This post was originally written on August 3rd, 2005

Today was the first major step in officially declaring our intentions to spend the rest of our lives together :)

We made the trip to Grand Island, NY to visit deSignet and check out engagement rings. Steve emailed them a few days ago with the ring design we were looking at, and our time frame. I've had this ring bookmarked for years, and try as I might (just to be sure), I've never found anything so perfect.

The store is just a few minutes over the border from Canada. It's been run by the family since the early 1900s. They were extremely down-to-earth, fun, and helpful. Bud offered many suggestions, constantly asking our opinions. I had a pretty clear idea in mind before we got there, but it was great to explore other options, and challenge our ideas. They make some incredible stuff!

The ring will have a ~5.5x5.5mm deep red heart-shaped ruby, and two 2.5mm accent diamonds. The band will be slightly narrower than pictured (3mm). The mounting will be as pictured above, but in yellow gold (except for a white gold lining under the accent diamonds). I was torn on the side diamonds, but Steve strongly preferred them, so diamonds it is :) I think he's right though... it will add that extra "wow" factor. We talked about a patterned band, or using our initials as a design on the band, but I think we're looking at doing a patterned wedding ring, so I liked the simplicity of a solid band.

I also spent a lot of time agonizing over ruby colours. These things are important! I just don't like the pinkish undertones of most rubies. It's gotta be the real blood red colour. He's going to check on rubies and try to get some stones in a couple of days, then send off photos and specs to us. He said he usually gets back to customers with sketch requests within a few hours, as he loves to sketch out design ideas.

So exciting. I have to admit, I was a little nervous a few days ago when we were making plans to REALLY do this... but now I'm completely on a cloud of happiness.