Gender Factor

The jewelry press continues to spotlight the working woman as a jewelry company’s client. Such women do not waste their time waiting for gifts from men. They buy their own, calling them statement rings and right-hand rings, signifying a woman’s independence.
At one time, the cocktail ring was a sign of status. It was a favorite of women who attended fancy cocktail parties illegally during prohibition. The cocktail ring has made a comeback - this time, for everyday soirees as well as cocktail parties.
What started as a ring made from precious stones turned into one that can be made with faux gems. They are meant to be rich looking and overdone.
Prices begin at a few hundred dollars and can go into the thousands and even higher. Margaret DeYoung, deputy executive director for the American Gem Society, says there are a lot of women who work for big corporations and some make more money than their husbands and they can afford these things.
Women want a piece of jewelry they can wear all the time, explains Reza Liaghat, owner of Casa D’Oro. “Some have diamonds, others are small and others are more ornate,” he says. “Some of these rings, you don’t have to spend a lot and can wear with everything, including jeans, while others are more money with a big diamond in the center and old-fashioned baguettes. Women don’t just want to wear this type of ring a few times a year.”
Duane McConeghy, manager at Orr’s Jewelers, agrees: “These rings are all about having fun. They can be custom-made to what a woman wants and don’t always have to be expensive. We have some very unusual combinations with mother of pearl and black diamonds and clear quartz. The price range depends on the stone and type of material. They can be made in silver, gold or platinum. They also are made with unconventional gems and unusual stones.”