With Valentine’s Day coming up, DB-based Rahila Refaaq, Founder of Zaha et Cetera, gives the lowdown on choosing an engagement ring [PHOTOS COURTESY OF Zaha et Cetera]
With Valentine’s Day coming up, DB-based Rahila Refaaq, Founder of Zaha et Cetera, gives the lowdown on choosing an engagement ring [PHOTOS COURTESY OF Zaha et Cetera]
DB’s trusted jeweller since 2012, Zaha et Cetera specialises in authenticated and ethically sourced custom-made jewellery, restorations and valuations. Founder Rahila Refaaq, a second-generation jeweller, studied at the Gemological Institute of America (GIA), qualifying as a Graduate Gemologist and Accredited Jewellery Professional in 2003. She worked for eight years as Senior Gemologist at the International Gemological Institute (IGI) in Hong Kong testing stones for major auction houses and private jewellers, and subsequently as an IGI HK Consultant specialising in diamonds, coloured stones and ID jewellery. Needless to say, she’s the person to advise lovebirds looking to put a ring on it.
“Ultimately, the most important recommendation is to choose a ring that symbolises your love and commitment, while aligning with the unique tastes and preferences of your future spouse,” Rahila opens. “Whether it’s a classic solitaire or a more contemporary design, the significance of the ring lies in the sentiment and thought behind it.”
It would seem then that simply focusing on bling – buying the biggest solitaire budget allows – won’t suffice. “While the size of the stone can be a significant factor, it’s essential to consider the quality of the stone. A smaller, high-quality diamond or gemstone can be just as stunning and impactful as a larger stone of lesser quality. It’s important to find the right balance between size and quality within your budget, and to be mindful of the 4Cs (cut, colour, clarity and carat).
“Round-brilliant cut is the most popular choice for engagement rings; its 58 facets are designed to maximise the diamond’s sparkle and brilliance. But there are other cuts to consider, for instance oval, princess, pear, cushion, marquise and emerald. Each offers a unique combination of brilliance, fire and personality. Whether opting for a classic round-brilliant cut or a more distinctive pear cut, there are a variety of options to suit individual taste and create a truly special engagement ring.”
When selecting a design, Rahila points out that it’s helpful to consider the type of jewellery your future spouse typically wears. If they prefer classic and timeless pieces, a solitaire can be a great choice.
However, if they have a more distinct style, unique settings or alternative gemstones could be more appropriate. And Rahila is all about practicality: “You need to take into account your future spouse’s lifestyle and daily activities. If they have an active lifestyle or work with their hands, a lower-profile setting may be more practical and comfortable. In this instance, you can explore halo, three-stone, vintage-inspired and pave settings.”
In addition to custom-making bespoke engagement rings, Zaha et Cetera has a collection of fixed design templates which clients can choose from, and can also create heirloom rings, reinventing stones and settings that have been passed down through generations. Again, Rahila advises that personalisation is all important: “With any engagement ring, you can consider adding personal touches, such as custom engravings or incorporating a stone that holds sentimental value.”
While diamonds continue to be the most popular choice for engagement rings, Rahila is seeing an increasing interest in alternative gemstones, such as sapphire, emerald, topaz and morganite. “These gemstones offer unique colours, symbolism and affordability, appealing to individuals looking to personalise their ring selection or to deviate from the traditional diamond-centric approach.” Remember, this isn’t a bling ring; it’s a forever ring. Focus on the 4Cs.
To find out more and arrange for a consultation, WhatsApp 9656 0414, email [email protected] or visit www.zahaetcetera.com. You can see more from Zaha et Cetera on Instagram: www.instagram.com/zahaetc and Facebook: www.facebook.com/zahaetcetera, www.facebook.com/ZahaetcDB.