Hot Bridal Trends

How do you make a day often called the happiest day of one's life even more joyous? Its wedding time. The bride is surrounded by her friends and family, wearing a beautiful gown, glowing with joy and anticipation, carrying fragrant flowers, and joining in matrimony with her true companion. Add to that , this special occasion calls for the giving and donning of sparkling gemstones, precious metals, and lustrous pearls, and what more could one want?

Of course, the festivities all begin with a diamond - and for an uninformed bride and groom, buying this important stone can be a daunting and unforgettable experience. Diamonds add glitter to the entire show and fanfare. Once the diamond is purchased, there are many other opportunities for fine jewelry to bring joy to the celebration. "Brilliant diamonds enhance a bride's radiance, and are a traditional way for a bride to adorn herself," says Elizabeth Florence, spokesperson for the Jewelry Information Center , a nonprofit trade association based in New York City.

Once the bride's look is in place, she will want to think about gifts for her attendants. "Colored gemstones are a wonderful way to add a bit of sparkle to the bridesmaids' outfits," says Florence . "Pair of earrings, a simple pendant, or even jeweled hair clips is a lovely gift, and will always be a special reminder of the day. Brides on a tight budget will be glad to know that there are beautiful colored gemstones that are relatively inexpensive, such as blue topaz and amethyst. For the groomsmen, watches or sterling silver cuff links are a wonderful remembrance. A diamond cuff link set with an engraved date, initials of your friend and a special message will make it an instant heirloom, which will be cherished forever.