Tahitian Pearls Engagement Ring - Durable

[kizzy]

Hi,

I am a new member to Pearl-Guide and from reading some of the other forums and threads, I can tell this is the right place to come with my worries!

My boyfriend and I have been together for almost 7 years and we have recently started discussing marriage and engagement. With so many of his cousins around our age getting engaged this year, neither of us want to 'steal their thunder' so to speak, so we are waiting for the right time. Is nice to know it is on the cards though!

He had been looking at wooden engagement rings as he wants to get me something a bit different that would represent my personality - shy and reserved, yet a bit different. My initial thoughts were - how would it be treated? Could it rot? and untimately, would it last? To me, the most perfect ring would be a Pearl!

I have only recently started researching this, but already have fallen in love with Tahitian Pearls, particularly with a green or copper overtone. During my search I came across a gorgeous ring on Overstock.com but I feel the pearl may be slightly too big for my fingers and the ring is not in my size - see attached. Also I am unsure about buying an engagement ring online, as its difficult to see the quality of the pearl.

We are currently based in Northern Ireland - does anyone know of a retailer/designer around here that I could visit?

Also, are Tahitian pearls durable? We are a very active couple, keen on several sports with a hectic lifestyle and I would hate to ruin such a special item by knocking it against something.

Thanks in advance for all your help!

Kerri