SUMMER IS A popular time for weddings and engagements - just ask Tom and Katie. But before you pop the question, there's a more daunting task ahead: choosing an engagement ring. With so many styles, from designer rings to original creations by local jewellers, picking the right one isn't easy.
Diamonds are, of course, a girl's best friend and have long been revered. The word 'diamond' stems from the Greek adamas, which means unconquerable. Ancient Greeks believed they were, variously, the tears of the gods or splinters from falling stars, and Plato regarded them as living beings and holy spirits. The Hindus treasured diamonds so much that they put them in the eyes of certain deities for good luck.
During the Middle Ages and the Renaissance, diamond jewellery was believed to guard the wearer against evil. Until the 15th century, mainly kings wore diamonds, which they viewed as symbols of strength and courage.
But during the past two centuries, diamonds have become the ultimate gift of love. It's been said that Cupids' arrows were tipped with diamonds, and today a diamond symbolises the unity of two people.
To help you choose the right ring, Tiffany & Co holds regular workshops. Natural-coloured diamonds have become fashionable, but are rare, says group vice-president and gemologist Melvyn Kirtley. They're available in different colours, including orange, yellow, blue, purple and pink, although the traditional white is still the most common choice.
'The pink diamond is the most expensive,' says Kirtley. 'If the quality is good, you can pay up to $8.5 million for a ring.'