Expert advice from seasoned artisans and leaders
in the world of ethical Canadian jewelry.

model wearing a canadian-made 18k white and yellow gold yellow diamond bezel engagement ring with a pear cut diamond

Engagement Ring Trends 2026: Defying Tradition with Intentional Design

The most compelling engagement ring trends in 2026 reflect a clear shift toward intentional design, personal meaning, and thoughtful craftsmanship. Through the lens of Creative Director Erica Bianchini, this year’s direction is about what’s worth choosing: designs that align taste, meaning, and material integrity.

an oil painting by Francis Sydney Muschamp (British, 1851-1929) called Admiring the engagement ring

The History of Engagement Rings: From Ancient Rome to Modern Diamonds

The history of engagement rings is far older and more complex than many people realize. Understanding the history of engagement rings reveals how this tradition evolved from a formal agreement into one of the most personal expressions of partnership. By exploring where engagement rings came from and how their meaning has changed, modern couples can better understand the symbolism behind a ring and how it connects traditions with present-day values.

Erica Bruno
model wearing 18k yellow gold round diamond engagement ring with diamond pave band and curved diamond wedding ring with freshwater pearl stud earrings and white blazer

How to Measure Your Ring Size at Home: The Complete Guide

Precision is central to every piece of fine jewellery. The way a ring fits determines its comfort, its presence, and how naturally it becomes part of a daily rhythm. When investing in an engagement ring crafted from recycled gold or platinum and set with ethical diamonds, especially one shaped within Ecksand’s Montreal atelier, the fit should feel as considered as the craftsmanship itself.

Ugarit Almosa
two 18k white gold diamond pave bangle bracelets

Valentine's Day Fine Jewelry Self-Gifting Guide: Caught in the Act of Self-Love

This Valentine's Day, turn the focus inward. Discover fine jewelry designed for self-gifting as an act of intention, confidence, and personal choice. Sculptural gold and diamond pieces that feel instinctive, intimate, and assured.

model wearing clean ecksand diamond jewelry, diamond engagement ring

How to Care for Your Diamond Jewelry and Keep Them Sparkling

Diamonds may be famed for their hardness and durability, but they still require proper care to maintain their brilliance. Over time, dust, oils, and product build-up can dull a diamond’s sparkle. By following some simple diamond care tips, you can ensure your precious stones remain as radiant as the day you got them.

Ugarit Almosa
Tags: Diamonds Guide
wonder fine jewelry in 14k yellow gold with akoya pearls and diamonds

The Timeless Allure of Pearls: A Comprehensive Pearl Jewelry Guide

From ancient royalty to contemporary minimalists, pearls have long captivated with their luminous glow and understated elegance. In this pearl jewelry guide, we delve into what pearls are, how they’re made, and how to care for pearls so they last a lifetime.

Ugarit Almosa
Tags: Guide
A couple getting engaged on a boat with an Ecksand engagement ring

The Ultimate Guide to Planning Your Proposal

Your proposal is one of life's most memorable milestones. Crafting a heartfelt and personalized experience requires thoughtful planning to reflect the uniqueness of your relationship. In this guide, we'll walk you through every step, from selecting the perfect engagement ring to planning every unforgettable detail.

Ugarit Almosa
Ecksand's loose diamonds for Canadian-made jewelry, including an emerald cut, oval cut, and round brilliant cut.

Natural vs. Lab-Grown Diamonds: The Complete Diamond Comparison

When searching for the right diamond, understanding your options is key. This guide explores the key differences between natural diamonds and lab-grown diamonds from how they're formed to their environmental impact and long-term value.

Ugarit Almosa
Tags: Diamonds Guide
Model wearing Canadian-made diamond jewelry. An 18K yellow gold ear climber, engagement ring, and eternity wedding ring.

What Are Ear Climbers? How to Style This Sculptural Earring Trend

Ear climbers—also known as ear crawlers—reimagine how earrings interact with the ear. Designed to follow the natural curve of the lobe, these pieces offer the illusion of multiple piercings through a single, continuous line. The effect is bold but refined, modern yet enduring.

Ugarit Almosa
Tags: Guide Jewelry
A ethically-sourced oval diamond, cushion diamond, emerald diamond, and pear diamond for a Canadian-made engagement ring at Ecksand's Montreal atelier being inspected on a black tray.

How to Tell If a Diamond Is Real: 8 At-Home Tests (and When to Trust an Expert)

practical guide to assessing a diamond's authenticity from home, with an honest look at what these methods can and cannot reveal. While a certified jeweller like Ecksand remains an expert source of truth, several simple at-home tests can help you determine your stone's authenticity.

Erica Bruno
Tags: Diamonds Guide
A jeweler inspecting a loose oval diamond for a custom, Canadian-made diamond engagement ring.

Diamonds vs. Cubic Zirconia: What’s the Real Difference?

When shopping for fine jewelry, it's natural to compare diamonds and their lookalikes, such as moissanites and cubic zirconia (CZ). All of these stones may sparkle, but their origins, structure, and long-term value tell very different stories. Whether you're buying your first diamond ring or researching ethical engagement ring options, understanding the key differences between CZ and diamond is essential.

Ugarit Almosa
Tags: Diamonds Guide
Woman's hand wearing a Canadian-made oval diamond engagement ring and a matching diamond wedding ring in 18K yellow gold.

How Big Is a 1 Carat Diamond?

When shopping for a diamond ring, one of the most common questions people ask is: How big is a 1 carat diamond? While "1 carat" refers to a diamond's weight, not its size, many buyers understandably want to know how that translates visually. Here's what you need to know about 1 carat diamond size, how it looks on a finger, and what affects its appearance.

Ugarit Almosa