Choosing the Perfect Heart Rings and Jewelry
by Suzanne Sachs • 5 min read
THE BASICS --
The heart shape is the single most iconic symbol of love, embodying both the sweet innocence of young love and the enduring romance of a lifelong passion. Choosing a heart-shaped ring or other piece of jewelry is a great way to express love and the commitment you share with that someone special.
WHAT YOU NEED TO KNOW--
In this guide we will explain the following:
- About the Heart Shape
- Best Heart-Shaped Rings and Jewelry
- Heart Side Stones
- Heart Necklace
- Heart Filigree
- Heart Gemstones
- Toi et Moi
- Promise Rings
- Engraved Hearts
- Opal Hearts
- Double Heart Gemstone Ring
- Choosing From the Heart
About the Heart Shape
There are many ways heart shapes can be incorporated into jewelry. Faceted gems can be cut into hearts as a variation of the brilliant cut, with 56-58 facets to show off the natural sparkle of the stone. Hearts can also be woven into the metalwork of a ring setting, pendant design, or bracelet motif. The shape may also be engraved, stamped, or carved into a ring’s band or other space on the jewelry.
Because hearts represent love and relationships, they can be a lovely part of many designs. Heart- shaped promise rings are a popular way to pledge one’s love, as are heart-shaped engagement rings. Heart necklaces and pendants are popular for Mother’s Day, Valentine’s Day, and anniversaries, as are heart designs in earrings.
When choosing a heart shape, study the proportions of the heart carefully to ensure it is both pleasing and recognizable. If the heart’s notch is not suitably pronounced, for example, the shape will not be as clearly noticeable. While a 1:1 height-to-width ratio is often ideal, slightly wider or thinner hearts can also be attractive and the overall proportions are largely a matter of personal preference.
Best Heart-Shaped Rings and Jewelry
Heart-shaped rings and other pieces of jewelry come in a wide range of designs suitable for all relationships and occasions. The most popular options include…
• Heart-Shaped Side Stones
Heart-shaped diamonds or gemstones can be used as accents to a more traditionally-shaped center stone for a lovely accent and extra sparkle. Hearts pair especially well with round, marquise, princess, and emerald-cut center stones, but can be worked into any ring design alongside a favorite shape.
• Heart Necklace
A heart-shaped necklace is a beautiful expression of love, and a wide variety of designs are available.
• Heart Filigree
If heart-shaped gemstones aren’t suitable for a ring’s central design, hearts can be worked into the overall ring to add romantic detail to the setting and band. A heart as part of an open prong setting, for example, can be a unique and sweet detail. Open hearts throughout the ring’s overall design also add airiness and a lace-like aspect to the piece.
• Heart Gemstones
With a glittering ruby, garnet, peridot, pink sapphire, or even a pink diamond as a center stone, these rings use the heart shape as a focal point. Using a heart- shaped birthstone can add even more personalization to the piece. This can be a great option for a lovely engagement ring or a right hand ring, and heart-shaped diamonds could also be used as a solitaire engagement ring with a traditional touch.
• Toi et Moi
Two interlocking hearts or Toi et Moi design, are another variation on a heart-shaped ring that can symbolize two intertwined lives—such as a romantic couple, best friends, or a parent-child relationship. These designs are ideal for a promise ring or even a unique wedding ring, and can incorporate metalwork, gemstones, and other details.
• Promise Rings
When intended as a promise ring, heart-shaped rings are generally less ornate and more delicate. A simple metal heart on a matching or coordinating band is a simple buy highly symbolic choice, or a small heart-shaped solitaire is a great option. A promise ring can even be designed as a stackable ring to grow over the years.
• Engraved Hearts
It is easy to add heart-shaped symbolism to any engagement ring, wedding ring, anniversary band, or other piece with a secret engraving. Skilled engravers can easily create different single or double heart designs inside a ring, on the backside of a band, or under a pendant for a hidden, private message.
• Opal Hearts
The double heart of a vintage ring adds romantic symbolism to this traditional design, which is popular as a promise ring, engagement ring, or just a symbol of love and commitment. The two gemstones represent friendship, the heart represents love, and opals represent hope, all great qualities for a lasting relationship.
Choosing From the Heart
Hearts are instantly recognizable for their romantic associations, and are a popular type of design for many lovely rings, pendants, and other types of jewelry. Choosing heart-shaped jewelry can symbolize a wonderful relationship connection in a classic and timeless way, and any piece with heart accents can quickly become a favorite piece of jewelry to wear for many years.
Suzanne Sachs
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