After the Engagement Ring - In Search of the Next Treasure

Once you buy an engagement ring and have it securely on your ring finger, you might think your days of buying jewelry are over—at least for now. But a perfect wedding day ensemble needs more than just an engagement ring—you’ll need a pair of earrings or a necklace, maybe a bracelet, a brooch or tiara, and, of course, a set of wedding bands. Luckily, you can get all of these things right here in Houston without breaking a sweat. With everything you have to take care of before the big day, let us take care of the Houston jewelry shopping!

If you only buy one piece of jewelry before the wedding, let it be a set of wedding bands. After all, it’s a part of the wedding ceremony. If you’ve already bought a diamond engagement ring, choosing a wedding band will be easy. Just choose a style, shape, and level of embellishment that matches your engagement ring, and you’re done. If you have a simple, sleek, tiffany style ring, opt for a similar wedding band with the same shank profile. If your engagement ring is glamorous and over-the-top, a fabulous diamond eternity band can make the perfect wedding band accompaniment.

More and more men are buying diamond rings as wedding bands, instead of the traditional flat yellow gold bands. While diamonds of over half a carat might not work for a men’s wedding band, smaller stones set in flush settings in a matte white gold, titanium or platinum are the hottest men’s wedding bands around. If you are looking for something more traditional, Houston engagement ring stores also carry a full range of more classic men’s wedding band styles.

Today’s strapless wedding gown designs call for elegant bracelets to highlight those arms you’ve spent months toning to perfection. For a classic, traditional dress, a simple tennis bracelet makes the perfect accessory, while a more trendy cuff bracelet can add a edgy twist to a feminine lace dress. For a more fun twist, opt for a bangle adorned with colored gemstones.

Whether you wear your hair down in casual waves or upswept in a traditional updo, a sparkling piece of hair jewelry like a tiara or headband can give you that regal bridal look. Unless you have the kind of budget to buy diamonds and use them in your hairstyle, rhinestone and crystal hair ornaments can give you that sparkling look at a more reasonable price point. Or search vintage and antique stores for a delicate brooch you can use as a clip.

The most meaningful necklace you can wear to your wedding is one that already has significance to you as a couple. Maybe it belonged to a beloved family member, maybe it was the impulse gift he bought you when you were first dating. Maybe it was a birthday gift. Wearing a necklace that reminds you of another special time in your life will make your wedding day ensemble even more special. Of course, buying a new necklace that goes perfectly with that wedding dress is also a splendid idea. Diamonds are always appropriate, but pearls are a traditional wedding gem. Saltwater Akoya cultured pearls are the gold standard, but freshwater pearls are beautiful, varied in size, shape and color, and often are quite affordable. They make great bridesmaids gifts as well.