Centre hosts numerous events, festivals and concerts throughout the year. While this can add to the lively ambiance, ensure it aligns with the mood you're aiming for.
Consider timing your proposal with the sunset. As the sky paints itself in hues of orange and pink, the moment becomes even more magical.
For an added surprise, consider renting a private boat or taking a ferry ride to the Toronto Islands and propose with the city skyline in the background.

10. Art Gallery of Ontario (AGO)

Situated in the heart of downtown Toronto, the Art Gallery of Ontario is a masterpiece in itself, housing some of the world's most renowned artworks. With its sleek architectural design and vast collection of art spanning centuries, AGO offers a sophisticated and culturally rich setting for art enthusiasts to pop the question.

A Canvas of Love and Art

The AGO, designed by the famed architect Frank Gehry, is a blend of contemporary design and historical preservation. Its vast halls and galleries showcase art from various eras and regions, making it a space where love and art intertwine.

Best Spots to Propose:

Galleria Italia: This architectural marvel, with its wooden curves and expansive glass facade, offers panoramic views of the city streets below. The play of natural light makes it a luminous spot for a daytime proposal.
Henry Moore Sculpture Centre: Surrounded by the evocative sculptures of Henry Moore, this space offers a serene and introspective ambiance, perfect for a quiet and intimate proposal.
Contemporary Art Section: For those who share a love for modern art, proposing amidst bold and thought-provoking pieces can add a unique touch to the moment.

Tips:

Plan your visit during AGO's late-night hours for a more intimate setting, with fewer crowds and a serene atmosphere.
Inform the gallery staff in advance. They might offer special arrangements or guide you to a secluded artwork that resonates with your love story.
After the proposal, consider celebrating with a meal at AGO Bistro, which offers gourmet dishes in a contemporary setting.

11. Ripley's Aquarium of Canada

Dive deep into an underwater world of wonder at Ripley's Aquarium of Canada , located in the heart of downtown Toronto. With its mesmerizing marine life, vibrant coral displays, and serene underwater ambiance, the aquarium offers a unique and magical setting for a proposal that's truly out of this world.

A Deep-Sea Adventure

Ripley's Aquarium is home to over 20,000 aquatic animals, showcasing the beauty and diversity of life beneath the waves. From the hypnotic dance of jellyfish to the majestic glide of stingrays, every corner of the aquarium offers a new surprise.

Best Spots to Propose:

Dangerous Lagoon: Walk through the glass tunnel surrounded by sharks, turtles and a myriad of fish. The feeling of being submerged, with marine life all around, creates a surreal and intimate setting for your special moment.
Planet Jellies: The ethereal beauty of the jellyfish, illuminated in changing colors, offers a dreamlike backdrop that's both romantic and otherworldly.
Ray Bay: With its large viewing panel, watch as stingrays glide gracefully, creating a serene and calming ambiance.

Tips:

Plan your visit during off-peak hours for a more intimate experience. Early mornings or late evenings can be ideal.
If you wish to make the proposal extra special, consider contacting the aquarium staff in advance. They might offer unique experiences like a behind-the-scenes tour or a diver holding up a "Will You Marry Me?" sign inside a tank.
Capture the moment with the vibrant marine life as your backdrop. The unique setting will make for unforgettable proposal photos.

12. Humber Bay Arch Bridge

Spanning the mouth of the Humber River in Toronto, the Humber Bay Arch Bridge stands as an iconic symbol of the city's commitment to both architectural beauty and functional design. This pedestrian and bicycle bridge, with its sweeping arch and delicate suspension cables, offers a harmonious blend of engineering and artistry.

A Bridge with a View

The Humber Bay Arch Bridge is not just a passage across the river; it's a vantage point that offers unparalleled views of Toronto's skyline, the tranquil waters of Lake Ontario and the natural beauty of the Humber Bay shores.

Best Spots to Propose:

Center of the Bridge: Stand at the highest point of the arch, with the city skyline as your backdrop and the gentle waters of the Humber River below. This spot offers a panoramic view that adds grandeur to your special moment.
Sunrise or Sunset: The bridge is especially enchanting during the golden hours of sunrise and sunset. The play of light on the water and the city's silhouette creates a romantic ambiance that's hard to match.
Near the Plaques: At the entrance of the bridge, informational plaques provide details about its history and significance. This quieter spot, away from the main pedestrian path, can offer a bit more privacy for your proposal.

Tips:

Consider visiting during off-peak hours or weekdays for a more intimate experience. Early mornings can be particularly serene.
If you're planning a post-proposal celebration, the nearby Humber Bay Park offers picnic spots and beautiful trails to explore.
Capture the moment with a photo! The bridge, with its unique design and scenic views, provides a picturesque setting for engagement photos.

Conclusion

Toronto, a city of diverse cultures, iconic landmarks, and natural wonders, truly embodies the essence of romance. From its bustling downtown streets to its serene parks, from its historic castles to its modern art galleries, Toronto offers a myriad of locations that can set the stage for a love story to unfold.

Each spot mentioned in this guide carries its own charm and significance, reflecting the multifaceted nature of love. Whether it's the timeless beauty of Casa Loma, the natural splendor of the Scarborough Bluffs, or the artistic allure of the AGO, Toronto provides a backdrop that can make any proposal memorable.

However, beyond the scenic views and iconic landmarks, the most important element of a proposal is the personal connection it holds for the couple. It's essential to choose a location that resonates with your unique journey, memories and dreams. Whether it's a place where you had your first date, a spot that symbolizes your shared passions, or simply a location that feels right in the moment, let it be a reflection of your shared story.

In the end, Toronto, with its romantic essence, serves as a canvas. It's up to you to paint your love story on it, creating a moment that will be cherished for a lifetime.

Additional Tips

Best Times of the Year to Propose in Toronto:

Spring (April to June): As the city emerges from its winter slumber, the blossoming flowers and pleasant temperatures make spring a delightful time to propose. The gardens are in full bloom and outdoor locations are especially scenic.
Fall (September to November): The vibrant fall foliage, with its hues of orange, red, and gold, provides a picturesque backdrop for a proposal. The crisp air and cozy ambiance add to the romantic feel.

Hiring a Photographer for the Special Moment:

Capture the Moment: While the memory of the proposal will always be etched in your hearts, having photographs can help you relive and share that special moment with loved ones.
Plan Ahead: If you're considering hiring a photographer, discuss the location, time and any specific shots you have in mind. Many photographers offer special proposal packages and can provide guidance on capturing the moment discreetly.
Candid Shots: A skilled photographer can blend into the surroundings and take candid shots, ensuring the proposal remains a surprise.

Considering Privacy and Crowd Factors:

Off-Peak Hours: If you're choosing a popular location, consider visiting during off-peak hours or weekdays to avoid large crowds.
Private Venues: Some venues offer private sections or can be booked for special occasions. This can be ideal if you're looking for a more intimate setting.
Nature Retreats: Locations like the Toronto Islands or secluded spots in parks can offer more privacy compared to bustling city landmarks.
Inform the Venue: If you're proposing at a specific venue, like a restaurant or museum, inform the staff in advance. They can assist in ensuring you have a quiet spot and might even add special touches to make the moment more memorable.

Remember, while these tips can guide you, the most important aspect of a proposal is the love and commitment it represents. Choose what feels right for both of you and the moment will undoubtedly be perfect.

Ready to Make Your Proposal Unforgettable?

Discover the exquisite range of custom engagement rings and diamond jewelry at Kimberfire. From custom designs to ethically-sourced diamonds, Kimberfire offers unparalleled craftsmanship and value. Whether you're looking for a classic solitaire or a unique custom piece, our expert team will guide you every step of the way. Don't just propose, make a statement with a Kimberfire ring. Book your appointment today and experience the Kimberfire difference.

Top 3 Tips for Buying an Engagement Ring

Wed, 23 Nov 2022 22:44:42 GMT

So you’re ready to spend the rest of your life with one special person. Congratulations! As someone who has popped the question, I know how exciting this time is. I also know how overwhelming it can be. Planning for the future, finding that perfect ring, figuring out what you’re going to do tomorrow… it adds up. Mostly, though, it’s exciting. And there’s no reason why finding an engagement ring should be anything other than that.

I have a passion for diamonds. My specialty is helping a client find the perfect diamond and a beautiful ring to match. If you’ve had the chance to visit us at Kimberfire then you know that, above all, we appreciate the importance of selecting the best and brightest diamond possible – while being mindful of your budget and priorities. No couple needs unnecessary financial stress at any time, especially as they start their lives together. With that in mind, here are our top three tips for buying an engagement ring.

Know your budget and stick to it.

Whether you’re a seasoned executive or just recently finished school, only you know what you can afford to spend on an engagement ring. While this is an important purchase, nothing should come in the way of your financial security. Decide what you can comfortably spend and stick with it. An expert in the field can help you get the most out of your budget without sacrificing quality.

Figuring out an appropriate budget can be challenging, so do not hesitate to contact a jeweler you trust to discuss your options. Should you spend three months’ salary? Often no… but maybe. It depends. An engagement ring is a deeply personal gift representing much more than the amount paid. Stretching for a certain size or clarity may or may not be the right choice for you. However, if you or your partner have certain expectations, it may be worthwhile to consider a savings plan to get you there. We have created beautiful diamond rings for $2,000 for recent college graduates, to rings valued in the six figures for couples with years and stories behind them. I can assure you that you will be able to do well by your partner, no matter your financial ability.

Important side note – after working to save for such a valuable purchase, please remember to insure the ring immediately and at its full replacement value. This is a piece of jewelry that will be worn constantly (we hope!), and you want to make sure you are fully covered for loss and theft.

Maximize the visual appeal of the diamond.

When advising clients, our objective is usually to maximize the size of the diamond within a set budget or to minimize the price for a specific diamond size, in each case, without going below certain quality thresholds. Accomplishing this comes down to finding a balance between the main diamond-grading criteria – commonly known as the 4 Cs: Carat, Cut, Clarity, and Colour.

Carat is the weight of the diamond, which is directly related to its size. Maximizing the size of the stone is the main priority for most of our clients, but never at the expense of quality.

Cut is a measure of the shape of the diamond – specifically, how it compares to ideal proportions. A better cut maximizes the diamond’s brilliance, giving it that sought-after sparkle. We recommend keeping to “very good” or “excellent” cut diamonds. The brilliance of a well-cut diamond is what makes these stones so special and, because of that, we would never suggest that you sacrifice on cut.

Clarity is a measure of how clean the diamond is. Most diamonds have one or more inclusions (imperfections), some of which are visible to the naked eye. Finding a brilliant diamond with a small, non-visible inclusion is often possible. For that reason, we usually work with clients to find diamonds graded “SI” (slightly included) or “VS” (very slightly included). Generally, diamonds above this range (“VVS” – very very slightly included, and “IF” – internally flawless) are more expensive and require a sacrifice in size for a clarity difference that is not visible to the naked eye. On the other hand, a diamond graded lower than “SI” clarity will most likely have visible imperfections. Any size gained by going below this range isn’t worth it, as it rarely leads to a brilliant stone. Regardless of the clarity grade, evaluating the diamond with an expert you trust is essential.

Colour is a measure of how colourless the diamond is (the highest being D, then E, and so forth). Diamonds at the highest end of the colour scale sell at a premium, meaning you will have to sacrifice significantly on size or clarity to keep to your budget. On the other hand, venturing too low on the colour scale will leave you with an off-colour stone. We recommend the “F” to “I” colour range for a good breadth of selection, and to maximize the size of your diamond, while keeping to one that is sure to face up a brilliant white.

The grade is only as good as the grader.

Any diamond you buy should have a certificate that, amongst other things, grades the stone on the 4 Cs. Unfortunately, while there are many different diamond certification laboratories, only a few are known to have consistent, strict, and ethical standards.

Purchasing a diamond graded by even the most stringent lab doesn’t mean you should skip a diligent evaluation. However, buying a diamond graded by a lenient lab can be as risky as blindly picking one from a hat. The only two labs we trust and recommend for natural, earth-mined diamonds are the Gemological Institute of America (“GIA”), which developed the current industry standards, and the American Gem Society (“AGS”). Both of these labs are non-profits with reputations for being consistent and ethical in their evaluations. We accept International Gemological Institute (“IGI”) reports for lab-grown diamonds, as most are sent there for evaluation.

Ready? Are you still excited? Good, you should be! As a final bit of advice, make sure to find a jeweler that you trust. Of course, we would love to work with you on this big purchase and help you get the next chapter of your life started right.

Kimberfire is the brilliant way to buy a custom engagement ring and high-quality diamond jewelry . A technology-driven approach to sourcing diamonds directly from the manufacturer, custom jewelry manufacturing , and non-retail office space allows for the most competitive pricing, with the expertise, craftsmanship, and in-person experience of the highest-end jewelry brands. Contact us today to get started!

How Much Does a Custom Engagement Ring Cost?

Mon, 22 Nov 2021 22:41:39 GMT

Are you ready to ask the love of your life for their hand in marriage? Are you holding off until you can afford the perfect diamond engagement ring ? Are you looking to design a custom engagement ring ?

When the time comes to start your search, you’ll soon realize there’s no shortage of options. And that’s especially true if you’re open to a custom ring.

There’s no one-size-fits-all answer to the question of how much a custom engagement ring costs. There’s no set price, and in many ways, it comes down to one detail: your budget.

For example, if you’re on a tight budget, you can keep it simple with a smaller — yet stunning — centre stone and no extra diamonds.

However, if you have the available budget, you can build a more extravagant engagement ring.

That’s the beauty of a custom engagement ring. You’re paying a price you can afford for a ring that’s sure to knock your partner off their feet.

Is it Expensive to Have an Engagement Ring Custom Made?

The word “expensive” means something different to everyone, so it’s important to define your budget before shopping for an engagement ring (custom or not).

Where you’re purchasing the ring has a lot to do with the cost, but in some instances, you may find that a custom ring is more affordable than one that you choose off the shelf. Imagine that!

With Kimberfire, our clients get all the benefits of a one-off custom engagement ring designed just for them. Along with this, it’s our mission to provide the same quality and service as top brands in the industry, all at a fraction of the price.

What Are the Benefits of a Custom Engagement Ring?

The primary benefit of a custom engagement ring is obvious. You get exactly what you want in regards to design without having to make any compromises.

This is in addition to other benefits, including but not limited to:

Allocate budget toward what’s most important to you: Maybe you’re okay with forgoing side diamonds so you can put more budget toward a higher quality centre stone. Or perhaps you’re interested in a platinum ring, as opposed to gold. With a custom engagement ring, you can put every dollar where you want it. You don’t have to make concessions.
Fun and memorable experience: Anyone can walk into a jewelry store, choose something off the shelf, and make a purchase. And it’s even easier if you buy a “stock” ring online. But with a custom engagement ring, you bring excitement to the process. Not to mention the fact that it’s an experience you’ll remember forever.
The ability to match exact centre diamond measurements: You want a ring that fits your specific centre diamond measurements. “Close enough” isn’t good enough when it comes to an engagement ring. This is especially important for certain engagement ring styles, such as halo, with most people interested in a perfect fitting stone with no gaps.

Let’s put it this way: If you can dream it up, you can design it. There’s no limit as to what you can do with a custom engagement ring.

Final Thoughts

Don’t let any myths or misconceptions hold you back from designing a custom engagement ring. Now that you better understand price and benefits, you can decide if it’s time to go down this path.

And if it is, you’re in the right place. At Kimberfire, we manufacture custom engagement rings to ensure that you get what you want at a price you can afford. From the initial consultation to final delivery, we’re here to show you the way.

Natural vs. Lab-Grown Diamonds: What is the Difference?

Mon, 28 Jun 2021 21:33:52 GMT

Nobody has to tell you that diamonds are unique. That’s just one of the many reasons why they’re so special.

While natural diamonds have long been coveted for their value and beauty, there’s a new “product” in town.

Lab-grown diamonds are exactly what they sound like. Rather than being mined from the earth, they’re grown in a lab.

With the global market value of lab-grown diamonds on the rise, it’s more important than ever to understand the differences, misconceptions, and options as a consumer.

The Differences Between Natural and Lab-Grown Diamonds

At first glance — especially if you don’t know any better — you may assume that natural and lab-grown diamonds are one and the same.

However, as you learn more, you’ll come to find that there are a variety of differences.

Let’s start with the main one: Natural diamonds occur in nature. They’re also very rare. You won’t find these just anywhere in the world.

This is in contrast to lab-grown diamonds that are made in a factory. They’re only limited by production capacity, which has resulted in a large number of them making their way to market over a relatively short period of time.

As technology improves, lab-grown diamonds become cheaper to produce. Subsequently, prices continue to drop.

Add this to the fact that lab-grown diamonds are flooding the market, and it’s easy to see why consumers are taking notice.

Here’s the bottom line: Even though natural and lab-grown diamonds are the same material and composition, there’s no replacement for those that are found in nature. Rarity will always win out over mass production.

Lab-Grown Diamonds: Common Misconceptions

There are many myths and misconceptions associated with lab-grown diamonds, especially when compared to their natural counterparts.

The most common misconception is that lab-grown diamonds are identical to natural diamonds. This isn’t true no matter how you look at it. One comes from the ground, while the other is produced in a factory.

There’s also the myth that lab-grown diamonds don’t have a carbon footprint.

While it’s true that traditionally mined diamonds produce carbon, lab-grown diamonds don’t entirely eliminate this.

There are two ways to grow a diamond, both of which produce carbon:

High pressure, high-temperature (HPHT)
Chemical vapor deposition (CVD)

It’s true that there’s a smaller carbon footprint for lab-grown diamonds, but it still exists.

Natural Diamonds Do Good

We all know that natural diamonds are unique, beautiful, rare, and so much more. But that’s just the start.

There’s a not-for-profit organization — Diamonds Do Good — “whose mission is supporting programs that develop and empower people in natural diamond communities and sharing these stories of positive impact.”

Consider the following:

The diamond industry employs millions of people throughout the world.
The diamond industry serves as a pillar to many economies.

There’s even a film that details how Botswana benefits from the diamond industry.

How to Tell the Difference

To the naked eye, there’s no difference between natural and lab-grown diamonds. They look exactly the same.

But that doesn’t mean that they are.

An experienced gemologist can tell the difference between the two. They do this by searching for the presence of nitrogen, which is found in natural diamonds but not lab diamonds.

Also, many lab diamonds have unique fluorescence and/or a laser inscription, which are telltale signs that they did not come from the ground.

If you have questions or concerns about a diamond you own or a diamond you want to purchase, consult with a professional gemologist. It won’t take them long to examine your diamond and explain its origins.

Final Verdict

Despite the recent growth in lab-grown options, natural diamonds remain the king of the industry.

While natural diamonds hold their value — or increase over time — lab-grown diamonds continue to experience significant price declines.

For now, people are buying lab-grown diamonds for everything from fashion jewelry to engagement rings. However, as prices continue to drop, there’s a strong possibility that these diamonds will be associated primarily with lower-priced fashion jewelry and related items.

Simply put, there’s no replacement for a natural diamond. And that’s why (natural) diamonds are a girl’s (or guy’s) best friend!

That being said, there is nothing wrong with making an educated decision to buy a lab grown diamond, while knowing all the facts! While we recommend natural diamonds, if you still feel a lab grown diamond is right for you then we’ll be able to provide a beautiful and well priced selection – and we’ll make a stunning piece of jewelry with your chosen diamond.

We’re always happy to help with your decision, and we’re here to answer any questions and support you in any way we can.

Should You Spend Three Months’ Salary on an Engagement Ring?

Mon, 08 Mar 2021 22:27:12 GMT

You’ve found the love of your life and you'd like to take your relationship to the next level. That means one thing: it's time to buy an engagement ring for your forever partner.

At this point, there’s a lot of questions to answer, including diamond size, whether to opt for natural, earth-mined diamonds or lab grown diamonds , can you negotiate the price of an engagement ring , etc. These all boil down to the big question of - how much money should you spend on an engagement ring ?

There is a widely cited “rule” that you should spend three months’ salary on an engagement ring. This stems from a 1930s De Beers advertising campaign that convinced men to spend roughly one month’s salary on this purchase.

By the 1980s, one month’s salary was no longer the rule. It turned into two months. And today, many believe that a minimum of three months’ salary is a good starting point.

But Is It True?

Before we go any further, remember this: an engagement ring is all about love and commitment. While money always comes into play, it’s the thought that matters.

Let’s start with a few examples based on the three months’ salary rule:

Annual income: $30,000 – Cost of ring: $7,500
Annual income: $60,000 – Cost of ring: $15,000
Annual income: $120,000 – Cost of ring: $30,000

In Canada, the average cost of an engagement ring is $3,500.

For most people, that’s a far cry from three months’ salary. Think about it this way: $3,500 breaks down to a monthly salary of $1,166 or an annual income of roughly $14,000.

In other words, most people aren’t spending three months’ worth of salary on an engagement ring. In fact, with an average Canadian earning $54,630/year or $4,553/month, they aren’t even spending what they earn in one month.

Societal Pressure Can Weigh Heavy On Your Mind

Societal pressure is unrelenting. You see what your friends are paying for engagement rings. You see celebrities sporting rocks the size of a baseball, so much larger than the average carat size for an engagement ring . And of course, your online search turns up one “rule” after the next.

Additionally, internal pressure and stress have the ability to wear you out, cloud your judgment, and lead you down a dangerous financial path.

These tips can save you from caving to societal pressure:

Don’t associate the cost of an engagement ring with love or affection: It’s easy to believe that spending more shows the other person how much you care. This isn’t true. It’s all about your love for each other.
Don’t try to keep up with the Joneses: You don’t have to match the engagement ring that your best friend purchased for their partner. You don’t have to keep up with all those Instagram influencers who are showing off their sparkling diamonds. Do your thing and let them do theirs.
Do your research: It’s a common misconception that you have to spend tens of thousands of dollars (or more) to purchase a high-quality engagement ring. Do your research to learn more about your options. For example, if you’re buying a diamond engagement ring, cut, colour, and clarity always come into play.

So, What’s the Answer?

Even with all this information, you may still be wondering if you should spend three months’ salary on an engagement ring.

Here’s the best answer we can provide: it depends!

If you’re on a tight budget and three months’ salary is out of the question, don’t push your financial limits.

Conversely, if you’re comfortable spending three months’ salary or more, it’s perfectly acceptable to do so.

You don’t have to adhere to any rule when buying an engagement ring. Do what’s best for you, your financial circumstances, and of course, that special someone in your life. Also, don't forget that there are other expenses that will follow a proposal, most notably your wedding bands and the cost of the big day.

Whatever your budget may be, we’d love to help! Learn more about our made in Toronto custom engagement rings or view our latest creations on Instagram . Please contact us to schedule a virtual or in-office consultation .

We look forward to meeting you!

The Round Brilliant Cut Diamond

Mon, 24 Aug 2020 21:22:51 GMT

The round brilliant cut diamond is by far the most popular diamond cut. It is estimated that 50-75% of all diamonds sold are cut in this way. As its name implies, it is circular and displays an even, symmetrical brilliance. It is the most brilliant of all the diamond cuts, displaying the sparkle and fire that diamonds are prized for.

Origin of the Round Brilliant Cut Diamond

The original round brilliant cut diamond was developed in 1919 by Marcel Tolkowsky. His thesis, Diamond Design, established the ideal proportions that a diamond should have to maximize its brilliance and dispersion of light. The modern round brilliant cut differs slightly from Tolkowsky’s in that it has a larger table, smaller culet, and longer and leaner facets overall. These changes help to reflect the light that enters the stone, back out into the eye of the beholder.

The Many Facets of the Round Brilliant

The round brilliant cut has 58 facets, or 57 if there is no culet. The culet is a facet on the very bottom of the diamond that removes the sharpest point. Not all round brilliant cuts have this. The top part of the diamond is called the crown. It could be described as a window and frame to the diamond. The crown consists of one table facet, eight bezel facets, eight star facets, and sixteen upper girdle facets. The bottom part of the stone is called the pavilion. Its job is to redirect the light back out of the diamond. The pavilion consists of sixteen lower girdle facets, eight pavilion facets and one culet (if it has one). The girdle is the ring that goes around the widest diameter of the stone. It separates the crown from the pavilion. Most girdles also have small facets on them, but these are not counted in the total number. The facet count on the round brilliant cut is standardized, but the actual proportions are not universally agreed upon.

GIA Grading

The Gemmological Institute of America (GIA) spent 15 years studying how the light behaves in a round brilliant cut diamond. Their research used advanced computer modeling to analyze over 10k+ possible proportion combinations. They validated this research with the human eye, with over 70k+ observations on actual diamonds. GIA’s research resulted in the GIA cut grading system of a diamond, a 5-point scale from excellent to poor. Only round brilliant cuts have a GIA cut grade, as it conforms to a mathematical standard. The other diamond cuts, called fancy shapes, are more subjective and don’t have a one size fits all formula. The GIA studies how the diamond looks face-up as if it were set into an engagement ring. The proportions of the diamond are key, as the crown and pavilion angles and the relative measurements of the facets contribute to the sparkle of the stone. The highest classification for cut is triple excellent, meaning that the cut, polish and symmetry are all excellent.

Pricing

The round brilliant cut diamond is the most expensive cut by weight, in comparison to the fancy cuts. There are two different reasons for this. One is the law of supply and demand. As mentioned, the round brilliant cut is by far the most popular, and this high demand helps drive up the price. The second reason is because of how much of the rough diamond is lost during the cutting process. The natural diamond crystal is an octahedron shape, basically looking like two pyramids attached at the base. To manufacture a round brilliant cut, between 28-38% of the rough diamond is removed and wasted, raising the costs.

Despite the higher cost, the round brilliant cut remains at the height of its popularity due to its incomparable brilliance and fire. If you are in the market for a diamond and have trouble deciding which cut to get, you cannot go wrong with the round brilliant cut. It is a timeless classic that will never go out of style and is the diamond shape with the most sparkle!

How to Help Your Engagement Ring Diamond Appear Larger

Tue, 24 Sep 2019 21:13:02 GMT

Buying an engagement ring is one of the most significant purchases you will ever make, which is why it is so important to get something you love. Each person brings with them a unique set of preferences that will determine their perfect ring, and for a lot of people the thing at the top of that list is a large diamond. The influence of celebrity engagement rings and the rise of ring selfies on social media has everyone thinking bigger is better. But while we may desire the celebrity engagement rings, we don’t all have a celebrity budget. It is also important to not just purchase the largest carat diamond you can afford while fully ignoring the colour, clarity and cut. It doesn’t make a lot of sense to have a larger stone with noticeable flaws and inclusions in it. Whether opting for natural diamonds or lab grown diamonds , we recommend buying a high quality diamond in a size that works within your budget, and then using these design tips to help your stone appear even larger. The beauty of custom engagement rings is that you can design yours to work perfectly with your chosen diamond and preferences.

Taking a Fancy

Consider a fancy cut diamond instead of a round brilliant cut. While the round brilliant is the most popular diamond shape, it is also the most expensive. To produce the round brilliant cut a large portion of the rough stone is removed which increases the manufacturing costs. The high market demand also drives the price point up. You can expect to save around 25% on a fancy cut diamond with a carat to carat comparison. Elongated diamond cuts tend to look largest on the finger so look to oval, marquise and emerald cuts to make the biggest impact. Some fancy cut shapes do appear quite a bit smaller than round diamonds, weight for weight, however. So be sure to do a direct comparison and see what makes the most sense for you.

Hello Halo!

The easiest way to make your diamond look bigger is to add a halo around it. A halo is when the center stone is tightly wrapped in smaller diamonds all the way around. The halo tricks the eye into thinking that it is a part of the center diamond and therefore is seen as a much bigger stone. This is one of the reasons that halo engagement rings have been so popular for many years now. You can even add a double halo which takes up even more real estate on your finger and really makes a statement.

Cluster of Sparkle

One trend that has finally come back into style is that of the cluster diamond ring. A cluster ring is when multiple diamonds are set closely together to form a design, like a flower or starburst, or they can be set into a modern asymmetrical design. The emphasis is on the design motif, not on one single stone. The sparkle of all the different diamonds together makes the ring look quite significant and can be a lot less expensive than one single large diamond.

I’m with the Band

A thin band will make your diamond appear larger than if it was on a thick band. The eye is tricked into seeing the stone as larger in comparison to the band. Adding small pavé diamonds along the band can also highlight the contrast between the very small stones and the center diamond. A tapered band, which starts thicker at the back of the ring and becomes progressively thinner towards the center stone, also helps the center diamond really pop.

White and Bright

Setting the diamond into a white gold or platinum ring can also help it look larger as the prongs will blend more seamlessly into the diamond. This also helps for a halo ring as there will be less contrast between the center stone and the diamonds in the halo. If you have your heart set on a rose or yellow gold ring, you could have only the diamond basket be in a white metal, and the rest of the ring in your choice of gold.

The Perfect Ring

In the end remember that diamond size is only one factor to consider when engagement ring shopping, and that diamond quality and ring design are just as important when it comes to creating a beautiful ring. If size is important to you, these useful tips will help your diamond appear larger without the huge price tag. No matter what size of diamond, the perfect engagement ring is the one that is perfect for you and fills you with joy every time you look at your hand.

How to Personalize an Engagement Ring

Sat, 04 May 2019 21:03:09 GMT

An engagement ring is one of the most special and meaningful gifts a person will ever give or be given, so it goes without saying that it should be as personal as possible. Creating a custom diamond engagement ring in Toronto , or from anywhere in Canada, is one way to ensure the ring will be perfect for your special someone. There are so many different options to choose from when creating a custom ring, such as choice of metal, style of setting, diamonds or gemstones (or both!), how many stones and the style of the band. From these design elements come an infinite number of combinations that will result in your ideal ring. However, if you are looking to add a personal or sentimental element to the ring there are a number of ways to do that.

Inscriptions

Words are an easy way to add a personal touch to an engagement ring. This can be done with an engraving on the inside or outside of the ring. A romantic quote, a line from a poem or a lyric from a favourite song are all great ideas. If you are religious you can add an important verse from your faith. If your relationship is filled with jokes and laughter, you may want to engrave an inside joke that only the two of you will understand. With laser engraving you can even have your own handwriting engraved on the ring. The one thing to remember is that there is only a limited amount of space on the ring and you don’t want the writing to be so small that it is impossible to read. Keeping things short and sweet is the best way to get your message across.

Numbers

Incorporating significant numbers is another way many people choose to personalize their engagement ring. Having an important date engraved on the inside of the ring is one of the most popular requests. It may be the couple’s birth dates, the date they first met or the date of the proposal. Similarly people often get the date of their wedding day engraved inside their wedding bands. Location coordinates are another way to personalize with numbers, and these can be the locations of where you were both born, the place you met, or the place you now call home. The number of diamonds or gemstones used on the ring can also be personalized and meaningful. A two stone engagement ring celebrates friendship and love, while a three stone engagement ring symbolizes the past, present and future. Stones can even be used to represent the number of years you have been together, as in a five or seven stone ring, or in the number of small diamonds on the band.

Colours

People’s preference for certain colours is something that is totally unique to them which makes it a great choice for personalization. For jewellery, an easy way to add colour is by using coloured gemstones. The gemstone could be the main stone in a ring or used as the side stones in a three stone ring. Alternatively you could use small coloured stones to create a halo or accents along the band. If you prefer to be less conspicuous, the coloured stone can be set as a ‘surprise stone’, where it’s set underneath the main diamond and only visible when looking at the side of the ring. A very small gemstone can even be set inside the band and will not be seen at all when the ring is worn. Birthstones are a very popular option when adding a coloured stone to the design but you could also choose your partner’s favourite colour. The gem could also be chosen based on what the colour represents, such as green for nature or blue for the ocean. If you are adding a coloured gemstone it is important to ask your jeweller about the durability of the gem, as some stones are not hard enough to endure the everyday wear of an engagement ring.

Symbols

There are a few different ways that symbols or images can be added to an engagement ring, with one option being engraving. You could have your fingerprint engraved onto the ring to ensure that your partner will have an intimate one of a kind symbol of you. Or you can get your actual heartbeat engraved from an EKG reading, to show your partner that they will have your heart forever. If your partner is a nature lover you could have the ring decorated by a hand engraver who can carve scrolling vines and intricate leaves or flowers right on the outside of your ring. Another way to add details is with filigree, which is where very thin wires of metal are used to create decorative ornamentation. The filigree can be something abstract or used more literally to create letters, hearts, flowers, infinity symbols, love knots, Celtic crosses and the list goes on and on.

There are so many different options for making an engagement ring really personal, from gemstones, symbols and designs on the outside of the band to super private engravings and hidden gemstones on the inside of the band. When you have finally found a partner who you would like to spend the rest of your life with, it’s great to be able to gift them with an engagement ring that is as meaningful and significant as your commitment to one another.

If you’re already engaged or married, how did you personalize your engagement ring? Let us know in the comments below! And if you haven’t yet taken that step, we’re ready when you are – when the time is right learn more about Kimberfire and get in touch!

Engagement Ring Trends for 2019

Sun, 27 Jan 2019 22:01:11 GMT

With the start of a new year come predictions of what will be popular in the months ahead. At Kimberfire we work every day to help couples create their perfect engagement ring, which gives us firsthand knowledge of emerging trends. In general, bridal trends move slower and last longer than fast fashion trends, and can last anywhere from a few years to over a decade. While traditional rings featuring a round brilliant cut diamond or a solitaire setting aren’t going anywhere, we believe the following engagement ring styles are going to be huge in 2019.

Three Stone Rings

We can thank the Duchess of Sussex, Meghan Markle, for this one. After all the hype around the royal wedding last year, the three stone engagement ring has become extremely popular. Prince Harry designed Meghan’s ring which features a cushion cut center stone from Botswana, a country meaningful to the couple, and two round side stones from Princess Diana’s jewelry collection. The sentimentality behind the ring is quite fitting, as the three stone ring has always been full of symbolism. In fact another name for the three stone ring is the trilogy ring as it represents the past, present and future. This type of ring can look very traditional using three diamonds of the same shape, or it can look completely modern by using fancy cut sides stones, such as trilliant cut or pear cut. With a variety of stone arrangements, and the meaning behind it, this is a trend we see sticking around for a long time.

Fancy Cut Diamonds

Although the round brilliant cut diamond will always be popular, a lot of people are now interested in rings with fancy shape diamonds. The oval cut has seen a huge surge in popularity, as it has a similar brilliance to the round cut but appears larger at the same weight. The pear cut is another shape in high demand, which could have something to do with celebrities like Ariana Grande and Cardi B receiving pear cut engagement rings (let’s not talk about the length of their engagements).The pear cut is an unexpected choice and looks great with a fitted wedding band. Two other fancy cuts we are seeing more of are the emerald and marquise cuts. The emerald cut has a clean streamlined shape and looks great in a horizontal east-west setting, while the marquise cut appears feminine and dainty, fitting perfectly with a thin band.

Yellow Gold

Yellow gold has finally made a comeback since falling out of style to white gold and platinum in the early 1990s. They say everything will eventually come back in style, and yellow gold is no exception. What once seemed outdated now feels fresh and modern. The yellow gold trend started with minimalistic fashion jewelry but has since made its way over to bridal. The warm metal looks especially current when it is used in delicate and dainty designs, and the thin bands that have been in style for a while now. These styles really differ from the wide, bold yellow gold rings which were so popular in the 1980s.

Hidden Halo

When deciding on a engagement ring style, one of the big choices is between a solitaire setting or a halo setting. There is an option that can give you the best of both worlds, and that is a hidden halo. This type of ring looks like a solitaire when you are looking straight on it, but when the ring is tilted or looked at from the side there is a halo wrapping around the diamond. This option is great for someone who likes the classic look of a solitaire, but wants something a little different. The hidden halo is a delicate detail that gives the ring just a little more sparkle, which is why it is proving to be such a popular choice.

Double Bands

The double band ring is exactly what it sounds like, two bands on the ring instead of only one. This style of ring is unique and modern, which is exactly why so many people are drawn to it. These rings come in many variations, such as the two bands being far apart, close together, parallel to each other, angled or curved. The centre stone can be set between the two bands or on top of the two bands. A single stone, a halo set stone, or three stones can all look amazing in this style of ring. A double band ring uses negative space as a design element, and takes up more room on the finger, for those who want a ring that makes an impact.

Whether you’re looking for a more traditional ring or something unique and modern, these trends cover all the bases. If you are getting engaged in 2019, or know someone who is, then these are the styles you can expect to see a lot of this year.

Engagement Ring Shopping Together as a Couple

Sun, 11 Nov 2018 21:55:43 GMT

There was a time not so long ago when there was only one way to get engaged. The man in the relationship would decide when it was time to get married, secretly buy an engagement ring and surprise his love by getting down on one knee and asking for her hand in marriage. But times have changed and these days more and more couples are choosing to shop for a custom engagement ring together, instead of it just being up to the man. And let’s not forget that marriage is no longer just between a man and a woman and the traditional rules may not apply at all.

So now that we have options, how does one decide which proposal style is right for them? Do you choose to go the traditional way with the big surprise or the more modern route where you pick out the ring together? Let’s look at the pros and cons of picking out an engagement ring as a couple.

Pros and Cons of Engagement Ring Shopping Together

Pro: It avoids all the pressure from being on one person. It can be extremely stressful for the partner who is trying to pick out the perfect ring for their significant other. There are so many different factors to be decided when choosing a ring, from how much to spend, design style, metal choice, one stone or multi-stone, diamond or gemstone or synthetic stone, and the list goes on and on. Choosing an engagement ring together takes away the stress of buying the “wrong” ring, ensuring no regrets or disappointments.

Con: The proposal will not be a surprise. Having gotten engaged myself this year, I can tell you that the very first question everyone asks first is “Were you surprised?” and then wants to know EXACTLY how it happened. If you or your partner’s idea of a perfect proposal resembles something out of a Disney fairy tale or Jennifer Lopez rom-com, then not having that big surprise moment might be a letdown.

Pro: You know the ring will be the perfect. Forget about fairy tales for a minute, and let’s recall the infamous scene in Sex and the City when Carrie accidentally finds the ring that Aiden is planning to propose with… and barfs. If this scene is your biggest fear, then shopping for the ring as a couple might be the best idea. Only one person is going to be wearing the ring on their finger everyday for the rest of their life, so it is important that the ring is just right.

Con: It can seem less meaningful. It might seem like the decision isn’t as important or meaningful if the one partner didn’t spend the time and effort to find the perfect ring themselves. Of course, it is very romantic when someone picks out a ring for their significant other without them knowing and it ending up being their dream ring. However, most people need a bit of help from their partner, family or friends in figuring out just what the other person likes, and I don’t think that makes it any less meaningful.

Pro: Choosing together is about partnership. While it isn’t traditional, it can be very romantic for a couple to visit a jeweller together to pick out the perfect engagement ring. It is a big decision and making it as a couple can really help cement the fact that the two of you are a team. The moment you decide together that a ring is “the one” is a moment that you will remember forever.

Con: Knowing the price of the ring. If you decide to buy the ring together you will have to discuss the unromantic topic of how much you want to spend on it. Some people don’t feel comfortable disclosing how much they are going to spend on an engagement ring and prefer to not have their partner know the cost. Then there are couples who are very open about it and have decided together what they feel is the appropriate budget for an engagement ring .

To Buy the Engagement Ring Together or Solo?

Now that we have covered the pros and cons of buying an engagement ring together, I think an easy way to decide which route to take is to have a conversation about it with your significant other. Most serious couples discuss getting engaged at some point in their relationship, and you can ask your partner if they would like to be a part of the engagement ring buying process or if they would prefer a complete surprise. If you don’t want to ask them directly, their friends or family members should be able to lead you in the right direction.

There are also ways in which you can have a surprise proposal AND your partner’s input on the engagement ring. One option is going to a jeweller together and picking out or designing a ring, but not buying it that day. Then later you can go back secretly and purchase the ring and plan a whole surprise proposal. If you don’t want your partner to have any idea you are looking at engagement rings, you can also propose with a temporary “loaner” ring. You get to have the whole fairy tale surprise proposal, and when they say “Yes!” let them know that the ring is just a placeholder until you pick out their dream ring together.

These days there are so many options when deciding how to get engaged. Whether you want to go the traditional route or with something more unconventional, it’s about choosing the way that fits you best as a couple.

6 Romantic Summer Date Ideas in Toronto

Tue, 17 Jul 2018 20:52:48 GMT

Toronto is an amazing city with unique neighbourhoods, beautiful parks, great sports teams and a vibrant nightlife. But is Toronto a romantic city? Yes!!! You don’t need to fly off to Paris or Italy to find romance – it is right here! Whether you are looking for the perfect place to propose in Toronto , where to go on a first date with a crush, or are celebrating a milestone anniversary with your love, we have got the perfect list for you. Without further ado, here are our six ideas for summertime romance in The Six!

1) Sunrise Surprise

Just a 30-minute drive from downtown Toronto are the Scarborough Bluffs , 15km of natural cliffs rising 90 meters above the coast line. Wake up while it is still dark and travel to the Bluffs with your partner, then look eastward to watch the breathtaking view of the sun rising over Lake Ontario. Once it’s risen, travel down to Bluffer’s Beach and take an early morning stroll hand in hand across the sand beside the blue water. The beauty of the landscape will have you both feeling like you are on an exotic vacation without ever having to leave the city.

2) Feel Like a Kid Again

Every August Toronto hosts the Canadian National Exhibition , better known as The Ex, for 18 fun filled days. Embrace your inner child and take your date to experience all the rides, games and food. Show off your athletic prowess by winning them a stuffed animal at the arcade games (or have a laugh at your attempts). Enjoy a kiss at the top of the Ferris wheel and share a sweet (and deep fried) treat from the many options in the food building. In the evening take a ride on the Sky Ride , a sky lift that takes you above the entire fair grounds where you can cuddle up while watching all the action below.

3) Travel Back in Time

A favourite spot for romance is Toronto’s Distillery District , an area of Victorian-era heritage buildings and brick-paved roads that are pedestrian only and are filled with cafes, restaurants and trendy shops. Enjoy a cold drink with your love on one of the many European-style sidewalk patios and watch the people go by (there is a good chance you will see some wedding photos being taken). Sign your names to a lock and add it to the famous Love Lock installation (and of course take a photo of it for the gram!). In the evening the area is lit up with white fairy lights strung above the alleyways, making every moment feel magical.

4) Island Time

A short ferry ride from downtown takes you and your partner to the Toronto Islands where you can wander along nature trails or spend a day lounging on one of the beaches. You can also rent a canoe or kayak and enjoy Lake Ontario, while getting a spectacular view of the Toronto skyline. Another idea is to rent a tandem bike, which is a bicycle for two, and take some cheesy photos to laugh about. For a romantic dinner outdoors, pack a cooler of food and head to one of the many public BBQs beside the lake to enjoy your meal while watching the sun go down. You can then take the ferry back to mainland after dark.

5) Living the High Life

If you are looking for something extravagant to knock your date’s socks off, look no further than the luxurious Thompson Hotel . Book a stylish suite in this high-end hotel located in the trendy King West neighbourhood of Toronto. Guests of the hotel can enjoy the rooftop pool which is ranked as one of the top rooftop pools in the world! After a day of swimming in the sunshine hit up the rooftop lounge where you can enjoy live entertainment every weekend surrounded by 360° views of Toronto. If you want to explore outside the hotel (although you may never want to leave), the neighbourhood is filled with romantic restaurants and bars for you both to explore and get a true taste of Toronto nightlife.

6) Pink Sky at Night

There is nothing more romantic than watching the sunset after a summer day spent with the one you love. While Toronto has many beautiful spots to watch the sun go down, our number one pic is Riverdale Park East . Lay a blanket at the top of the hill, where you will get an amazing panoramic view of the sun setting over the Toronto skyline. The sky will be ablaze in oranges, pinks and purples until the night has come, and then the city’s buildings will light up the dark sky like twinkling stars.

Summer Lovin’

Summer in Toronto always feels special, probably because the season seems so fleeting compared to the winter. It’s also the reason that we get out of our houses and enjoy it so much! This city is filled with a seemingly infinite number of things to do, and I hope we have shown you how romantic Toronto really is. Let us know in the comments if you have a favourite romantic spot in this incredible city we call home!

If you want to ensure your summer date is extra special, consider showing up with a surprise in hand from Kimberfire's first ever line of ready-to-wear earrings and necklaces, the Gift Edit .

Photo credits: Simply Lace Photography

Am I Ready to Propose?

Sun, 22 Apr 2018 20:33:49 GMT

You have found an amazing partner and your relationship is going great. The two of you have even started to throw wedding talk into your conversations. You may have been together for many years, or only a short period of time, but you know you have found “the one”. Deciding you are ready to propose to someone is exciting and exhilarating, but also nerve wracking. I mean, marriage is a huge deal, and not something you want to rush into until you are confident in your decision. Knowing some signs that you are ready to propose may help you decide when to take the leap.

You love them just the way they are.

Do you love your partner not only when they are happy and having fun, but when they are sad, stressed, angry or hurt? Do you love them even though they are messy and never fold their laundry? Do you love them even though they are imperfect and have annoying quirks? Some people go into marriage expecting that their partner is going to somehow magically change overnight. People don’t change just because they get married, so make sure that you love and accept your partner the way they are now.

You are ready to commit.

Some relationships don’t end in marriage, not because the love wasn’t real, but because one or both partners didn’t feel ready to commit. Maybe you wanted to concentrate on your career and didn’t have the time to put towards your relationship. Maybe you weren’t sure what you wanted and decided to go backpacking across Asia to figure it out. When you are ready to commit you won’t want to put your career before your personal life, and won’t worry that there may be other fish in the sea. You will feel ready to jump in with all your heart.

Your friends and family support your decision.

It is important that you have the support of loved ones behind your decision. It makes life a lot easier when your family and friends accept and like your partner. This is especially important for very tight-knit families who spend a lot of time together, as your future spouse is going to become a part of the family. Also, it is a good sign when the people who know you best accept your choice. That being said, there are people who have married someone that their friends or family disapproved of, and they have gone on to have great marriages. While it is important to take into consideration the reasons your loved ones might disapprove, in the end you must make the decision that is best for you.

You have discussed children.

It is important to know how your partner feels about having children. Do they want them? How many? How soon do they want to start trying? And it is important to discuss what would happen if you were unable to have children. Would you try fertility treatments or look into surrogacy or adoption? Would they be ok if you never had any children? It’s necessary to have these conversations before you get married so that you are aware of your partner’s expectations and don’t run into conflicts in the future.

You can live together.

Going on romantic dates every Saturday night is a whole lot different than actually living with someone. Are you ok hanging out during the mundane moments of life, running errands, doing laundry, cooking dinner, or doing the dishes? Can you live with a messy person if you are a neat freak? Can you sleep in the same bed with a night hawk if you are an early riser? Will you be a team player and make compromises and try to make life comfortable for both of you? If the answer is yes, then you are on the right path.

You have discussed finances.

Yes, talking about money can make people uncomfortable, but if you are going to spend the rest of your life with someone you need to know the facts. Is one person in heavy debt while the other has been saving for years? Do you want to make a joint account or keep things separate? Does one person make more money and therefore will need to take on more financial responsibility in the marriage? These conversations can be awkward, but money is one of the biggest causes of stress within a marriage, so it is good to deal with any potential issues before you get engaged.

You can’t imagine life without them.

This is an important one. If you can’t picture yourself in the future without your partner by your side, it’s a good sign that you are with the right person. Go past the excitement of your wedding day and look further down the road. Is this the person who you want to go through all the ups and downs of life with? Do you see yourselves growing old side by side? If the answer is yes, then you probably don’t need any more signs.

Knowing that you are ready to propose ultimately comes from within you and shouldn’t be influenced by how long you have been dating, or if all your friends are getting engaged. It’s one of the biggest decisions you will ever make in your life, and one you want to make for all the right reasons. And when you are ready make sure to jump in with both feet, because it’s going to be the adventure of a lifetime!

If you ARE ready to propose and are looking for an engagement ring in Toronto , then you’ve come to the right place. With our virtual-first process, we are also able to serve clients across Canada. Engagement rings are our specialty and we’d love to work with you! We'll help you take care of all the big decisions, including whether natural or lab grown diamonds make the most sense for you.

Toronto Wedding Florist: Blush and Bloom

Mon, 19 Feb 2018 21:24:00 GMT

At Kimberfire we specialize in diamonds and diamond jewelry which means we are often the first stop in one’s journey toward the altar. Having the opportunity to create our clients’ engagement rings and wedding bands is a very special job, and it’s exciting to see people go from planning a proposal to planning a wedding. There are so many different businesses who work within the wedding industry, and we created this ongoing blog series to highlight Toronto-based wedding insiders who can help make your dream wedding a reality.

Recently I had the pleasure of meeting with Becky DeOliveira, the owner of popular Toronto flower studio, Blush and Bloom . I discovered Blush and Bloom on Instagram, where I became one of the 33K+ followers who couldn’t get enough of the stunning floral bouquets and arrangements that have elevated floral design to an artform. Blush and Bloom’s work has been featured in the magazines Wedding Bells and Today’s Bride , the blog Style me Pretty , and of course, in plenty of weddings! I sat down with Becky to learn more about her story.

Becky, please tell us a bit about yourself and your company Blush and Bloom.

From the moment I first held a flower I knew I would be a florist. I grew up surrounded by nature and my mother is an avid gardener, who always encouraged me to to go weed the garden or make a posie out of wildflowers. My mom was conditioning a florist in the making from aged 5 years old! From my years of watering annuals at a greenhouse, to delivering flowers, managing shops, and teaching classes this has always been who I am. Flowers are what I know.

The B&B mantra is to design, style and perfect every element of each event to reflect our clients’ personal style and aesthetic, and pair it naturally with our luscious garden style florals.

How many years has Blush and Bloom been in business?

Blush and Bloom will be 6 years young this summer, but I have been in the flower world for 18 years!

How did your education and/or previous job experience prepare you for running your own business?

Thankfully working for other people, and always holding management positions prepared me (only partially!) for the responsibilities of being a business owner. I think knowing the industry, especially in the world of perishable product is very, very crucial to not going broke! I don’t have a business background, or any formal entrepreneurial education, so the industry experience is all I have to credit the choices I’ve made so far. What worked for other businesses may not work for me, and I was lucky to see that when I was an employee and alter my business plan and approach. This being said, I always ask for opinions from other small business owners and keep a close network of female business colleagues at arm’s reach for advice.

What kinds of services do you offer?

We have a range of services including tabletop décor and florals, ceremony archways, ceiling installations, personal flowers and design recommendations to help our clients have an overall cohesive and flowing look. The price points and minimum spend vary depending on the season.

How would you describe the Blush and Bloom style, and where do you get your inspiration from?

B&B’s look is garden style florals with a fresh, and edgy twist.

I draw inspiration from other makers, designers, florists, fashion, textiles and patterns, landscapes and colour palettes!

What advice would you give to a couple who is looking for a floral designer for their wedding day?

Trust the professionals and interview several companies. Have a loose concept and 3 images of the feel (but not replication) of what you’re thinking for your event. Be open! You may not be able to get the exact product (or pricing!) that your budget allows for. Ask for suggestions from the pros, it’s our job to get creative!

In 2016 you started a sister business to Blush and Bloom, please tell us a bit about Bloom School.

Bloom School is a dream I have had for over 10 years. My hands-on experience comes from working under several designers, taking courses and volunteering. I never felt the programs I had invested in were up to date, it was only about technique and the end result was never a representation of what my personal style was. I always felt like someone young and fresh had to overhaul the education programs of the large “floral design schools” in Canada in order to better the new generation of budding designers. Bloom School amalgamates modern day floral design with desirable blooms to practise on, with a focus on how to design for photographing your work. We then advise on how to use that content to brand yourself and sell your style to your clients.

What are some continuing and new trends for wedding florals?

I think experimenting with colour is always a trend and a modern approach to weddings. The balance between wanting to be timeless but not all white can be a challenge, but also unique at the same time. Lush blooms paired with gestural dancing flowers with playful stems are always a favorite in our studio.

Do you have a favourite flower?

Can you ever choose a favorite child?! I have so many. The delicate stem of a scabiosa or a ranunculus, or the fullness of a fading peony… all so magical, it’s impossible to choose just one.

What is the most challenging aspect of your job?

Managing expectations and planning logistics. So much of what we do is planning and orchestrating… not just playing with flowers!

What is the most rewarding aspect of your job?

Looking at a room completely perfect after a 10-hour installation day with my hard-working team, after the clients see it and beam with happiness. That feeling is the most amazing reward of all time.

Have you ever had a floral disaster the day of a wedding or event, and if so how did you handle the situation?

After this long, no one could have a perfect record! Of course we’ve had accidents, miscommunications or day-of changes that weren’t anticipated. It comes with the gig! Luckily, we try to plan for the worst and always be prepared. Weather is usually a big aspect of how things can go south fast, so knowing rain plans and having weights for outdoor ceremonies are always, always a necessity to be able to roll with the punches!

Your social media pages are filled with stunning photography of your creations – how important is social media to running your business?

Very! I don’t have a strategy per say, but as the years go by the one thing I can say is that quality of photo/content is important. I like to have good lighting for photos and a clear idea of the shot before I go for it. I don’t spend all day curating photos and over designing our pieces, however, we do take 15 minutes a day to grab the best light and capture the “in the moment” designs we are creating for our clients. No grainy photos with bad light do any flower arrangement justice!

What sets Blush and Bloom apart from the competition?

I’ve had others tell me that it’s my ability to keep it real with our clients, planners and my staff. I put that foot forward in social media and don’t often filter myself. I think this gives the followers (and clients) the opportunity to get on the level of whatever is on my mind. I also tend to keep a balance of playful realness and show people that I can be pretty breezy and do not take myself so seriously. I like to have fun but be straightforward, and that is how I like people to approach me.

That aside, from a design perspective we are always pushing the envelope and setting new goals for this brand. I don’t like “copying” one client’s wedding and just “mass producing” because it’s what we know. We like a challenge!

Having been a part of so many weddings, what advice can you give to couples on how to get the most out of their big day?

Try to let the professionals handle the day of. That’s what you paid them for! Enjoy the day, it goes by so fast, and to spend it agonizing over details or trying to control every element is exhausting and impossible. It’s easy to get caught up in perfection and forget the main reason why you’re there in the first place, which is to get married to the love of your life, with everyone who loves you there to witness.

Thank you so much for taking time to share your company and insights with us.

Thank you, it was my pleasure!

Photo credits: Mango Studios , Tara McMullen , Scarlet O’Neill

The Ring Finger Through the Ages

Sun, 28 Jan 2018 21:19:42 GMT

Which finger does a wedding ring go on? Which one is the engagement ring finger? Which hand does the engagement ring and wedding band go on? At first glance these questions seem to have a very simple answer – engagement and wedding rings go on the fourth finger of the left hand. Easy right?!

Not so fast. Here in Canada as well as the US, Britain, France, Italy and many other countries, that is the traditional hand to wear your wedding rings, but this is by no means universal. The hand that you wear your engagement ring and wedding band on can be determined by culture, religion and geography. Let’s take a look at what has influenced current traditions.

The Vein of Love

Long before the engagement ring was the wedding ring, which has been traced back to Ancient Egypt. The Egyptians considered the circle to be a symbol of eternity, and the ring to symbolize eternal love. Various Roman sources claim that Ancient Egyptians wore their wedding rings on the fourth finger of their left hand, as they believed that finger has a vein that is directly connected to the heart. This vein is called the Vena Amoris (Vein of Love in Latin), and while it’s a lovely idea, it is not anatomically correct.

The Un-ROMAN-tics

The Romans continued the tradition of wearing their wedding rings on their left hand as they followed the Egyptian way. The Roman marriage was more of a business contract than a romance, with the ring signifying the transaction of the woman being passed from her father to her husband. This meant that the wedding ring was only worn by the woman and not the man. This pattern of only women wearing a ring continued for most of history, until around WWII when men also began to wear a ring.

The Right Side

As Christianity spread throughout the Roman Empire and beyond, the wedding ring began to be worn by those of the Christian faith. There is evidence that Catholics wore their wedding rings on the right hand during the early middle ages. This came from the belief that the right hand was spiritually more significant, as God blesses with his right hand and it is also used to make the sign of the cross. In 1054 AD the Greek Orthodox Church broke away from the Roman Catholic Church, and to this day Orthodox Christians still wear their engagement rings and wedding bands on their right hand. The influence of the Orthodox Church in Russia and most Eastern European countries means they also wear their rings on the right hand. Jewish wedding ceremonies began including rings in the middle ages and they also wore them on the right hand, however during the ceremony the ring was placed on the index finger where it was easier for witnesses to see.

The Left Side

In the 16th century the Protestant Reformation saw the Church of England break away from the Catholic Church. King Edward VI declared that the wedding ring must be worn on the left hand and the new church wrote a prayer book laying out the placement of the ring during the ceremony. The Protestant church chose the left hand because it wanted to distinguish itself from the Catholic practise of wearing the ring on the right hand. Since then the majority, but not all, of Western European countries have worn their rings on the left hand. England’s vast colonization spread this tradition to many parts of the globe.

Rules of Engagement

The concept of the engagement ring didn’t occur until 1215 AD when Pope Innocent III declared that there must be a waiting period between the engagement and the wedding to test the devotion of the couple to each other. However, it was only the nobility who were able to afford both an engagement ring and a wedding band. When wearing an engagement ring and wedding band on the same hand, the wedding band traditionally goes on first and the engagement ring second. This originally stemmed from an old superstition that once the wedding band was put on it must never be taken off. These days the wedding band is put on first so that it is closer to the heart.

Rings for All

While the Western part of the world has a long tradition with the wedding ring, many other parts of the world didn’t wear one at all. Traditionally, in Islam, Hinduism, Buddhism and Sikhism there was no ring included in the wedding ceremonies, although they had other symbols and/or jewellery they would wear. Today most cultures have added engagement and wedding rings to their rituals due to the influence of globalization. The hand these countries choose to wear their rings on often ties in to their traditional beliefs. In India they wear them on the right hand because that hand is considered auspicious and the left hand unclean. In China the woman wears her rings on her right hand and the man on his left, because the woman is the one who runs the household and the right hand exerts more influence.

And the Answer Is…

So to the question of which hand does your wedding ring go on, the answer is it depends on where in the world you live. As I live in Canada, everyone I know wears them on their left hand. But if I lived in Russia then they would most likely wear them on their right hand. Also, in most societies, both men and women wear a wedding ring, while engagement rings are still mainly worn by women. Despite these traditions, in today’s society there are no longer strict rules and if someone wants to wear their engagement ring or wedding ring on a different finger or hand, then they should do what feels right for them.

Before you or your partner can wear the engagement ring though (even if you know which finger it should go on!), there are many other questions that need answering. Perhaps start with " Should you spend three months' salary on an engagement ring? ". Enjoy the process!

Photo credit: Jeremie Dupont

10 Perfect Places in the World to Propose

Mon, 18 Dec 2017 21:12:46 GMT

There are so many romantic and beautiful places on earth that would make the perfect backdrop to a marriage proposal. So many places for an amazing story and a gorgeous photo to show off on social media! While to list all romantic places would be too numerous for one little article, I did put together a collection of what I think would be the perfect place to propose to different personalities.

The Foodie – Rome, Italy

For the food lover there is no greater spot to propose than in the eternal city of Rome . Italian food is one of the most popular and beloved cuisines on earth (pizza alone gets my vote for number 1) which makes it the perfect spot for a foodie. While sightseeing around the city make sure to get yourself a treat of their world famous gelato. There are also numerous food tours to take you to the best markets and restaurants the city has to offer.

For the big question you can sign up for a pasta making class with an Italian chef who will teach you how to make pasta by hand while you sip on delicious wines. When the lesson is finished you and your partner get to relax while you eat the meal that you have made together, and you can ask them to be yours forever. Afterwards head up to one of Rome’s hotel rooftop bars to watch the city while you sip on a glass of sparkling prosecco.

The Dreamer – Tenerife, Canary Islands, Spain

Is the one you love a deep thinker, who is always dreaming of a better tomorrow? Then why not whisk them away to the stars! Take a trip to Tenerife , the largest of Spain’s Canary Islands , just off the coast of North Africa. Once there take your loved one to visit Spain’s Mount Teide , a 10-mile-wide volcanic crater that is the highest peak in Spain, and is one of the best star gazing sites in the entire world. The universe has 88 constellations, and 83 of those can be seen from Mount Teide on a clear night. You can travel there part way by car and then a cable car will take you to the top for the view. There are numerous companies that will organize star gazing tours and prepare chef cooked meals and beverages while you are up there. Toast your loved one with a glass of Cava while you watch the amazing sunset, and then pop the question while you gaze at the wonders of the universe.

The Book Worm – Dublin, Ireland

Is your special someone the type who loves to get lost in a good book? Is a library the most romantic spot for them? If so head over to Dublin and visit Trinity College , where you can both walk the cobblestone streets of Dublin’s most famous institute. The college produced many famous literary talents, like Samuel Beckett, Oscar Wilde and Bram Stoker. You must visit The Long Room , a library that contains over 200,000 books including the Book of Kells which was a manuscript created by Irish monks over 1200 years ago. The beautiful room of old books, dark oak bookcases and marble busts of great philosophers and writers is the perfect spot to get down on one knee. To celebrate your new engagement, walk over to The Brazen Head , the oldest Pub in Dublin, and enjoy a pint like the writers James Joyce and Jonathan Swift did many years ago.

The Beach Bum – Fiji

There are lots of people who love being at the beach, and for whom a beach proposal would be amazing. But how about taking it to the next level with your own private beach in the middle of the ocean! In Fiji there are three small islands – Nukubati, Treasure Island and Royal Davui Island. When you stay at one of these islands, the hotel will provide you with a private picnic on a sandbar! You and your partner will be whisked away by boat and taken to your own private sandbar in the middle of the South Pacific Ocean, and given chairs, a table and a champagne lunch. You are then left to yourselves for the rest of the day where, on your own little beach, you can ask for your partner’s hand in marriage.

The Prince or Princess – Prague, Czech Republic

Does your partner think that they are real life royalty? Do they wish they could be in every Disney fairy tale? If so, then consider proposing at a real life castle in Prague, Czech Republic! Prague Castle is one of the oldest and largest castles in the world. Construction first began in the year 870 and features architecture in both Gothic and Roman styles. After touring the castle, you can head outside to stroll around the many gardens with views of the city and river and then get down on one knee to ask the big question. To celebrate the happy moment head over to Saint Wenceslas Vineyard, an ancient vineyard on the castle grounds, that was restored in 2008. Sip from a glass of wine on one of the terraces and enjoy the beautiful surroundings.

The Christmas Obsessed – Quebec City, Canada

We all know that one person who can’t wait until December 25th and who has their tree and house all decorated at the beginning of November. If you are in love with someone like that, then there is only one place to propose… Quebec City ! With an average snowfall of 400cm, each winter the city is transformed into a winter wonderland. Starting in early December Old Quebec is turned into an old fashioned Christmas village, straight out of Charles Dickens’ “A Christmas Carol”. Twinkling lights, evergreen trees and a sparkling snowfall make for the absolute perfect holiday proposal. Afterwards head over to the landmark hotel Fairmont Le Château Frontenac to warm up with some hot chocolate while you admire all the decorations.

The Fashionista – Paris, France

If you are in love with someone who loves everything about fashion, then the place for their perfect proposal is surely Paris ! Paris is the place where both the first fashion designer made his name and haute couture was born. Coco Channel, Christian Dior and Yves Saint Laurent were just a few of the many designers who called Paris home.

Take your partner to Paris’ Golden Triangle, located between three famous boulevards, Avenue des Champs-Élysées, Avenue Montaigne and Avenue George V. Here you will find luxury shopping, legendary hotels and restaurants. Take a break right in the middle of the action at L’Avenue , a café where you will get the best view of Paris’ fashionable people. Both the Arc de Triomphe and the Eiffel Tower are a short walk away from this area, and excellent places for a proposal. While there will be lots of tourists around, a true fashion lover will want all eyes on them for this big moment.

The Outdoor Adventurer – Big Island, Hawaii, USA

For those people who hate being stuck indoors and love to keep active, head over to Hawaii’s Big Island for an amazing adventure. On the north shore of the Island you will find the Waipi’o Valley , where ancient Hawaiian royalty are buried. This lush valley features 3000 ft. cliffs covered in taro fields, lotus ponds, streams and waterfalls. You can travel through the valley by 4-wheel drive, hiking or horseback riding with guides. Whichever way you traverse the terrain will not be an easy path, however the life affirming beauty of the views will be well worth it. Where the valley meets the ocean is a black sand beach, where you can propose to your love while wild horses run along the sand.

The Film Buff – New York City, USA

If your partner would like nothing more than a proposal straight out of a movie, look no further than New York City ! Some people might be surprised I didn’t say Hollywood but, while Tinseltown is where the movies are made, there is just something so magical about the city that makes you feel like you are in a movie. Whether it’s a kids movie like Big and Home Alone, gangster classics like The Godfather and Goodfellas, or romantic favorites like When Harry met Sally, Sleepless in Seattle or Breakfast at Tiffany’s, the Big Apple is where it’s at! And it isn’t just the movies, NYC is the home of classic tv shows like Sex and the City, The Sopranos, Seinfeld and Friends. Wherever you decide to pop the question, strolling through Central Park , in the hustle of Grand Central Station , on the observation deck of the Empire State Building or right smack dab in the middle of Times Square , you will feel the cinematic romance of the city that never sleeps.

The Animal Lover – Kenya, East Africa

If no proposal sounds complete without animals nearby, head to Kenya and visit the Lewa Wildlife Conservancy . This conservancy is home to a diverse group of wildlife such as lions, elephant, giraffes, gazelles, impalas, and warthogs, and is famous for its conservation efforts of the Black Rhino and Grevy’s Zebra. At the Lewa Safari Camp you can stay in one of twelve tents that are finished like luxury bungalows, with thatched roofs, en suite bathrooms and verandas with views of the plains and animals. The central portion has a dining and lounge space with a fire pit and swimming pool. After a long day exploring the area you can head back to the camp and propose during a sundowner – a safari tradition where you watch the spectacular sunset across the plains while enjoying a cocktail. It is said that this is the place where Prince William proposed to Kate Middleton and, if it’s the perfect place for a royal proposal, it’s definitely good enough for me!

Your Perfect Spot

Now that I have compiled my list of perfect proposal spots, I really could use a romantic vacation of my own! These places are romantic, meaningful and beautiful and you really couldn’t go wrong with any one of them. However, there are lots of other places that may be romantic because they have special meaning to you as a couple, such as the place you first met or the place you realized you were in love. Or maybe the place you choose to propose doesn’t have to be significant, maybe it matters more that the moment feels right. There is no right or wrong way to propose, and each couple should do what works for them. I would be just as happy getting engaged to the one I love sitting on the couch at home as I would be on my own private beach. That being said, I would still like to go to that beach!

Now that you've decided to pop the big question, you need a ring! Whether you are looking for custom engagement rings in Toronto or you live somewhere else in this beautiful world, we can help you with our virtual-first custom engagement ring design process. If you've already purchased your engagement ring you haven't missed the Kimberfire boat - we also specialize in women's wedding rings and men's wedding rings , which you'll need for the big day.

Where did you, or are you hoping to, get engaged? Where is your perfect place? Let us know in the comments below!

Engagement Ring Size and Resizing: What You Need to Know

Sun, 26 Nov 2017 21:09:24 GMT

You have found the one with whom you want to spend the rest of your life, and are getting ready to pop the question. You researched diamonds and ring designs and are ready to buy the perfect engagement ring . But wait, there is one thing you don’t know – their ring size! Unlike a necklace or earrings, rings are one piece of jewelry where size really does matter. But don’t let the fact that you don’t know the correct ring size derail your engagement plans – we are here to give you all the information you need to know about assessing ring size and resizing a ring.

Ring Sizes

In Canada and the United States ring sizes follow a numerical scale which is based on the inner circumference of the ring. They come in full sizes, half sizes and quarter sizes. The average size of a lady’s ring is in and around a size 6, and the average size of a men’s ring is between size 8 and 10. However lots of people fall outside these numbers, with smaller or larger sizes needed.

Figuring Out the Engagement Ring Size

If you are trying to figure out your partner’s ring size before buying a ring, there are a few ways you can attempt to do this.

Asking friends or family members can be a good way to find out. If you can covertly borrow a ring your partner wears and bring it to a jeweler, then they can measure the ring on a mandrel (a conical metal sizing tool) to find the correct size. However, the ring you borrow will need to be worn on the correct finger and be a similar width, or else the sizing will be off.

If you and your partner have talked about getting engaged, you can always stop by a jewelry store at the mall together and get their size “for in the future”.

Many online sites suggest wrapping a piece of paper or string around their finger while your partner sleeps, but this is not reliable enough to get an accurate reading.

If you do not know your partner’s actual ring size though it is not a problem for an experienced jeweler. At Kimberfire we help our customers estimate the ring size and then after the proposal we resize the ring to be the perfect fit, at no charge.

Professional Ring Sizing

After your best efforts to figure out the ring size, the perfect ring may still not be the perfect fit. Don’t sweat the small stuff (or the too big stuff) because your jeweler is here to help. When you come to get your engagement ring sized we will check the size of the current ring and then place various sized ring sizers on the finger. The ring sizers come in full and half sizes, but the ring can be sized between the two sizes as well.

There are some things that need to be taken into consideration when deciding what size is the right fit:

A wider ring will fit tighter than a thinner ring.
Temperature will affect your ring size, as fingers often swell in summer heat and shrink in cold weather.
Your finger can fluctuate in size through the day depending on temperature and water retention.
Adding another ring beside the ring (like a wedding band) will make the rings feel tighter as they cover more surface area.
A ring should slide easily over the knuckle when going on, and there should be some pull when you take it off.
Ring sizing is not an exact science as it really depends on the finger shape and how the person likes the ring to feel on their finger.

Something else to consider is that some people have knuckles which are much wider than the base of their finger, and this can cause the ring to spin around when worn (this is especially true for larger stones and top heavy rings). To counteract the spinning a jeweler can add sizing beads inside the ring, which makes the ring feel a bit tighter but still makes it possible to fit the ring over the knuckle.

How the Jeweler Resizes the Ring

There are two ways to resize a ring. The first is by placing the ring on a metal ring stretcher or compressor and using force to either stretch or compress the size. This method usually only works for plain wedding bands and cannot be used for rings with diamonds or gemstones, or those with intricate details.

The second method involves cutting the ring. To make a ring larger the ring is cut at the very bottom, and the two sides are moved further apart from each other. A new piece of metal (the same type of metal the ring is made of) is then added and soldered into place. The jeweler then polishes the ring so that the new area is undetectable. To make a ring smaller, the ring is cut at the base in two places and a piece of metal is removed. Then the two sides of the ring are brought together, soldered and polished. Don’t be alarmed at the thought of your ring being cut and set on fire – ring sizing is a routine process and a professional jeweler should be able to resize the ring without affecting its durability and without anyone being able to detect that the ring was altered in any way.

Potential Ring Resizing Issues

If you need to resize a ring more than two full sizes, you may run into problems depending on the ring’s design. Rings with intricate wire work or filigree will probably be too fragile for a large size change. Rings with gemstones set in them have to be resized very carefully so that the angles don’t change to the point that the stones are misaligned or fall out. In general, too great of a size adjustment can destroy the structural integrity of the ring and leave it misshapen or vulnerable to breakage.

If a ring has been resized more than a couple times it may run into issues such as thinning of the shank, and of the prongs if there are diamonds on the shank. If this happens the ring may need to be remade in the correct size.

Eternity rings with diamonds or gemstones encircling the entire ring cannot be sized. It is not recommended to buy this style of ring without knowing the correct ring size.

Men’s rings that are made in titanium, tungsten, ceramic or stainless steel may be extremely difficult or impossible to size and again are not recommended to buy without knowing the right size.

If your ring has an engraving on the inside or outside of the ring shank, it is very possible that it will be destroyed during sizing, and will have to be removed and completely redone.

A reputable jeweler should explain all these possible issues with you before any resizing is attempted.

The Perfect Fit

Once you have found the perfect size for your ring, it should be comfortable and secure. You shouldn’t worry about it falling off your finger or not being able to come off when you want it to. You can now wear your ring with confidence and show that beauty off to the world.

How Memorial Diamonds Are Made

Sun, 29 Oct 2017 19:55:04 GMT

As we approach Halloween, the Kimberfire team has been caught up in haunted houses, costumes, candy, pumpkin (spice), and the mystery that cloaks this festive season. Inspired by this, we thought we would explore a more unusual diamond concept in this month’s blog: memorial diamonds.

Memorial diamonds are lab created diamonds that are made from the ashes or hair of a person who has passed away. While this is not something we offer at Kimberfire, we do find it fascinating…

A Memorial Diamond?

Yes, it is possible to create a diamond out of the ashes or hair of a deceased loved one. Not so surprisingly, when I told a couple of friends I was writing a blog about memorial diamonds they were shocked that it was possible. Some were intrigued, while others were uncomfortable with it. The truth is, it may never be fully accepted as a mainstream option. However, the reviews from people who have chosen to create a memorial diamond are overwhelmingly positive and it has brought them comfort during their mourning process.

Memorial diamonds are only offered through a small number of companies, as it is a highly complex and technical process. The four memorial diamond companies that I researched for this blog were Algordanza and Lonité , based in Switzerland, and LifeGem and Eterneva which are based in the United States. These companies are aware of the sensitive nature of their work, and treat both the deceased and their loved ones with the utmost respect.

Growing a Diamond in a Lab

How does this process work? Well it all starts with carbon, the element that a diamond is composed of. It has been determined that the human body is made up of approximately 18.5% carbon. When a body is cremated most of the carbon escapes as carbon dioxide, but 1-5% of the carbon remains in the ashes. This carbon is extracted and made into a diamond using the same process that is used to create other lab grown diamonds.

Lab grown diamonds possess the same characteristics as natural diamonds but are created in man-made conditions above the earth instead of natural ones below the earth’s surface. Lab grown diamonds were first invented by scientists in the 1950s when they were able to replicate the same environment in which diamonds are formed deep in the earth.

There are two methods by which lab grown diamonds are created, either the High Pressure High Temperature (HPHT) method or the Chemical Vapour Distribution (CVD) method. The HPHT method places a carbon source, a small diamond “seed” and a metallic solvent in a large press which is then placed under extreme pressure and high temperature to produce a diamond. The CVD method starts with a diamond seed planted in a chamber where it is exposed to a gas such as methane. The gas is then activated and broken down by microwaves which cause the carbon atoms to accumulate on the diamond seed. Both these methods were only able to produce very small diamonds up until the last ten years. New technology is now growing larger diamonds, and is also able to produce colourless diamonds. This is opposed to coloured diamonds which are much easier to grow in a lab.

Memorial diamonds are created using the HPHT method.

The Memorial Diamond Creation Process

The companies that I looked at all use similar processes to create their memorial diamonds. First, they need between 100-500g of ashes (amount differs by company). If you do not have this amount then you can also send them hair, as hair also contains carbon. The ashes and fur of pets can also be turned into diamond using the same process.

The carbon is extracted from the ashes by heating them up to extremely high temperature over a period of days and then further purifying them using acidic chemicals. The carbon purification system often leaves traces of nitrogen or boron, other elements found in the human body. Carbon with traces of nitrogen will create a yellow or amber coloured diamond, while traces of boron will create a light blue diamond. Blue memorial diamonds are the most common type, as boron is extremely difficult to extract from carbon. Red, green, pink and purple diamonds can be created through further manipulation of the carbon, usually through irradiation. Black memorial diamonds are actually a very dark green colour which, to the naked eye, appears black. To produce a colourless diamond all other elements must be removed from the carbon, which is an extremely difficult procedure.

The purification process turns the carbon into graphite. The graphite is then packed into a cell with a metal catalyst and diamond seed, and put into an HPHT press. After a period of time (it takes longer for larger stones, as well as colourless ones) the press is opened and the cell of graphite is cracked open to find a rough diamond inside. From this point the diamond can be left as a rough crystal or can be cut and polished by a gem cutter. It is then either delivered as a loose diamond or made into a piece of jewelry.

The total time it takes to create a memorial diamond is between 4 and 9 months. The price ranges from between US$3,000 to US$20,000, with larger sizes and colourless diamonds costing the most. The price also reflects the expensive machinery and precise lab work which goes into creating these diamonds.

A Diamond, Like a Memory, is Forever

One reason to create a memorial diamond is that it is a wearable memento of a loved one, and something that can be taken with you wherever you go. It can also be passed down through the generations and shared with other loved ones. Whatever their individual reasons, people often find meaning in different experiences and in different ways. Only you know if a memorial diamond is right for you.

Images: Algordanza

15 Memorable Marriage Proposal Ideas

Mon, 21 Aug 2017 19:47:15 GMT

You have fallen deeply in love with someone and have decided you want to spend the rest of your life with them. You know this person will be the perfect partner to grow old with, and you buy a ring. You are so excited to propose and cannot wait, except for one small thing…. you don’t know how you are going to ask the question! I am here to help with some creative proposal ideas and, in case my ideas aren’t for you, I’ll also guide you to some expert advice. Let’s start with the ideas...

First Date Memories

Take your love to the place where you had your first date, where you can sit and reminisce. You can present the ring once you are both feeling nostalgic, bringing your relationship full circle.

Beach Time

Go to a nice beach together and when you arrive have “Will you marry me?” written in the sand or with pebbles. The location and message will be the perfect backdrop for all your proposal photos.

Furry Best Friend

Are you a doggy parent? Writing “Will you marry me?” on your dog’s collar or on a sign around it’s neck is a sure-fire way to get a yes!

In the Clouds

Propose in the sky! Hire a small airplane to fly an aerial sky banner or sky-write your proposal in the clouds.

Scavenger Hunt

Create a personalized scavenger hunt around your home, with each clue bringing your partner closer to the ring.

Jumbotron

Propose on the scoreboard during a sporting event. Note that this is only a good idea if the person you are proposing to is a huge fan of the team, and crowds!

Surprise Street Art

Have a street artist or caricaturist draw you and your partner on the street, having previously arranged for them to incorporate your partner’s name and “Will you marry me?”. When the artist presents the finished drawing, it will be a huge surprise.

Holiday Love

December holiday proposals are extremely popular, and no proposal list would be complete without them. Luckily, I previously wrote a blog covering the topic of fantastic holiday proposal ideas .

The Highest of Heights

Propose at a great height, whether it be on a mountaintop or a rooftop patio. If you want to take it even further, go on a helicopter tour or up in a hot air balloon. Something about being high up with the one you love is so romantic.

Meal Time

Say it with food. Take your love to a romantic restaurant and have the chef write the proposal on the dessert plate. Perhaps cook up a gourmet meal at home to pop the question. Are you proposing to a coffee lover? Have a custom mug made with the question inside at the bottom, so your message is revealed as they finish drinking.

Game Time

Play a trivia game with your partner and have one of the trivia cards ask “Will you marry me?”. Alternatively, put together a puzzle that has the same question, so they don’t see the message until it is complete.

Ferris Wheel

Take a ride on the Ferris wheel at a fair or amusement park, and have the operator stop when you reach the top. Then pull out the ring and ask your question.

Photo Book

Create a photo book of memories the two of you have had together. When they reach the last page, have a photo of you on it holding a sign that says “Will you marry me?”.

Fireworks

Proposing during a fireworks display is always a great time, as it is usually a public holiday and everyone is enjoying themselves. It also guarantees your partner will be looking up at the sky and won’t notice when you kneel down and pull out the ring.

Parisian Elegance

In front of the Eiffel Tower! Okay, I know that not everyone can afford to fly to Paris just to propose, but there is no more romantic place to be than in the city of lights. It’s a classic for a reason. If taking a trip isn’t in the cards, then perhaps re-create the setting in your home town. You can set up your living room like a French bistro, complete with a live violinist and fairy lights.

So those are my ideas and while I think it’s a great list, I know that some people are looking for something different. Maybe you want something a bit more personal and customized. Perhaps you want a professional photographer waiting to catch the moment. Or perhaps you don’t know what you want at all and you need someone to help guide you. Well did you know there are professional proposal planners who offer that very service?

Luxe Proposals is a luxury proposal planning company which serves Toronto and Vancouver. They offer customized ideas, full service design and coordination to bring your proposal vision to life. You just email them with your proposal date and a brief description and they will help create your perfect proposal. You can choose from one of their signature packages or have it completely customized. They will create a step-by-step itinerary and will make sure your proposal is kept a surprise. Those who are looking for a truly unique and luxurious proposal need look no further than Luxe Proposals.

There will also be people who don’t want a huge elaborate proposal, but prefer something very simple and sweet. To them I’d say, do what suits you and your relationship best. In the end, the proposal is just the very beginning, and there will be much more to come in your adventures together.

The Do’s and Don’ts of Engagement Ring Maintenance

Thu, 20 Jul 2017 19:20:26 GMT

You’re recently engaged and it was the most romantic moment of your entire life. You are thrilled to make a lifetime commitment to the one you love and are filled with joy. And let’s not forget your new engagement ring! It’s so beautiful and sparkly that you just can’t take your eyes off it. You can’t believe you are lucky enough to get to wear a diamond ring like this every day of your life. But then you begin to wonder, how am I supposed to take care of this ring? Am I allowed to wear it swimming? Can I work out with it on? All these questions are running through your mind. At Kimberfire we are engagement ring specialists and we want to help answer all your questions about keeping your ring in tip top shape!

DO get your engagement ring insured.

Your engagement ring was most likely a large purchase and one in which you would be very upset if it became damaged or lost. Insurance will give you peace of mind that if something happens to your ring you will be able to replace it with something just as beautiful. Some people can add their engagement ring on to their homeowner’s insurance, and if you go this route please make sure the insurance covers the ring even when it is outside of the house, as it is not always covered otherwise. Another option is to use an insurance agency such as Jewelers Mutual , which offers specialized insurance for jewelry.

DON’T take off your ring when you are out in public.

Taking off your ring and leaving it somewhere by accident is one of the easiest ways to lose your jewelry. Always keep it on your finger until you are back home, and then try to keep it in the same place every time you take it off.

DO clean your ring at home.

One of the most common questions we get from our clients is how to keep their ring clean in between professional cleanings. Well the answer is simple! Buy yourself a brand new, soft-bristle, baby’s toothbrush, and brush the ring in warm water with a little drop of dish detergent and then rinse it clean. This will remove the built up dirt and grime and keep your diamond sparkling.

DON’T wear your ring when cleaning the house.

While household cleaners work wonders on the house, the harsh chemicals in bleach, chlorine and acetone can erode the metals in your ring, while powder cleaners contain abrasives which will scratch the metal.

DO get your ring checked if you notice a diamond has become loose.

You may notice your diamond makes a small clicking sound when you tap the ring near your ear, or you may be able to spin the diamond with your finger. In either case it’s best to stop wearing the ring and take it to your jeweler to get it tightened. Stones can become loose due to prolonged wear over the years, or they can become loose by the metal accidentally being hit or dinged. Your jeweler should be able to get the stone tight and secure for continued wear.

DON’T wear your ring to the gym.

While some physical activities like aerobics will probably not hurt your ring, there are some exercises that most definitely will. A common cause of ring damage is weight lifting. The steel of the weights is harder than both platinum and gold and can make hammer like dents in the metal. Heavy weight lifting can also distort the shape of the ring so that it is more of an oval instead of round. When the metal becomes distorted it may cause the prongs on the diamonds to become loose and a stone may fall out. Golf and tennis are two other sports which can cause a great deal of damage to your ring.

DO have your ring professionally serviced once a year.

Your jeweler should clean and examine your ring once a year to make sure the diamonds are secure. Every few years you may want to get your ring re-polished if it is quite scratched up. Those who have white gold rings may want their ring re-plated with rhodium to get it back to its bright white colour.

DON’T wear your ring swimming.

An easy way to lose your ring is in the water when it is more slippery on your finger, and you may not notice while you are playing in the waves. Pools and hot tubs are no better as prolonged exposure to chlorine can cause damage and discolouration to white gold.

DO show off your ring proudly.

Your engagement ring is a symbol of love and commitment and you should share that with the world!

Hopefully these tips will help you keep your ring looking as beautiful as the day it was received, as we know it is something very precious and special to you. If you have any other questions about ring or diamond care please contact us at Kimberfire and we will be glad to help.

Toronto Wedding Cakes: Truffle Cake & Pastry

Mon, 26 Jun 2017 19:15:52 GMT

At Kimberfire our specialty is diamonds and diamond jewelry, which means many of our clients are getting engaged and/or married when we first meet them. Our ongoing blog series, in which we feature Toronto-based wedding insiders, was created with the intention of spreading the word on other amazing companies who can help you realize your dream wedding.

Recently I had the pleasure of meeting with Christina Wong of Truffle Cake & Pastry , a very popular Toronto cake and dessert company. Truffle Cake & Pastry’s stunning desserts have been featured in magazines such as WedLuxe , Elegant Wedding, Today’s Bride, Lavish Dulhan and Wedding Belles. They have also been showcased on “Breakfast Television”, “The Social”, and the blog “Style me Pretty”. On top of all that Truffle Cake & Pastry’s Instagram account is followed by over 13K followers who cannot get enough of her edible works of art. I wanted to learn more about Christina and her company.

Christina, please tell us a bit about yourself and your company Truffle Cake & Pastry.

I am a self-taught cake designer who followed a hobby-turned-passion into a small business. Truffle Cake & Pastry is where you come for customized cakes and sweets for anything from a dinner party with friends and family, to dessert tables for a gorgeous wedding!

How did you get started in this business, and how long has Truffle Cake & Pastry been open?

Truffle Cake & Pastry was a bit of a fluke; I went to University for Microbiology and Immunology! I started the business on the side of a full-time job not long after finishing school, about 11 years ago (wow, now I feel old). I have been running Truffle Cake & Pastry fulltime for almost 10 years. It all just started with weekend baking for fun. I would bring extras into work and people started asking me to bake for their family get-togethers, and my department would ask me to bake for departmental celebrations. Up until last year, I worked alone, with the occasional help from my wonderful family and friends. I was finally able to hire someone to help me last year… and it has definitely been a game changer.

How did your education and/or previous job experience prepare you for running a dessert business?

I was in a very demanding program at The University of Western Ontario so you had to be on your game and you had to make the most efficient use of your time as possible. That, along with clean lab techniques are the most important and relevant skills I learned that have been instrumental to running a business. A little further back, I went to an arts high school, which helped me with the fundamentals of colour and design!

What types of desserts do you provide? Do you offer any packages?

We make everything from classic chocolate chip cookies and cupcakes, to macarons and eclairs. We also create custom cakes for any and all occasions! Each order, each cake, and each dessert table is fully customized to the client’s needs and preferences so we don’t have any standard packages. I would say our flavours are based on classics, the flavours everyone is familiar with!

On average how many cakes do you create a year and how many of those are for weddings?

Each year is a little different, but if I had to guess I would estimate that we created about 200-250 cakes last year (some large, some small) with approximately 60 of those being for weddings. Some weddings even have multiple cakes!

Your cakes are so beautiful and creative. Where do you get your inspiration and ideas from?

Thank you so much! Inspiration comes from everywhere, nature, architecture, interior design. So much of what I have seen has probably been spun into a design element in some way, shape or form, and sometimes without me even realizing it, I’m sure. Other artists in the industry such as stationers, dress designers and florists are also always inspiring me with their creations.

What tips would you give to a couple who is looking for a wedding cake designer?

One of the main things I would say to keep in mind is to work with someone you feel comfortable and confident with. You want to click with the person you work with because you need to trust that they are going to create a gorgeous cake for your big day. And choose what you like! At almost every appointment I am asked what my most popular flavours are, and the truth is that you wont find one flavour that absolutely every guest will love, so pick flavours that you like most.

What is the most unique cake you have created?
Some of the most unique cakes we’ve done are sculpted cakes, which we don’t do too often. We’ve made a toilet and a unicorn… and both of those were pretty interesting! For weddings, the uniqueness comes from the personal touches – one cake we created had gold-foiled versions of continents tied into the design with little markers that highlighted the places the couple have travelled together.

Have you ever had something go wrong with a cake you were making, and how did you handle it?

Yes, absolutely! I think all cake designers have their war stories. If it’s still in the phase where I’m working on it in the kitchen, I can always find a way to fix it, even if it means literally staying up all night to make it right. Once we deliver the cake, the condition of the cake is out of our hands unfortunately, so due to environmental factors there has been a mishap or two. Last summer we had one such mishap where reverberation in the venue caused the cake to shift off the cake stand after hours of vibration and fall! It broke my heart to hear that and I actually left a social function to process what happened and figure out why. I worked with the couple, who were absolutely wonderful and understood that it was unfortunately due to the venue versus the cake structure, and we have created mini cakes of each of the flavours they had originally ordered for small celebrations they’ve had since then.

What is the most challenging aspect of your job?

There are a few, haha. I would say the most acutely stressful part is delivering the cake! While I can control my own driving, I can’t control other drivers who cut me off, and it’s not out of the ordinary to get honked at when turning a corner very slowly. The other challenging part, which I think is true for most entrepreneurs, is trying to create a work/life balance.

What is the most rewarding aspect of your job?

Although I absolutely love to hear that a client loved what we created for them, what I love even more than that is working with a client or family multiple times over the years as they celebrate life’s special occasions. To work with a couple from their engagement party through to the birthdays of their children is so amazing to me!

What is your favorite flavour of cake?

My personal favourite is chocolate raspberry.

How important is social media to your business?

While social media is important to be able show people the work we create, I also try not to take it too seriously as it’s so easy to get caught up in. It has been great for reaching new people though, and I do appreciate the followers we have! It’s a really nice feeling to think that people out there like our work.

What are some new and continuing trends for wedding cakes and desserts?

As many times as we’ve seen it before, blush and gold is still going strong. I can’t blame brides though, it’s so pretty! The floral arrangements on cakes are becoming a little looser, more organic feeling, and I love it.

What sets Truffle Cake & Pastry apart from the competition?

I have a bit of a hard time with this question, partially because I really like to look at our ‘competition’ more as colleagues. We all offer a slightly different personal experience to our clients, different flavours and design style; but there is a right fit for anyone out there looking for cake. Truffle Cakes & Pastry’s style is romantic but clean, and our dessert tables focus on the details.

Having been a part of so many weddings, what advice can you give to couples on how to get the most out of their big day?

Plan all the details you’d like (and don’t lose sight of your own preferences in the process) but once the day starts try to let go of the little things, let things happen as they will and soak up every minute! I hear it goes by in a blur. You don’t want to miss out on it by stressing about that one small detail that is out of place.

Thank you so much for sharing with us! I look forward to seeing more beautiful designs of yours on Instagram.

Thank you so much!

Truffle Cake and Pastry’s Instagram is @trufflecakeandpastry and you can contact Christina at TruffleToronto.com .

Push Presents: The Divisive Trend of Post-Birth Gifts

Mon, 29 May 2017 19:10:46 GMT

The arrival of a newborn is one of the happiest moments in a couple’s life, a miraculous event that brings the gift of life into the world. And while the gift of life is certainly the most important gift of all, another type of gift has been steadily gaining popularity – the push present. What is a push present you may ask? A push present is a gift that is given to a new mother from her partner, to celebrate her “pushing” of a new life into the world. While the sentiment behind the push present is one of love, the subject brings up a lot of controversy. Like breastfeeding, co-sleeping and crying it out, the push present is a hotly debated topic among moms.

The Case Against Push Presents

The biggest complaint against the push present is that it is commodifying the natural act of birth. Critics ask, “Shouldn’t the baby be reward enough?”. We live in a capitalistic and materialistic society and some people prefer that the act of giving birth be unaffected by all that. Another negative aspect is that it can put undue pressure upon the partner’s shoulders, in having to spend money on a gift at a time when finances might be extra tight.

The Case for Push Presents

The idea of giving a gift to a new mother is to show appreciation for what she has gone through, both mentally and physically. Pregnancy is an emotional time for a woman as they endure months of hormonal changes and physical discomfort, which culminates in labour and birth. While a healthy baby is the best gift in the world, it is thoughtful to give recognition to what the mother has experienced. It is given by the partner to show love and gratitude.

Push Present Ideas

Jewelry is a popular push present, made fashionable by extravagant celebrity gifts. Headlines were made when Jay Z gave Beyoncé a giant blue tanzanite ring to celebrate the birth of their daughter, and when Mark Anthony gifted Jennifer Lopez custom made canary yellow diamond earrings with a matching ring for the birth of their twins. While most people cannot afford such pricey gifts, jewelry is still a great option for a wide range of budgets. Diamond stud earrings or diamond eternity bands are very popular choices, as are pendants of the baby’s first initial, or a charm of their birthstone. There are no rules which say you must give jewelry, and gifts like a spa package or a new piece of technology can be just as meaningful.

What Moms think

While I am not a mother, being in my thirties I have a lot of close friends who are so I thought I would ask their thoughts on the subject. Out of six of them, two had been given a push present. One received a rose gold necklace to match her wedding band, and one received a new iPad. The ones who didn’t receive presents said they didn’t expect to get anything, and weren’t disappointed. However, everyone said they would have been very happy had they received one and couldn’t see why anyone would be upset by the idea. One friend said perhaps it was just the name “push present” that felt tacky, and not the gesture itself.

To Give or Not to Give

I think it all comes down to whether the partner wants to give a gift, and if they have the finances available to do so. If you want to give your new baby’s mother a gift to celebrate all that she has gone through, then you absolutely should. Just do it because you want to, and not because of outside pressure. The “push present” should not be expected or bragged about, it should be a sentimental symbol of a special moment in life. In the end a push present isn’t going to make the new baby anymore of a blessing, but it might be a bit of icing on the cake!

Have you ever given or received a push present? Would you want to? Let us know where you stand in the comments below!

White Gold Jewelry and Rhodium Plating

Sun, 23 Apr 2017 19:08:11 GMT

One of the most popular ongoing trends for engagement rings is that of white diamonds set into bright white metal. This white jewelry look is very modern and clean and has maintained its popularity for quite some time now. To achieve this all-white effect, diamonds are set into either platinum or white gold. Platinum is naturally a very white metal, but is the heavier and more expensive option. White gold is less costly and a lighter metal, but isn’t naturally a bright white colour. Therefore, white gold jewelry is almost always plated with a rhodium coating as standard practise in the industry.

Gold Alloys

Pure 24K gold is only found in one colour, and that is yellow. However, 24K gold is extremely soft and unsuitable for jewelry purposes, so the pure gold is mixed with other metals to create better working properties. This process is called alloying, and it can also be used to change the colour of the gold. White gold is created when pure gold is mixed with at least one other white metal, such as palladium, manganese, nickel, silver or zinc. 14K white gold is 58.3% pure gold while 18K white gold is 75% pure, with the remainder being a white metal. Although white gold is much whiter than yellow gold, it still has a slight shade of yellow or gray. It gained its popularity for jewelry use in the 1920s as a less costly alternative to platinum.

Rhodium and Electroplating

In the 1930s silversmiths began rhodium plating sterling silverware as they found this reduced the tarnishing and therefore the constant need to polish. This was then applied to white gold as well, as it made the jewelry look much whiter and similar to platinum.

Rhodium is a member of the platinum group of metals and is quite rare and expensive. It is hypo-allergenic, highly resistant to wear, tarnish and corrosion and it has high light reflection. Solid rhodium is rarely used in jewelry as it is extremely expensive and is a very brittle metal. It is much more cost effective and practical to use it as a plating. The official name of this process is called electroplating, where the piece of jewelry is submerged in a heated bath of rhodium solution and then an electric current is run through the bath using the jewelry as a cathode. This causes the rhodium in the solution to bond onto the jewelry. The solution is a mix of sulfuric acid, phosphoric acid or a combination of both, mixed with rhodium and water. A relatively small amount of rhodium can be used to plate many jewelry pieces, keeping the cost of the process down.

Care of Rhodium Plated Jewelry

The one drawback of rhodium plating is that it will wear off over time. The length of time depends on a few factors, such as the amount of wear and roughness the ring receives, its exposure to environmental factors and the wearer’s own body chemistry. Some people can wear a rhodium plated ring for three years before needing a re-plating, while others will need it re-plated more frequently. It is not wise to re-plate more than once a year because, while the rhodium plating doesn’t affect the jewelry, the jewelry does needs to be thoroughly cleaned and re-polished to remove all the old plating and re-polishing removes trace amounts of metal. This won’t affect your jewelry, provided it is not done too frequently, although over-polishing will eventually impact durability. The plating does not affect any diamonds or gemstones which are set into the metal, although it could affect some natural materials such as pearls.

At Kimberfire we provide complimentary cleaning and re-plating up to once a year for any of our white gold jewelry pieces, to ensure they maintain their bright white colour. Whenever you are purchasing white gold jewelry you should ask the jeweller about rhodium plating and if they include re-plating in their care policy, as it is important to know all the costs to be incurred in properly maintaining your purchase. White gold jewelry is both beautiful and popular and it is essential to know how to keep it looking its best throughout the years.

Toronto Wedding Photographer: Mango Studios

Sun, 19 Mar 2017 19:06:23 GMT

Here at Kimberfire diamonds are our passion, and there is nothing more beautiful than seeing a diamond become part of an engagement or wedding ring. It is so rewarding to be able to play a role in our clients’ engagement and wedding day. Jewelry is just one of many aspects of the wedding industry and, through our blog, we enjoy meeting and learning about other companies in our industry. Our interviews also provide valuable information and tips from the experts to help you make the most of your big day.

Recently I had the opportunity to interview the team at Mango Studios , a Toronto wedding photography studio with offices in downtown Toronto and Miami, USA. Mango Studios is a tight knit team of award winning photographers and artists, with over a decade of wedding experience. They also photographed our CEO Jonathan Goldberg’s wedding last year and he was blown away by their impressive work.

Could you please give us a brief overview of Mango Studios and your services?

Mango’s goal is to produce beautiful and timeless photography for its clients. We aim to do this through a collaborative effort of creative artists and individuals who band together to leverage their own unique abilities to create better work together.

At Mango, we believe in teamwork, supporting and encouraging new ideas, and striving to be and do better every day. We all come from different backgrounds and have our own unique set of skills and creative frameworks. Together, we share an enormous wealth of knowledge and passion for photography. We are curators and creators of the most beautiful, timeless images. We are there to capture the most special moments in your life so you can cherish those photos forever. We have photographers who specialize in all areas of photography – from portrait and event photographers to interior and product photographers. We also offer a wide range of in-house design and custom framing services.

How did Mango Studios get started, and how long have you been in business?

Mo and Nancy first met in 2004 and have been inseparable ever since. Pairing Nancy’s visual talent with Mo’s business acumen, they decided to conquer the world together. They wrote down the letters of their own names and realized Mo And Nancy GOvindji shaped MANGO, and the rest is history. Mango has been capturing weddings and events for over 12 years!

What kinds of packages does Mango Studios offer?

We’ve got something for everyone. All of our packages have been created to offer the best options for your special day. Our packages start from six hours of photography all the way up to twelve, but everything can be fully customized to suit each individual client. We also offer time with photographers à la carte, meaning they can be easily added to packages. For the couple that wants to be taken care of from start to finish, we offer packages that include fine art albums, engagement sessions, and photo booths.

How did previous education and/or work experience help shape the Mango business model?

The entire team has a diverse background in both education and work experience, from the university educated to the self-taught photographer. We look for special people with a passion for the arts, who love people, and remain calm under pressure – all attributes necessary to shoot a busy wedding day. There is a degree of competitiveness to the team, and, as iron sharpens iron, every team member strives to do better in every shoot. We take turns designing with each-others’ images and reviewing shoots so that feedback can be circulated, and the quality Mango is known for can be achieved. What’s most important is that every member of our team is highly trained in-house. As a team, we believe in growing together and toward the best creative style to suit our couples’ needs.

How would you describe the Mango photography style?

Like any creative field, photography is always evolving. We believe a strong relationship between photography and design is the foundation to creating incredible images. This plays a huge part in our photographic style. We accomplish our unique approach of storytelling through this fundamental stage of getting to know you and your unique story. We focus on capturing every detail of your wedding day or event, while being sure to get candid moments and memories that will last forever. Trends come and go but what we’re after is a classic, timeless approach to creating images to withstand those passing trends, and that is how we groom our team.

What tips can you give to a couple who is looking for a wedding photographer?

Don’t be afraid to ask questions. This is a big decision and it’s important to do your research and make sure you can trust your photographer, and be confident and excited about the photos they take.

Some important tips are:

Find out what happens in case of an emergency and the photographer is no longer available for your day.
What do turnaround times look like?
Look at a couple of COMPLETE weddings to really get a sense of the work, not just a few photos of their best work.
Find out how long have they been in business, and if you know any friends/family/other vendors that have used them. There are plenty of novice part-time photographers that may be in business one year and not the next.

I see your company often travels to shoot destination weddings. What’s your process when shooting abroad?

Our team loves to travel, and each destination wedding brings with it a new and exciting experience. In terms of locations, we love travelling to new (to us) spots like the mountainsides of Florence, or the Island of Anguilla. We’re happy to say there are some locations now that are becoming old favourites like the One and Only Club in the Bahamas, or the Four Seasons in Hampshire, England. Like any local wedding, every destination wedding is unique and we treat the process of shooting it as such. We do our best to ensure lots of scouting online and in-person before the event day. One of the most important things when visiting a new country is to familiarize yourself with the light there. It can look wildly different from one country to the next and, as a photographer, understanding light is everything.

How do you help the couple and their wedding party feel comfortable in front of a camera?

We totally realize that not everyone feels comfortable and confident being photographed, and that is completely normal. Our job is to make sure that we capture your event perfectly, that your photos turn out amazing and that you have some fun along the way. Doing engagement photos is such a great way for the bride and groom to not only feel comfortable being photographed, but to also really get to know their photographer. We aren’t there to make you look posed, but more so to prompt you so we can get those perfect shots.

Mango Studios works with a team of photographers, artists and designers. How do you decide which team member works on which wedding?

Mango has a consistent photographic style across the board. Our in-house event coordinators meet with our couples to learn more about the details of their big day. Once we get to know our couple, the venue, and all the details of the day, we pair them with the photographer that we believe best suits the couple as well as the overall vibe of the wedding.

Being a huge dog lover myself, please tell me more about Bernie the Boston Terrier, your social director.

Bernie is a lover. If he could greet everyone who came through our doors with kisses, he would. He definitely likes to make his presence known around the studio, especially during lunch time when he can be a little nosey. As our social director, he keeps us sane during our busiest times and shows the whole team love after a long day. His likes: ping pong balls, balloons and bean bag chair naps. His dislikes: measuring tape and knit sweaters.

How big a part does social media play in your business?

Social media is such a huge part of our business! Long before a couple gets engaged, they often take to social media to search for vendors and get inspired. We are constantly on all social media channels, updating our content to reflect the Mango brand and showcase our work. It’s the great connector of our time. We love to use social media as a tool to connect with other amazing vendors in the wedding industry and couples around the world.

What is the most challenging aspect of working in the wedding photography business?

Truthfully, it’s the work/life balance. Weddings and events can take up most of our Fridays, Saturdays and Sundays during the busy months of May to October, and that can be a challenge for some. Our team is dedicated to providing our best work with the quickest turnaround times possible, so we’re also hustling Monday to Friday to deliver amazing images to our couples. We foster an environment that’s fun for our team with lots of amazing moments spent together on a regular basis.

What sets Mango Studios apart from the competition?

We’re storytellers first and foremost. Our approach is driven by each couple’s unique story, who they are, and their personal tastes and design interests. It’s driven by what music they listen to, where they eat and the places they travel. Each story is unique, and our approach is timeless and cool with a distinctly cinematic style. As a small boutique of photographers and designers, we treat each member of our team as well as each of our clients like family. From the moment you step into our studio, you will be greeted by a dedicated event coordinator who will walk you through the entire wedding photography process. We want to create an inviting atmosphere and take photos that truly capture our couples as the individuals they are.

Having been a part of so many weddings, what advice can you give to a couple to get the most out of their big day?

It’s going to be the most exciting day of your life, so savour and cherish every moment. Don’t sweat the small stuff; things most likely won’t go as perfectly planned but don’t get bothered by it. It’s going to be a very busy day, but do your best to spend some quality time together as husband and wife if you can. Take a few moments to stop, take a deep breath, and remember how special it is that every person in the room is there to celebrate you and your love!

Thank you so much for taking the time to share your company and insights with us.

Thank you, it’s been our pleasure.

If you are interested in learning more about Mango Studios or booking them for a wedding or event, please visit MangoStudios.com .

Origins of the Heart

Sun, 12 Feb 2017 19:41:48 GMT

Ah love, sweet love. How wonderful it is to be in love with someone. You just want to tell everyone you know, and shout it from the rooftops. And you only need one symbol to express your love, the heart. The heart shape conveys love, romance, passion and care without ever saying a word. The heart is one of the most widely used motifs in jewellery design, from rings and pendants to diamond cuts. The heart is everywhere. But how did the heart shape come to define love? And why does the common heart shape look so very different from the anatomical heart? Let’s look through history and find out how the heart shape came to be.

Ancient Hearts

Like most things from long, long ago, we don’t know the exact origin of the heart as a romantic symbol. Ancient Egyptians believed that the heart was the seed of life, and that the “heart soul” descended from the mother’s heart into her womb and would then take the shape of a child. The Ancient Greeks thought the heart supplied the whole body with heat and controlled reason and emotion.

In terms of the shape, it was most likely derived from the botanical world. One line of thinking is that the now extinct Silphium seedpod was the original model for the heart shape. This seed originated in the Ancient North African city of Cyrene and was used as a seasoning, and more commonly, as a contraceptive. The seed was highly valuable and so crucial to Cyrene’s economy that its image was portrayed on their coins. The seed very closely resembles the heart shape and its link to sexuality may have led to its association with love.

The earliest heart shapes found in art were stylized depictions of fig leaves and ivy. These leaves were frequently found on Ancient Greek vase paintings of the god Dionysus, often in erotic scenes. Heart shaped ivy leaves were also a common symbol on Grecian and Roman grave stones, as the plant symbolized eternal love.

Middle Ages Romance

The first known depiction of the heart as a romantic symbol is in a 13th century manuscript entitled “Roman de la Poire” or Romance of the Pear, by Thibaut. In the image a kneeling lover offers his heart to a damsel, although the heart resembles more of a cone shape. The heart was probably depicted this way because human dissection was very rare during the middle ages, and artists were basing their drawings on writings from the ancient world.

In the early 14th century, the heart symbol began to be depicted with a “scalloped” shape, or dent in its base. And then in the latter part of the century it was then flipped so its point was facing downward.

In the 15th century, the modern heart shape became well known across Europe as it was printed on widely distributed French playing cards.

The Heart Shape in Jewellery

As the heart symbol gained popularity it started to be seen in European jewellery. It first appeared in heart shaped brooches used to hold clothing together, and which were inscribed with sayings of love.

A heart shaped diamond was first mentioned in a letter from the Duke of Milan in 1463, and then in 1562 Mary Queen of Scots sent a heart shaped diamond to Queen Elizabeth I.

In 17th century England, rock crystal hearts were worn to memorialize King Charles I who had been executed. These were pendants or rings made of clear faceted rock crystal which often encased a token, hair or initials under the crystal. Although these type of pieces were initially created as memorial jewellery, they later became known more as love tokens or wedding gifts.

During this same period the heart shaped brooch was extremely popular. It was often referred to as a ‘Luckenbooth’ in Scotland, or witches’ brooch in the rest of Europe. The depicted heart was usually asymmetrical and twisted up at the bottom to one side. They were worn as a talisman against evil spirits, and were often worn by pregnant women or pinned onto babies’ blankets. Overtime these witches’ brooches also changed in meaning, to show you were “be-witched with love”. The brooches were often covered in red garnets and a single heart meant you had a sweetheart, while a double heart meant you were married.

Hearts in jewellery reached their height during the reign of Queen Victoria, and the Queen herself wore a charm bracelet with hearts representing each one of her children.

The Universal Heart

Today the heart is a symbol of love. It usually represents romantic love, but can also be between family or friends. It is universally known and one of the most popular symbols in the world. It is also one of the most popular symbols in jewellery design, as jewellery is often given as a token of love. From its mysterious beginnings in plants and sexuality, to its role in religion and memorials, the heart has had many different meanings along the way. But for me, its current significance as a symbol of love, is definitely my favourite.

Diamonds: A Billion Year Journey

Sun, 22 Jan 2017 18:35:47 GMT

Many people own, wear and love diamonds, but few know the incredible story that brought them from the depths of the earth into their jewellery. They are not only the hardest natural substance on earth, but also one of the oldest. Forming deep in the earth’s mantle over 1 billion years ago, with some of the oldest diamonds dating back over 3.3 billion years, they have a story to tell.

Diamond Formation

Diamonds form in the earth’s mantle, the molten part of the planet deep beneath the crust, about 140 to 190 kilometres beneath the surface. Here, carbon atoms are subjected to extremely high pressure and temperature. The pressures can range from 45,000 to 60,000 times the regular atmospheric pressure at sea-level, with temperatures as high as 1300C. In these extreme conditions, the carbon atoms are forced into a crystalline arrangement, forming diamond. No one is sure where exactly the carbon comes from, but a possible theory is that the carbon may have originated on the surface of the earth in the form of prehistoric plant and animal material, and was subducted into the mantle through plate tectonics. If this theory is correct, the carbon in your diamond may have come from some of the earliest life on earth!

Diamond is the only gemstone made entirely out of one element (not considering inclusions and small amounts of trace impurities). Nature is not always perfect, so often many other minerals or defects will form in the diamond as it grows. These are the inclusions that affect clarity grading. Under heavy magnification, some inclusions can even be identified as other minerals, such as garnet, peridot, zircon and even other diamonds! Other elements may also make their way into the diamonds, causing changes in colour. Nitrogen, for example, causes the yellow colour, while boron causes diamonds to be blue. Eventually the diamonds cool in their host rock, and may wait millions or even billions of years for the right conditions to make their way to the surface.

An Explosive Ride to the Surface

When the right conditions arise, diamonds are brought to the surface during massive volcanic eruptions. These kinds of cataclysmic eruptions are extremely rare. The diamonds hurtle to the surface, carried by streams of magma, rock and gas. During this explosive transport of the stones, they can often be broken or cracked. Many inclusions also form during this stage as the diamonds are battered through crevices in the crust. The diamonds eventually get trapped in these crevices, or they explode onto the surface of the earth along with other rocks and magma. The majority of the best diamonds are trapped within a central core, forming a vertical, triangular area of new rock called a pipe. These pipes often reach the surface, but can extend hundreds or thousands of metres into the earth. The most common type of rock that forms these pipes is called kimberlite, named after the famous town of Kimberley, South Africa, where the first major commercial diamond mine opened.

Finding Diamond Deposits

Nearly all diamonds found today were deposited hundreds of thousands or even millions of years ago. These diamonds are either found in the eroded remains of ancient, extinct volcanoes, still in their pipes, or in riverbeds and oceans where the diamonds had already been eroded out of the volcanic rock and deposited elsewhere by the forces of erosion. Diamonds that are deposited in riverbeds, called an alluvial deposit, can either be found in still-flowing rivers, or they can be found in ancient riverbeds that have now dried up.

Depending of the type of deposit, diamonds can be prospected in multiple different ways. In the case of diamonds still in their host rock, geologists will often find known volcanic pipes, and drill core samples. These samples are analyzed to search for microscopic diamonds, as it is extremely rare for larger diamonds to be deposited close to the surface. The core samples are also analyzed to detect other minerals that could indicate the presence of diamonds.

A strong presence of garnet and peridot indicates a possible diamond deposit, as these minerals often form in the same environments as diamond. In the case of alluvial deposits where the diamonds are deposited in rivers, these stones were often found by accident by lucky farmers or swimmers, which led to the opening of mines. In more modern times, geologists analyze records of eroded diamond bearing pipes, and determine how it was eroded and where the diamonds could have been transported to.

Diamond Mining

Depending on the type of deposit, the mining process can look vastly different from mine to mine and from region to region. For diamonds still in their primary pipe deposit, this can look like an open pit mine or a subterranean mine. These two types of mining operations are the most common, and are what most people picture when they think of a mine. In either case, the mine blasts and drills directly into the rock. These rocks are then removed, crushed and bathed in acid. Since diamonds are relatively immune to acid, the rock dissolves away and leaves the diamonds behind. These diamonds are then sent to a sorting facility.

In the case of oceanic or alluvial deposits, the diamonds must be sifted and filtered out of the mud and silt. Since diamonds are quite heavy, they will sink. In smaller alluvial mines, diamonds are found very much in the same way that one pans for gold. Once filtered out, the diamonds are sent for sorting and cutting.

In most diamond producing countries, there are strict regulations on mining processes. Mines are monitored on a regular basis by regulatory committees and government agencies to ensure they abide to environmental, safety and human rights standards. Thanks to the Kimberley Process, a certification scheme that mandates a documented chain of custody for loose diamonds, consumers can be assured that their certified diamond is 100% conflict free. In many cases, mines are also required to abide to a reclamation program, wherein the mined area must be naturalized after the mine closes to ensure no long lasting negative effects on the environmental health of the area. Due to these regulations, diamonds are now one of the most ethical of all mined materials, even when compared to other gemstones like emeralds, rubies and sapphires.

Sorting and Cutting

Sorting takes place in a separate facility. Here, under high security, trained staff sort through the rough diamonds. They sort them into categories based on colour, size, shape and relative clarity. These rough diamonds are then packaged up into large collections of various types, and are sold and shipped to a small handful of diamond cutters. These diamond cutters will first examine the rough stone before cutting it. It is the goal of the diamond cutter to maximize the carat weight of the diamond without any significant sacrifices on quality. That being said, a cutter may decide to optimize carat weight at the expense of cut quality, colour or clarity, so long as it maximizes profit on the stone. Depending on the shape and placement of inclusions in the stone, the cutter may decide to cut the stone into multiple smaller diamonds of various shapes or sizes, or into one large stone. Usually the first scenario is the most common.

Thanks to modern technology, a scanning laser computer is now often used in the industry to map the rough diamond. The computer will then automatically determine the best way to cut the stone to maximize profit on the rough material. Even with this advanced technology, a skilled diamond cutter still has the last say on how to cut the stone.

Diamonds are cut and polished, usually by hand, on a device called a lapidary. A similar technique is used to cut and facet all gemstones. First, the rough diamond is cleaved or laser cut to form the basic shape. The diamond is then attached to the end of a rod called a dop. By placing this rod at certain precise angles and rotations, the diamond can be positioned to precise measurements for cutting and polishing. The diamond is ground against a rotating disc, called a lap, which is coated in water and diamond powder. Since only diamond can cut diamond, a diamond powder is used for this process. By rotating and angling the stones to precise measurements, and grinding the stone using finer and finer grits, the stone is eventually cut and polished.

The Final Steps

Once the stone is cut and polished, and it passes a quality control inspection, it is sent to a gemmological lab to be graded. Once graded, it is sold to distributors, who then sell the stone to manufacturers, who then set the diamond into finished jewellery. They then sell this to a retailer, who eventually sells it to you!

It can take billions of years before a diamond is even mined. Then the process from the mine to the finished piece of jewellery can take months or years to complete, and requires a lot of labour and skill. At Kimberfire, we cut out the middlemen and connect you directly with the diamond cutters and distributors. This way we can provide you with a beautiful diamond, and with the exceptional in-person service you would expect from a high end retailer, but at a fraction of the cost when compared to a traditional store.

Image credits: Lucara Diamond Corp. , Rio Tinto’s Diavik Foxfire , Rio Tinto’s Argyle Pink Jubilee

Natural Diamonds, Diamond Simulants and Synthetic Diamonds

Sun, 18 Dec 2016 18:28:11 GMT

Diamonds are the most well-known and popular gemstone, desired for their colourless appearance, hardness and fiery brilliance. The diamond is often the first choice for an engagement ring, as its durability and strength symbolize a lasting union. People who are in the market to buy a diamond usually learn about the 4 Cs – a grading system which experts use to determine a diamond’s quality. By evaluating the Cut, Clarity, Colour and Carat, a diamond can be given a grade and priced accordingly. These 4 Cs are very important for the diamond buyer to be aware of to ensure they get a fair price. There are some other terms which may be encountered when buying diamond jewellery that are also very important for the buyer to know. The terms “Diamond Simulant” or “Synthetic Diamond” are relevant in the jewellery business, but little known to the public. We are going to explore these terms, and what they mean, to better educate those who are interested in buying a diamond.

Natural Diamonds

Natural Diamonds are diamonds that were naturally created within the earth, with no human intervention. Diamonds need very specific conditions to form and there are two places in the earth where this is possible – the earth’s mantle below the continental plates and at the site of a meteor impact. Diamonds are composed of the element carbon that has been exposed to extremely high temperatures and extremely high pressure. Natural diamonds are between 1 to 3.3 billion years old. Diamonds are carried to the earth’s surface by deep volcanic eruptions which create pipes in the earth that are filled with magma. The magma carries the diamonds upwards as it flows and cools into igneous rocks called kimberlite. The diamonds are discovered through mining the earth to reach the kimberlite layer, or from this layer being naturally eroded over millions of years and depositing near water sources. Although rare, scientists have also found deposits of small diamonds at meteor impact sites where the diamonds were formed under the heat and pressure of the impact. Diamonds are the hardest natural material found on earth, and when they are cut into gem shapes they maintain their polish and facets better than any other gemstone.

Diamond Simulants

Diamond Simulants are materials which have gemological characteristics similar to a diamond, but they do not share the same chemical structure. A simulant may be artificial, natural, or a combination of the two. The most common diamond simulants used in jewellery are cubic zirconia, moissanite, and high-leaded glass, or rhinestones, which are usually only found in fashion jewellery.

Cubic zirconia (CZ) is a cubic crystalline form of zirconium dioxide that has been commercially produced since 1976. Cubic zirconia is optically flawless, usually colourless, and displays a nice brilliance. It is not as hard as a diamond, so it is less durable and more prone to scratching. It is very easy for a diamond expert to tell the difference between diamond and cubic zirconia using a magnifying loupe. CZs are inexpensive to create and therefore cost a fraction of what a real diamond costs. You may also encounter diamond-coated cubic zirconia being sold in jewellery. A chemical vapour deposition (CVD) process is used to deposit a thin film of polycrystalline diamond onto a cubic zirconia core. This increases the material’s hardness, loss of luster through wear, and imitates a diamonds dispersion. This process should not significantly increase the cost of the CZ.

Moissanite was discovered in 1893 by Henri Moissan (where it got its name) in a meteor crater in Arizona. At first he thought he had discovered diamonds but later he identified them as silicon carbide. Naturally occurring silicon carbide is extremely rare and all forms of it found today are created in a laboratory. The company Charles and Colvard was the first to create and manufacture the moissanite gemstone, which entered the jewellery market in 1998. Classic moissanite has a slight gray, yellow or green hue which is especially noticeable in sunlight. Charles and Colvard have come out with newer lines of moissanite which come closer to the colourless look of diamond. Moissanite is quite strong and durable for everyday wear, however it is not as hard as diamond. Moissanite displays strong brilliance but it is different than that of diamond, in that it exhibits rainbow flashes that can have a “disco ball” effect. Moissanite costs significantly less than diamond of the same size and weight. A diamond expert is able to determine if a stone is moissanite or diamond.

Synthetic Diamonds

Synthetic diamonds are produced in an artificial process, such as a laboratory, rather than a geological process. A synthetic diamond is the same material as a natural diamond – pure crystallized carbon. Since the discovery that diamonds were made of pure carbon in 1797, scientists have been looking for a way to convert it into diamond. There are two ways that synthetic diamonds are created, by HPHT and CVD methods. HPHT stands for High Pressure High Temperature, which is mimicking the way a natural diamond would be formed in the earth. This process places a carbon source, a small diamond “seed” and a metallic solvent in a large press which is then placed under extreme pressure and high temperatures to produce a diamond. These machines are extremely expensive and the process must be very carefully controlled. The other process is by CVD, or chemical vapour deposition, in which a diamond seed is planted into a chamber which is then exposed to a gas, such as methane. The gas is then activated and broken down by microwaves which causes the carbon atoms to accumulate on the diamond seed. Traditionally these processes have had difficulty creating colourless diamonds. HPHT was more commonly used for creating synthetic fancy coloured diamonds , as doping the process with nitrogen or boron would create a coloured diamond. CVD often produces brown diamonds, which are then HPHT treated to remove the colour. However, the companies that create these diamonds are becoming more advanced all the time, and are frequently making large and colourless diamonds. These diamonds sell for 20-30% less than a natural diamond and should always be disclosed to the buyer. To determine whether a diamond is natural or synthetic a diamond expert would use various gemological equipment to determine its origin.

Decision Time

Knowing the difference between natural, simulant and synthetic diamonds helps the buyer make an educated decision. The main reasons people are interested in buying simulants or synthetics is that they cost less than a natural diamond, and the fact that they are created in a laboratory means less environmental impact and an absolute certainty that they are conflict free. People who are looking to buy natural diamonds also do so for different reasons. Some people are looking for something that will be an investment or hold its value over time. Other people are drawn to the traditional idea of the diamond as a symbol of love and strength. I am personally drawn to the natural diamond as a symbol of something that has endured over billions of years and is still strong and beautiful.

Diamond Shapes to Wear and Love

Sun, 27 Nov 2016 18:24:59 GMT

When most people think of diamonds, they immediately picture the round brilliant cut diamond. While this is the most popular shape of diamond available to be used in engagement rings , with either natural or lab grown diamonds , there are actually many more shapes to choose from. Each of these shapes has their own unique character, and also their own type of sparkle.

Round Brilliant Cut – The Classic

The most popular cut, the round brilliant diamond as it is known today was designed by Marcel Tolkowsky in 1919. Tolkowsky was an engineer from a family of diamond cutters. He calculated the exact ideal proportions, number of facets, and angles of the cut, using the physical and optical properties of diamond. He is recognized as being the first person to accurately design the ideal cut for a diamond to display a maximum balance of sparkle, fire and brilliance. His cutting design is now regarded as the North American standard for round brilliant diamonds.

As the name suggests, round brilliant diamonds are circular and round in shape and display even and symmetrical brilliance across the stone. Since the round brilliant cut is standardized, there is a standard cut grading system used to evaluate the stone, with grades ranging from “excellent” to “poor”. For a beautiful diamond, we always recommend to have a cut grade of “very good” to “excellent”. Anything below this standard, and the diamond loses its sparkle. Since only the round cut is completely standardized, it is the only shape of diamond that will have a cut grading on a GIA report.

The round brilliant cut is ideal for those who are looking for a classic look that will really maximize the sparkle of their stone. This type of cut looks great in all sorts of engagement ring designs, from the classic solitaire, to the modern halo design. For the gentlemen out there looking for an engagement ring, you can never go wrong with a round cut. It is the most popular cut, the most brilliant, and will be the safest choice for your other half if they haven’t told you what they like.

Oval Cut

The oval cut dates back to the 1950’s. It is essentially a round brilliant cut, but stretched out into an oval shape. Like the round brilliant, it also shows great sparkle, fire, and brilliance. Some oval cut diamonds can show what is called a “bowtie” effect, which usually occurs when the diamond is cut too deep or shallow, or if the diamond is too narrow and long. This effect appears as a dull area in the middle of the stone, resembling a bowtie, where there is less reflection of light. With oval cut diamonds, as well as other shapes that commonly have this effect, it is always recommended to examine the stone to ensure it does not have a noticeable bowtie.

The oval cut is a great option for those who like the look of the round cut, but want a diamond with a longer profile. When set in a ring, oval cut diamonds accentuate the length of the finger and look great in many different designs. As an added bonus, an oval cut diamond can also appear larger than a round diamond of the same carat weight.

Pear Cut

Otherwise referred to as a “teardrop” shape, the pear cut is essentially a modified oval cut where one end has been “pinched” to create a point. Like the oval cut, the pear cut is prone to displaying a bowtie effect as well. Care must also be taken when inspecting the diamond to ensure that the point of the stone is centered and the stone is symmetrical and evenly rounded on both sides.

The pear shape, like the oval, also accentuates the length of a finger when set into a ring. Due to the asymmetrical shape of this cut, it may be more difficult to pair this diamond with other stones in a three stone ring. As such, this cut is best reserved for solitaires and halo rings. They also look great in a pair of drop style earrings, or on a pendant. The teardrop shape of this cut gives the stone a very elegant and graceful look.

Marquise Cut

The marquise cut is rumoured to date back all the way to 17th century France, when King Louis XIV requested to have a cut made to resemble the smile of his favourite mistress, Jeanne Antoinette Poisson, the Marquise de Pompadour. Since then the cut has been perfected to make it even more brilliant. Resembling a pear cut, but with points at each end, the marquise cut is the cut most prone to a bowtie effect. A visual inspection of the diamond can help you ensure you don’t receive a diamond with this effect.

This diamond will have a long, slender appearance, and will be the longest of any diamond cut within a certain carat weight. Often seen in vintage jewellery, the marquise cut is a good choice for someone who is looking for lots of sparkle but also wants a more bold, unique, yet vintage look.

Heart Cut

Probably the most romantic of all the diamond cuts, and the most feminine, this diamond shape is very seldom seen being worn. It takes a certain personality to pull this one off, but it can really make a statement. Similar to the pear cut, but with a cleft and two lobes at the top of the stone, the heart cut is also prone to showing a bowtie effect. Though, this is often not as prominent in the heart cut compared to some of the other fancy cuts. With this cut, it is all about symmetry. It is important to ensure that the cleft is indented enough, but not too far, and that it is properly centered. The two lobes must also be of equal height and width, and must have an even, rounded profile. A heart cut is one of the hardest diamond cuts to accomplish, and requires the skill of a master diamond cutter to produce. As such, it can be one of the most expensive cuts on the market.

While difficult to cut, and selling at a premium for this reason, the heart cut makes the ultimate statement in an engagement ring (or any other gifts for your significant other!). As the saying goes, a diamond is forever… so a heart cut diamond is the ultimate symbol of eternal love.

Princess Cut

The princess cut originated in the early 1980’s in London, England. With a square shape, sharp corners, and straight edges, this diamond shape is definitely striking. Princess cut diamonds are known to show a lot of sparkle. This cut also provides a few extra benefits when compared to other shapes. Due to its cutting style, the princess cut can hide inclusions more easily than some of the other shapes. Another great bonus is that princess cuts are one of the most economical cuts of diamond available as they minimize wastage of the rough diamond during cutting.

The princess cut is ideal for those who want a stone with a distinctly square shape, but still want to maximize the sparkle and brilliance of their diamond. It holds up very well in a solitaire setting, but can also look beautiful in a halo design.

Cushion Cut

The cushion shape is one of the oldest diamond shapes still in use today. Some of the world’s most famous historical diamonds are cut in the cushion shape, but not with the same brilliance that the modern cushion cut has. Thanks again to Marcel Tolkowsky, the cushion cut was modified to have more facets to rival the brilliance of the round cut. Many cushion cuts now on the market will be officially classified as a “modified brilliant cushion cut”. These stones have enough sparkle, fire and brilliance to rival the round brilliant diamond. While the cushion cut is usually more square in shape with rounded edges and corners, they can come in more rectangular shapes as well.

Cushions carry a lot of their weight in their pavilion (the bottom half of the diamond), and so will accentuate any colour in the stone. This is why they make a great choice for fancy coloured diamonds . For this very same reason, you may need to pick a stone with a slightly higher colour grading if you choose this cut for a colourless diamond. The cushion cut is a great choice for those who want the look of a square diamond, but don’t like the sharp edges and corners of the princess cut. Despite its long history, it is a modern cutting style, while still keeping to a more classic semi-rounded shape.

Emerald Cut

The ultimate vintage shape for a diamond. The emerald cut, as the name suggests, was originally created for emeralds in the 1920’s, and was soon adopted for diamonds as well. While this cut was created in the 1920’s and officially called an emerald cut, its basic elements have origins dating back to the older “table cut” from the 1500’s. The emerald cut was immensely popular during the Art Deco period, and has seen a resurgence in popularity in the past number of years. While not as brilliant as some of the other cuts in this list due to their larger and fewer facets, this cut is very popular for those looking for a diamond with a vintage look. Due to the large facets and large table (the largest facet, which is in the center of the diamond), inclusions are more visible in this cut of diamond than in other cuts. This cut is also fairly deep, so it will accentuate any colour in the stone. For these reasons, it is important to select a diamond with higher colour and clarity than what you would normally select in a round brilliant cut stone. This cut of diamond is also well suited for fancy coloured diamonds since the depth of the stone will really capture and show off the colour. When selecting the diamond, ensure that the keel of the stone (the bottom part of the stone resembling the keel of a ship) is straight and aligned properly. Also look for the “hall of mirrors” effect, wherein the bottom facets of the stone should resemble a hall of mirrors, reflecting light back to your eye.

This cut is the most popular choice for those seeking a vintage look. The long, rectangular shape of the diamond also accentuates the length of a finger when worn in a ring. It can look great in a solitaire, but can also be quite stunning in a three stone ring. In a halo design, the emerald cut shows great contrast with the rest of the ring and can create an interesting look.

Asscher Cut

The asscher cut was originally developed in 1902 by the Asscher Brothers of Holland, and closely resembles the emerald cut. The primary difference here is that the asscher cut does not have a keel like the emerald cut, and is more square in its shape (while still maintaining the cut-cornered octagonal look). This cut of diamond has all the same characteristics as the emerald cut when it comes to how the stone shows colour and clarity. The asscher cut is a great choice for those who want a vintage look, but prefer a square shape as opposed to the more rectangular shape of the emerald cut.

Radiant Cut

Probably one of the least-known and under-appreciated cuts, the radiant cut is usually seen in fancy coloured diamonds and rarely in colourless diamonds. It was originally invented in the 1970’s, yet many are still not familiar with this cut. The radiant, like the cushion and emerald cuts, also has a heavier pavilion. This means that the stone will show colour more than a round brilliant cut. What makes the radiant cut a great option is that it has the same cut-cornered, semi-octagonal shape as an emerald or asscher cut diamond, but has much more brilliance due to its larger number of facets. Like these cuts as well, the radiant cut can be found in both square and rectangular shapes, while still having the same brilliance.

The radiant cut is a great option for those who are looking for a unique shape, but do not want to compromise on the brilliance of the diamond. It is a versatile cut style that can be utilized in many different ring designs, both in colourless and fancy coloured diamonds.

A Shape for Everyone

There are diamond shapes for all different types of personalities and preferences. From the classic round cut, to the vintage emerald and asscher cuts, to the more unique marquise and heart cuts, there are many different options to choose from. What is your favourite diamond shape? Let us know in the comments!

Toronto Wedding Band: St. Royal Entertainment

Sun, 30 Oct 2016 17:06:26 GMT

At Kimberfire we specialize in diamonds and diamond jewelry, which means we play a part in many people’s marriages. We work with our clients from their engagement and wedding rings, to gifts for the big day. Working within the wedding industry is very special for a business because it means that people trust you enough to be a part of one of the most important days of their lives. We are interested in exploring other businesses that work in the wedding industry and learning how they are successful, as well as providing insider tips that will help anyone who is planning their own wedding.

Recently I spoke with Andrew St. Royal, who is the founder and owner of St. Royal Entertainment , a company that provides musical event entertainment based out of Toronto. I actually had the pleasure of watching his company in action, as they provided the live music and entertainment for our CEO Jonathan Goldberg’s wedding. I was extremely impressed with their talent and professionalism and wanted to learn more about what they do.

Andrew, please tell us a bit about yourself and your business.

My education background is in civil engineering. After school I went on a work/travel trip to South Korea and ended up spending 8 years abroad between Korea and Australia. During that period, I was leading and performing in various different bands as a musician. By late 2010 I had developed the idea for St. Royal and returned to Toronto ready to turn my passions into a business.

St. Royal Entertainment provides everything music for special events. We have a huge stable of talented performers, musicians and DJs that perform in many styles and configurations. Our sister company, St. Royal Production provides audiovisual & show production elements like lighting, staging, sound systems, live video and 3D CAD modelling to support the entertainment and event needs.

How many years have you been in business?

St. Royal Entertainment is five and half years old and St. Royal Production is three and a half. The company started as a single 7-piece live band and our first performance was at a friend’s wedding. I was so nervous that night I didn’t sleep at all! Since then we have done over 400 events.

On average, how many events do you perform in a year?

We’ve been growing every year since we started in 2011. We’re doing about 150 events this year and of that about 70% are weddings, and 30% are corporate events, private parties, fundraisers and brand activations.

How would you describe the St. Royals Bands’ musical style?

The St. Royals Bands are well known as Toronto’s Kings of Soul! Their repertoire of Soul, R&B, Funk, Motown, Pop and Top 40 is designed to move people. It’s a great variety that we know both younger and older generations will enjoy dancing to.

What tips would you give to a couple who are starting their search for a wedding band or DJ?

Music is key to a great event so look for good references and try to see bands live. Look out for signs of disorganization or artists who are too laid back about the performance. A wedding is a once-in-a-lifetime event so look for someone you can trust!

What is the most unique wedding you have performed at?

We’ve done some acoustic camp-fire style weddings, weddings for celebrities and athletes and have played at so many venues across Ontario and New York State. Each wedding is unique due to the makeup of the guest list, the music tastes of the clients, and inevitably the flow of energy from ceremony to dance floor always has its nuances. That’s why it’s so important to get the music right.

Have you ever had something go wrong the day of an event, and how did you handle it?

One time in the early days we were performing at a private residence and the fuse blew for the power circuit the band was on! The band was quick to realize, and the horns and drummer started an impromptu acoustic version of some New Orleans brass tunes while we investigated the issue. It turned out the photographer had setup some big lights on the same circuit as the band which overloaded the circuit. Our on-site tech worked it out quickly and we were back on in no time and the party never stopped! Since then we’ve become much better at identifying power needs and we often provide generators for venues via our audiovisual sister company, St. Royal Production.

What is the most challenging aspect of your job?

Being an entrepreneur means you have to do everything. I’ve definitely had to improve my accounting and bookkeeping knowledge over the years but for sure time management is the most challenging aspect of running a dynamic and growing business.

What is the most rewarding aspect of your job?

It feels amazing to receive praise and accolades from clients after a great event. There is so much planning and build up to these events, and weddings in particular. It is so rewarding to hear from our clients that we exceeded their expectations and they have a celebratory memory to last a lifetime.

How do you help motivate a crowd if people aren’t dancing on the dance floor?

Our primary objective once the party has started is to get a crowd moving. Our performers have lots of experience with this and our band’s repertoire is deliberately designed to be multi-generationally friendly. One tip that I always give to our clients is make sure the bar is as close to the dance floor as possible. Some venues have the main bar quite far from the dance floor or in another room. This is a party killer! No matter how good the entertainment is people will naturally gravitate to the bar so move it closer or setup a temporary bar and voila! The party will stay right where you want it.

How much does social media play a part of your business?

Social media is mandatory for any business. We use our social media to promote our showcases and public events, which in turn generates a lot of good awareness for the company. We also actively post live content from our bands on our YouTube channel to let everyone see the full talents of the St. Royal Family.

What sets your company apart from the competition?

Our approach to music design and our client service is the big difference. Our mission is to guide the flow of energy at an event to a peak, usually on the dance floor. We approach music with the objective of using it to steer the movement at an event and to progressively build throughout the evening. Through consultations with our client we aim to plan music and moments to a great degree of detail and to give our clients a true feeling of peace of mind when it comes to the music – so that they can enjoy the moment along with their guests.

Having been a part of so many weddings, what advice can you give to a couple on how to get the most out of their big day?

Make sure you enjoy the moment! The way to do this is by choosing vendors that are worthy of your trust, and then develop that trusting relationship. The couples who build a good team of vendors around them, and who are willing to trust them with the execution end up being able to live in each special moment and authentically enjoy it along with their guests. They will be more present, and they will truly enjoy the celebration, as opposed to worrying about something on their wedding day.

Thank you so much for sharing your business and your experiences with us.

Thank you!

If you are interested in learning more about St. Royal Entertainment or booking them for a wedding or event, please visit StRoyalEntertainment.com .

We Do, Take Two: Renewing Your Wedding Vows

Sat, 24 Sep 2016 17:03:34 GMT

A wedding day is a most special day, when a couple proclaims to the world that they will love and remain committed to each other for the rest of their lives. After the wedding the couple begins married life with one another, and together they experience all the good and (sometimes bad) moments that come their way. Hopefully amidst all of life’s ups and downs they will still love each other as much as the day they said “I do”. Many couples want to celebrate the fact that their love has lasted, and one way they are doing this is by holding a wedding vow renewal ceremony. Let’s take a look at all you need to know about renewing your wedding vows.

Reasons to Renew

Couples have many different reasons for wanting to renew their vows and there is no right or wrong reason to do so. Some choose to do so after a significant wedding anniversary, such as 5, 10, or 25 years of marriage, to show that even though time has passed their feelings have not changed. Some couples who’ve eloped, or who had a very small number of guests for their original wedding, want to hold a celebration with all the people who weren’t able to be there the first time. Other couples had huge elaborate weddings the first time, and want an intimate ceremony to renew their vows. Certain couples may feel their original wedding was a disaster or they didn’t have the money to do it the way they really wanted, and a renewal ceremony can be exactly what they need. There are couples that have had to overcome a hard time in their marriage, whether illness, financial, or personal hardship, and they want to renew their vows and say that they still choose to be together. The reasons for wanting to renew your wedding vows are very personal and there is only one real reason you need – because you want to!

Who’s Hosting?

Vow renewal ceremonies are typically hosted by the couple who is renewing their vows, or sometimes by the couple’s adult children. You can invite people formally by invitations in the mail, or more casually by email, depending on how fancy or casual the ceremony will be.

The Location

The location of the ceremony can be anywhere you want it to be. It can be at a favourite restaurant, or at an elegant hall. It could be a backyard BBQ or an all-inclusive vacation. Because it is not a legally binding ceremony (that’s what the wedding was for), there are no limitations where your renewal can take place.

The Guests

It is generally considered unnecessary to have bridesmaids and groomsmen for a renewal ceremony, as it is not supposed to be a recreation of the original wedding. However, having the people from your original wedding party attend your renewal is more than welcome. If you have children or grandchildren, it is a very sweet gesture to involve them in the service. You may pick whomever you please to officiate the ceremony as, mentioned previously, it isn’t legally binding. You could pick a family member, friend, or religious figure, the choice is up to you. Some couples choose to have a ceremony with just the two of them, perhaps while away on vacation, while others want friends and family there. Generally, you don’t need to invite co-workers or acquaintances to the renewal, only people who are very close to you as a couple.

What to Wear

For the outfits there are no rules at all. Woman can wear a white dress, or they can wear any other coloured dress of their choosing. Or maybe it doesn’t have to be a dress at all! Some women choose to wear a veil, others do not. Some choose to hold a bouquet, some don’t. The same freedom of attire goes for men, as they can wear a tuxedo, khakis, jeans, etc. The ceremony should reflect who you are, and you can wear whatever makes you feel the most beautiful and comfortable.

Proper Etiquette

Your renewal ceremony is not a second wedding, and so certain things are no longer necessary. You do not need a bachelor or bachelorette party, as you are not “celebrating” your last single days. You do not need to have a shower, as a wedding shower is to gift the bride with things for her married life. And you should not register for gifts for the ceremony. The gifts given to people at a wedding are to support them in starting their new life together. You and your partner already have a life together and should not expect friends and family to give you more. If people want to give you something of course that is ok, but it should not be an obligation.

The Ceremony

The couple can choose to walk down the aisle together, or they may choose to walk individually or with one of their children. Your vows should be very personal, and reflect the love that endures between you. Don’t focus your words on the hard times you may have gone through, but look positively towards the future. You may want to have an older married couple give you a blessing or some words of wisdom, or have your children read something they have written for you. The exchange of wedding rings is still a very popular part of the ceremony, as it signifies the exchange of love. Some couples choose to get their original bands engraved with a meaningful phrase or date, while others prefer to have new bands made for the renewal. And of course, every ceremony should end with a kiss.

Your Way

In the end, there are no hard rules for wedding vow renewals to follow. Your original wedding may have been influenced by traditions and family obligations, but your renewal ceremony is all about you as a couple. You have had time to grow together and truly become a team, and you have earned the right to hold the ceremony your way.

The Engagement Ring of Your Dreams

Sun, 28 Aug 2016 16:50:35 GMT

You have fallen in love and finally met your perfect match. You start noticing engagement rings all around you; on the hands of friends and family, on Facebook, on Instagram, engagement rings are everywhere! And you start to imagine your perfect ring. Perhaps you have known for years what style you wanted, or maybe you have just started collecting images but haven’t narrowed it down. Either way most people have an idea of what they love and what they don’t really like when it comes to ring designs. But how do you get those ideas into your partner’s head, so that they will know what to look for when the time is right to propose? We are here to offer some suggestions.

Friends and Family

Let your best friends or siblings know what kind of ring you would like. Give them pictures or at least an idea of what you want. It’s very likely that your partner will look to them for advice on the design, and you want them to have the right information.

Window Shop

Next time you and your love go shopping together, tell them you want to take a look at the diamond rings. Go into a couple of jewellery stores and point out or try on ones that you really like. One of my friends did this, and about a year later she received the very ring she had tried on in the store. Bonus points for your partner for remembering the ring you loved.

If you keep a Pinterest board of engagement rings you love (which let’s be serious, A LOT of us do) then you can mention this to your partner. If you think your partner will never go on your Pinterest page, then you can accidentally leave the page open on the computer so they see it the next time they log on. It might be a little bit sneaky but it will definitely help your partner figure out what kind of rings you are into.

Your Opinion Matters

Another idea is to comment (in private) on rings that your friends have. Let your partner know that you absolutely love Ashley’s rose gold ring with the diamond halo while you really don’t like Melanie’s yellow gold ring with the three diamonds. If your partner is paying attention they will make a mental note of these comments, and hopefully purchase something you will like.

Be Obvious

If you have been with your partner for many years and are certain an engagement is coming your way, you may feel comfortable being straightforward about what you want. Send them an exact image of a ring or a couple of rings that you like. Let them know what metal type and diamond shape or other gemstones you would like for your ring.

Shop Together

There are a lot of couples who chose to pick out or design a custom ring together. Sometimes the couple has gotten engaged without a ring and is looking to make the perfect one. Sometimes the couple decides on the engagement ring, and then the one partner buys it and holds onto it for a surprise proposal. There are no rules these days. You can do whatever feels right for you as a couple.

Surprise! Do you like it?

Now, sometimes the proposal is a complete surprise and you didn’t get a chance to let your partner know what you wanted in a ring. Hopefully the ring is stunning and fabulous and you love everything about it. Maybe it’s not the exact design you would have picked, but you love it because of the thought and love that went into it. If you really don’t like it, you always have the option of telling your partner that it’s not quite what you wanted, and they might be ok with changing the setting or diamond. However, I would say be very gentle if you are going to do this, as I’m sure a lot of thought, time and money went into the ring. In the end the most important thing about the ring is that is it a symbol of your commitment and it should reflect the love you and your partner will share for a lifetime.

A Rainbow of Fancy Coloured Diamonds

Tue, 26 Jul 2016 16:42:31 GMT

We are all familiar with diamonds – that beautiful gemstone which is prized across the globe. Known for its sparkle and strength, and priced on its cut, carat, clarity and colour. Typical diamonds are valued based on their absence of colour, with the most valuable and rarest stones being completely colourless. However, there is another category of diamonds called fancy coloured diamonds and these diamonds can be worth much more than the colourless diamond. Coloured diamonds come in all different colours, and their price goes up the brighter and more intense the colour hue is. These fancy coloured diamonds are quite rare which is why they command such high prices.

How Diamonds Are Formed

Diamonds are composed of carbon and were formed at extremely high temperatures under extremely high pressure, deep within the earth’s mantle. Diamonds were brought close to the earth’s surface by deep volcanic eruptions millions of years ago. The volcanic material carried the diamonds within it and cooled into a hard material called Kimberlite, which is where we find most of the earth’s diamonds. Pure carbon creates a diamond that is completely colourless, but these stones are very rare, as little impurities, inclusions and other minerals get trapped with the carbon during a diamond’s creation. This is what causes some diamonds to be lower quality, as they are more yellowish and aren’t clear to the naked eye. But for fancy coloured diamonds it is the impurities and “defects” in the carbon structure which give the diamond its specific colour.

There is a colour scale for fancy coloured diamonds, which starts at pale shades and continues to very bright and saturated ones. The categories are Fancy Light, Fancy, Fancy Deep, Fancy Intense and Fancy Vivid. Fancy Vivid diamonds are the rarest.

All the Natural Colours of the Rainbow

Yellow

Yellow diamonds are the most commonly seen fancy coloured diamond. They are also one of the most common in nature, next to brown diamonds. They are less rare and correspondingly less expensive to purchase, but still cost as much and often more than a high quality white diamond. These diamonds are often referred to as canary diamonds. Yellow diamonds get their colour when nitrogen replaces some of the carbon atoms in the structure. The more nitrogen “impurities” in a stone, the more yellow the diamond appears.

Blue

Blue diamonds are very rare and because of this they are extremely expensive. Usually they will be a grey-blue colour and rarely will they be a strong blue colour like a sapphire. Only one out of 200,000 diamonds will have a hint of blue and it is usually very pale. The most famous blue diamond is the Hope Diamond, which weighs an impressive 45.52 carats. Blue diamonds get their colour from boron that has been trapped in the crystal structure as it was forming.

Pink and Red

Red is the absolute rarest of diamond colours and only a small number have been discovered. Because of their rarity they command huge prices and are mainly bought by gem collectors or investors. Pink diamonds are also very rare and are extremely coveted. A pink diamond is considered the ultimate luxury item. 90% of the world’s pink and red diamonds come from the Argyle Diamond Mine in Northwest Australia. Unlike other coloured diamonds, no mineral impurity has been found to create the pink or red colour. It is thought that during the diamond’s voyage to the earth’s surface it undergoes changes in its electron structure, called plastic deformation. This deformation traps electrons so that they interact with light to produce a pink or red colour.

Green

Natural green diamonds are extremely rare and are usually a light and muted hue. Green diamonds get their colour as they are exiting the earth’s last layer of crust. It is at this time that they absorb naturally occurring radiation in the soil. The radiation usually only colours the diamond’s outer surface – they are not usually green all the way through the stone. Even advanced gemologists have trouble determining if a green diamond was coloured naturally or enhanced by man. Because of this, green diamonds are always regarded with suspicion and heavily examined in labs before they are given a grading.

Orange

Orange diamonds are not as rare as some of the previous colours, but still aren’t too common. These diamonds are coloured by nitrogen, just like yellow diamonds. But the nitrogen atoms in the orange diamond are assembled in a very specific way. To produce the orange colour, the particles absorb blue light and some yellow light.

Purple

Purple diamonds usually have tints of purple and a secondary shade, such as pink, red, blue, grey or brown. It is very rare to find a pure purple coloured diamond. It is believed purple diamonds get their colour from a combination of crystal distortion (such as the pink diamond has from deformation) and a high presence of hydrogen as the stone is forming.

Grey

Grey diamonds are a good option for those who are looking for a lower priced coloured diamond. While they are still very rare, they are not priced as high as the other colours. They get their grey colour from high levels of hydrogen. The one big plus for the grey diamond is that it is easily found in the round brilliant cut. The round brilliant cut is definitely the most popular diamond cut and yet most coloured diamonds are usually cut into radiant or cushion cuts. That’s because the brilliant cut was created to produce the most reflection of light, and thus make the stone appear whiter. Gem cutters don’t want fancy coloured diamonds to appear whiter so they will usually cut coloured diamonds in shapes that will help the stone retain the most colour.

Brown

Brown diamonds are the most commonly found fancy coloured diamond and are the most affordable. Brown diamonds were likely the very first diamonds to be used in jewellery. These diamonds are found in numerous shades, like the pale browns which are usually referred to as Champagne Diamonds, to the deep browns which can be referred to as Cognac or Chocolate Diamonds. These diamonds get their colour from plastic deformation.

Black

Black diamonds are fairly new to the jewellery world as designers only started using them in the 1990s. Before that these diamonds were mainly used for industrial purposes. Natural true black diamonds are very rare and the ones seen in jewellery are usually treated to become blacker. Black diamonds get their colour (or lack thereof) by a large amount of dark inclusions spread throughout the stone. Black diamonds do not reflect light, but rather absorb light and have an opaque, glossy surface. They are older than any other diamonds on earth and some scientists believe that they came from meteorites. Black diamonds are so hard that they can only be cut by other black diamonds.

White

Typically when people hear white diamond they think of the traditional colourless diamond, but there is actually a Fancy White diamond, which is actually white. These diamonds have tiny microscopic inclusions, thought to be nitrogen, that diffract light off of the stone. This light diffraction gives the fancy white diamond a milky, opalescent appearance.

Colour-Treated Diamonds

All the colours above have been in reference to natural diamonds, ones that were created in the earth without human influence. However, a lot of the coloured diamonds that are found in jewellery are colour-treated, meaning that undesirable coloured diamonds have been treated to enhance their colour. This process can take a light brown coloured stone and turn it into a purple diamond, or change a yellowish stone into a colourless one. There are a few different treatments that make this happen. The most common is High Pressure High Temperature (HPHT) where the stone is put under those conditions to change the colour. There is also a procedure called Irradiation, where the diamonds are exposed to high energy electron or neutron particles which move carbon atoms out of place and physically alter the crystal lattice. Another treatment is that of surface coating where a thin layer of coloured material is deposited on the diamond, and this treatment is not permanent. Lastly there are synthetic coloured diamonds which are lab grown diamonds that are created under the types of conditions that natural coloured diamonds would be exposed to. All these different treatments significantly decrease the value of the coloured diamond, which is why you only want to buy a coloured diamond from a seller who will provide a grading report from a trusted lab such as GIA.

A Rare Beauty

Coloured diamonds are so coveted and so special because they are so rare. For any given colour to be created there were thousands of variables that had to be present at the exact right time. All those factors coming together to create lemony yellows, cool blues and pretty pinks is really science at its most beautiful. While not everyone may be able to afford a coloured diamond of their own, I think we can all appreciate such a beautiful natural creation.

The June Bride and Popular Wedding Traditions

Sun, 12 Jun 2016 16:38:45 GMT

Wedding season begins to really take off in the spring time. The invitations start rolling in and the calendar starts filling up. And those of us who have attended a wedding or two (or many!) have come to expect certain traditions throughout the wedding day. The bride will wear white and carry a bouquet, there will be a wedding party with bridesmaids and a best man, and there will be cake to eat and confetti to throw. And while we are all familiar with these customs, not many of us know where they originated from. Let’s take a trip back in time and find out where these traditions began.

The June Bride

The idea that June is the best month to get married dates back to Roman times, as June was the month of the God Juno and his wife Jupiter, the Goddess of marriage and childbirth. It also dates back to the times when most people lived off the land and depended on the harvests for survival. A June wedding meant that the woman would (hopefully) be newly pregnant in summer time and still able to help with manual work. And after a spring birth the mother would be in good enough health to help with the next summer harvest.

There is also a popular myth that in early medieval times people only bathed once a year, usually at the end of May or beginning of June, and they wanted to marry when they smelled their best.

Bridal Shower

The bridal shower originated in 16th century Holland. The story goes that a well off young woman fell in love with a poor man, instead of the wealthy man her father had chosen for her. Her father was so upset with her choice that he refused to pay her dowry. All the villagers came together and showered the young woman with gifts so she had enough of a dowry to marry the man she loved.

In Victorian times women would throw a small party for the bride to be and place small gifts they had brought into a parasol. They would then open the parasol above the bride’s head and she would be showered with gifts.

Bachelor Party

The bachelor party originated in Ancient Sparta and not much has changed since that time. Male friends of the groom to be would gather together for a feast to celebrate his last single night and would spend the night drinking and toasting.

The bachelorette party didn’t arise until the 1960’s with the start of the sexual revolution, when women also wanted one last single celebration.

Don’t Peek the Bride

It is a commonly held belief that it is bad luck for the groom to see his bride before the wedding. This tradition dates back to when most marriages were arranged by parents. The father of the bride didn’t want the groom to see his bride, in case the girl was unattractive and the groom decided to back out of the marriage contract.

White Wedding

The custom of the bride wearing white is not a very old one and, contrary to popular belief, is not in order to show the bride’s purity. It was Queen Victoria who started the trend of brides wearing white, at her wedding in 1840. Prior to this, royalty and the very wealthy would have dresses made in expensive fabrics such as silk, velvet, and fur dyed in rich and bold colours. Poorer brides would just wear the best dress they already owned. Queen Victoria chose white because it was the colour of a favorite lace of hers. After her wedding, wealthy women all over Europe began to ask for white wedding dresses to emulate the Queen, and the trend has lasted to this day!

Bridesmaids

This tradition comes from Ancient Rome, when the bridesmaids would be dressed identically to the bride to confuse evil spirits who might try to harm the bride on her wedding day. In Victorian times bridesmaids would wear short white dresses with short veils. By the 20th century only the bride would wear white, so as to stand out from the others.

The Best Man

This is believed to have originated from the Germanic Goths, when men would often steal their bride from a neighboring village and would need the help of their ‘best man’ to capture her. The best man also walked the bride up the aisle and stood beside her during the ceremony to ‘protect’ her from getting stolen back by her family.

The Bouquet

In ancient times brides wore or carried bouquets of herbs that had special meanings. Garlic was to cast off evil spirits, sage was for wisdom and dill was for lust. Flower girls would carry sheaves of wheat as a symbol of fertility. In medieval times the herbs had the added effect of covering unpleasant body odors.

Around the 1700’s people began carrying pretty bouquets of flowers, and the flowers held specific meanings. Roses were for love, ivy for fidelity, lilies for purity and orange blossoms for happiness.

The throwing of the bouquet started because brides were considered very lucky on their wedding day, and the guests wanted some of the luck to rub off onto them. They use to tear pieces off of the wedding dress to keep as a talisman of good luck. Brides were not fond of this tradition so they would throw their bouquet and garter to guests so that they could have a keepsake without tearing apart the dress.

Something Old, Something New

This is an Olde English Rhyme that states, “Something old, something new, something borrowed, something blue, a silver sixpence in your shoe.” These stood for the five items a bride should carry on her wedding day. The something old is for continuity, new is for optimism, borrowed is for something borrowed from a happily married person so their good fortune will rub off and blue is for purity, love and fidelity. The silver sixpence was for good fortune.

Wedding Cake

In Ancient Rome bread was broken over the bride’s head for good fortune, and then the bride and groom would eat some of the crumbs and the guests would gather the rest for good luck. In medieval England cakes were stacked on top of each other as high as possible and the bride and groom would have to kiss over top of it. The cutting of the cake and the distribution of it was to be done only by the bride to ensure her fertility. Eventually cakes became so big and elaborate the groom had to help her, and before they would distribute it they would share a piece to symbolize their union.

Throwing Confetti

In Roman times guests of the wedding would throw grains of rice on the married couple to represent their fertility. In France, wheat was thrown at the couple for the same reason. Italians threw sugared almonds, which is where the word confetti came from. Eventually people began to throw flower petals, paper confetti or birdseed.

Honeymoon

This can be traced back to the 5th Century when people closely followed the lunar calendar. The newly married couple would be gifted mead (a type of honey ale) to drink during the first moon of their marriage. The first recorded description of the word honeymoon comes from 16th century and referred to the sweetness and happiness that would be experienced during the first month of marriage, but would only be for a fleeting time. The travel component started in 19th century Britain when the couple would travel with friends and family to visit those who were unable to attend the wedding.

Past Meets Present

It is so interesting to see how customs got their start, and how some have changed so much in meaning. Today marriage is a celebration of two people in love, but in the past was more of a contract to bring families together and bear offspring. The traditions reflect the social, religious and economic rules of the societies they came from. While I am glad there is more emphasis on love and romance in the weddings of today, I find it wonderful that certain customs continue on, bringing a bit of the past into the present day.

Edwardian Jewelry: Classic Antique Design

Tue, 24 May 2016 15:19:13 GMT

Antique styles are extremely popular when it comes to engagement ring designs and there is a vast selection from all the different eras. Whatever your personal style is you will probably be able to find an antique ring that suits your tastes. One of the more popular time periods for antique rings is that of the Edwardian Era. Jewelry from this period is classic and traditional, as well as very feminine. While the name ‘Edwardian Jewelry’ may not be commonly known, I guarantee you the style is. It has a timeless appeal, which is the reason it remains in high demand today.

The High Society of the Edwardian Era

The Edwardian Era began in England in 1901 when Queen Victoria died and her son Edward took the thrown. The period ended in 1914 with the start of WWI. In France, the same period is referred to as ‘The Belle Époque’ or the beautiful age. King Edward and his Queen Alexandra were fashion leaders who helped established an international high society throughout Europe. This era is considered a romantic and elegant age, but it was also a time when the class system was rigid, and a huge gap in wealth existed between the high and low classes. Wearing fine jewelry was a necessity for those in high society, and it was worn to show one’s rank and wealth. While today it can be considered vulgar to flaunt extreme wealth, in Edwardian high society it was a requirement.

Design Characteristics and Inspiration

One of the defining features of Edwardian jewelry is the use of platinum. In 1903 the oxyacetylene torch was invented, which reached the high temperatures needed to melt platinum. Because platinum is one of the hardest and most durable metals, very delicate and intricate designs became possible without worry of breakage. Platinum is also excellent for setting diamonds, and the use of diamonds was widespread throughout this period. Another important feature in Edwardian jewelry is the technique of milgraining. This is when a small border of beads is created to surround the gemstones and follow the edges of the design. Miligrain adds a lighter and softer appearance to the metal.

Inspiration for the Edwardian style came from traditional motifs of the past. Neo-classical and Rococo artists of the 18th century, as well as the French courts of Versailles were all influences. The famous jeweler Cartier had his designers wander the streets of Paris looking at 17th and 18th century architecture for inspiration. Pattern books featuring ornamental designs from the past began to circulate widely during this time, and this was also reflected in the jewelry. Popular motifs were garlands, ribbons, wreaths, bows, knots and lace, which were all created with an airy lightness that platinum provided.

The Styles of the Time

Ladies in the early 1900’s wore silk and lace dresses in pastel colours, which matched the elegant platinum and diamond jewelry. Diamond ‘dog collars’ became hugely popular, as did black velvet chokers with a diamond motif in the center. Queen Alexandra would pile many jeweled chokers upon her neck, said to be hiding a scar from her childhood. Soon enough all the royal ladies and those in high society were copying her style. Brooches were typically worn on the dress until about 1910 when changing necklines led to the wearing of necklaces with one or two hanging pendants. Earrings were long with open work design that reflected the flowing gowns. Tiaras were an essential part of the elite lady’s outfit, and platinum allowed for elaborate design without being too heavy on the head. Rings had large center stones surrounded by smaller stones. Multiple stacked rings on the finger were also very trendy. Rings had elongated outlines, pierced work and filigree design. Some rings were so large they covered the finger from knuckle to knuckle. Women often wore their engagement rings on a different hand than their wedding band, as the engagement ring’s size and shape didn’t fit with a band.

End of an Era

This age of elegance abruptly ended in 1914 with the start of WWI in Europe. Platinum was needed for the war effort and jewelry production in Europe came to a halt. No longer could royalty and high society flaunt their wealth so freely when the entire country and continent was under fire. The jewelry industry did recover after the war and by the mid 1920’s the Art Deco style became all the rage. While the Edwardian era lasted for less than 15 years, its light and elegant designs remain in style today. For today’s engagement rings, the white metal and white diamond style is definitely the most popular look. Many elements from antique Edwardian rings are still very common, such as milgraining and small diamonds surrounding a larger one. It just goes to show you that, like most fashions, when it comes to jewelry – what goes around, comes back around.

Image Credit: Berganza

The Maven of Toronto Wedding Planners

Wed, 27 Apr 2016 15:03:37 GMT

At Kimberfire we spend our days helping people find the perfect diamond engagement ring and wedding bands, and during this process the conversation often leads to wedding plans. It’s always interesting to hear about the planning process and the different ways that people choose to celebrate. I decided I wanted to learn more about what goes on behind the scenes and all the work that goes into creating the perfect wedding. I sat down to interview Angela Reshetnyk, owner of Maven Weddings and Events, which specializes in designing, planning and executing weddings and events.

Sara: Angela, tell us a little bit about yourself and your business.

Angela: I love my job and my life. I am a creative junkie! I am extremely organized, a multi-tasker and a control freak (although I hate the word freak). I love art, fashion, flowers, and design in all its forms. I am married to my high school sweetheart and the single love of my life. I have a beautiful wee daughter who is the light of my life, and I have 2 adorable Labs (my other lights) named Buster & Sadie. The first wedding I planned was in 2011, so I have been in business for 5 years now (wow?!). I have lost count of how many weddings I have planned at this point.

Sara: How did your education and/or previous job experience prepare you for running a wedding planning business?

Angela: My education and professional experience was in Interior Design, Decorating and Sales, which all go hand in hand with the industry I am in now. However, it was only after planning my own wedding and a few weddings of family & friends that I realized I was pretty darn good at this! From there I took a huge leap of faith and tried doing it for a living… it was scary being in charge of pulling off the biggest day in someone’s life, but after my first ‘official’ wedding I was hooked.

Sara: What types of packages does Maven Weddings and Events offer?

Angela: I don’t offer packages and I get asked this ALL the time. I find it hard to offer package pricing because all of my couples are so different in their needs & wants. Especially now with so many brides being DIY. They want to be involved, they want to make things, they want to shop. Also logistics come into play, the number of guests (50 guests vs 350 guests is a totally different ballgame). So I quote a la carte. After an initial consultation over the phone or in person, I can get a good grasp as to what my bride needs and provide them with a preliminary quote from there.

Sara: Where do you get your ideas and inspiration?

Angela: I am a Pinterest girl! I love using Pinterest as a source of inspiration. I don’t copy from it, but it does inspire me. I often create inspiration boards on Pinterest for my couples to give them a visual direction as to where I’d like to go with their wedding and they are always excited to see it. Instagram is also a great source for ideas. These are both amazing resources that most of my clients are already on.

Sara: If someone was holding back from hiring a wedding planner because of the costs, what would you say to them which might change their mind?

Angela: More often than not, I actually help my couples save on costs. Things like using my preferred vendors and being able to shop at industry only locations are just a couple of aspects to consider. I can also help with budget, as a lot of couples tend to allocate either way too much or way too little in certain areas. I can be their voice of reason as to where they will get the most bang for their buck. Most couples don’t have a clue about the costs of flowers, linens, chair rentals, etc. so I encourage my couples to talk to me when they are unsure of something, so I can let them know if it is a good deal or if they could find something elsewhere that is more suitable for their budget. Also, I let them know that their time is worth money. A lot of my clients are already busy before adding the planning of a wedding into the mix. So the time it would take them to source a vendor could be done in a fraction of the time by getting me to do it.

Sara: How do you decide on décor and themes for your weddings?

Angela: I get inspired by my couples! In particular, their love stories – how they met – how he (or she!) proposed, as well as their jobs, hobbies, etc. I ALWAYS suggest adding personal touches to every wedding, it’s what makes your wedding YOU, and not a wedding that could be for anyone else. I’ve done and been to weddings that are absolutely beautiful but have nothing to do with the couple, and I feel like it loses the charm and intimacy that every wedding should have.

Sara: Has something ever gone wrong on the day of a wedding, and how did you handle it?

Angela: YES! I’ve had a Best Man faint during the ceremony and knock out his front teeth! I have had a Groomsman drop the wedding rings down an elevator shaft in an old historical building downtown! I’ve had a sweetheart table catch on fire during a speech because the groom had put his napkin on a candle when he went to thank the person who was giving the speech (and those are just my top 3!). So yes things have and will go wrong, however it is my job to remain calm and FIX IT. If there is ANY way my couple doesn’t need to know that something has gone wrong, then I’d like to keep it that way. My biggest compliment I can get after a wedding is when my couples say “Wow, what a great day, it was so seamless and nothing went wrong! It’s as though we didn’t even need you here?!”. If this is their response, then my job was done right.

Sara: What tips would you give to a couple who are looking for a wedding planner?

Angela: Find someone you mesh with personality-wise. You will be working closely and frequently with this person for months (and intimately on the day-of!) so you better like them. Look at their personal sense of style, do you like how they are presenting themselves? Look at their website gallery, Facebook albums and Instagram page. Are there actual wedding shots of their work or are they images from Pinterest that we’ve all seen before? I see so many planners posting pics I have seen on social media that is not even theirs. So make sure it’s their work they are showcasing and ask for referrals if you are not sure.

Sara: What are some new and/or continuing trends for wedding décor, themes, venues?

Angela: I’m seeing a lot of pastel colour palettes for 2017. Blush is still leading the pack this year (as it did last year) for my most popular wedding colour. For food trends, Tapas & Food Station weddings, as well as no seating plans are becoming more popular for non-traditional brides who truly want to do something outside the box. Barn weddings are still a favorite but more modern brides are looking for tents – which I love! Rustic weddings are great, but my brides are all doing/trying new things – which makes it fun. For décor the mason jar is officially OUT….whew! But mercury glass in gold/silver/and rose gold pink are still popular with my brides, as it can be both vintage looking and modern at the same time.

Sara: What is the most rewarding aspect of the job?

Angela: I love being a part of the biggest day in a couple’s life. I don’t care if it’s in a big way or small way, I just get such satisfaction in making people happy and making peoples’ dreams come true. It’s the best part – seeing my clients happy – I love it! I love LOVE, so really what other industry should I be working in? I also like seeing the couples’ faces when they see their vision come to life, like when I reveal the reception space to them, or when a bride sees her bouquet for the first time. These are all such special moments for me to witness at each and every wedding.

Sara: How important is social media to your business?

Angela: Very. Between posting on Instagram, liking/sharing/making albums on Facebook, pinning on Pinterest, and keeping my website up to date…it’s crazy. But it’s vital with today’s bride. All my brides are online in one way or another, so I have to be as well, no questions asked. The key is staying on top of it all. Not only is social media important for my clients, but it’s vital to network with fellow industry people as well, vendors, colleagues, competitors, etc.

Sara: After being a part of so many wedding, what advice can you give to a couple to get the most out of their big day?

Angela: Don’t sweat the small stuff. If it’s raining, your aisle runner didn’t make it out, a bridesmaid’s heel broke, a candle isn’t lit, your candy bar labels are incorrectly marked, WHATEVER it is, don’t let it ruin your day! Trust your vendors. You’ve hired them for a reason, let them do the job you hired them for and trust it will get done as they are the experts. Let your wedding planner oversee their work, you should be relaxing and getting ready for your big day. Spend time with your guests, don’t disappear for hours with your photographer, enjoy & be present for cocktail hour to mingle with your friends & family, and dance with them on the dancefloor! If there is ever a day to celebrate the couple that you are, this would be the day!

Sara: Thank you so much for sharing your insight and experiences with us.

Angela: Thank you guys! It was my pleasure.

If you are interested in learning more, or would like to contact Angela, please visit Maven Weddings and Events .

Destination Wedding Planning Tips

Sun, 27 Mar 2016 14:58:44 GMT

Although spring officially begins in March, here in Toronto we still have a few more wet and cloudy days before the warm weather arrives. We can’t help but to daydream about white sand and clear blue water and the sunshine on our skin. And while we can’t be on vacation all the time (unfortunately), there are times in our lives when we just need an escape. Leaving the usual weather and scenery of home behind for a place with beauty and inspiration can be very romantic, which is why many people are choosing to have a destination wedding. But how do you know if a destination wedding is the right choice for you? Here are some things to consider.

Picking a Location

If you are someone who has never wanted the traditional wedding at a reception hall, where is it that you imagine yourself getting married? A beach resort in the Caribbean? A winery in California? A restaurant in Paris? A mountain resort in Banff? Think of a place that has meaning for you as a couple, or even just somewhere you both always wanted to visit.

There are many factors in deciding where to have your destination wedding. It is important to realize that the further away and more expensive the travel to your wedding, the fewer people who will be able to attend. Ask yourself if the most essential people will be able to make the trip. If there are friends or family members who you know will not be able to attend due to expenses or obligations at home, will you be ok with them not being there? Some people choose to get married at a destination but then have a second reception close to home, where all the people who were unable to attend can celebrate. Whether the second event is a full sit down dinner, or just some appetizers and cocktails, it is nice for people to see photos and videos of the wedding and feel that they are a part of your day.

Another factor in the decision of location is the expense of throwing the wedding. Look at your budget and work within it. A swanky reception in New York City is going to be a lot more expensive than a resort wedding in Cuba. The most common type of destination wedding for Canadians is a resort wedding at an all-inclusive resort in either Mexico or the Caribbean. The reason for its popularity is because it is usually much more affordable for the couple. Most of the resorts have planners on staff who specialize in weddings and they will help guide you through the whole process.

Booking a Venue

You are going to want to book the location about 10 to 12 months ahead of time, especially if you are going during the high season. Make sure you know the expected seasonal weather and don’t book during hurricane season. You will need to get an approximate guest number, to be sure the venue has room for everyone. A good way to get an estimate is to take a look at your guest list and divide it into 3 categories. The first category is made up of people who probably won’t be able to attend, so count 25% of this group. The second category is made up of people who might be able to attend, count 50% of this group. The third category is made up of those who most likely will be coming. Count 90% of this group. Put the numbers together and you should have a rough idea of how many people will be attending. It is important to send out ‘save the dates’ about 10 months in advance, so that people can plan for the trip. It can be helpful to set up a wedding website for your guests, where they can find out all the information on the location, accommodations, travel information and anything else that is important for them to know for the trip.

Once you have booked the wedding it is recommended that you visit the place you will be getting married. If you are planning for it to be at a resort, make sure you like the resort and the people who will be helping with the wedding. If you are not at a resort, make sure you visit the place you will be holding the reception to make sure there are no surprises. Pick the spot you would like the ceremony, whether it is on the beach or on a mountain top. And if it will be outdoors, have a backup spot in case the weather does not cooperate. It’s also nice to travel around the area so that you can tell your wedding guests which sights to see or excursions to go on. If you are selecting a wedding package with a resort you can go over the music, the décor and the menu they will be serving. Most places have a wedding photographer who comes with the package; some are great and some not so much. Take a look at their portfolio to see if you like their work. Some people choose to bring a photographer from home on the vacation with them, so that they can have their own personal photographer for the entire day or even throughout the whole trip.

Additional Tips

When choosing the dress, shoes, and suit, think of the climate and dress accordingly. You aren’t going to want to be wearing stiletto heels on a beach, or a wool suit in 35-degree heat.
Think about the time of day you will have your ceremony. It may seem like a good idea to hold it at 1pm, but you and your guests might be a lot more comfortable in the cooler morning or evening temperatures.
You do not need to pay for your guests to attend. People are expected to pay their own way, but most couples then decide to decline wedding presents, as the trip is expensive enough for your guests.
Research local legal requirement for marriage. In some countries you can legally get married after being there for 24 hours, others require paperwork which can take up to 6 months to process. Some couples choose to symbolically get married at the destination, and legally get married in their home country.
Do not spend a lot on flowers or decorations. You have chosen the destination because of its beautiful scenery or architecture, so it likely does not need a lot of work to look great.
Do not plan or organize your guests’ entire trip, it is also their vacation and people like to do their own thing. That being said it is nice to have a least one organized event prior to the wedding, whether it be welcome drinks or a rehearsal dinner. You can also give people the option of taking part in different excursions throughout the trip, but they should not feel obligated.

Consider the Honeymoon

Since you have already spent the time and money to visit a beautiful place, perhaps it makes sense to extend the vacation into a honeymoon. The week of the wedding will be very busy with lots of time spent with family and friends. Some couples stay at the location for a second week just the two of them, when they can finally enjoy some alone time. You could also choose to change resorts, such as switching from a family friendly place to a romantic adult only spot. Or you might take a trip to somewhere close by, like a wedding in Italy with a honeymoon in Spain.

Decisions, Decisions

After going over all the information, you should have a better understanding on what it takes to plan a destination wedding, and if one is right for you. A big plus for many people is the lower costs associated with an all-inclusive resort wedding, while a big con is many of your guests may not be able to attend. You have to decide what is important to you as a couple, and what kind of a wedding suits you best. In the end it is your special day, and you deserve to have the wedding you’ve always dreamt of, whether at home or away.

The Origins of Valentine’s Day

Sun, 14 Feb 2016 15:56:50 GMT

February can be a tough month to get through. The holiday season is over, the sky is dark and the air is cold. Yet there is a magical day in February where we get to spend precious time with the one we love, and celebrate romance. Of course I am talking about Valentine’s Day, which falls on February 14th. Valentine’s Day is celebrated in Canada, USA, the UK, France, Australia and Mexico. On this day millions of people give someone they care about a token of their love. It may be a hand written valentine, or a box of chocolates, a dozen red roses or a diamond ring. It doesn’t matter what you give, all that matters is that it comes from the heart. But how did this tradition begin? Let’s take a look at Valentine’s Day through history.

The Ancient Fertility Festival

Long before the romance, February 13th to 15th was the date the Ancient Romans celebrated the festival of Lupercalia. Lupercalia honoured Lupa the she-wolf in Roman Legend who suckled the twins Romulus and Remus that grew up to found Rome. It was also dedicated to Faunus, the God of Agriculture. The festival was to ensure purification and fertility in the city. It was run by the Luperci, Roman priests who would meet in a sacred cave and sacrifice goats and a dog. They would strip the hides off of the animals and cut them into strips and dip them into the blood. They then took the bloody strips through the streets and would slap both the ground and young women with them to ensure fertility. Lupercalia was a very popular festival that continued on into the 5th century AD when Pope Gelasius outlawed it. Some scholars believe this ancient fertility festival was converted into the Catholic holiday celebrating Saint Valentine, at a time when the Church was trying to suppress the ancient religion and spread Christianity. There are others who believe Lupercalia’s only connection to Valentine’s Day is the date and nothing more.

Who Was Saint Valentine?

Saint Valentine was a 3rd century Roman priest who was martyred on February 14th and is associated with romantic love and valentines. But so little is truly known about him that the Roman Catholic Church removed his name from their official Calendar of Feasts in 1969. So what do we know? Well there were actually records of three different Saint Valentines who were all killed on February 14th. One was a priest in Rome, one a bishop in Terni, and one was a priest in Africa. The first two Valentines were said to be persecuted and murdered during the reign of Emperor Claudius II, which has led some scholars to believe the stories may be from a combination of them both. There are few facts about Saint Valentine’s life but his legends still live on. The most well-known legend is that the Emperor Claudius II had outlawed marriage, as single young men made for better soldiers for his army. Valentine defied the law and married young lovers in Christian ceremonies. For this he was sentenced to death, and became a saint of love. Another legend had Valentine imprisoned for helping Christians, and while in jail he fell in love with the blind daughter of his jailer. Before his execution he had healed the daughter’s eyesight and left her a letter that he signed “from your Valentine”. Whether there is any truth to these stories we will never know, as it is lost to history.

Birds of a Feather

In 1382 English writer Geoffrey Chaucer wrote his poem “Parliament of Foules” for the engagement of King Richard II of England to Anne of Bohemia. One line stated “For this was on Saint Valentine’s Day, when every bird comes there to choose his mate” which referred to the idea that birds’ mating season began in February. This appears to be the first time in history that Valentine’s day is connected to the idea of romance. On February 14th of the year 1400, the High Court of Love was established in Paris, which dealt with love contracts, marriages, betrayals and violence against women. Charles, Duke of Orleans wrote the oldest known valentine in existence in 1415 to his wife while he was imprisoned in the tower of London. By the 1600’s Valentine’s Day’s link with romance was a popular concept and was mentioned in Shakespeare’s Hamlet when Ophelia proclaimed “To-morrow is Saint Valentine’s Day, All in the morning betime, And I a maid at your window, To be your Valentine.”

Modern Traditions

By the 18th century it was common for friends and lovers to exchange small tokens or handwritten notes on Valentine’s Day. In 1797 “The Young Man’s Valentine Writer” was published, helping men write sentimental verses in their cards. The Persian poetry of flowers had been imported into Europe, and people believed that each flower had a specific meaning. By the Victorian times people would give a bouquet of flowers to their loved ones to send a specific message. And red roses, which had been tied to passion and love since ancient times, became the number one choice to give your valentine. In the late 1800’s mass produced printed valentines began to replace hand written ones and were usually covered in lace, ribbons, and colourful pictures. Around the same time Cadbury started producing chocolates that were sold in beautifully decorated boxes. It is believed they invented the very first heart shaped box. These boxes were marketed to be used as keepsake boxes to hold letters, locks of hair and love notes. By the 1980’s jewellery companies began promoting diamonds and jewellery as the perfect Valentine’s Day gift.

Love Is Everywhere

These days over a billion Valentine’s Day cards are sold each year. And recent years have seen a rise in the number of people who send e-cards on February 14th. Even though the origins of this holiday are clouded in mystery, people just love to come together to celebrate LOVE! And why not! Whether it is little kids exchanging cards, young couples exchanging roses and chocolates, or a married couple giving the gift of jewellery, the most important thing about this holiday is not the actual gift, but the act of showing someone how much they are loved.

Art Deco Jewelry: Timeless Elegance

Tue, 05 Jan 2016 15:54:18 GMT

Anyone who has any interest in jewelry has probably come across the term Art Deco many times. Whether you are looking at rings on Pinterest, trying on earrings in a store, or shopping online for the perfect necklace, Art Deco keeps popping up. That’s because even though Art Deco is an antique style, it is soaring in popularity these days. Let’s take a look at everything you need to know about this period in jewelry.

Origins in Paris of 1925

Art Deco style got its name from the 1925 ‘Exposition International des Arts Decoratifs et Industrial Modernes’. This was a World’s Fair in Paris which showcased modern designs in decorative art. This new design style came to be known as Art Deco and was applied to architecture, jewelry, fashion, art and interior design. This new style celebrated modernity and technology and was a direct response to the austerity caused by WWI.

Design Characteristics and Influences

Art Deco design has simple clean lines, uses symmetry and repetition and has a strong focus on geometric shapes. It is also known for its rich colours and unusual materials. The jewelry was often set with calibre cut gemstones, which means the gems were cut precisely to fit into a specific design, usually to enhance the geometric pattern. A big influence on the Deco aesthetic was the discovery of King Tutankhamen’s tomb, which was opened in 1922 and revealed the ancient jewelry and art of Egypt. Designers were also influenced by Indian, African, Oriental and Persian design.

Prominent Jewelers

Jewelry sales were booming in the 1920’s, reflecting the growing consumerism and affluence of people in both Europe and North America. The big name jewelry houses designed in the Deco style, and many of their most famous pieces are from this era. Tiffany, Cartier, Mauboussin, Lalique, Fouquet, Boucheron, Harry Winston and Van Cleef and Arpels are just a few of the houses with stunning Art Deco jewelry in their archives. These jewelers usually signed their work and these signed pieces sell for very high prices at auctions today. It was also during this period that Van Cleef and Arpels invented their famous invisible gem setting technique, in which gem stones are mounted through a system of grooves and rails so that no metal is visible.

Fashion Inspired

The Art Deco jewelry styles directly related to the fashions of the time. WWI had brought major changes to woman’s clothing, as many stopped wearing corsets and the dropped waist look became the trend. Short sleeves, shorter hemlines and short hair all rounded out the look of a fashionable lady. Fashion designers Paul Poiret and Coco Chanel helped bring forward modern fashion, with Poiret disposing of the corset and dressing women in trousers, and Chanel’s sportswear inspired clothing and little black dresses.

Necklaces were worn long to compliment the drop waist dresses. Long ropes of pearls were extremely stylish and have come to be known as the ‘flapper’ style. Another necklace style was the Sautoir, which was a long necklace that suspended a tassel or ornament and was often convertible and could be taken apart to wear as a bracelet, choker or pendant.

Bracelets were a big focal point as the arms were now bare and often multiple ones were stacked up the arm. They were large and often had many rectangular shaped links which would be covered in diamonds, usually the square ‘French cut’ style which complimented the geometric designs.

Earrings were long and dangly to show off the short haircuts and were often set with many diamonds. Most women didn’t have pierced ears and these earrings were usually screw backs.

Dress clips were another popular option, which looked similar to a brooch but instead of a pin it had a clip on the back. Women would wear these on their belts, shoes, purses, hats and lapels.

No stylish lady would go out for the evening without a minaudière, a small case for holding a woman’s belongings, usually bejeweled and covered in lacquer which mimicked the look of enamel. It was always held in the hand, like a modern clutch, and was a great canvas for Deco designs.

The style for engagement rings was usually a diamond surrounded by many smaller diamonds that were often calibre cut. Diamonds in the emerald cut and baguette cut looked great in the simple geometric styles. Rings with large coloured stones cut in cabochon style were a popular style for cocktail rings. For bands it was stylish to have either rubies, diamonds, sapphires or emeralds eternity set around the ring, and these were often stacked on one finger.

A Lasting Influence

If the jewelry described sounds like much of the jewelry which is worn today, that’s because it is. Although the Art Deco style fell out of fashion around the time of WWII, it is now beloved for its clean modern look and the amazing techniques of the jewelers of the time. Original Art Deco pieces are now collectibles and can be very pricey. However, many people choose to have a custom jewelry piece made in the style of Art Deco. This can be a much more reasonably priced option, as well as will ensure you get exactly what you want. If you are looking for a ring, or any other jewelry item in the Art Deco style, please contact us at Kimberfire and we’ll create your perfect piece!

Image Credit: Berganza

Holiday Marriage Proposals

Sun, 13 Dec 2015 15:52:43 GMT

December is the month for celebrating the holidays, reconnecting with family members and proposing marriage to the one you love. Did I just say December is for proposing marriage? Yes I did! A survey conducted by TheKnot.com showed that 16% of couples get engaged in December, and a survey from event company Chillisauce showed 45% of people believe that Christmas Eve or Christmas day is the best time of the year to propose. So what are you waiting for? The timing is right! But if you are considering a December engagement let’s go over what you need to know.

Public or Private?

First of all, consider what your partner would like. Are they super outgoing and love attention or are they private, preferring to keep things intimate? If they are the outgoing type, consider proposing surrounded by friends and family. The holidays are the busiest travel time of the year as families who are usually far apart come together, and this is the perfect chance to share the moment with them. However, some people find getting everyone together quite stressful and overwhelming, and some families have more than a little drama between them. In these situations, I would suggest a more private proposal.

If your partner avoids the limelight and prefers to keep intimate moments private, a proposal very early on Christmas morning before anyone else wakes up would be very romantic. Or perhaps wait until boxing day, when you are both relaxing and your partner doesn’t see the proposal coming.

6 Holiday Marriage Proposal Ideas

If you have already decided to propose during the holidays there are so many creative ways to do it:

1. Engagement Ring Stocking Stuffer

If you propose on Christmas morning you could put the ring at the very bottom of a stocking, and as they go through all the silly stocking stuffers they will be in for a huge surprise when they find the ring.

2. Surprise Christmas Tree Ornament

Another option is a beautiful ornament hanging on the Christmas tree, with “Will you marry me?” written on it in sparkly writing.

3. Lots and Lots of Boxes

If you are with someone with a great sense of humour you could wrap the ring box in many bigger boxes, and have a great laugh while they unwrap each box, one by one.

4. Christmas Lights Proposal

If you were going to propose on Christmas Eve, you could write out the words in Christmas lights and bring your loved one outside once it got dark. Although it would require some planning and sneaking around, I guarantee it would be an amazing sight.

5. Family Time

You could also propose at the holiday dinner table, when all of your family can share in the moment.

6. Hanukkah Surprise

If celebrating Hanukkah is more your style, for 7 nights you could give your partner small gifts which reflect your relationship and on the 8th night write them a note that says ‘Marry Me’, and be kneeling on one knee with the ring in hand.

It’s a Magical Time

Family, friends, celebrations and special dinners are all great reasons to propose during the holiday season. Not to mention all the decorations and lights which provide the perfect romantic backdrop to photograph the moment. People often feel sentimental at this time of year and reflect back on the magic they felt when they were young. But it’s nice to feel a bit of magic as an adult too, and a holiday proposal guarantees your happy memories will live on forever.

In Remembrance: A Soldier’s Love

Wed, 11 Nov 2015 20:20:02 GMT

The bright red poppy on the lapel of a coat is a common sight across Canada every November. The poppy is worn to honour the men and women who have bravely fought to defend our country. November 11th is the day we take a moment to remember the sacrifices made by those who fought in war, as well as those who lost their lives.

During WWI and WWII the Canadian soldiers were usually very young when they were sent over to Europe, and it is hard to imagine how fearful they must have felt leaving their families and friends. One surprising aspect of these wars was the number of romances that blossomed during the time of such horrors, and there are many books and websites dedicated to wartime romances. My very close friend’s grandfather shared with her his story of love in WWII, and she has passed on his tale to share.

Escape From a War Zone

He was born Haroutoon Hatchadorian and he was born in Armenia in 1911. Tragically the Armenian Genocide by the Ottoman Empire began in 1915 in which 800,000 to 1.5 million Armenians lost their lives. Young Haroutoon’s father was killed and he, his older brother and his mother escaped Armenia into Greece. His mother was very ill and his older brother unable to care for him, so he was sent to live in an orphanage. The Canadian government and churches worked together to help the children of the war, and in 1923 the first 50 Armenian orphan boys were brought over to Canada. Haroutoon was chosen to go at the very last minute, when one of the other boys didn’t pass the medical exam. When he arrived in Canada his name was changed to the English name Harry Hatch. These boys were brought to Georgetown, Ontario and raised on farms to be farm hands.

The Beginning of WWII

In 1939 World War II broke out, and Harry enlisted like many young men in Canada. He was stationed at a barracks in Hamilton and began going to the local Armenian center to hang out. It was here that Harry first met Roxie Eloian. After hanging out with Roxie a few times he said he “really went for her in a big way. But I never mentioned any marriage or anything before I left overseas”. Harry was sent to England where he became a driver for the Army Generals. Not too many people knew how to drive or had a chauffeur’s license, but he had learned how to drive on the farm.

Love Letters Across the Sea

During this time he wrote love letters to Roxie back in Canada. Not just a couple of letters, but hundreds of them… enough to fill an entire suitcase. In these letters Harry told Roxie how he had fallen in love with her back in Canada and thought of her all the time. Unfortunately while Harry was driving around the generals he was also training for the raid at Dieppe France. The day came to depart to France and Harry was getting on the truck to go, when one of the generals pulled him off saying, “Hatch is too valuable a driver to us, he can’t go”. This act could have very likely saved his life, as the Dieppe raid was one of the most deadly operations for the Canadian soldiers, with a 68% casualty rate.

An Engagement Ring from England

Harry now knew he wanted to spend his life with Roxie and start a family. He wrote asking her to marry him, but didn’t receive a letter back. He wrote again, telling her “I know that it is hard for you to make up your mind, you don’t really know anything about me and I don’t really know anything about you – this is quite true… It is not that hard for you to say no and it is not that hard for you to say yes… but if you say no I am not coming back to Canada, I am going to stay in England”. After that letter he said “Geez I got a letter from her in no time soon and she said yes!” From England he sent her a ring-sizing card to get the correct ring size and then mailed her diamond engagement ring to Canada. She sent him back a photograph of her wearing his ring.

A Loving Marriage

In 1945 Harry was discharged from the army and came home to Canada. Harry and Roxie married 18 days after he arrived. They moved up into the mountain in Hamilton and had three daughters. Eventually they opened up a convenience store and billiards hall and worked side by side every day. They were married for 36 wonderful years before Harry passed away in 1982. Roxie lived for another 20 years and watched their grandchildren grow up.

It was an amazing life, and an amazing love story. How did Harry know Roxie was the one after spending such a short period of time with her? What was it about her that even after years of being away at war he couldn’t get her out of his mind? And was it just luck that Harry was able to escape both the Armenian genocide and the raid at Dieppe? These are mysteries of life and love that we will never know the answer to, and I think that is what makes this story so very special.

The Haunting Beauty of Memento Mori and Mourning Jewelry

Wed, 28 Oct 2015 19:18:07 GMT

Every October the air gets cooler, the nights get longer, and witches and skeletons start appearing in our neighbourhood. Our once cheerful flower gardens become graveyards, while jack-o-lanterns and cobwebs cover every door stoop. Of course this is all to celebrate Halloween, the one night a year that the spirits of the dead are said to be able to cross over into the world of the living, and the living dress in disguises to trick the spirits into leaving them alone. In keeping with this spooky holiday we will look at jewelry designed around the subject of death, in the styles of Memento Mori and mourning jewelry.

Memento Mori

Memento Mori is a Latin phrase which means “Remember that you will die” and can refer to art, jewelry, or literature that focuses on mortality. Memento Mori as an artistic genre is thought to have originated in Roman times and gained popularity in Europe in the 14th century, which coincidentally was the time of the Black Death. Memento Mori jewelry was decorated with the iconography of death, such as skulls, skeletons, and coffins. It was worn to remind the wearer of their own mortality and to inspire them to live piously and cherish their earthly life.

While not a style you'd usally see incorporated into our typical repertoire of engagement rings , women's wedding bands , and men's wedding bands , we love all things jewelry (and can make anything a client desires - even a skull-shaped token of love!), so let's dive right in.

Memorial Jewelry

In the 17th century the Memento Mori style began to be used to commemorate the death of a particular person. Rings were the most common memorial jewelry but lockets, pendants and brooches were also produced. This jewelry would have the name and age of the deceased, and their date of death engraved into gold. The images of skulls, skeletons and coffins were still common and the jewelry was usually decorated with black enamel if the deceased was married and white enamel if they were unmarried. Money was often left in the will of the deceased for the creation of mourning rings, which were to be distributed to their close friends or family after they had passed.

Victorian Mourning Jewelry

In 1861 Prince Albert, the beloved husband of Queen Victoria died of typhoid. The queen was swept into deep mourning, which was imposed on all the British court. While the Victorian people still had a high mortality rate, it was Victoria’s response to Albert’s death that was the catalyst for the public to adopt mourning fashions. Death and grieving was a public act, and an entire industry was created to fulfill the massive demand for mourning clothes and jewelry. Skulls and skeletons were still popular motifs, as well as hourglasses, urns, willow trees, forget-me-nots and weeping eyes. In the first stages of mourning a widow was only allowed to wear black clothes and jewelry, which led to the trend of jet jewelry. Jet is black fossilized driftwood, which was mined in Whitby, England and was turned into jewelry by sculpting or faceting into beads. Because of the high cost of jet many imitations were created which led to the first plastic ever to be used in costume jewelry. Another style of mourning jewelry that gained popular was hair jewelry, in which the hair of the deceased was incorporated into the design. Some hair jewelry used strands of hair to make miniature portraits and scenes, while another style was to braid or weave the hair so that it resembled lace. Hair jewelry was a way to keep a part of a loved one with you forever. Hair jewelry went out of fashion with the rise of photography, as people opted to keep lockets with a photograph of the deceased instead.

The Perfect Halloween Accessory?

Although you can still find jewelry designs today incorporating skulls, they are usually for aesthetic purposes only and don’t hold the spiritual meaning they used to. In today’s society we don’t like to dwell on death or the idea that our lives could be over at any time. The societies of the past didn’t have that option as their lack of medical and scientific expertise meant they had very high mortality rates and death was all around them. In spite of such hardships the jewellers of the time were able to use the darkness of death to inspire such beautiful work. And while we may not want to wear jewelry as a reminder of death on an everyday basis, it is the perfect accessory for a scary Halloween.

Images Courtesy of Art of Mourning

A Class on Gold vs. Platinum Jewelry

Mon, 28 Sep 2015 19:05:26 GMT

September is here, summer is coming to a close (sadly) and the kids are heading back to school. Whether starting kindergarten or first year at university, September is the month in which education is front and center. It is with that in mind that we will continue the learning process with a short course on the differences between yellow gold, rose gold, white gold, and platinum. While we can easily see the colour difference between the golds, what is it that makes them different? What do the different karats of gold mean? Is white gold or platinum better for custom engagement rings ? Would you make a different decision for women's wedding bands or men's wedding bands ? We will provide you with all the information you need to make a confident and knowledgeable jewelry purchase.

Pure Gold

Let’s begin by taking a look at gold. Gold is a chemical element from our earth that has been prized for its beauty throughout human history. Pure gold does not come in different colours such as pink or white, it is always only yellow. Gold metal is soft, malleable, has good tension and torsion strength and does not oxidize. The purity of gold is measured in karats which are measured out of a total of 24 parts, meaning pure gold is 24 karat gold. However 24K gold is extremely soft and unsuitable for jewelry, as it will bend and dent very easily. The solution for this is to mix the pure gold with other metals, a process called alloying.

Alloy Me to Explain

Pure gold is alloyed to change its working properties (such as hardness), change its colour or to reduce the cost of the material. Gold is commonly alloyed with copper, silver, zinc, palladium and/or nickel. Gold can be alloyed in 22K, 19K, 18K, 14K and 10K. 22K gold is not common in Europe and North America because it is still extremely soft, although it can be found in many Eastern countries. 19K gold is relatively new to the market, and therefore cannot be found everywhere. 19K gold is 79.2% pure gold with the remainder being other metals. 18K gold is a very common alloy and is 75% pure gold. The other most common karat is 14K which is 58.5% pure gold. 10K gold is a cheaper and harder gold alloy that is only 41.7% pure gold. For important jewelry pieces such as wedding and engagement rings we would suggest 19K, 18K, or 14K. An understanding of alloying explains how pure yellow gold is made into various colours.

Yellow Gold

Yellow gold is the traditional colour of jewelry and has a beautiful warm hue. Yellow gold is usually alloyed with a mix of silver, copper and zinc. If you have diamonds which are lower in colour it is best to set them into yellow gold as a white metal will show the yellow in the diamond more.

Rose Gold

Rose gold or pink gold was popular in the early 1900’s especially in Russia, and it was often referred to as Russian gold. After falling out of favour for many years rose gold has made a comeback and is now a popular choice for engagement and wedding rings. It is a feminine metal that compliments all different skin tones. Rose gold is alloyed with copper and sometimes a small amount of silver or zinc. The colour can vary between a pale pink to almost a red depending on the amount of copper in the alloy.

White Gold

White gold first became popular in WWII as a substitute to platinum, as platinum was being put towards the war effort and its use in jewelry was prohibited. White gold is made by mixing pure gold with at least one white metal, such as palladium, manganese, nickel, silver or zinc. The one downside of alloying with nickel is that it can cause allergic reactions in some people. There are white gold alloys that don’t contain nickel and you can always ask your jeweller what alloy they use. White gold is not a pure white colour and has a slight shade of yellow or gray. To achieve that bright white colour the white gold is plated with rhodium, which is very similar to platinum but even harder and whiter. Rhodium plating will wear down over time and will have to be re-plated every few years.

Platinum

Platinum is also a chemical element from the earth. It was first used for jewelry by ancient South Americans in about 100AD, but their methods of working with platinum were lost with their culture. When platinum was re-discovered by the Spanish conquistadors they thought it was a lesser metal, and couldn’t work with it as it wouldn’t melt. Platinum has such a high melting temperature that its jewelry uses were very limited until the invention of the oxyhydrogen torch in the mid 1800’s. By the late 1800’s platinum jewelry was all the rage and was especially valued for diamond settings. Platinum was one of the most popular choices for jewelry until WWII when it was banned for all non-military uses. Yellow gold or white gold was the prevalent metal used for jewelry until platinum made its comeback in the 1990’s. Platinum is a dense, malleable, ductile, unreactive grey-white metal. In jewelry it is used in an almost pure form, usually 90-95% platinum. It is alloyed with a small amount of iridium or ruthenium, which are metals similar to platinum, which help make the metal easier to work with. Platinum is a very dense metal which means a platinum ring will be heavier than a gold ring. Platinum is also more expensive than gold because it weighs more and because it is a rarer metal. Platinum is very durable and doesn’t bend easily making it perfect for gem setting. Platinum does scratch easier than gold alloys, however when gold is scratched it is actually losing metal, while in platinum the metal is just being displaced. This leads to the patina finish seen in antique rings. To keep your platinum rings high polish they will have to be re-polished by a goldsmith on a yearly basis.

So Which Metal to Choose for Your Jewelry?

There is no right or wrong choice when deciding on a metal. Yellow and rose gold are chosen primarily for their colour and are an excellent choice for someone who likes a warm metal hue against their skin. For those looking for the white metal look that is extremely popular these days, the choice is between white gold or platinum. One is no better that the other, they each merely have different pros and cons. White gold is less expensive and lighter than platinum and is a strong alloy. However when it is scratched there will be some metal loss and it needs to be re-plated with rhodium every few years. Platinum is very pure and strong and perfect for setting stones. It has very minimal metal loss and can develop a beautiful antique look. It is heavier and more expensive than white gold. It does scratch more easily than gold and if a perfect high polished look is what you are after, it will have to be re-polished on a yearly basis.

Class Dismissed

Even though many of us aren’t back at school it is important to keep learning all the time. This short course was meant to help explain terms that we always hear about but perhaps weren’t really sure what they meant. This knowledge can help make the jewelry buying process much easier and you can be confident that you have made an informed decision. Class dismissed!

Engagement Announcements and Social Media

Mon, 24 Aug 2015 19:04:10 GMT

Your big moment has happened! It was a perfect proposal, with the most beautiful ring and now you can’t wipe that smile off of your face. You can’t wait to share your big news with the world! And the best place to share big news is social media of course! Whether you choose Facebook, Instagram, Twitter or all of the above, you want to post your news in the most positive light possible. By following certain rules of etiquette you can ensure that your post will be celebrated and earn you many ‘likes’.

The VIP List

Before you reveal your big announcement to the world, it’s important that you personally tell the news to the VIPs in your life. We are talking about parents, grandparents, siblings and close friends. You can tell them in person or on a phone call, but please don’t have your grandma find out you are engaged at the same time your old classmate from middle school does.

Ring Selfie – Do or Don’t?

Is it ok to post a photo of your ring? Absolutely! People really want to see what the ring looks like and you should be proud to show off such a beautiful piece of jewellery. However don’t forget the engagement is more than just a ring, it is about two people making a commitment to spend a lifetime together. A photograph of the two of you together while you show the ring, or a portrait of the two of you as a couple and a second photo of a close up of the ring are both great ideas. And if you are going to post an engagement ring selfie, remember the best photos have beautifully manicured fingers over a picturesque background.

Sentiment, Not Size

Your ring is supposed to represent a lasting love, not how much money was spent. It is never ok to share the cost of the ring or the carat size of the diamond on social media. That information should be kept to yourself. If someone comments on your ring asking questions about cost or carat, just give a sweet but vague reply such as “it’s priceless” or “it’s the perfect size for me”.

Don’t Steal my Thunder

Think about how disappointed you would be if someone went ahead and announced your engagement before you had a chance to. With that in mind never share someone else’s big news on social media. You may be excited for them but it is their special moment and when and how they choose to announce it is up to them.

Ready or Not

Don’t post your announcement until you are ready for the whole world to know. Although you may only communicate with a handful of people through your social media accounts, when you post a BIG announcement a lot of people will like and comment on it. Social media is huge these days and you will be surprised who comes out of the wood work to offer their congratulations.

The Most Important Rule

Enjoy it! It’s a special time in your life and people are genuinely happy for you. Before you start stressing with wedding planning sit back and enjoy the moment. There are only a handful of moments so special in a person’s life so cherish the happiness of being in love.

Toronto Wedding Photographer Raph Nogal

Thu, 16 Jul 2015 17:19:49 GMT

At Kimberfire our specialty is diamonds and many of our clients come to us looking for an engagement ring. People really put their heart into choosing the right ring and we love being a part of such a special moment in someone’s life. After the engagement the next step is finding wedding bands, and we are dedicated to helping people find their perfect fit. It is truly an honour to be a part of their wedding day, as they exchange rings to make a lifetime commitment.

Another profession which works side by side with couples on one of the most important days of their lives is that of the wedding photographer. I interviewed Toronto based wedding photographer Raph Nogal to get an insider’s look at working in the wedding industry. Raph Nogal is a nationally accredited and award winning professional wedding photographer. His work has appeared in numerous magazines and blogs, and he is known for his creative, editorial, and modern photography style.

Sara: How long have you been a photographer for and how did you get started in this business?

Raph: I first picked up the camera in 2007, following my honeymoon in Costa Rica. I became a bit obsessed and found it to be a great creative outlet as I pretty much stopped doing art since attending Cawthra Park’s Regional Arts Program in Visual Arts in 2000. I started my photography business on a part-time basis in late 2009 and have now been a full-time photographer since 2013.

Sara: What is it that drew you to wedding photography?

Raph: It was the fact that as a wedding photographer, you need to be a master of various sub disciplines… you need to be a photo-journalist, a portrait photographer, an event photographer, a fashion photographer, you need to know how to use natural light, studio light, you need to be good with people, with macro work and the list goes on and on. I also love the fact that no wedding is ever the same. There are different dynamics, different weather conditions, different locations, and different family relationships. It keeps things interesting.

Sara: On average, how many weddings do you shoot a year?

Raph: I try to cap myself at 25 weddings per year, but have had 27 last year and again 27 this year.

Sara: How would you describe your photography style?

Raph: It is a fusion of editorial and photo-journalism. I love playing with light and having hard light and deep blacks and high contrast and giving clients some direction to bring out their best, but I also like the natural moments and pure unedited emotion that happens on the wedding day.

Sara: Who or what inspires your work and images?

Raph: Inspiration comes from a lot of places – movies, fashion, music, and my own experiences. Photographer Jerry Ghionis , for example, has played a tremendous role in shaping me as a photographer. I also enjoy the work of Two Mann Studios and get inspiration from the community of Fearless Photographers .

Sara: Do you have any tips for couples who are looking for a wedding photographer?

Raph: Well this may be a bit blunt, but “You get what you pay for”. I have heard all the stories of couples trying to cut prices and hire photographers that don’t have a lot of experience. There is nothing wrong with no experience and we all start somewhere – the problem is when those photographers “practice” on paying clients.

I also encourage all couples to do an engagement session with your photographer. The relationship building and working relationship is so important to put them at ease before the wedding day. Out of all the wedding vendors, you will see your photographer the most – before the wedding, at the wedding, after the wedding, album design, album pick-up. I also suggest that couples get a wedding album. We lost that tangibility of things these days and they have been replaced with awesome gadgets… but there is nothing like photographs on paper. That family heirloom will be cherished for generations.

Sara: How do you help the couple and their wedding party feel comfortable having their photos taken?

Raph: It all starts with trust. The couple has to trust me, or else they will not open up. It has to be fun and it’s up to the photographer to make it fun for the couples. Your personality has to shine though.

Sara: What has been your favorite wedding venue to photograph?

Raph: I don’t really have a favourite. Toronto has so many beautiful venues, each with their own charm – places such as Eglinton Grand , One King West , King Edward Hotel , Distillery District , just to name a few.

Sara: What is your all-time favorite image you have taken?

Raph: This is such a tough question. I really don’t have a favourite. Some images are emotional, some are artistic, so it’s so hard to pick. I guess if I had to pick an image that has had the most impact on me it would be an image I took of a bride kissing her father just after the ceremony. It was an organic moment and I just happened to be there. To me, this image really represents the reason why I’m a photographer. I found out three days after the image was taken, that the bride’s father had passed away. How honoured was I to witness and immortalize that moment for the bride.

Sara: What are the most requested images or scenes the couple wants to have photographed?

Raph: Luckily I don’t get my couples asking me to replicate images they found on Pinterest. My couples are looking for something different, not the stuffy same old poses… different angles, cool lighting, etc, which is exactly what I offer.

Sara: What is the craziest thing you have done to get a perfect shot?

Raph: Probably going waist deep into water, but I’m known to lay down a lot, as well as climb things – just for a different vantage point.

Sara: Have you ever had something go wrong at a wedding and how did you handle it?

Raph: On the way to one wedding I was cut off on the highway and a car side-swiped my car. Luckily I always leave earlier than I need to, so I had enough time to hop into a rental car to get to the wedding while my car got looked after.

Sara: What is the most challenging aspect of your job?

Raph: Being a wedding photographer is really physically and mentally demanding. You have to be on-point all day. You have to anticipate things, be at the right place at the right time, find the right light, the right angles and make sure everyone is looking their best. It’s usually a 12-14 hour day so afterwards my brain feels like it’s on fire. I’m pretty much useless the following day – which is why I only photograph one wedding per weekend.

Sara: What is the most rewarding part of your job?

Raph: To know that I’ve made a little mark on the world, especially in my couples’ history. When I give them images that are different, unique and beautiful I know they will keep and cherish them forever.

Sara: If you hadn’t become a photographer what do you think you would have become?

Raph: I used to be an environmental consultant so, if I hadn’t quit that to pursue my passion, I would likely still be stuck doing something I didn’t enjoy.

Sara: How much does social media play a part in your business?

Raph: These days social media is a must. It is, however, very time consuming and the rules are constantly changing – you just have to keep up.

Sara: Having witnessed so many weddings what advice can you give to a couple on how to get the most out of their big day?

Raph: Get to know your photographer – it will help with the whole photo-taking experience. Know that the wedding schedule is a “floating schedule.” Don’t plan for a speech to start at 7:47 pm. It will never happen. Don’t sweat the small stuff, at the end of the day you will get married and it will be a great party. Don’t let small things ruin your day.

Sara: Thank you so much for sharing your work and experiences with us. Hopefully some of your advice will help other people find the perfect wedding photographer for their big day.

Raph: Thank you very much!!

If you are interested in seeing more of Ralph Nogal’s photography or would like to book an appointment with him, please visit RaphNogal.com . And if you are interested in finding the perfect engagement ring, wedding bands, or any other type of high-end jewellery then Kimberfire “A Brilliant Way to Buy a Diamond” is the company you have been looking for. Please visit us at Kimberfire.com .

Engagement Ring and Wedding Band Trends for 2015

Wed, 17 Jun 2015 17:17:15 GMT

Here at Kimberfire we spend each day surrounded by diamonds… in rings, earrings, necklaces and every other style of diamond jewellery you can think of. We love diamonds so much that it doesn’t really seem fair to call it work, does it? A lot of our clients come to us to help them create the engagement ring or wedding band of their dreams. Working one-on-one through the design process has provided us with insight on what the top wedding jewellery trends of 2015 are.

I See Your Halo

While this is definitely not a new trend, the halo design has shown it has staying power. A halo setting is one where a larger center stone is surrounded by very small stones, which go all around the stone like a halo (so that’s why it’s called that!). This style of setting is very intricate and feminine and also creates the illusion of the center stone being larger than it is, which is definitely a selling point. In the beginning this style of setting was usually created around a round diamond, but these days we regularly create halos around all the various diamond shapes.

Your True Colours

While the classic diamond engagement ring will always be in style, we have seen more people opting for coloured stones in their engagement rings. There is a lot of interest in fancy coloured diamonds , with a rise in people looking to have a yellow diamond in their ring. Sapphires are also a popular stone to have in engagement rings, as they come in many different colours and are the second hardest gem next to diamond. A coloured gemstone in the center can be a great option for a couple on a tighter budget, and this looks beautiful surrounded by a white diamond halo. Coloured gems are also a great option for side stones, as they create a unique accent and help the center diamond really pop.

From Here to Eternity

It’s not only engagement rings that are following certain trends, but wedding bands as well. While in the past it was common to have a plain gold band as the wedding ring, these days anything goes. These days ladies (and men!) are opting for even more sparkle by adding diamonds to the band. Our most requested style of wedding band for ladies is the eternity band, in which the gold or platinum band is covered in a row of diamonds that circle the entire ring. This style of ring shows minimal amounts of the metal, and the diamonds constantly sparkle as the different facets hit the light. The eternity band is also a sentimental choice as it represents unending love and commitment.

Tickled Pink

While many couples are still asking for rings in white gold and platinum, we have seen a boost in people asking for rose gold. Rose gold is created when yellow gold is mixed with a percentage of copper to make a new alloy. Rose gold is a great choice for people wanting a warmer metal and it looks great on many different complexions. The pink colour is also very romantic and can be a great choice for a more feminine style of ring.

Through Thick and Thin

The last trend we will look at is that of the thin band. No matter what the style of the ring, what kind of diamond, or what colour metal, all across the board clients are requesting a thin band for their engagement ring. For the most part these thin bands are covered in pavé-set diamonds, and from afar appear as a thin line of sparkles. The thin band helps the diamond look larger and looks great when paired with an eternity wedding band. Stacking multiple rings on one finger is another trend, and some people are opting to have two wedding bands, one below and one above the engagement ring. The thin band makes wearing multiple rings a more comfortable option.

While some trends come and some go (thankfully!), we believe the above trends are beautiful and carry a timeless appeal. If you are looking for a custom engagement ring or wedding band in one of these popular styles, or even something completely different, then we are here for you. Contact us today and we’ll walk you through the entire process in your free consultation.

Our Favourite Diamond Jewelry Designs

Tue, 12 May 2015 16:56:54 GMT

When it comes to jewelry design, everyone is as unique and different as the diamonds they choose. As a fun exercise, I asked some of my friends and family to browse our custom diamond jewelry galleries so we can find out which designs make the cut. Below are some of the standout mentions in both the diamond engagement ring and diamond necklace categories.

Diamond Engagement Rings

From vintage to glamorous, to modern and minimalistic, and everything in between, here are a few of our favourite ring designs.

“The Kimberfire vintage engagement rings collection has captured my full attention because of the authentic design and artistry that is displayed in each custom diamond ring. This beautiful engagement ring offers simplicity and elegance. Not only is the diamond stunning, but the band has a gorgeous design.” – Laura, 26

“I would describe this ring as my own ‘piece de resistance’. It is gorgeous; not overstated and the simple detail in the band gives it a little something extra. This thinner band with the focus on one centre stone has definitely caught my eye.” – Amanda, 29

“This engagement ring expresses sophistication and a love for diamonds. This custom vintage engagement ring verifies that diamonds are a girl’s best friend!” – Laura, 25

“This three stone ring is beautiful. I love that the side stones are offset rather than on the band.” – Amanda, 29

“I love the modern look of this ring, particularly the pink gold. The combination of the sparkle with the practical inset diamond that can be worn without the bother of it catching on gloves (gardening or winter) appeals to me. I have always wanted a unique ring that would still be practical for sports and outdoor activities. I have often wished I had included an inset diamond in the design like this ring has.” – Rhea, 50

Diamond Necklaces

On another jewelry note, whether you desire a delicate necklace to complement or a statement piece to accentuate, below are two of our favourite Kimberfire necklaces. While a delicate necklace can complement your day-to-day look, a statement necklace can make all the difference to an outfit.

“I chose the heart pendant because I love how dainty it is. I also really like hearts incorporated into jewelry. The diamonds are all so tiny and simple, not overstated. It’s perfect!” – Laura, 25

“I selected this diamond necklace because of the cut and shape of the diamonds. I feel that this diamond necklace can be worn as an everyday accessory because of its simplicity and beauty. When I envision wearing this necklace, I see myself wearing this on my wedding day. It is a very elegant and stunning piece that would complement any wedding gown. It would be a lovely addition to any formal or special event.” – Adaline, 29

What Can Your Jewelry (and Jeweler) Do For You?

Jewelry is extremely personal and customizable. At Kimberfire we’re always excited to help our clients create any piece based on their individuality… and their style!

Birthstones: Sapphires, Diamonds and Rubies, Oh My!

Mon, 20 Apr 2015 16:19:40 GMT

It’s the month of April and winter has finally ended. The grass is growing, the sun is shining and April babies are celebrating their birthdays. And just what kind of gift should you get for an April birthday? A diamond of course! The diamond is April’s birthstone as well as being one of the most popular and desired gems throughout history. But where did the tradition of birthstones come from? Let’s take a look.

Ancient Beginnings of the Birthstone

Since the beginning of human history, people have been drawn to the beauty and mystery of gemstones. Ancient cultures believed that certain gems had special powers and healing qualities. There is evidence of Ancient Indian and Tibetan cultures wearing birthstones, although they were used in mythical or medicinal ways. A lot of scholars believe the origin of birthstones originated from a story in the Old Testament about the breastplate of Aaron. Aaron was the High Priest of Israel and brother of Moses and he wore a breastplate covered in 12 different jewels representing the 12 tribes of Israel. Titus Flavius Josephus wrote in the 1st century AD of the connection between the 12 stones of the Jewish breastplate and the 12 signs of the Zodiac, where each Zodiac sign had its own gemstone. In Astrology each gemstone was connected to a specific sign and when the sun was in that sign, that gem would hold special talismanic powers.

Birth of the Modern Day Birthstone

In 1752 the Gregorian calendar divided the year into 12 months. Soon after this time the idea of a specific stone being connected to a specific month began. The modern tradition of wearing birthstones has been traced to 18th century Poland, when Jewish gem traders moved to the region. Initially people wore the stone of the current month and rotated each month through the 12 stones. Eventually this changed to people only wearing the stone of their birth month.

The Birthstone We Know and Love

Throughout Europe birthstones had become popular and in 1870 Tiffany and Co. published a pamphlet all about birthstones. In 1912 an official birthstone list was created by the American Association of Jewelers. On this standardized list some months had multiple birthstones to add more affordable and available options. In 1952 the list was updated and more options were added or replaced. The most recent change was in 2002 when the gem tanzanite was added as an option as the December birthstone.

A New Month, A Different Stone (or Three!)

January Garnet

Garnets are actually a set of closely related minerals that form a group. The traditional colour associated with garnet is a deep red but it comes in almost every colour, and the green garnet called tsavorite is very rare and valuable. The word garnet is derived from the Latin word ‘granatum’ meaning seed, which was in reference to the pomegranate seeds of which it resembled. It has been used as a talisman for travellers as it was believed to protect and ensure safe journeys.

February Amethyst

The amethyst is a member of the quartz family and is a popular stone because of its wide range of purple colours. The Amethyst was associated with Greek mythology and the God of intoxication, Dionysius. Its name comes from the Greek word ‘Amethystos’ which means sober, as the ancients believed that the gem would protect the wearer from the effects of wine and drunkenness. The amethyst was said to assist in remembering and understanding dreams.

March Aquamarine and Bloodstone

Aquamarine is a variety of the mineral beryl and comes in a light blue-green colour. Its colour is where it gets its name, which means seawater in Latin. Its association with the sea made it a good luck charm for sailors who had it carved into the Roman Sea God Neptune. Aquamarine is also a symbol of happiness and youth. The stone gets its blue colour from iron and the more intense the blue the more valuable the stone.

The traditional birthstone for March was the bloodstone. The bloodstone is dark green jasper with flecks of red spots, which are deposits of iron oxide. It is named for a legend that said the red flecks came from Christ’s blood, which fell to the ground during crucifixion and solidified.

April Diamond

April’s birthstone is the diamond. Diamonds are priced for their 4 c’s, colour, clarity, carat, and cut. The closer to colourless a diamond is, the more valuable it is. The exception to this is when we are talking about fancy coloured diamonds , such as yellow, pink, green, blue and red. These fancy diamonds are very rare and therefore cost more. A diamond consists of only one element, carbon, which is formed deep in the earth under intense pressure and high temperatures. Most diamonds are over a billion years old. Diamonds traditionally stood for strength courage and invincibility as they are the hardest and most durable gemstone. In fact they are 58 times harder than anything else in nature. The name itself comes from the Greek word ‘adamas’ which means invincible. Ancient Hindus believed diamonds were the result of lightening striking rock, Ancient Greeks believed they were the tears of God and Romans believed they gave courage in battle. In modern times the diamond stands for everlasting love and is a symbol of engagements and marriage.

May Emerald

The emerald is a variety of Beryl and is prized for its vivid green colour which comes from chromium or vanadium. Most emeralds have little cracks, flaws, or veins in them called inclusions. These inclusions are routinely treated with oil, wax, or epoxy substances to hide cracks and improve transparency. This is an acceptable trade practise as long as it is disclosed. The emerald represents spring, fertility and rebirth. In the past it was believed to help with clarity of vision, and worn to relieve the pain of childbirth. Emeralds were first mined in Egypt and were said to be Cleopatra’s favorite gem.

June Pearl, Alexandrite and Moonstone

The pearl is the traditional birthstone for June and the only organic birthstone. A pearl is created when a microscopic particle, like a grain of sand, enters between the two shells of a mollusk. To protect itself the mollusk covers this irritant with layers of nacre, which we know as mother of pearl, until the pearl is formed. Cultured pearls are the result of someone deliberately inserting a bead into the mollusk to create the pearl. Pearls are most commonly white but can also be in various colours such as pink, peach, silver, purple, and black. The colours vary because of the types of mollusks as well as the type of water they come from. The pearl is a symbol of purity, which connects it to June, as June was the traditional month for weddings. Pearls are still commonly worn as wedding jewellery today. The ancient Greeks believed pearls were formed when tears of joy fell from the Goddess Aphrodite’s eyes and hardened.

Another birthstone option for June is Alexandrite, which is a colour-change variety of chrysoberyl. Alexandrite is a special gem because it changes colour. It is a blue-green in daylight and a red-purple in incandescent light. It is very rare and very expensive. Alexandrite was discovered in Russia in 1830 during the reign of Tsar Alexander II, and was named after him.

June also has a third option which is the moonstone. Moonstone is a variety of feldspar and has a moon effect of a blue white sheen which is called adularescence. Both Ancient Greeks and Romans associated it with Lunar Gods and Goddesses. Pliny, the Roman historian, said the stone changed colour with the phases of the moon, which is how it got its name.

July Ruby

Rubies are prized for their bright red colour and are one of the most expensive coloured stones. They are a type of corundum, which is second only to diamond in hardness. Rubies get their colour from chromium and the most desirable rubies are called ‘pigeon blood’. They are a symbol of royalty and in England are used for coronation rings. Ancient Hindus called it ‘the king of gems’ and believed if you gave a ruby to the God Krishna you would be reborn as an Emperor.

August Peridot

The peridot is a type of olivine that is prized for its bright yellow green colour. The Egyptians associated the gem with light, and called it the ‘gem of the sun’. It has been mined for over 3500 years; the oldest source is in Egypt. Peridot is often found in volcanic rock and has even been found in meteorites that have fallen to earth. The peridot has been associated with healing, and is said to end night terrors when it is set into gold and worn on the body.

September Sapphire

The sapphire is commonly recognized for its deep blue colour, but in fact sapphires come in almost every colour. The name sapphire applies to any colour of corundum, except red, which is a ruby. Sapphire rings were worn by Catholic Bishops and Cardinals because the blue colour symbolized heaven. Traditionally the sapphire was associated with truthfulness, sincerity and faithfulness. One of the most famous engagement rings in the world was a blue sapphire surrounded by diamonds, which belonged to Princess Diana.

October Opal and Tourmaline

The opal is a unique gemstone which is made of microscopic stacked silica spheres. These spheres show a ‘play of colour’, which are flashes of different colours in one stone. Opals can have a light or a dark background, and the brighter and more distinctive the different colours, the better quality the opal. Ancient people believed the opal brought good fortune because they possessed all the colours and powers of every gemstone. A belief that opals bring bad luck stems from of a novel titled ‘Anne of Gerstein’ written by Sir Walter Scott in 1829. In the book a main character wore an opal and when holy water was sprinkled on it she died. Because of this book, within a year of its release the opal market had crashed and prices were down 50%. Queen Victoria helped opals regain popularity by frequently wearing and gifting opal jewellery.

The second birthstone for October is tourmaline. This gem comes in a huge array of colours and can also be bi- or tri-coloured. In fact the stone’s name comes from the Sinhalese word ‘toramalli’ which means mixed-gems. It also has the unique quality of being charged with static electricity when warmed or rubbed.

November Topaz and Citrine

Generally Topaz is regarded as being a golden brown or blue colour, but it comes in a wide range of colours. Blue topaz is actually a colourless topaz that has been irradiated with electrons to turn it a sky blue colour. The name topaz comes from the Sanskrit word for fire. The golden gemstone was a symbol of the Egyptian sun god Ra, and a sacred stone of the Roman god Jupiter.

An alternative birthstone for November is the yellow type of quartz called citrine. It is named after the French word for lemon. Natural citrine is very rare and almost all citrine was amethyst which had been heat treated to turn it yellow. This gem is believed to bring good fortune and success.

December Turquoise, Zircon and Tanzanite

Turquoise is a vivid blue stone with an opaque, slightly waxy appearance. The ancient Egyptians have been mining it since 6000 BC and they called it ‘mefkat’ which meant joy and delight. The stone is highly prized by both Native American and Persian cultures. The name turquoise means ‘Turkish stone’ as the stone first came to Europe by Turkish sources.

Zircon is another birthstone for December and comes in many colours, but is best known for its blue stones. It has so much fire and brilliance that colourless zircon was often mistaken for diamonds in the past. The zircon is often confused with cubic-zirconia which is a synthetic man-made gem.

Tanzanite is the third option for December and is the newest addition to the birthstone list. It is a blue-purple stone that has become very popular for jewellery. The tanzanite was only discovered in 1967, in Tanzania, which is where it got its name.

What Does a Birthstone Mean to You?

The history of birthstones reveals how humans have always had a close relationship with gemstones. While we all know gems are used for adornment, it is interesting to see how in the past they were used as medicine, therapy, protection and worship. The meanings behind these gems bring another dimension to each stone, rather than being just another pretty colour. As an August baby myself, learning about the Ancient Egyptians’ love of the peridot made me appreciate the stone more. And if after everything you just aren’t a fan of your birthstone, well you can just pretend to be an April baby and get yourself a diamond!

Our Custom Engagement Ring Manufacturing Process

Thu, 26 Mar 2015 16:16:47 GMT

Every one of us has admired the flawless beauty of an engagement ring, whether lined up in rows in a glass case in a store, on the hand of a friend or family member, or maybe even on your very own finger. But while we are all familiar with the finished ring, not everyone knows what goes into making it. In fact one of the most asked questions I receive from friends is “how is the ring made?”. In this article I take you behind the scenes to follow a Kimberfire custom engagement ring from concept to creation.

What Do Engagement Rings and Computers Have in Common?

Our journey begins with the jewelry designer. Our designer works closely to the specifications for the client’s custom piece – taking all the features our sales team has discussed with the client and the details of the diamonds being set, our designer brings the vision to life. We exclusively use computer aided design (CAD) programs to create 3D models of our rings. Once the 3D rendering is approved by our client, we then create the model in wax using a 3D printer. The wax piece is an exact model of the ring that will be cast into metal. Before the invention of CAD programs a jeweller would either hand carve the ring out of a block of wax or fabricate the metal by hand. There are still jewellers today who use the traditional goldsmith techniques but they are becoming less common with the growth of technology.

Gold, Platinum… Whichever You Like!

Next we cast the wax model into metal. This is done by using a method called investment casting. The wax model is set up inside a watertight flask. The investment powder, which is a plaster which has been formulated to withstand very high temperatures, is mixed with water and poured into the flask to completely cover the wax model. A few hours later the investment has hardened into a solid plaster. This flask is then put into a kiln and heated to 1250 degrees Fahrenheit, the temperature at which wax melts but investment doesn’t. There is now a perfect mold of the ring in the flask where the wax model used to be, and the flask is put into a centrifugal casting machine or a vacuum casting machine. These machines are necessary because they use force to make sure the metal will fill the entire mold. The metal to be used is then broken up into tiny pieces, placed in a crucible and heated with a torch until it becomes molten. The liquid metal is then poured into the flask and the casting machine quickly started. When the machine stops, the flask is removed and plunged into a bucket of water, which washes all the investment away, leaving only the metal ring. The ring still needs to be cleaned up as it is completely covered in a rough ‘casting skin’, which the goldsmith will remove to bring the metal to a high polish.

Time for Some Bling

Now the ring is ready for its diamonds ! Our gem setter collects the ring and any stones which are to be set into the metal. Our setter uses various techniques and styles to provide different looks. Most of our setting is done under a microscope, especially for the popular pave or micro pave styles which use very small diamonds, ensuring secure setting of the centre diamond or gemstone and very close and fine setting of the small diamonds. Once all the stones are set and secure the ring goes back to the goldsmith for a final polish and cleaning.

Ready for Delivery

The ring is now complete, but not yet ready for game time! The ring is first sent to a third party appraiser who documents all the details of the ring and determines its market or replacement value. This appraisal is necessary if our client is planning on insuring their ring.

The rings journey concludes with being tucked into a little velvet box. Our clients can then pickup their engagement rings in Toronto , or we can ship to a secure pickup location near their home.

The ring is now ready for its most important moment, when it is slipped onto a lucky someone’s finger as a symbol of love and commitment.

Upgrading or Redesigning Your Engagement Ring

Thu, 26 Feb 2015 17:14:55 GMT

Longing for Something New

A friend of mine recently spoke to me about upgrading her engagement ring for her ten year wedding anniversary. She and her husband had married quite young and didn’t have the money to spend on an expensive ring, so they ended up using an engagement ring passed on from his family. While she loves and cherishes the ring and the sentimental story behind it, she longs for something that would be just for her.

She is far from alone. Upgrading or redesigning engagement and wedding rings has become a huge trend in the jewelry industry. These ring upgrades are usually done for an anniversary between the 10 and 15 year mark. People have many different reasons for wanting to change their ring. Some, like my friend, find themselves in a new financial situation from when they first got engaged. Others didn’t really like the style of the ring they were given. Some just want a ring which is a more current design, or more reflective of their personal style.

Upgrading your engagement ring is not for everyone though. Many people are very emotionally invested in their ring and could never imagine changing it. Some people find it tacky to want a larger diamond than the one they were given. I however think that as long as the decision to upgrade is ok with both people in the marriage, and there are no hurt feelings from the one who gave the ring, then people should go ahead and get their dream ring.

Everyone’s New is Different

There are many options for upgrading, starting with the diamonds. The center stone can be changed to a larger or better quality diamond, or side stones can be added to create a three stone ring. For extra sparkle, pave diamonds on the metal band can create a more modern look for the ring. However if a much larger center stone is being added the setting will have to be altered to fit the new stone.

Many people want to put their original diamonds into a new style of setting. The halo style of setting is an extremely popular choice and will make the center stone look much bigger. Some people choose to change their yellow gold rings to either platinum or white gold which is a more contemporary look. Unfortunately if the original diamonds have some yellow in them, setting them in a white metal will only bring the yellow out more and is not recommended.

For those who don’t want to change the original ring there is always the option of getting a new style of wedding band, or adding a third ring to the wedding set as an anniversary ring. Stacking multiple rings on one finger is an extremely popular option these days.

What Are You Waiting For?

Upgrading your engagement ring doesn’t have to mean getting rid of the old stones or jewelry. A coloured gemstone could be set into the old setting and worn as a right hand ring. The original diamond could be made into a pendant or earrings, or held onto to give to your children once they reach a certain age.

While there will always be those who passionately love their original engagement ring and would never want to change it, there are many people who love the idea of upgrading their ring.

Are you interested in upgrading your engagement ring? We here at Kimberfire would love to help you create the ring you’ve always dreamt of!

A History of Engagement and Wedding Rings

Tue, 13 Jan 2015 17:12:31 GMT

Nowadays when one thinks of a classic engagement ring, they usually picture a gold or platinum ring with a solitaire diamond, or perhaps with more than one diamond. Wedding bands are usually a thicker band ring, some quite simple, while others have intricate designs or stones included. Although these styles of rings are considered ‘traditional’ they have actually only been in fashion for about the past 100 years. Today we will take a look at the styles and symbolism of wedding rings throughout history.

Walk like an Egyptian (Ancient Egypt 3050BC-30AD)

The always fashionable Ancient Egyptians are believed to be the first to wear engagement rings, as the circle symbolized eternity. The rings were fashioned out of plant material or silver or gold wire. They wore the ring on the third finger of the left hand because they believed that finger had a vein in it which connected directly to the heart (romantic if not anatomically correct).

When in Rome (Ancient Rome 753BC-476AD)

Ancient Rome was a society that prized their military domination, so it is no wonder their engagement rings were made of iron, which signified strength. A woman’s acceptance of the ring formed a legally binding agreement of the husband’s ownership of her (not very romantic).

By the Book (Byzantine Empire 330-1453)

In this deeply religious society, wedding rings traditionally incorporated a scene depicting a man and woman facing each other with a central figure blessing their union.

Stuck in the Middle with You (Middle Ages 500-1400)

It was a custom in medieval times for Jewish grooms to give their wives wedding rings that had elaborately detailed temples or houses on the top. These rings were oversized and not intended to actually be worn in everyday life. In Anatolia (modern day Turkey) husbands often gave their wives puzzle rings; sets of complex interlocking metal bands that arranged to form a single ring. It was given as a test of monogamy as it was believed that if a woman took off the ring she would not be able to put it back together again and would thus be caught (talk about no trust!). Another trend of the time was the posy ring. These rings had poems or mottos inside the band and the inscriptions were written in French, the international language of love. It was also during this time period, in 1447, that the first recorded diamond engagement ring was given to Mary of Burgundy from the Archduke Maximilian of Austria (clearly ahead of his time).

Da Vinci a la Mode (Renaissance 1300-1600)

In the 1600’s the fashionable wedding ring was the Fede (faith) ring which showed two hands clasping. The Fede ring inspired the still popular Irish Claddagh ring, which has two hands clasping a heart topped with a crown. Another engagement ring which became in vogue during the renaissance was the Gimmel ring. This ring had two interlocking bands, one which the woman wore and one which the man wore during their betrothal. At the wedding ceremony they would take off their rings and lock them together to become one, which the woman would then wear.

All Work and No Play (Puritan New England 1630-1800)

The Puritans were definitely not the most fun group of people, in fact they went so far as to ban Christmas! So it’s not that surprising that they prohibited their members from wearing any jewellery due to its ‘moral worthlessness’. A common wedding gift from husband to wife was a practical thimble. However, after the wedding many women would remove the top of the thimble and wear it as a ring (when a woman wants jewelry she gets it!).

We are Not Amused (Victorian England 1837-1901)

Although Victorians are often portrayed as being uptight and stuffy they were actually quite sentimental, and Queen Victoria herself was very much in love with her husband Prince Albert. Rings during this era often had terms of endearment spelt out using the language of stones, which used the initials of gemstones. The word LOVE was often spelled out using lapis lazuli, opal, vermeil, and emerald. Another attractive engagement ring style was that of the serpent wrapping around the finger, often with rubies for eyes or an emerald for its head.

Diamonds are Forever (1867- Present)

In 1867 Diamonds were discovered in Africa, which opened up a huge supply of the precious gem. Before this time diamonds were very rare and only found in India and Brazil. In 1880 the DeBeers Mining Company was formed and within a decade they controlled 90% of the world diamond production. In 1886 Tiffany &Co. introduced the Tiffany setting, a 6 pronged ring designed to maximize the diamonds brilliance by raising it up from the band. In the 1900’s the princess ring with three to five large diamonds became a sought after engagement ring. The fashion in the 1920’s was to have one solitaire diamond set on a platinum band for durability. During WWII platinum was restricted for military use, and yellow gold rose to prominence. In 1947 DeBeers presented their brilliant marketing slogan “A diamond is forever” and since then the appetite for the strong and beautiful diamond has endured.

The Tradition Continues with Kimberfire

While the style, sentiment and symbolism of engagement and wedding rings has changed throughout history, the gesture of giving a permanent symbol of love and fidelity to ones beloved has remained. When deciding on a style for your special ring, whether it be a classic solitaire or a completely unique engagement ring , Kimberfire can answer all your needs. Whether you are looking to buy an engagement ring in Toronto or elsewhere, we specialize in creating engagement and wedding rings which will endure and sparkle until the end of time.

(Photo Credit: Berganza )

Holidays That Glitter Around the World

Thu, 18 Dec 2014 17:11:12 GMT

With the holiday season upon us, it’s time to start thinking about holiday parties, gift giving and being mindful of what we are thankful for.

Just as no two diamonds are the same, holiday traditions are celebrated in many different ways around the world.

The holidays are a great time to create and revive traditions. Whether you spend the day singing Christmas carols, eating special holiday foods or watching your favourite holiday movie, the holidays wouldn’t be the same without them.

I’m Dreaming of a White Gold Christmas

December 25th 336AD is the first documented date of Christmas actually being celebrated. This was during the time of the Roman Emperor Constantine. Then along came Pope Julius I, who officially declared that Christmas would be celebrated on the 25th of December to commemorate the birth of Jesus.

Don’t take the Pope’s word for it though, be sure to create and embrace your own customs. Christmas is many things to many people, and it is important to recognize and honour the various traditions.

While some people celebrate Advent, many of us traditionally celebrate Christmas on one specific day while others embrace all twelve days of Christmas. Great news! There are in fact twelve days of Christmas, just as the song says there is. So why not embrace a new tradition of showering your true love with gifts for twelve days in a row?

This Christmas season, while you can get a lot of mileage out of that little black dress, the right accessories can change your look from casual to Christmas party wear. Accessorize with statement necklaces, white gold earrings and simple yet elegant diamond bracelets.

White and Blue, Don’t Mind If I Do

Hanukkah, also known as the Festival of Lights, is an eight day Jewish holiday commemorating the rededication of the Holy Temple in Jerusalem after its desecration by the Syrians.

A Menorah is the centrepiece of the Hanukkah celebration. While the Menorah itself holds nine candles, eight of those candles symbolize the number of days that the Temple lantern blazed. The Shamash, the ninth candle, is used to light the others. While singing songs and reciting prayers, families begin by lighting one candle on the first day, two on the second day, and so on throughout the eight days of Hanukkah.

When the Syrians were in power, the Jews were forbidden to learn the Torah (Judaism’s most important text). Students would meet in secret in order to hold study sessions. If a Syrian soldier found them, however, the children would pretend to gamble with spinning tops, or dreidels, which are also a key part of the Hanukkah tradition.

The Hanukkah colors, white and light blue, represent a subtle message of celebration. We suggest choosing small accessories to accentuate your occasion appropriate outfit. If you’re feeling bold, add in a statement jewelry piece to complete the look.

And Kwanzaa Makes Three

While candle lighting is reminiscent of Hanukkah, and red and green colors suggest Christmas, Kwanzaa sets itself apart.

This week long celebration honors African heritage in African-American culture, and is observed from December 26th to January 1st, culminating in gift giving and the Karamu, or the Kwanzaa feast, on New Year’s Eve. It is a holiday celebrated by millions of African-Americans, encouraging them to remember their African heritage.

Kwanzaa colors are red, green and black. This Kwanzaa season, choose colorful accessories that highlight the culture being celebrated and jewelry that incorporates natural materials such as beads and wood. After all, the feast is a major part of the holiday celebration so you’ll want to have plenty of pieces to accessorize with.

Happy Holidays from Kimberfire

May the days leading up to your holiday be merry and bright, and may all your traditions be one of a kind.

Which traditions are memorable for you during the holiday season?

(Photo Credit: Anthony Quintano )

Pitfalls of Buying a Diamond Online

Mon, 24 Nov 2014 17:04:50 GMT

Let’s start with the obvious: I’m biased. I started Kimberfire almost two years ago because I truly believe we offer consumers the ideal platform from which to buy diamonds and diamond jewelry. While the web is a great place to buy many things (very happy with my new winter coat!), it is not a great place to buy all things.

With that out of the way – I have heard from many customers and friends that starting the diamond search is overwhelming, and it is challenging to know what to look out for. It’s convenient to start out online and definitely a good way to get a sense of design styles and what’s out there generally. If you’re thinking of actually buying online, though, here are some things to keep in mind.

Large Selection is Not Always a Good Thing

You check out a site and they have a huge list of inventory. Seems great, right? Not always.

A little known fact about the various online-only diamond merchants is that many of them don’t own every diamond that is offered for sale. These websites are all linked up to virtual inventory – diamonds currently owned by and sitting with diamond manufacturers around the world. In practice, this means that these online retailers may not be able to tell you what they think of a certain diamond, or how it looks. If asked, they will call the manufacturer and ask for an assessment of the diamond to relay back to the customer, who then has to make their own judgment call.

Unfortunately, many of these websites do not actually see the diamonds they sell… EVER. To save on costs, the diamonds often get shipped directly from the manufacturer to a jewelry sub-contractor who sets the stone in a ring and ships it to the customer’s door. An important purchase like this deserves a bit more quality control than that.

A Penny for Your Dollar

Ring builders are a lot of fun. But often when you select a given set of characteristics, a wide range of prices come up for similar diamonds. Certain things can make a big difference – for example, there is a bump in price when you hit 1 carat – so a 0.95 carat diamond and a 1.00 carat diamond will be priced further apart than, let’s say, a 0.70 carat and 0.75 carat diamond would be. Often times, though, the differences are not as clear.

I always advise my clients to see their diamond in person. This allows you to be confident that it was a good deal without having sacrificed anything on quality, or if a more expensive diamond is chosen, seeing the diamond in person will help you understand why it is more expensive. Without understanding exactly what is going on inside your diamond, it is just impossible to tell if a given price is justified, in either direction. I say this a lot because it’s true: no two diamonds are the same. There are very different types of inclusions within the same clarity grade, different tints within the same color grade, etc.

Recently, I brought a diamond into the country for a client and, on first look at both the certificate and an image, it seemed like a truly amazing stone – not just for the price (which was great too). The image showed minimal inclusions for a diamond of its clarity, and the inclusion plotting on the certificate seemed very minimal. The diamond even looked great on first glance in person. On closer inspection though, the diamond had a very apparent haziness to it, which was very off-putting when put side-by-side with another diamond of similar characteristics. It turns out the diamond received its clarity rating of an SI1 not due to any particular inclusion but due to a cloud of microscopic inclusions that were spread throughout. The material was not attractive and needless to say this diamond went back to the manufacturer and was replaced by a diamond the client was able to truly fall in love with.

If this client had received the diamond at his home, he may have been satisfied and carried on with it. Unbeknownst to him, though, he would have had a diamond that truly was not the great deal he expected it to be, did not shine like it should, and worst of all would not be an attractive option on the resale market if ever needed at any point in time.

Kimberfire, Your Diamond Expert

The bottom line is that buying a diamond is one of the most important purchases you will make in your life. Without a guide on your side, it is easy to be mislead, uncertain, or to be stuck having to exchange a number of diamonds for one that you’re really happy with.

Trust and knowledge are big parts of the diamond game. Traditional jewelry stores can certainly offer a high level of service and quality control, but are not for everyone. This is why I created Kimberfire: a Toronto jewelry store you can trust to provide you with prices competitive to online merchants, and at significant discounts to traditional retail, while ensuring your diamond is thoroughly inspected.

If you’re interested in working with us to find your perfect diamond , be sure to check out our website or call us at (416) 861-8110 to book your free private consultation. I look forward to meeting you!

Our Favourite Things to Do in Toronto

Thu, 30 Oct 2014 16:03:20 GMT

A Few of Our Favourite Things to Do… in the Heart of Toronto

The city of Toronto has a lot to offer, and that’s why we consider ourselves lucky to call it home. Kimberfire’s head office is located in the heart of Queen Street East. And when we’re not busy working in the mines, we love to venture out to a few key spots to see what else is glittering around the city.

Royal Ontario Museum

Not only is the Royal Ontario Museum educational, its nightlife element is unique in attracting visitors of all ages and interests. ROM Night is every Friday night beginning in October and ending in November.

“The city’s most unique social destination includes eclectic eats, drinks, DJs, dancing, live music and unexpected experiences. We switch it up so every event brings new surprises!”

Terroni on Queen West

While this little gem is located in the opposite direction of our office, it is worth taking the time to go the distance to Terroni on Queen West . Best described as a place that is warm and welcoming, featuring an ambient scene and amazing food.

“Terroni’s first location opened in 1992, and is located in the heart of Queen Street West. Terroni is rooted in traditional Italian cuisine, wine, and culture.”

Hugh’s Room

Located near High Park, Hugh’s Room brings back the concept of a dinner club with live entertainment. Hugh’s Room is a performance space for musicians and the like. The scheduling is managed so you can eat and listen to music and be out the door before 10:30pm in most cases. This way we don’t have to stay out too late when a great show is happening on a weeknight, and we can be as bright as our diamonds the very next day.

Fresh Kitchen + Juice Bar

With two convenient locations to choose from, both in close proximity to the downtown core, Fresh always keeps me coming back for more. Delicious salads, nutrient-dense bowls, burgers, wraps, and desserts – all vegan! Some of their best menu items include, the buddha bowl, ace of kales salad, sweet potato fries, any and all of their juices and smoothies and, last but not least, their gluten free vanilla bean cupcake. Enough said.

Massey Hall

Noted as one of the best, and described as one of the most historic concert halls in Toronto, Massey Hall has seen a lot of legends, from Stevie Nicks to Norah Jones and everything in between.

Distillery District

Welcome to the home of the largest collection of Victorian-era buildings in North America. From Victorian brick wall buildings, to artisanal coffee roasters, and alternative art galleries, nothing quite matches the Distillery District in Toronto. There is always something to experience, from the nightlife and entertainment, to exploring the sights of the restored buildings.

St. Lawrence Market

There is something about a market that features various eateries, bakeries, fresh fruit and most importantly, wine stands, that draws me in. In my opinion, there is no better way to start off your weekend on a Saturday morning than to visit the St. Lawrence Market .

My favourite stop-in is the ice wine shop, which offers samples. I always stop and marvel at the fruit stand, the plethora of baked goods (of which I buy many …) and the huge fish stand.

The market is a one-stop shop that allows me to restock my fridge and also pick up a quick bite as I browse. From sandwiches to fruits, cafes to baked goods, we love the abundance that the St. Lawrence market has to offer.

Trinity Bellwoods Park

Trinity Bellwoods Park is a connection between Ossington and Queen West, two very popular and trendy neighbourhoods.

From hockey rinks to baseball diamonds, to an off leash dog park, anyone can find their niche here. After a Saturday morning of window-shopping on Queen Street, this park is the ideal place to disengage from the bustling boutiques and enjoy a relaxing picnic, jog, or even join in on a drum circle.

All That Glitters in Toronto

Don’t take our word for it though; get out and experience all that Toronto has to offer for yourself, and help us add to our list of hot spots. While you’re in the neighbourhood, why not stop by our offices and let us distract you with all that glitters?

Please be sure to check out our Pinterest page for more details on these hot spots.

So, what is your favourite thing to do in Toronto?

Marriage: The Art of Wedding Planning

Tue, 30 Sep 2014 15:55:35 GMT

Wow. A lot has happened recently. After a lot of research, you decided how much to spend on an engagement ring , where to buy it, and you pulled off the perfect proposal.

You’ve said ‘I do’ and you both can’t wait to get married and start planning for your big day.

Now what is it that you actually need to do?

Decisions, decisions!

When it comes to planning a wedding, the process can seem overwhelming at best. There is the guest list to agree upon (‘do we invite your Aunt Norma who is twice removed?’); the floral arrangements (that moment when you realize that your dream flowers will take away from at least ten percent of your wedding budget); the caterer…

Should I go on?

Taking a deep breath and tackling your wedding to-do list, starting with your top priority, is a great way to begin the wedding planning process.

Book It

From the venue to the photographer, the best thing you can do to keep calm and carry on is to book ahead. Remember, most companies and venues are booking a year or two in advance as it is.

Find A Place for Everything

One of the most valuable pieces (besides your wedding ring) of advice we can offer you when planning for your wedding is how important it is to be organized. You will be dealing with florists and caterers and photographers, oh my! And each contact needs its own place.

There are some valuable online resources to keep you organized and on track, and they are definitely worth trying on for size, such as: TheKnot ; WeddingWire ; and Pinterest , to name a few.

There are also a variety of wedding planning books available in many different stores.

In order to stay organized and on top of things, a few things need their own space, such as:

Receipts of transactions
A record of telephone conversations
E-mails from important contacts, such as the florist, DJ, etc.

Best Practices

I asked some of my best friends what their best pieces of wedding planning advice is, and here is what they had to say:

Time Is Precious

“I would say first and foremost, you never have as much time as you think you do. Do not leave things until the last minute. Make a plan. Choose a theme/style and make lists of things so you don’t forget or get confused with information and/or options overload.”

Say Yes To The Dress (sooner rather than later)

“Choosing your dress is very important and something that shouldn’t be left until the last minute. Do that along with booking a venue and caterer early. Don’t leave anything you have to book in advance until it’s too late.”

Get By With A Little Help From Your Friends

“Ask for help and don’t be afraid to delegate. Include your bridesmaids/groomsmen/friends and family, and allow them to be as involved as you need them to be while you are planning for your big day. From setting up tables and chairs (if necessary), to making decorations and wedding favours, they are there to support you, and will ideally want to be as involved as they can.”

There Ain’t No Mountain High Enough

“Make sure the wedding day, and all of the events leading up to it, are about you and your partner. Period. From the moment your partner proposes, try to enjoy all of these special once in a lifetime experiences.”

Advice for the Grooms

As a prospective groom, there are some things that you may choose to take care of on your own, as well as some things that will require you to work with your partner, your family and your friends, among other people involved in your big day. There may be individual tasks such as picking a best man and groomsmen; while other tasks might have you and your partner working side by side, for example, when you are choosing your venue, your honeymoon location, the caterers, and perhaps, a photographer, to name just a few.

Two Heads Are Always Better Than One

What better occasion to work together as a team, then planning for your own wedding. Leaving tasks such the flowers, wedding favours, and decorations for your partner is nothing to be ashamed of. Chances are, one of you will enjoy those tasks more than the other. The same goes for budgeting, seating plans and dealing with vendors, for example. Acknowledge each other’s strengths and interests, and work with that knowledge in order to designate preferred wedding planning tasks. This will ensure a more enjoyable experience for the both of you as you’re tackling what seems to be a never ending list.

I asked a few of my male friends, who have been recently married, what their best piece of wedding planning advice was. Here is what they had to say:

Divide and Conquer

“When it came to our wedding ’to-do’ list, my fiancée and I thought it would be best if we worked together on it, each choosing to take on different tasks based on our strengths and interests. For example, my fiancée loved sorting out the hundred and one details when it came to the colour scheme and flower arrangements, which I couldn’t be bothered by; while I created a budget and kept records of receipts, etc. organized and on file.”

What’s Your Forte?

“My fiancée didn’t pressure me to take on responsibilities that she knew I wouldn’t be interested in. Instead she asked me what I might like to do to help, and the odd time she would ask me for specific advice or help. I was more than willing to help out and make it easier on her when it came to planning.”

Be There for Each Other

“Two days before our wedding, we were arguing over some final details. We were both tired and over worked. I sat my fiancée down and took the time to talk about the fact that we were in this together and on the same team, as opposed to being on opposite ends of the field, which is how she described herself as feeling for the weeks leading up to the wedding. It was important to take that time with each other.”

Put A Kimberfire Ring On It

For any and all of your wedding jewelry needs, do not hesitate to contact us at Kimberfire , no matter where you are in the process, no matter how close or how far you are from the wedding.

Share Your Wedding Planning Advice

We encourage our readers to leave a comment below. Please let us know what some of your best wedding planning practices are!

Marriage: Art of the Proposal

Mon, 25 Aug 2014 15:52:11 GMT

Whether you’re at the early stages in your relationship or considering getting down on one knee in the near future – of all the important questions that you will ask in your lifetime, “will you marry me?” takes the cake!

Below are a few tips for you to consider before popping the question.

Build up to the moment.

Memories are one of the most valuable things in life, especially as time goes by. In order to make lasting, happy memories, and, to prevent confusion and/or panic, plan a proposal that builds to the moment. Lay out the specific times and elements of your proposal. Instead of asking sometime during a meal, plan the proposal as you would a presentation at work, and appropriately build on the momentum as you approach those four special words.

This is where YOUR story begins.

Nobody wants to miss out on hearing about the proposal, and it is generally one of the first questions out of people’s mouths.

Including personal touches to your proposal will add a unique element that demonstrates your efforts and thoughtfulness to your partner. Make it personal. Make it about who the two of you are as a couple. Start this new chapter of your life, and set the stage for the future, in the way that a skilled author introduces their story. While other people can read it, only the author can create it.

This way, when people ask your partner, “how did he/she propose?” it will be like reciting a page out of your own love story in the making.

Practice makes perfect.

Picture those Hollywood movies, where the leading man sweeps the leading lady off of her feet at the last possible second, with a romantic gesture, complete with a seven minute long, unprepared, epic speech about how he can’t live without her, which she then proceeds to fall in to his arms in fits of sobs. Most of us do not work as well under pressure. In the real world, without preparation, those of you proposing may be at a loss for words during such a significant moment.

If you think you need to, write or jot down what you plan to say, and then rehearse it. Preparation will come across in a big way and will have your partner saying, ‘I Do,’ before the seven minutes of your epic speech are even up!

Still lost for words?

I don’t think there is one, perfect proposal ‘script,’ that includes everything that someone should say. Each couple is unique. Instead, let what you want to express come from your heart and be representative of the stage in your relationship that you are experiencing together. A proposal is an expression of the love you feel for one another that highlights a moment in time.

On the other hand, why not ditch the script altogether with something short and sweet?

Choose the setting carefully.

And we don’t mean for the ring… yet!

The setting is the location where you envision the proposal will occur. Whether it is at the spot where you first met or had your first kiss, it should hold some significance for the both of you.

To be or not to be traditional?

The act of bending one knee to the ground is known as genuflection. Proposing on one knee symbolizes a high level of vulnerability, respect and graciousness.

Before you choose to opt out of what you consider too traditional, consider the meaning and significance behind this seemingly small, but in reality, grand, gesture. Also consider what it may mean to your significant other. If you know that your future partner-to-be is fond of engagement and marriage traditions, then consider incorporating some traditional elements while still making it personal.

It’s all about finding the balance between traditional and personal touches.

It don’t mean a thing if you ain’t got that ring!

The tradition behind bending down on one knee to propose is of course, not without the right diamond engagement ring.

Still searching for the perfect ring to suit the love of your life? Keep calm and call Kimberfire! We’re here to help with this very important part of your proposal. We’ll even help you with the rest of the day’s planning if you need an outside opinion… we’ve been around many engagements!

How important is the art of proposal to you?

I went straight to the source: some of my best friends who have recently gotten engaged, and some of who are recently married. Below is what they had to say in response to my question: “how important is the art of the proposal to you?”

“I think that the whole idea of the proposal is very focused upon the idea of a grand gesture. I think that every person has their preference about how they ideally would like to be proposed to, or at least some ideas surrounding it. I think that a well thought out proposal is important, however it should be based on who you are as a couple. It is a very intimate moment between two people and, and it is a moment you hope to never forget.”

“I think that the art of the proposal is very important because it marks a pivotal moment in time. I would rate a well thought out proposal highly. It isn’t about going over the top and appearing on a Jumbotron in front of millions of people, but rather a true and valiant effort demonstrated to express fondness, admiration and love.”

“I don’t think that a well thought out proposal needs to be costly. It’s about celebrating the moment in time and making sure the person feels special.”

So… how important is the art of the proposal to you?

Photo credit: Assaf Friedman Photography

Marriage: The Art of Knowing

Wed, 30 Jul 2014 15:50:34 GMT

“Marriage is not about finding a person you can live with, it’s about finding the person you can’t live without.” – S.J.D. Peterson

Is your partner “the one”?

While there are exceptions to every rule, here are some signs that your partner is the one for you.

Your partner gets along well with your family and friends.

When the people who know you best are in complete support of your relationship, they will let you know. Remember, your family helped to shape who you are, and has seen you at your best and your worst; equally as important, you chose your friends based on common beliefs, interests and values.

And, on that note...

Your partner is your best friend.

Physical attraction and chemistry are crucial to any relationship. At the core of the relationship, however, there should be a strong and deeply rooted friendship. If you feel like your partner is your best friend in the world, there is a very good chance that they are the one for you.

While it is not solely up to your partner (or anyone else) to make you happy, someone who is aware and insightful enough to know how to lift your spirits is someone who understands you and pays attention. It is comforting to know that you are with someone who picks up on when you might need a boost, and knows just how to make you smile.

“I knew he was the one for me when he made me laugh the hardest I had ever laughed in my life. He then told me that every day for the rest of our lives he would try to put a smile on my face. It was in that moment that I knew.” – Ashley, 28

“It’s just a feeling.”

Your partner in crime is someone who will stand by you when life doesn’t go as planned. They make you feel loved and respected, while admiring and supporting the person you are and continuing to support the person you will become.

“You’re completely at ease to be yourself with them; completely happy with them; and think about them constantly when they’re not with you.” – Amanda, 28

Your partner is “wonderful” just the way they are.

You respect and admire your partner, because in your eyes, they truly are wonderful. This is someone who wants to, and would, do anything for you. You can trust them with your feelings, your secrets, and to support you, your goals and your desires. Your partner should be one of your biggest supporters. A critical component to achieving a healthy relationship is to be with someone who respects you just the way you are. And, as Billy Joel once wrote, ‘don’t go changing to try and please me.’

You want, and you see, a future with your partner.

Your vision for the future includes your partner, and you want to share a life with them.

By asking yourself what you need to feel fulfilled in a long-term relationship, and focusing on your ideal vision of a long lasting relationship leading to marriage and beyond, you will have a better understanding of what you are looking for in a partner.

Surrounding yourself with couples that are in healthy relationships can have a positive influence on your own relationship. They can help you discover and become more aware of what you want your relationship to look like and feel like.

Ultimately… Only you know.

This checklist isn’t perfect, and the same goes for relationships and people. There are certain qualities that are important in a partner, and there are also a lot of other qualities and traits that are necessary for a solid, lasting relationship. It is up to you to decide what those fundamental qualities are for you.

Congratulations! You believe you have found the one and are ready to propose, now what?

Coming up next in this series… The Art of Proposal!

Photo Credit: Jennifer van Son Photography

Design Your Own Engagement Ring

Wed, 25 Jun 2014 15:48:49 GMT

Are you looking to buy a custom engagement ring in Toronto , or from anywhere in Canada, but don’t know where to begin? Whether you are looking to design your own engagement ring or one for your girlfriend, here are a few key questions to keep in mind.

To halo or not to halo?

A popular starting point is deciding whether your center stone will be surrounded by a circle (or two!) of smaller diamonds or whether you would rather see it go solo – also known as a solitaire setting. Halos look great with pretty much any size diamond… up to a point. Once you’re in the 1.50ct+ range, keep in mind that the halo will make the center stone appear even larger.

Diamonds down the band?

Both solitaire and halo style engagement ring settings look beautiful with or without diamonds down the band. A traditional classic solitaire does not include any diamonds other than the center stone, but adding diamonds down the band can lend some extra sparkle if that’s what you’d like.

U-set, bead-set, channel-set, we all set?

If you’ve opted for either a halo or diamonds down the band, or both, then the next decision is the style to set them in. Do you want the side diamonds u-set, bead-set or channel-set? Better yet, what does this all mean?!

U-set diamonds have spaces for them drilled into the band, creating small u-shape windows from the profile view. This is a classic, end-to-end look as all you see is diamond from the top view. The diamonds themselves are held into place by tiny prongs formed out of the metal, giving the entire piece a uniform and smooth look – also known as “pavé”.

Bead-set diamonds are also set with tiny prongs formed out of the metal, as per u-set, but a slight border accompanies them. This is a very elegant and classic look.

Channel-set diamonds are contained within a border as per bead setting, but rather than being held in place by prongs they are held by the border itself. This is a form of tension setting.

Straight or tapered band?

Now that the basic design elements are decided on, we can start to add some character!

When it comes to the band itself, you can opt for a straight band, or for a tapered band. The taper can also be a traditional or a reverse taper – as in the band can get skinnier or wider as it approaches the center stone.

Shoulders? On engagement rings?

Your engagement ring has shoulders… seriously. This refers to the part of the shank as it approaches the center stone. They can be as low as what will appear to be a full circle with the basket sitting on top of it, or they can start to rise towards the diamond as they approach it – known as a cathedral setting. The higher the cathedral the more “elegant” the diamond appears, but also the more cumbersome the ring becomes to wear. A low shoulder is also a very nice look, and slightly more modern vs. the classic look of a cathedral setting.

Prongs? Even the smallest details matter.

Finally, we’ve arrived at the center stone prongs. Those little metal arms that hold the diamond in place. Traditional prongs are rounded and they can never go wrong. Another option for the more modern and forward is what are known as cat, bear or eagle claw prongs. These are very elegant and sharp-looking, literally, pointed prongs. Alternatively, why not forget the prongs altogether with a bezel setting?

Now let’s get to work!

I hope this helps break down the key decisions when it comes to designing your engagement ring. There are many additional nuances that can be modified or implemented (band width, additional details such as milgrain, etc.), but these should serve as a framework for the overall structure of the ring.

As always, I am happy to answer any questions in the comments below. I would also be thrilled to meet you in person when you’re ready to get started with your own custom engagement ring!

Diamond Grading Certificates: Are They All Created Equal?

Wed, 28 May 2014 15:43:56 GMT

When purchasing a diamond, it is extremely important that the specifications of your selected diamond are verified by a third party (whether the diamond is a Kimberfire diamond or is purchased elsewhere). For insurance purposes, for your peace of mind, for future value, there are many reasons why this third party certificate is critical. Which laboratory can you trust though?

Making the (Diamond) Grade

There are many diamond grading laboratories out there, but only a few with well-established reputations. Often, smaller labs are for-profit entities with various conflicts of interest. To ensure you receive an objective, reliable certificate, my recommendation is to always stick to the big guys. Diamonds carrying certificates from the larger grading laboratories may come with a small premium as the international labs charge more and their closest office may be out of town, but it is worth the nominal cost for a certificate you can trust and rely on.

GIA vs. EGL Diamond Grading Certificates

The most notable of these labs, and the certification body I stand behind, is the Gemological Institute of America (“GIA”). The GIA is widely known to have the most consistent and strict grading process out of any lab out there. Independent studies have shown GIA to be strict, consistent and, most of all, ethical when it comes to their processes and resulting grades.

Other well-known and reputable labs are the American Gem Society (“AGS”) and the International Gemological Institute (“IGI”).

On the opposite end of the spectrum are the labs that are known to be consistently inaccurate or lenient. The most well-known example of these lenient laboratories is the European Gemological Laboratory (“EGL), particularly their Hong Kong and Israel offices. In the trade, diamonds with these certificates sell at a substantial discount to the others. As a result, when passed through to the retail consumer, EGL certified diamonds may come off as being sold for an unbeatable price. As is the case with most too-good-to-be-true diamonds, EGL certificates are known in the industry to typically be two colour and/or clarity grades off, compared to the more-reputable graders. To be confident in what you are buying, I always suggest sticking to the more reputable labs mentioned above.

Proof Is In the Independent Studies

For more information you can view a recent study on the accuracy of the various labs, conducted by a major industry organization. In conducting this study, the team at Rapaport sent the same ten diamonds (of various sizes and qualities) to six different labs for grading. They found significant differences between laboratories grading the same diamond… no two diamonds are alike, and neither are their grading certificates apparently!

The six labs tested by Rapaport included the GIA, IGI, HRD, EGL USA, EGL Israel and EGL Hong Kong. Rapaport found the GIA to be the strictest of the group, thus setting the benchmark. EGL Israel and EGL Hong Kong were found to be one to two clarity and/or colour grades more lenient (if not more) in quite a few instances. This same trend also applied to cut and fluorescence grading by the EGL laboratories.

So Which Certificate Do YOU Trust?

While a diamond accompanied by an inferior diamond grading certificate may appear to be a bargain – the recommended course is to stay away. You can always purchase a GIA graded diamond, for the same price, that on paper is one to two clarity grades lower than the poorly graded diamond. You will walk away with the same product at the same price, but will then have the confidence of knowing that the diamond you purchased will be appreciated as such by anyone who may evaluate it in the future.

I’m always happy to answer any questions in the comments below! And, as usual, please share this article if you know anyone who may benefit from reading it.

How to Store Diamond Jewelry

Tue, 29 Apr 2014 15:42:38 GMT

Now that you know how to clean diamond jewelry … what is the best way to properly store it?

As a rule, always try to store your jewelry in a clean and dry place, and store your diamond jewelry separately as the diamonds can easily scratch other gemstones .

When storing jewelry, there are a few key points to keep in mind.

Visibility

Showcasing your jewelry in your home can allow your diamonds and your personality to shine through.

Beware of: out of sight, out of mind . If you tuck your precious pieces into small boxes or hidden compartments of your jewelry box, you may run the risk of never seeing (or wearing) them again.

You Are Unique... Just Like Your Jewelry

Just as diamonds come in all shapes and sizes, so do jewelry storage options. The best method will depend on the space you have available, the type of jewelry you own and your own preferences. Depending on the amount and value of your various pieces, you may want to opt for a jewelry box or for a jewelry armoire, both of which are available in a variety of sizes and designs.

A jewelry tree is great for hanging and showcasing some of your pieces. You have the option of buying one or of making your own. If you are buying one, we recommend making sure it works for your situation and is of good quality. If you want to embark on a DIY adventure and create your own jewelry tree, get creative with it by customizing it to reflect your personal style and unique personality.

For those of you who would consider yourselves jewelry connoisseurs – a standing mirrored jewelry box or armoire can store a lot of jewelry and your pieces are visible when you open it.

I like to make sure my jewelry pieces are visible, so I decided to get creative with my candelabra (see photo above). This option works great for inexpensive (yet trendy) pieces that I wear on a daily basis.

Safety and Security

For your own peace of mind, be aware that some jewelry pieces, such as high-end diamond jewelry, have very specific storage requirements. To keep your jewelry looking its best, you may want to store your diamond jewelry in a separate cloth pouch or lined case, in order to keep it from coming into contact with other pieces. This type of storage also helps to prevent dust and surface residue.

It is always better to be safe than sorry, so assume that whenever a jewelry item is valuable, extra consideration should be given to its proper care and storage.

Another consideration for valuable jewelry is the option of storage in a safe in order to avoid the possibility of theft.

For the time being, I have peace of mind knowing that my jewelry is safely hanging on my candelabra.

Maybe one day I will need a safe?

A girl can dream…

Until next time, thanks for letting me drive you to distraction by all that glitters!

How to Clean Diamond Jewelry at Home

Thu, 20 Mar 2014 15:41:15 GMT

All that glitters is your gold… When you take the proper care.

The diamond is the best known gemstone in the world. Clean diamonds sparkle because the maximum amount of light can enter the stone and return to your eyes in a (Kimber) firey brilliance.

Diamonds and jewelry are designed and crafted to last you a lifetime, however, proper care is important in order to maintain the lasting qualities.

How to clean and care for your carbon crystals.

Some pieces, such as diamond engagement and wedding rings are often worn around the clock. If this sounds like you, learning how to properly care for them will go a long way.

Soap scum, hair conditioner, and dirty dishes, oh my! While diamonds are durable, they can easily become smudged, soiled and dusty thanks to lotions, powders, soaps and even the natural oils from our skin. All can create a film on your jewelry, cutting down on your sparkle potential.

Do not clean your jewelry with chemicals such as ammonia or bleach. These chemicals can wreak havoc on your jewelry, from discoloring bands, to dulling stones, to even eroding enamel or glue.

Do-it-yourself guide to cleaning your diamond jewelry.

I recently decided that it was time for me to keep calm, and for my jewelry items to sparkle on; so in true DIY fashion, I grabbed some gloves, an old toothbrush and some dish soap and got to work.

You can clean your diamonds regularly using a commercial jewelry cleaner, or use a mild detergent such as Palmolive dish soap like I did. I chose the Palmolive with the added citrus scent. This made for a very refreshing DIY experience.

Before you start cleaning, I recommend that you collect the following materials:

Latex gloves; small bowl; dish soap or alternate mild detergent; old (clean) soft-bristle toothbrush; lint-free cloth.

In a small bowl, create a mix of warm water and a mild detergent. The warm water will loosen up any oils on the stones. Then, place your jewelry in the bowl.

Soak your jewelry for a few minutes and then scrub with the toothbrush. Make sure to get under the stone as dirt and oil can easily gather there.

You can use a strainer to rinse the diamond jewelry, and then lay it flat to dry on a soft, lint-free cloth.

I guess I don’t need a new diamond ring after all…

Keep calm and sparkle on.

I am now a believer that with proper care and maintenance of your jewelry items, you will be delighted to see that your diamond really can sparkle and last a lifetime.

Now that your jewelry is at its sparkling potential, thanks to your time and efforts… what is the best way to properly store it?

I’ll be touching on this in my next article so make sure to check back for a very fun way of keeping your jewelry both safe AND readily available!

How did this process work out for you and your jewelry? Let me know in the comments below!

Valentine’s Day Gift Ideas for the Diamond in Your Life

Mon, 10 Feb 2014 16:39:54 GMT

We may be biased, but diamond jewelry is a great idea.

Oh, Valentine’s Day. How can a day that’s meant to be about love end up being so stressful? Of course, it doesn’t have to be. The perfect gift could be flowers and chocolate, cooking a nice dinner, or even cleaning the house. But sometimes you need to go that extra step to really sweep her off her feet. And I can’t think of a better way to do that than with diamond jewelry.

Now, unless you’re thinking along the lines of our final recommendation (no pressure), I definitely recommend keeping the gifted piece simple, elegant and timeless. This is always my preferred route for surprise jewelry, unless you have a clear idea of a unique style she would love. There is also no need to break the bank for a “just because I love you” Valentine’s Day gift… unless you want to of course.

Starting from the ears and working our way down.

Where else would we start? Diamond stud earrings are a versatile, classic and modern addition to any outfit. They can be worn 24/7, are comfortable and, no matter the size, they always look great. This is one of the great things about diamond stud earrings; you can create a pair for almost any budget.

Style: The classic style is a 4-prong diamond stud earring, but there are endless options, including 3-prong “martini” style studs, studs with a diamond halo around them and perhaps a pair of bezel set diamond studs. These all work well, and are worth considering if you know her style calls for it.

Metal: When it comes to the metal to be used, definitely opt for white gold or platinum, unless she wears exclusively yellow gold or has a stated preference toward it. For the most part, 14k white gold will work well here as there’s not a lot of wear and tear on these pieces. We also make diamond stud earrings in 18k white gold or platinum, if you are looking for something more.

Shape: The most common diamond shapes used for earrings are round and princess cuts, but of course any diamond shape would work beautifully.

Clarity: With diamond earrings, it is common to use a lower clarity diamond (such as I1), as the diamonds are not usually looked at too closely or for a long period of time. This also allows you to maximize the size of the diamonds and can work well if the diamonds have nice, white and well placed inclusions. My preference is to stick to the eye-clean clarity range, being SI2 or above, to make sure they really shine.

Colour: As far as colour goes, keep as close to white as possible. I+ colour is best in my opinion.

Confused? Check out our diamond education page for further explanation on any of the above terminology.

A neckline like that deserves some attention.

If she already owns a pair of diamond stud earrings, a necklace is a great option that can easily compliment her day-to-day jewelry. As with earrings, you can make a necklace for almost every budget.

The classic option is a diamond solitaire pendant. This can be made from any diamond shape but is typically round or princess cut. If she has a pair of diamond earrings she wears all the time then match them in shape (unless you know there’s something else she’s been dreaming of).

Other options for a necklace include a pendant with a halo around it, a bezel set diamond pendant, or perhaps a bezel set diamond “floating” on the chain.

If you really want to go all out this Valentine’s Day, you can always go for more than one diamond. Two, three… or how about 95? A beautiful “tennis” or “riviera” style necklace is essentially a string of diamonds and can be graduated in the sizes used (larger at the bottom and smaller as the strand goes up and around the neck) or can be a uniform size across. Tempting, isn’t it?

Our diamond quality recommendations for necklaces are very similar to those for earrings, but as you spend more on the necklace (and especially if you are going for an option with multiple diamonds) we recommend leaning toward the nicer categories. A necklace is front and centre after all.

If her ring finger is bare… and you’re ready for it.

Finally, Valentine’s Day might be the perfect time to take your relationship to the next level. She might only be expecting flowers and chocolate, but imagine her reaction when she gets a commitment from you like no other? We are always here to meet with you to discuss all the options you have for this most precious of diamond jewelry gifts.

Wishing you and your loved one a very special Valentine’s Day this year, and be sure to let us know how you are celebrating the day in the comments below!

A Toronto Engagement Ring Story: Jon & Katie

Thu, 09 Jan 2014 16:38:16 GMT

Part of our ongoing series profiling Kimberfire’s diamond engagement rings in Toronto , and the awesome people who wear them.

Will you be my partner in crime?

I’ve seen Katie pull off many a stylish ensemble – and pretty soon, she will be all dressed in white. Artistic, and a natural beauty, Katie describes her fiancé, Jon, as “sweet, rambunctious and caring … and he can always make me laugh.”

Jon was drawn to Katie’s easygoing, positive personality and fell in love with her adventurous spirit and ambitious drive, as well as her creative and silly side.

The couple initially met through an online dating site. After a few emails back and forth, they realized that they worked in neighboring office towers and decided to grab a coffee and meet in person. After their coffee date ended, Jon wasted no time, and asked Katie out right away. On many of their dates, you could find them gallivanting across the city of Toronto, checking out funky restaurants, jazz clubs and art galleries.

Katie still remembers having their first kiss in the middle of David Pecaut Square. Jon must have remembered that kiss as well because that’s where he proposed to Katie.

Katie can’t pin point an exact moment when she realized that Jon was ‘the one’. What she does know however, is that over time, Jon went from being her goofy boyfriend, to best friend, to true love.

“I’m lucky to have him as my partner in crime for the rest of my life.”

Katie would say that her engagement ring buying process (rather than just the ring itself) represents her relationship with Jon, ‘to a tee!’ Jon and Katie started discussing diamond rings a few months before he proposed. Being the artistic type, Katie had many ideas on the cut she wanted. Initially she desired a marquise diamond with baguette diamonds on the side. Then, she had her sights set on an emerald cut diamond with a skinny band. “Poor Jon, I basically made him so confused. So, just as he does with everything else, Jon tried to ground my decision making process by taking me to try on a few rings. That’s when I realized that I wanted something simple – round cut with a halo.”

Enter Kimberfire

Jon and Katie are both ‘entrepreneurial wannabes’ and do their part to support small businesses. When they found out that Jonathan Goldberg had left investment banking to launch a fine jewelry business, they just knew they had to get their ring from him.

Jon went to Jonathan Goldberg with an idea or three… for a ring design. After a few design tweaks and some recommendations on clarity, colour and carat, Jonathan Goldberg brought the idea to life! The end result was a beautiful 19k white gold ring with a round diamond in the middle and a single halo around the perimeter. The diamonds sit in a beautiful vintage setting that sports a skinny band with diamond embedded throughout. Instead of traditional nickel, palladium was used for the alloy, ensuring a very bright white finish. Katie couldn’t be happier and said, “I absolutely LOVE my ring!”

Katie also commented that, “even after I received the ring, Jonathan provided nothing but top notch customer service. When I mentioned that my ring felt a bit loose, he got it sized for me right away. Additionally, he added two sizing balls to the inside of my band to stop my ring from twisting on my finger! Such a great idea!”.

Katie says her ring definitely reflects her personal style, which she describes as ‘sophisticated and classy.’ Katie prefers her style to always be timeless as opposed to trendy. Katie’s timeless taste reflects the vintage setting and classic cut of her engagement ring.

We wish this happy couple all of the joys and happiness in their journey together and appreciate them sharing their story with us (and you!).

(Photo Credits: Laura Nicholson Photography )

Please share this post if you think someone you know might benefit from it.

Canadian Diamond Engagement Rings: What You Need To Know

Thu, 12 Dec 2013 16:35:29 GMT

Oh, Canadian Diamonds…

We get some requests for (and many questions about) Canadian natural, earth-mined diamonds for use in engagement rings and other jewelry. Here are some of the most important things to know about this precious natural resource residing in our home and native land.

If you're more interested in lab grown diamonds then this likely isn't relevant to your search. There are currently no certified grown-in-Canada programs for created diamonds.

A Diamond Producing Nation

Many people are surprised to find out that Canada has diamond mines. In fact, Canada is the 3rd largest diamond producing country in the world!

The image shown above is an aerial view of the Diavik diamond mine in Canada’s Northwest Territories. Producing 8 million carats annually, it’s been in production since 2003. An interesting fact about this mine is that it’s only accessible by road for two months of the year – when the surrounding lakes are frozen enough to allow for the construction of a road stretching 375km long, from Yellowknife.

Conflict Free Guarantee

Canadian diamonds are known for their guaranteed “conflict-free” origin. In order to verify this origin, many certified Canadian-mined diamonds have a unique identification number laser inscribed on the stone itself (don’t worry, this is invisible to the naked eye, is on the side of the diamond and doesn’t affect its brilliance in the slightest!).

Canadian Born, But Not Necessarily Bred

Just because a diamond was mined in Canada does not mean that it was cut locally. The majority of Canadian-mined diamonds are actually shipped overseas to the major diamond cutting centres of Belgium, India and Israel before they are brought back here to be placed on the hands of Canadian consumers. This is because the cost of manufacturing in Canada is prohibitive for the smaller stones, and the local manufacturing skill is lacking for the larger ones.

Do Canadian Diamonds Cost More?

As you can imagine, mining in Canada is more costly than in some other countries. There are also additional costs associated with the tracking and certification process Canadian diamonds undergo. Some retailers choose to price their Canadian diamonds at a significant premium over non-Canadian goods. Other retailers choose to price the Canadian goods almost on par with diamonds of other origin knowing that they’ll sell faster. The presence and extent of a premium on these diamonds really varies from retailer to retailer.

Not All Canadians Are Created Equal

Just like diamonds of other origin, Canadian-mined diamonds come in all shapes, sizes, clarities and colours. There is a common misconception that Canadian diamonds are “higher-quality” than non-Canadian diamonds. This belief stems from the fact that on average Canadian diamond mines produce a greater percentage of higher-quality diamonds than mines in other parts of the world. However, chances are that you are buying a single diamond… not an entire mine (but if you want to, let’s talk)! Each diamond is graded on the 4C’s individually, and this is how they are compared. A high-quality diamond from elsewhere will be much nicer than a poor-quality diamond from Canada.

Plenty of Fish in the Sea (and Diamonds in the World)

So should you buy a Canadian diamond engagement ring? Not necessarily. The guaranteed conflict-free origin is a significant pro and the fact that the diamonds were born right here in Canada is great, but you must evaluate each diamond on its own merit in order to arrive at the best selection for you or your loved one. Also, keep in mind that even if non-Canadian, natural diamonds have a positive global impact .

I had a client recently who spends a lot of time up north for work, from where he would frequently return to his girlfriend (now fiancée!) with gifts of Inuit art. As Canadian diamonds are mined in northern Canada, he was set on popping the question with one of them in hand. For him, purchasing a Canadian diamond was a no-brainer, and we focused his selection on only those. It truly is a personal decision!

Kimberfire Canadian Diamonds

At Kimberfire, we are here to assist you whether you are set on purchasing a Canadian diamond or are open to other options - and whether you are looking for custom engagement rings in Toronto or from anywhere in Canada, we can help with our virtual-first process. Let us know your preferences when making an appointment and we’ll make sure to have all the bases covered so that you can make a confident decision. We also have a curated selection of pre-designed engagement rings available for immediate purchase .

Why wait until your appointment though? If you have any questions that still need answering please ask them in the comments section below and we’ll get right on it!

Please share this post if you think someone you know might benefit from it.

Kimberfire On Career Buzz Radio in Toronto

Mon, 18 Nov 2013 16:32:30 GMT

A gem of a career. A career in gems.

I was recently a guest on Career Buzz , on CIUT 89.5 FM in the Greater Toronto Area, as part of a special 1-hour long segment on careers in diamonds! Joining me on the show was a good friend, and former Chief Gemmologist of Ontario, Ron Gashinski .

The show took listeners through the twists and turns in my career that led to the founding of Kimberfire and explored the journey of a diamond from mine to polished gem.

Have a listen!

Career Buzz is produced and hosted by Mark Franklin, president of CareerCycles . Since 2006, Career Buzz radio has been empowering lives, enriching careers and energizing organizations.

(Photo Credit: Jamie In Bytown )

A Brilliant Way to Buy a Diamond

Wed, 30 Oct 2013 15:30:15 GMT

Hi there,

I’m Jonathan Goldberg , the founder & CEO of Kimberfire – a better way to buy engagement rings, diamonds and fine jewelry in Toronto, Canada . I thought I’d start off our blog with introductions to myself and to Kimberfire. Please check back often for future posts catered to both men and women on diamonds, engagement rings, diamond jewelry, marriage proposals, personal style and more! Who knows what we’ll come up with.

Diamonds and high-end diamond jewelry are my passion. I am an internationally trained diamond grader with experience working in a diamond-cutting factory in the Middle East, in diamond sector business development in the busy diamond-trading centre of Antwerp and in the wholesale diamond trade in North America. Yes, I actually sat for hours each day cutting diamonds from rough stones into the polished diamonds we’re accustomed to seeing in jewelry – it was an awesome way to learn all about them!

As a break (at times fun and at times not so fun) between all that luxury goods sector experience and founding Kimberfire, I went back to school for my MBA (fun) and spent 3 years at one of the large Canadian banks as an investment banker (had its moments!).

While in banking, my friends who were getting engaged would always ask me about the best place to buy a diamond engagement ring. Should they buy online? Should they go to one of the many retail stores? A common phrase I heard was, “I don’t want to spend thousands of dollars at ‘X’ on a ring online without seeing it, but I don’t want to pay the prices being asked by ‘Y’ and ‘Z’ locally.”

I would always agree with them – as no two diamonds are alike! I have manufactured diamonds with my own two hands and I will not buy one without thoroughly inspecting it in person first. Diamonds come with many different types of inclusions and quality of material, even within the same clarity grade. The diamond that I approve of in person is the one I want to take home with me to give to my loved one.

Friends, and friends of friends, were thrilled when I navigated my relationships with diamond manufacturers and suppliers to source their perfect diamond – at the most competitive prices. They were ecstatic that I was able to find diamonds at the lowest prices possible (those typically only seen online) while also providing the opportunity for them to see their diamond in person alongside someone they trust, the same way they would be able to at only the highest-end stores. These were the fundamentals that shaped Kimberfire.

Kimberlite is the rock in the earth where diamonds are found. Fire is the scintillation and brilliance of our hand-picked diamonds. ‘Kimberfire’ is not only a new word for diamond, but also a new and brilliant way to buy one.

I look forward to meeting you and to building a relationship that will last through many of life’s memorable moments to come!

All the best,

Jonathan

Kimberfire Blog

Designer Spotlight: Borguesse Mozaffarian

Six Generations of Jewelry Expertise Meets Canadian-Inspired Design

What’s the moment that pulled you into jewelry design?

What was the creative brief/vision behind this ready-to-wear collection, and how did it fit Kimberfire’s brand?

﻿ Who did you envision wearing these pieces? Did you have a specific lifestyle or person in mind?

What inspired these designs?

﻿ What did you learn during your time at Kimberfire that influenced your approach to this collection?

What jewelry-making techniques do you have hands-on experience with, and how did that technical knowledge influence your designs for this collection?

﻿ Walk us through your workflow. What changed mid-way, and why?

Style the collection: everyday and formal.

Do you have a favourite piece from this collection, and what makes it special to you?

What are you doing now, and where can readers follow your work?

﻿ Favourite gemstone cut, and why?

Jewelry piece you never take off?

﻿ Shop the Collection

Engagement Ring Stories: Garnet & Hannah

Engagement Ring Stories, From Vancouver to the Toronto Islands

How did you two meet - and when did you know they were “the one”?

Tell us about the proposal (where, when, the little details!).

﻿ Was the ring/proposal a surprise, or did you design/plan it together?

What was most important to you when choosing an engagement ring?

What do you love most about your ring? Any special details (shape, setting, metal, engraving, hidden gems)?

What inspired your choice of diamond/centre stone (natural vs. lab-grown, coloured gem stone vs diamond, size, look, etc.)?

Why did you choose Kimberfire, and how was your experience working with us?

What surprised you about the process, and what did you learn along the way?

Do you have any advice for other couples shopping for an engagement ring?

A favourite reaction from friends or family after you got engaged?

﻿ Describe your ring in three words.

Your song / your spot in the city / your ideal date night.

One word to describe your proposal day.

Any photographer to credit?

That's a Wrap!

Natural Diamonds' Positive Global Impact

Exploring the Positive Global Impact of Natural Diamonds

Historical Context of Diamond Mining

Early History and Discovery of Diamonds

Evolution of Diamond Mining Techniques

Major Diamond Mines Around the World

Economic Contributions

Job Creation in Diamond Mining Regions

Contribution to National Economies

Role in Global Trade and Industry

Technological and Industrial Advancements

Innovations in Diamond Mining Technology

Diamonds in Industrial Applications

Research and Development in Diamond-Based Technologies

Environmental Stewardship

Sustainable Mining Practices

Rehabilitation of Mining Sites

Contributions to Conservation Efforts

Social and Community Development

Educational and Healthcare Initiatives in Mining Communities

Empowerment of Local Populations

Cultural and Heritage Preservation

Ethical Sourcing and Transparency -

Measures to Combat Conflict Diamonds

Certification Processes and Standards

Consumer Awareness and Responsible Buying

The Future of Natural Diamonds

Emerging Trends in Diamond Mining and Trade

Potential Challenges and Solutions

The Role of Technology and Innovation

Case Studies

Botswana: A Success Story in Diamond-Driven Development

Canada: Pioneering Environmental Standards in Diamond Mining

Russia: Technological Innovations in Harsh Climates

Conclusion: Natural Diamonds' Global Impact

The Ongoing Role of Natural Diamonds in Global Development

Further Reading

Engagement Ring Calculator: How Much Should You Spend?

How Much to Spend on an Engagement Ring?

The Kimberfire Difference

Explaining Engagement Ring Pricing

Understanding Engagement Ring Value

Calculating the Price of an Engagement Ring

How Much to Spend on an Engagement Ring

Engagement Ring Calculator Explained

Customization and Its Impact on Price

How Much Should You Spend on a Ring for Your Engagement?

Who did you envision wearing these pieces? Did you have a specific lifestyle or person in mind?

What did you learn during your time at Kimberfire that influenced your approach to this collection?

Walk us through your workflow. What changed mid-way, and why?

Favourite gemstone cut, and why?

Shop the Collection

Was the ring/proposal a surprise, or did you design/plan it together?

Describe your ring in three words.

Reflect on Your Personal Style

Budget Considerations