How to Customize a Mother's Ring

A mother's ring makes a special gift.

A mother's ring is the perfect present for a mother or grandmother. A mother's ring represents a mother's love for her children and allows her to show off how many kids she has or even their names. Mother's rings are a personal gift from the heart, made especially for your mother. Every ring is unique and therefore is a creative and interesting gift idea.

Instructions

1. Decide what type of metal you want for the ring. Mother's rings come in every kind of metal, including 10K and 14K gold, white gold, silver and platinum. Gold that contains 10K is going to be more affordable than 14K gold. If you are on a tighter budget, consider silver, which is usually the least expensive option. Platinum is going to cost the most, but it is very dense, durable and long lasting. It's also a wise choice for someone who has nickel allergies. Think about the types of jewelry your mother wears and what metal you think she would like best.

2. Choose a ring design. There are many and it is only a matter of style preference. The most traditional style is the birthstone ring, which features the children's birthstones arranged on one band. You can also include the mother's birthstone in the center. Settings vary from very elaborate designs to simple. Pick one based on your mother's taste and how many stones will be included.

   Other options for a birthstone ring include the stacking ring, which sports one birthstone on a very thin band and can be stacked for a modern look. Stacking several will create your own unique design and the rings will fit together. There is also the eternity band, which provides a little more sparkle. One color of birthstone encircles the entire ring; and these too can be stacked for as many children's birthstones as you want to represent. Stackable rings are a good option if you are planning on adding to your family; if you go with a traditional ring, it can be difficult if not impossible to add more stones to it later.

3. Pick a type of stone. There are essentially two types of stones: Natural and simulated. Natural gemstones come from nature and are then enhanced to bring out their beauty. Simulated stones are man-made imitations of the real stone. They can be less expensive, and often look quite like their original counterparts. The real difference is mainly the cost. Your ring will be worth more if you go with a natural stone, but the imitation stones are hard to discern to the naked eye, so it's just a matter of preference.

4. Personalize your mother's ring with some special engraving. If you choose a thin, stackable band, you can have each child's name inscribed next to her birthstone. Some traditional mother's rings offer engraving right next to the birthstone settings. Or, have a special message inscribed on the inside for mom.

   Another option if you want to skip including birthstones altogether is to have name bands made. Name bands are stackable and each one will have one child's name or name and birth date. These are a good option for a mom who's not into gemstones or would like something less flashy. Sometimes other designs can be added next to the name such as a heart.

Tips & Warnings

• Grandmothers also love mother rings. Customize one with all the birthstones or names of her grandchildren.

• You can also customize bracelets and necklaces as gifts for mom.

References

• Mom's Jewelry Box: How To Order A Mother's Ring
• The Mom Buzz: Mother's Day Ideas