Jewellers in York said today Sophie's engagement ring was a popular choice and reflected the current trend in the city. The three-diamond ring in a modern setting from jewellers Asprey Garrard is being described by local experts as "simple and traditional".

Jenny Murphy, of Beaverbrooks jewellers, Spurriergate, York, said platinum was a popular choice with brides-to-be in York.

"Platinum with a simple round diamond in the centre is perhaps our biggest selling design.

"It's a very simple and traditional design, which people are opting for more because no-one wants a piece of jewellery that is too fussy," she said.

Similarly, a spokesman for County House jewellers, Ousegate, York, said customers were opting for white gold with a square cut.

"I think most people want to keep it simple. Just one diamond on its own or perhaps one diamond and two small ones is another popular choice."

A spokesman for Ernest Jones & Co, Coney Street, York, said three-diamond engagement rings would always be a big seller.

"White gold is hugely popular with one diamond in the middle or three. Choosing a ring is a very personal decision as well as an important one."

Meanwhile, the next question on everyone's lips is what style of wedding dress will Sophie choose for the summer wedding.

Designers at Droopy and Browns Fashions, Stonegate, York, said they thought the dress should be spectacular with a "rich fabric".

Assistant designer Zoe Stewart said: "Wedding dresses really are about personal taste and there are never any strong trends.

However, more and more people prefer to have their dress designed specifically for them instead of going for "off the peg".

She added that Sophie would look particularly nice in an oyster or ivory dress with gold trim.

see NEWS 'Sophie's choice'

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