SEATTLE – January 22, 2013 – Since its founding in 1912, Ben Bridge has been a part of a century of Valentine's Days. While the gift of love has remained constant over the years, jewelry trends have evolved. Today Ben Bridge released its hot trends for Valentine’s Day and engagement jewelry.

For Valentine’s Day 2013, Ben Bridge bridal buyer Laurie Kirkman shared the following five engagement ring trends:

• The Halo design, a center stone with a “frame” of smaller diamonds, is hugely popular this year. The trend began around 2009, but has become a high demand classic design.

• Nature inspired themes are popular for all areas of bridal designs. Ben Bridge designers interpret these floral designs for shanks and mountings.

• Vintage designs are very popular in lace patterns and rose gold. The soft and romantic lace patterns appeal to brides, while rose gold is romantic and looks great on all skin tones. According to Kirkman, rose gold alloyed with copper will be the new yellow gold and color of preference for a generation.

• Colored diamonds appeal to brides who love style and want to be more unique. Brown and pink diamonds are natural, while some blue and black diamonds go through a special process. Still, Kirkman says white gold is the preferred choice of brides-to-be.

• In terms of shape, the biggest seller is still the classic round diamond, followed by the cushion cut, a pillow shape with rounded corners, and the princess cut, a square with angled corners.

"Something Sparkly, Something Sweet

For couples who are not quite ready for the commitment of an engagement, Kirkman suggests the gift of "Something Sparkly, Something Sweet", a new selection of Ben Bridge diamond heart necklaces nestled in a box of Seattle Chocolates.

"We realize that jewelry stores and salespeople can be intimidating for young or first time jewelry purchasers", Kirkman adds. "At Ben Bridge, we offer a relaxed and fun buying environment, while providing the highest quality, best value and widest selection to fit any budget. These sparkly sweet gift sets send just the right message for this special day, and starting at $99.00 are an affordable extravagance."

About Ben Bridge

Ben Bridge Jeweler (www.benbridge.com) was founded in Seattle, Washington in 1912 on a simple promise: to offer the finest jewelry, best selection, and friendly, knowledgeable service. Family-run for five generations, Ben Bridge operates more than 75 retail stores in 11 states including Alaska, Arizona, California, Colorado, Hawaii, Minnesota, Nevada, New Mexico, Oregon, Texas, and Washington. In 2012, the American Gem Society awarded the Bridge family with a Lifetime Achievement Award in honor of their significant contributions to the jewelry industry.

For media inquiries:
Katie B. Wilkinson
425-220-1125
katie@kpublicrelations.com