How do you find out your partner’s ring size? Good question! Here are a few ideas that have proven to be successful.

Ask the accomplices (their best friend or mom)
If your partner thinks you may be about to pop the question, they will make certain they know the right ring size.

Use a ring they currently wear
–Take a ring that they wear (preferably on her engagement ring finger) and slide it onto your finger. Use a marker and draw a line on your finger at the top and bottom where the ring stops. Then go to your jeweler to have your finger sized.

–You could also use a tapered candle by sliding her ring down and making small marks into the candle, above and below where her ring stops. Don’t forget to wipe off the candle wax before you return the ring to her jewelry box.

Have you ever been into a jewelry store together?

Did your partner try the rings on from the case? Did they fit? Most stores carry a stock size ranging from 6 – 7 for women, size 9 – 10 for men. If you know they were able to slide the rings on with no problem, you could leave the ring stock size and then adjust the size after the proposal. It’s okay for the ring to be a little big when you propose–too small on the other hand is a whole other story.

Here are more ring sizing tips to help you along the way. Good luck!

The post Ways To Find Your Partner’s Ring Size appeared first on Robbins Brothers Blog.

• Why are some diamonds on sale? If you are searching for the “cheapest” option when diamond shopping, you are doing it all wrong. If a diamond has an extremely low cost, there is most certainly a reason. There are a lot of diamond sellers, especially online, that claim they have the lowest prices on diamonds. Once you’ve looked closer, you will find they have cutting or proportion flaws not disclosed, or could be laser enhanced or filled. Make sure you get to compare diamonds side by side. This way you can see the differences yourself. High quality diamonds will hold their value and never be offered at a substantial discount.
• Does size really matter? When it comes to deciding what carat weight to get, keep in mind this very important fact. There is nothing romantic about being in a financial bind. Don’t let friends, family or a pushy salesperson pressure you into breaking the bank. The old saying of “two month’s salary” is long gone. Only you can determine your perfect price. Figure out whether you can save the cash for the entire purchase, or if you prefer to finance part or all of it. If you prefer to finance, work backwards from what you are comfortable spending on a monthly payment, then only search for rings within that price range. Most reputable jewelers will offer a trade-in option on your diamond. With this option, you can upgrade the diamond over time, as you can afford it.
• Why does this diamond sparkle more than that one? A basic search on how to buy a diamond reveals the 4 C’s, but which one is responsible for sparkle and fire? The answer? Cut. A diamond’s cut grade is often overlooked by buyers. In fact, the cut grade used to not even be listed on diamond reports. Now that cut is part of the diamond grading scale, consumers are realizing how important this “C” really is. Diamonds receive one of five cut grades ranging from Excellent to Poor in three categories: Cut Grade, Polish, and Symmetry. The higher the diamond’s cut grade, the more brightness, fire, and scintillation the diamond will have. Craftsmanship plays a critical role in the cut grade too. Polish and Symmetry are a direct reflection of the diamond cutter’s ability to take a “diamond in the rough” and masterfully bring out the most beautiful diamond possible. Polish refers to the quality of the diamond’s surface while symmetry refers to the quality of facet arrangement. Be sure to compare diamonds with different cut grades side by side because your personal opinion matters most.
• Do I really need to plan for the future? (of my engagement ring) The answer to this question is yes! Your purchase needs to come with the option of returning or exchanging it, should your plans change. Be sure to invest in insurance coverage in the case of loss or theft of your ring. Let’s talk warranties. Most credible jewelers offer a lifetime guarantee on manufacturer defects. This does not however cover normal wear and tear issues such as tightening loose stones, future size adjustments of the band, or rhodium plating (the process to keep white gold looking bright white). Ask your jeweler if they have an optional coverage for lifetime repairs. It will come in handy later, guaranteed. Oh, and don’t forget to check on the trade-in option. What better way to celebrate a major milestone than to upgrade the center diamond?
• What do these terms mean? Fracture filled, heat treated, laser enhanced or laser path. If you see or hear any of these terms in the description of a diamond, turn around and walk out. These enhancements not only lower the value of your diamond, but some are temporary fixes, that without warning can literally cause your diamond to chip or crack. You want your diamond to last a lifetime, right? You should invest in a natural diamond, without enhancements to ensure you are investing into a diamond with structural integrity. Any heat treatments, enhancements, fracture fillings, etc. are required by law to be disclosed to you. Be sure to check the diamond certificate for any of these words. And don’t be afraid to ask your diamond professional to explain anything that you are confused about. A knowledgeable consultant will be able to answer any question you have.

Discover more information or begin searching for your perfect engagement diamond today.

The post Diamond Shopping: 5 Questions To Ask Your Jeweler appeared first on Robbins Brothers Blog.

You’re ready to take the plunge with your sweet significant other and you’ve decided to shop for engagement rings. Congratulations!! Now comes the fun ring shopping part. But wait, why does it seem like there is a sea of engagement rings to browse through?? Where do I begin? Luckily, we’ve narrowed it down for you, into three easy categories: classic, modern and vintage. How can you determine what kind of engagement ring would fit your lifestyle and tastes? Take a look at some of our points and it just might lead you in the right direction.

You live an active life and can’t be bothered by the little stuff. Your perfect Saturday starts with a hike up in the trails and ends with a calming session of yoga at the nearest studio. You are a no-fuss, active girl. You would go best with a classic engagement ring. A stunning solitaire engagement ring is what you prefer and you wouldn’t have it any other way. If you prefer extra detail, channel set diamonds won’t snag as you’re carving up fresh powder up in the mountains.

You know your staples: a little black dress, a strand of pearls and a red pout that will stop them dead in their tracks. You’re channeling your inner Audrey Hepburn and Jackie O. You’ll prefer a simple one carat solitaire diamond engagement ring over any other style. Classic engagement rings are timeless.

As you window shop, do you sense that color always grabs your attention? Look in your closet. Do you see a bright rainbow of different colors and styles from the latest trends? You’re a modern girl. Modern engagement rings have clean lines and contemporary designs. A beautiful floating diamond engagement ring that shows off that stunning center diamond would be perfect. Perhaps a brightly colored gemstone engagement ring to show off a unique style and personal touch.

You have playbills and art show flyers covering your self-made magnetic chalk board. You’re creating your own diy project (a tutorial that you’re adding for your blog or Pinterest board). You can see yourself getting married at the corner art gallery for your Modern ceremony and reception. You might like an emerald-shaped diamond ring or perhaps you might even forego the diamond idea. A stunning custom yellow and rose gold wide band just might do for you.

Do you love shopping the local antique store? Do you prefer used and loved cloth bound books over the version with the movie poster as the cover? You’re infatuated with lace, chiffon, afternoon tea and everyone knows that you’re a romantic at heart. You must be a vintage engagement ring kind of girl. A rose gold halo engagement ring will do your style justice.

Instead of catching the latest rom-com, you’ve got a thing for Gone With The Wind. You can recite Casablanca line by line. You have the entire Jane Austen collection on your book shelf and there’s not a single pinch of dust on them. You’re envisioning yourself walking down the aisle in your grandmother’s dress from the 40’s. Vintage pear shaped halo engagement rings remind you of the Old Hollywood Glam style that you love.

Don’t think any of these descriptions speak to you? There isn’t a strict guideline to follow when it comes to style and preference. Just take your time and be sure to try on the ring for yourself and we promise, you’ll know the very moment you slip it on.

The post Find Out Your Engagement Ring Style appeared first on Robbins Brothers Blog.

I’ve fallen in love with rose gold engagement ring styles! I may be a little biased, because I have one myself. These past few years, I’ve been moving away from most of my own silver colored fashion jewelry, because yellow and rose gold just looks so much better with my skin tone. Rose gold is warm and soft, and has a small percentage of copper that gives it a slight pink tint.

We’ve been noticing that this rose gold trend is on the rise, so our buyers have been scrambling to meet demands! After all, we are THE Engagement Store! Here are some of our favorite new additions to our designer collections!

Kirk Kara Pirouetta (Sku# 0388210)

Kirk Kara Dahlia (Sku# 0389908)

Peter Lam Luxury (Sku # 0398069)

Peter Lam Luxury (Sku # 0398060)

Peter Lam Luxury (Sku #0387991)

Simon G (Sku# 0395977)

Simon G (Sku# 0395978)

Tacori (Sku# 0393589)

Tacori (Sku# 0393588)

What’s your favorite ring? Or do you still prefer the tried and true white gold engagement rings? I’m may not be exactly impartial, but I’m digging the Tacori solitaire! I just love simple and classic engagement rings!

The post Just In: Our Newest Rose Gold Engagement Ring Styles! appeared first on Robbins Brothers Blog.

Valentine’s Day is finally here and what better way to top it off than with a surprise marriage proposal, beach-side at the luxurious Surf and Sand Resort in Laguna Beach, CA?? Enter Matthew, been together with his sweetheart, Linda for about three years and wants to ask her the ultimate question of all questions.

Matthew specially picked out a Tacori engagement ring from their Full Bloom collection (Tacori Style #55-2RD65). A stunning floral-styled halo surrounds the center diamond:

Olivia at Robbins Brothers Fullerton was able to rush the special Tacori Platinum Engagement Ring for Matthew so that he could propose in time for Valentine’s Day!

Watch as Matthew and the Love Team ambush Linda and land that Tacori ring on her finger:

Matthew and Linda will be celebrating with the decadent Aphrodisiac BonBon Heart Collection compliments of Chuao Chocolatier and a romantic dinner at Flemings Prime Steakhouse. Congratulations to the JUST ENGAGED couple!!

Happy Valentine’s Day!

The post Valentine’s Day Marriage Proposal At Surf and Sand Laguna appeared first on Robbins Brothers Blog.

Fashion Editors and Bloggers Review Robbins Brothers’
Top Eight Engagement Rings That Every Woman Should See This Fall

Just in time for the holidays, lifestyle bloggers and top fashion and beauty editors from The Knot, Houston Chronicle and Spaz Magazine share riveting reviews of Robbins Brothers’ Fall engagement ring picks.

Los Angeles, CA – November 6, 2013 – Today Robbins Brothers, The Engagement Ring Store announced its 2nd Annual Fashionista Ring Reviews, which includes many of the retailer’s most popular and sought after engagement ring styles this Fall. Ranging from the three-stone ring with rose gold to the vintage diamond halo design adorned with micro-pave, some of your favorite style experts weigh in on their favorite engagement ring bling.

The Fashionista list showcases the blue sapphire design, a favorite of Sazan Barzani, founder and editor for Spaz Magazine. “If a man proposed to me with this ring, the answer would be YES! I absolutely love the feminine cut/style of this ring. The eye-catching blue adds the perfect pop of color without being too flashy. It’s one of those rings that speaks for itself.”

Natasha Burton, blogger for Cosmopolitan.com prefers the classic Tacori style. “It’s ideal for the lady who likes her bling and desires a classic look — with a bit of a twist. The one-carat solitaire stone anchors the ring, while the side diamonds add just the right amount of extra sparkle. Set in Platinum, this piece is certainly as awe-inspiring as it is beautiful.” Kim Fusaro from Glamour.com, who opts to go halo-less, was equally excited to share her take on the Kirk Kara design. “Round diamonds are currently my favorite—SO timeless. I love the vintage-y feel of this setting. The sapphires are on-trend, but they’re not front and center or overwhelmingly big, which I like. The diamond is the star, after all.”

The Houston Chronicle’s fashion and beauty editor, Joy Sewing, describes the Verragio three-stone engagement ring as “A heart stopper. Not simply because of its breathtaking beauty, but also its impeccable detail from the swirl of the band to the rose-gold inside. If a ring can symbolize the bond of love between two people, this one does it magnificently.”

“The Fashionista Ring Reviews is our fun way, through the eyes of style experts, to present a variety of options to our customers who are planning a marriage proposal this time of year,” said Shannon Daly, director of jewelry for Robbins Brothers. “This year we saw an increased interest in rose gold and blue sapphires, while vintage halo is still very popular for those who prefer a big look. The styles are plentiful and we’re focused on helping customers find that one perfect ring to symbolize their committed love.”

For more information, please visit www.RobbinsBrothers.com.

The post Fashionista Engagement Ring Reviews appeared first on Robbins Brothers Blog.

You’re Invited to a TACORI Trunk Show at Robbins Brothers Torrance

Friday, November 8–10am to 8pm
Saturday, November 9–11am to 7pm

For Appointments call 310.540.5659
Email: fanclub@robbinsbros.com

21200 Hawthorne Blvd.
Torrance, CA 90503

*18-Month Financing
*Purchase any Tacori item and receive a RB Gift Card that expires 12/29/2013
*see store associate for more details

The post You’re Invited to Tacori Trunk Show in Torrance appeared first on Robbins Brothers Blog.

I never really gave thought about diamond engagement rings until I started working at Robbins Brothers, let alone Eco-friendly diamonds. I can’t say that I’m 100% Eco-friendly. Sure, I recycle most of what I can and I try to save water and energy. I don’t drive an electric car, but I’d like to think that I’m pretty Earth-conscious with most of my daily decisions.

I even had a negative idea about lab-created diamonds, as if they were fake diamonds or just knock-offs. However, the more I learned about our e3 Diamond, the more I was intrigued. The e3 diamond is a lab-created diamond that has the same exceptional color, clarity and brilliance as an Earth-mined diamond. It begins with natural carbon, which is the same minerals that make up natural diamonds. It goes under the same growing process as a natural diamond, only sped up so it takes about four days, rather than a billion years. Not only is this diamond an Eco-conscience choice, but it is budget-conscience too! Cultured diamonds typically cost about 30% less than the mined variety with generally the same specs. I gave a hint to my then-boyfriend that I wouldn’t mind having an e3 diamond (hint, hint).

I was finally a total believer I actually saw an e3 diamond for the first time (which was when he proposed!). It was just absolutely stunning! My fiancee also used recycled white gold for the setting. It was just another way that we could help Mother Nature and make a more conscious choice during this huge milestone in our life and I couldn’t be happier. After all, no one could have guessed that my sparkling diamond was lab-grown. Whenever I told someone that it was a lab-created diamond, they were pleasantly surprised.

So what do you think? Would you consider getting an eco-friendly diamond or do you prefer natural diamonds? Let us know!

The post An Eco-Friendly Diamond For My Engagement Ring appeared first on Robbins Brothers Blog.

There are a lot of ways that your guy could propose to you without a ring. He can get really creative, propose in a really romantic way, go ring shopping with you after, or you might not even want an engagement ring. However, if you were totally let down and were hoping for something a little sparkly, read on. While keeping the whole proposal execution in mind, here are five reasons that you might want to say no to his proposal (or at least make him do it over).

1. The first reaction your girlfriends are going to have is “How did he propose?” The second: “Can I see the ring??” Even if they don’t ask, curious eyes are going straight to your ring finger (trust me, it’s going to happen). When they see that it’s vacant, they are probably going to feel a little confused and ask…

2. “Where’s your ring?” You’re visiting your parents to share the news and you tell them that there is no ring. Depending on how traditional your parents are, they might wonder if he’s taking you seriously and if your future husband didn’t plan ahead to get an engagement ring, how is the rest of your future together going to look? An awkward conversation is about to happen in 3…2…1…

3. Does your guy typically act on impulse? The process of purchasing an engagement ring is not typically as carefree as buying a pair of new stilettos and you can’t always just return it. It takes a huge amount of education, research and shopping, so the guy will have spent time seriously thinking about the huge commitment he is about to make. In a contest that we hosted, a woman explained to us how her fiancé proposed to her, “We were laying in bed watching The Simpsons, when he rolled over and said, ‘So, you wanna get married?’” A broken engagement can just as easily happen as a proposal without any serious thought or planning.

4. The “I’m engaged” excuse to the next guy who hits on you won’t be as believable if you’re walking around sans ring. “So then where’s your ring?” Even the “I have a boyfriend” line had a guy retorting, “Come on, I know you don’t.” Seriously, there are jerky jerks like that out there! #TrueStory

5. An engagement ring isn’t just about the shiny bling or the price tag, it’s the symbolism behind it that makes it so special. Because the guy has to sacrifice a little bit symbolizes that he is not taking this decision lightly. No matter the budget, your guy has been squirreling away money for some time to prepare for this by cutting back on beer and the latest PS3 games. He isn’t proposing on a whim.

The post 5 Reasons Not To Accept A Proposal Without The Engagement Ring appeared first on Robbins Brothers Blog.

Engagement Date August 25, 2013
Wedding Date April 12, 2014

In Christina’s Words:

How did you two meet?
Kevin and I officially met at a “homegroup,” which is a community group in which you meet with individuals from the church to grow in fellowship and grow in the knowledge of the gospel. To give you the backstory, I knew of Kevin as the Worship Leader at a church in Midlothian called Stonegate Church. I had been attending there with my sister and her fiancé, right after I had graduated from OSU and had come home from college.

From the first service I attended at Stonegate Church until the time that we actually met I had a little crush on Kevin. My sister would elbow me every Sunday when he would start singing. My initial thoughts at the time were “Here is a Godly guy who loves the Lord, he is completely gorgeous, and has an absolutely incredible voice…. This guy is the real deal.”

Granted I still think all of these thoughts currently, but what I am most attracted to is his passion and heart for Jesus. This was displayed through his worship the first time I noticed him, and that I have continued to see as we started and walked through the last 6 months of our relationship.

How did he propose?
Since Kevin is an artist and writes his own songs, he decided to write a beautiful song called
“I Choose You” which paints a clear picture of love. Ultimately this song talks about God’s love towards us in Jesus. It is a reflection of Kevin’s love for me, and how the meaning of marriage ultimately displays the love of Christ. Little did I know he was writing this song, planning to sing it to me and to propose on August 25, 2013.

Kevin proposed on that Sunday at Stonegate Church at the 11:00 service. My family and I had gotten there early, so we sat in the third row close to the front of the stage. It was like any other service; nothing seemed out of the ordinary at the time. Kevin led worship like he always does and then came and sat by me during the service.

Pastor Rodney Hobbs finishes up the sermon and Kevin leaves to lead us in one last song of worship like he normally does. However, this time Kevin stood up on stage like he was about to lead us in worship and said I wrote a song for you guys and I hope you like it. At this point I still did not think anything was weird or out of the ordinary…until I heard the lyrics:

“A woman who fears the lord is to be praised
She acknowledges him in all her ways
Then I pursued that girl
She is worth the fight
She is my forever
She is who I want to be wife.”

“Cause I choose her to be by my side
I choose her and I lay down my life
I’ll always be faithful and I’ll love her right
I choose her to be my bride.”

What do you love most about your engagement ring?
My ring is beautiful, stunning, and simple. But what I love most about my ring is that Kevin picked it out all on his own. Not only that, but he added a diamond on the inside of the wedding band from his Mother’s ring who passed away to breast cancer when he was 9 years old. I look at the ring and I honestly think I couldn’t have picked a better ring myself. It is perfect in every way. I want to sincerely thank Randell Massie at the Arlington location for helping Kevin pick it out!

The post Surprise Marriage Proposal Serenade at Church appeared first on Robbins Brothers Blog.

By Tracey Lyles

The princess cut is still one of the most popular diamond shapes to ever exist. Symbolic? Indeed because in every relationship the woman wants to feel extra special and be treated like a princess, right? (Or is it just me??) Well, if you or the woman you love is a fan of princess cut engagement rings, we’ve carefully selected six stunning styles that sparkle and shine through every facet and are sure to take her breath away.

Princess Cut Engagement Ring #1
You light up a room with style and grace. You make walking in heels look as easy as enjoying a decadent sundae on a hot afternoon. This inspired 14 karat white gold pave engagement ring, with 42 delicate diamonds, provides the vintage touch that shows the sophistication you put into everything you do. (Sku 0377934)

Princess Cut Engagement Ring #2
A woman who knows her worth will easily rock this ring with charming confidence. This gorgeous design features the leading star, a beautiful 1-carat princess cut diamond, surrounded by a shining supporting cast of channel-set princess side stones. Together they make up the sweetest love story you’ve ever known. (Sku 0388856)

Princess Cut Diamond Engagement Ring with Side Stones from www.RobbinsBrothers.com (sku0388856)

Princess Cut Engagement Ring #3
Exceptional, spectacular, exquisite. Beyond beautiful but definitely within reach. 58 glamorous diamonds in a 14 karat white gold metal that you will cherish for a lifetime. (Sku 0382342)

Princess Cut Engagement Ring #4
A huge turn-on is the smile he gets when he barely beats you at your favorite card game. Wait until he sees the victory dance when he hands you this 14 karat white gold vintage engagement ring with loving twists, 52 micro-pave diamonds, and a halo declaring you both winners. (Sku 0379046)

Princess Cut Engagement Ring #5

Sometimes a lot of a good thing is just better. Like this Scott Kay ring: 14 karat white gold covered with 60 pave and prong set diamonds. Milgrain edging and the princess cut stone of your choosing complete the package. You can never have too much of a good thing. (Sku 0376778)

Princess Cut Engagement Ring #6

For every princess, her real-life romance is better than her dreams. This amazingly beautiful Tacori design will make Ms. Fiancée pinch herself twice to ensure reality. Such a lovely engagement ring featuring a perfect princess cut diamond in the center flanked by two trillion cut stones and round brilliant diamonds along the setting. Oh yes, dreams do come true. (Sku 0386503)

Question of the Day: Which princess cut design do you want on your pretty little ring finger?

The post 6 Princess Cut Engagement Rings She’ll Love appeared first on Robbins Brothers Blog.

*Does the 2-months salary rule still exist?
*What are the most sought after engagement ring styles for Fall 2013?
*How many couples shop for the ring together?
*Do I really need engagement ring insurance?
*Top 3 tips for planning the perfect proposal?
*What else do I need to know about getting engaged?

Find out all of these answers and more in Google’s Hangouts On Air hosted by The Man Registry.

The post Groom’s Guide to Getting Engaged appeared first on Robbins Brothers Blog.