TOP TIPS forpurchasingadiamondring

By Erin Paviour-Smith. Photography by Theo Thomas for House of Luxury

Thinking of purchasing a diamond ring for a special someone this Christmas? Or, perhaps even ‘popping the question’. Sanjay Surtani from House of Luxury has some excellent tips, not to mention a gorgeous selection to choose from.

“The decision to buy a diamond is an important one”, says Sanjay, a third generation jewellery business owner, who learned about and developed a passion for gemstones while studying at the Gemological Institute of America (GIA), the world’s foremost authority on diamonds.

“We try to take the pressure out of that process”, he continues.

So we asked Sanjay for his top tips on how to buy a diamond ring.

What should you look for when buying a diamond? Doing a little bit of homework about diamonds will help you understand what influences its value, commonly known as The 4C’s – Carat, Cut, Colour and Clarity. This will then help you decide the compromises you may be willing to make to fit your price range. It’s also useful to know his or her taste in jewellery, simple or bold, classic or modern? What colour gold do they like and what shape of diamond do they have a preference for? Check their jewellery box or if you’re still not sure, talk to a close friend that can also

Doing a little bit of homework about diamonds will help you understand what influences its value, commonly known as The 4C’s - Carat, Cut, Colour and Clarity.

keep a secret!

Considering their lifestyle will also be helpful in choosing a setting more easily. For example, if they are sporty and active, a lower setting will be ideal as the ring is less likely to get knocked on equipment or caught on clothing.

It’s also useful to know his or her taste in jewellery, simple or bold, classic or modern? What colour gold do they like and what shape of diamond do they have a preference for? Check their jewellery box or if you’re still not sure, talk to a close friend that can also keep a secret!

How much should you spend on a ring? Of course there’s the old adage that you should spend the equivalent of one month’s salary - but really, is it one, two or three months laughs Sanjay. We think that decision is very personal and whatever the budget, the meaning with which the ring is given is super important to the one buying it.

How can you evaluate your loved one’s ring size? Again, there is no pressure with size, because we can always resize the ring once it has been gifted, but if you want to get as close as possible, ideally we would want to size a ring that your loved one wears regularly on either their left or right ring finger.

Are you able to create one-of-akind pieces? Of course! Should you have something in mind, our inhouse design team can assist with everything from the initial sketches to the more detailed CAD (computer generated) imagery, bringing your dream jewellery piece to life. A oneof-a-kind piece will really reflect your individuality and personal style, making it truly unique.

Visit House of Luxury located in the heart of The Tortola Pier Park in Road Town for an immersive experience in the world of diamonds. Indulge in a glass of champagne whilst their in-house gemologist guides you through the intricate details of each diamond, sharing their wealth of knowledge, ensuring you make an informed decision on your special purchase. Call to make an appointment or stop by the store. •

(284) 443 3030 sales@houseofluxurybvi.com @houseofluxurybvi

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Ask for a copy of Nutmeg & Co.’s 2023-2024 Gift Catalog for ‘a-lacarte’ ordering or check out the gift section on their website for dozens of ideas. Nutmeg & Co., Road Town’s Flagship Gift Shop & Gallery, 164 Waterfront Drive – opposite the Road Town Ferry Terminal parking area.

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That’s the Spirit! Is thrilled to announce the opening of its second store in Virgin Gorda in early November and ready for Christmas. Located in the Virgin Gorda Yacht Harbour, That’s the Spirit! bring their carefully curated range to valued customers in Virgin Gorda for their shopping convenience.

One of the store’s highlights is Bairiki by Jan Barwick, a collection of iconic BVI visual experiences interpreted in wearable art.

Shop online or in store at Latitude 18º

Hang ten with the latest groovy clothing and choice accessories from Latitude 18º.

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Visit one of our stores or shop online to find your ideal style for island living. Shopping in the BVI from abroad or sending gifts from the BVI to relatives is now so much easier with the launch of the Latitude 18º online store: shop.latitude18.com.

Latitude 18º has two locations: Romasco Place - at the traffic lights, corner of Admin Drive and Waterfront Drive in Road Town, and at Myett’s Cane Garden Bay.

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@latitude18 crafts, puzzles, journals, greeting cards and gift ideas for adults and children. This delightful store is a must-do for Christmas shoppers this festive season. harsh BVI elements? Arawak Surf Boutiques stock YETI drink ware and coolers - built for the serious outdoor enthusiast, whether that be long beach days in the sun, on the water, hiking the hills or just getting together with friends in the backyard.

YETI is available at Arawak Surf Boutiques - Nanny Cay Marina and Leverick Bay Marina, plus Deep Bay Watersports at Oil Nut Bay Marina Village.

Private water taxi and a la carte day charters in the British Virgin Islands, guided by our highly experienced, local captain. Whether you are travelling for business or pleasure, experience the best the BVI has to o er on the water with Kewl Water Charters.

La Boutique is our favourite destination for a beautiful selection of lingerie, shape wear and sleep wear, all located on the second level of the store. Brands include Fantasie, Felina, Freya, B.Tempted, Jezebel and Wacoal.

The perfect gift for her this Christmas or any special occasion. These delightful printed mid-length kimonos in a range of fun prints make getting up in the morning glamorous.

La Boutique is located in the heart of the Tortola Pier Park in Road Town.

+1 284 443 9944

@laboutiquebvi

Dedicated to providing a top quality, unique shopping experience in the BVI, from ‘drop dead gorgeous’ accessories such as jewellery and sunglasses to beautifully scented fragrances and one-of-a kind clothing pieces this Christmas.

NAMI Resort & Swim has something for everyone.

NAMI Resort & Swim - Your prime location for luxury island style is located in Romasco Place (opposite Social Security Board) in Road Town, Tortola.

+1 284 496 8989 namibvi@gmail.com

@namibvi