5 Key Things to Keep in Mind About Cocktail Rings: Do You Already Have One in Your Collection?

Originally worn generations ago at tony cocktail parties, cocktail rings are an exciting way to show your style. These dramatic pieces of jewelry are often made with precious metals and stones, although there are gorgeous costume cocktail rings. Do you already have a cocktail ring in your collection? If not, it’s time to learn more about these must-have pieces. Keep five key things in mind as you shop around for cocktail rings.

What is a Cocktail Ring?

When buying a cocktail ring, it makes sense to know exactly what the piece of jewelry offers a wearer. Cocktail rings tend to be large and showy. For those with small hands, size down the ring a bit to avoid overwhelming your finger. Many women wear cocktail rings that go up to their knuckles. Long fingers can hold a larger ring with plenty of sparkles. The center stone in a cocktail ring is usually very large, making it stand out from the other stones surrounding it. Often glittering gems are used to ensure the ring captures attention. The setting can be gold or silver, precious or costume, depending on the quality of the ring. Many cocktail rings are costume jewelry because of the high cost of precious stones. However, if you have money to invest, a cocktail ring with diamonds, pearls, and other precious stones is sure to become a go-to piece for any party or event. If you decide to buy a less expensive ring, make sure to keep it clean and take it off after wearing it. Plated rings may get tarnished quickly, which means keeping them dry and safely stored when not in use.

Get to Know the History Behind Cocktail Rings

Cocktail rings hit the fashion scene during the wild days of the Prohibition. The roaring ‘20s was a time of glamour and partying for many people who opposed Prohibition. Lavish parties became the norm for high society, necessitating beautiful fashions and jewelry to wear to these coveted events. The lifestyle was opulent and so was the jewelry women wore to parties. Often women at speakeasies were seen wearing cocktail rings because the rings showed off a hand that held a banned cocktail. The early cocktail rings feature a massive stone in the center surrounded by a cluster or halo of small stones. From the 1920s to the 1960s, cocktail rings were a must-have item in a woman’s jewelry box. During the 1960s, the rings became cultural with unique dimensions and designs. For about twenty years, the popularity of cocktail rings declined until they were reintroduced in the 1980s. Today the cocktail ring has become a classic item to have in your jewelry collection.

When to Wear Cocktail Rings

The introduction of cocktail rings made it simple to know when to wear them. If a woman was going to a speakeasy for a cocktail, she would wear the ring on the hand she used to hold a prohibited drink. For four decades, women donned these dramatic rings at parties and special occasions. Often they were coupled with sparkling dresses and fur coats. Today cocktail rings make a one-of-a-kind fashion statement. Because women wear them on the right hand, they are never confused for wedding or engagement rings, despite their huge gems. While some women wear these large rings daily, most keep them for special evening events. The evolution of fashion means women wear what they want based on their lifestyle and preferences. If you live the glamorous life, cocktail rings will fit into your elaborate daily activities. For those who attend occasion parties, a beautiful cocktail ring is a finishing touch on a fancy outfit.

What Are Cocktail Rings Made From?

Cocktail rings are made from a wide variety of materials, depending on the cost and preferences of the consumer. When you consider costume jewelry options, there is a rainbow of colors and designs to buy. Some women purchase a different cocktail ring to match each party outfit in their closets. Others prefer a classic cocktail ring that works well for any special occasion. For those who want several rings, costume jewelry is a great option. Costume Cocktail rings are usually made from metal, which might be plated with gold or silver, and simulated stones. Some of them closely resemble expensive rings while others are meant to be showy and fun. If you are investing in a quality cocktail ring, there are many options. Consider 14 karat gold, sterling silver, and rose gold for the ring. Stones may range from the tiger’s eye to diamonds. Look for unique colors, shapes, and plenty of sparkles to get a ring that is sure to grab attention at parties.

How to Choose the Perfect Cocktail Ring

When shopping around for a cocktail ring, think about when and where you want to wear it. Then imagine the outfits you intend to wear to special occasions. Choose a ring that fits your sense of style. If you wear black, opt for a ring with plenty of sparkles to bring life to your outfit. For those who wear colorful clothes, there is a myriad of options. Select a ring to match the dress or offset it, depending on the design. Sometimes a contrasting color ring brings visual interest to your overall look. Cocktail rings are meant to be fun, so have a good time shopping around for one. Be daring and different to feel a surge of confidence every time to slip the ring on to go out.

Cocktail rings have been popular for generations. Women enjoy feeling luxurious and glamorous for a few hours. Slipping into a large, dramatic ring is the first step toward living the good life. Choose cocktail rings in precious metals and costume varieties, depending on the occasion and outfit. No matter which rings you choose, they are sure to get attention when you enter the room. Shop around to get the best deals, and compare materials and quality to ensure you are getting a ring that’s worth the price. 

Susan
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