Choose with confidence

Every popular diamond shape explained: how round, oval, princess, cushion, emerald, pear, marquise and radiant cuts look, sparkle and fit different hands.

Measure your ring size at home with string, paper or a ring you already own, then check it against our US ring size chart in millimeters and inches.

Lab-grown and natural diamonds are the same material. Here is how they differ in price, resale value, grading and origin, and how to choose between them.

How moissanite compares with diamond for sparkle, hardness, color, price and long-term value, and who should choose each for an engagement ring.

White gold vs platinum compared for color, durability, maintenance, weight, allergies and price, with clear advice for engagement rings and wedding bands.

What 10k, 14k, 18k and 24k gold mean, how solid gold compares with vermeil, gold-filled and plated jewelry, and which gold suits everyday wear.

Standard necklace lengths from 14 to 36 inches, where each one sits on the body, which suits which neckline, and how to layer necklaces.

The modern birthstone for each month, its color, hardness and how well it holds up in everyday jewelry, plus traditional alternatives.

Which earring metals are safe for sensitive ears, why nickel causes reactions, and what titanium, niobium, gold, platinum and surgical steel labels really mean.

Safe ways to clean gold, silver, platinum, diamond, gemstone and pearl jewelry at home, plus what to avoid and when to see a jeweler.

Measure your wrist for chain, tennis and cuff bracelets, add the right amount of room for fit, and size a bangle so it slides over your hand.