David’s gemstone notebook · New Orleans

Discover engagement rings with character: classic diamond designs, vintage details and colored-stone choices. Find the ring that feels like the two of you.

Choosing a piece is easier when you know what to notice and which questions to ask. Use this guide as a starting point, then ask us about the specific item that catches your eye.

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Understanding your ring choices.

For diamonds

Cut: how light returns.

Cut describes craftsmanship and proportions; it is different from the stone’s outline or shape.

For diamonds

Color: know the scale.

For many white diamonds, color grading describes the presence or absence of color.

For diamonds

Clarity: the details within.

Inclusions and surface characteristics are evaluated in diamond clarity grading.

For diamonds

Carat: a measure of weight.

Dimensions, shape and setting also influence how large a stone looks on the hand.

Choose with the whole piece in mind.

Start with a shared style.

Choose a silhouette and metal you enjoy, from classic diamond designs to vintage or colored-stone rings.

Know what the stone is.

Ask whether each stone is natural, laboratory-grown or an imitation. A bridal design does not by itself identify the gem.

Check fit and daily comfort.

Confirm current ring size, dimensions and setting height. Ask if resizing is suitable and how it may affect the design.

Understand the details.

Ask about condition, known treatments, reports, timing, shipping and purchase policies before deciding.

Identity, treatment and documentation.

A ring’s style does not identify its center stone. Ask whether the material is natural, laboratory-grown or an imitation, what treatments are known, and which reports are available. Our bridal collection includes varied stone choices; rely on each listing’s details.

Ask what is known, what remains unconfirmed, and whether the information is supported by documentation. An independent gemological report can help address identification and detectable treatments. It is different from an appraisal and does not promise a resale value.

Bring these questions to the conversation.

  1. What is known about the material, its origin as natural or laboratory-grown where applicable, and any treatments?
  2. What are the exact dimensions, and does any stated weight describe one stone or the total?
  3. What is the metal, and what is known about the age and condition of the piece?
  4. Can I see additional photos or a video in ordinary lighting?
  5. What fit, fastening, stringing or resizing details should I consider?
  6. What documentation is available for this exact item, and which purchase policies apply?

Include the item number when you contact us. Details from one piece should not be assumed to apply to another.

Care for the entire piece.

Care depends on the center stone, companion stones, metal and setting. Remove rings for heavy work and harsh chemicals. Ask about cleaning methods for the exact piece, and have loose stones, worn prongs or damage checked before continued wear.

The most delicate material, treatment or construction detail may determine the right method. A gemstone’s scratch hardness does not mean the setting is safe from damage. Check clasps, stringing and prongs regularly, and stop wearing a piece if a stone is loose or a fastening is unreliable.

Make it part of your own style.

Made for your everyday.

Consider how the ring feels while you move, and whether its height and setting suit your routine.

Plan the pairing.

If you want a wedding band, ask about the profile and how a band might sit beside the engagement ring.

Let history meet your future.

A vintage setting can bring personality to a modern proposal. Ask about condition and any sizing options.

A promise with your own meaning.

A proposal, an anniversary, a new chapter: choose the ring around your relationship, your lifestyle and the details that feel like you.

A ring can carry a shared promise or a private milestone. Its meaning comes from the people and the story behind the choice.

Make a plan for the piece you love.

David’s offers layaway with a 20% non-refundable deposit, no interest and up to 12 months to pay. Read the full layaway policy and watch the video for payment, clearance and inactivity conditions before starting.

Your next discovery awaits.

Browse online or visit David’s Antiques & Jewelry at 322 Royal Street in New Orleans’ French Quarter. For a question about a piece, text David’s with its item number.

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General guidance only; identity, condition, treatment history and care needs depend on the individual item.

— David’s Antiques & Jewelry