An engagement ring is one of the most crucial decisions you'll make in your relationship. It symbolizes love, commitment, and future together. Thus, it is a hard decision to make with so many styles, materials, and settings available in the market.
Understanding Your Partner's Style
Before you start shopping, you must first think about your partner's taste in person. Does she like classic elegance, a touch of modern chic, or a vintage charm? Use the following tips to guide you to identify her preferences:
1. Observe Everyday Jewelry
Pay attention to her jewelry. Does she wear mostly gold, silver, or rose gold? Does she like minimalistic designs or statement pieces? Observe what she likes and you might know the style she'll love about her ring.
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2. Consult Friends and Family
If you're not really sure, you can even take up this issue with her close friends or family members. Chances are that they may tell you some golden insights into her style and preferences that perhaps you have missed.
3. Sneak a Peek at Her Pinterest
A lot of people create boards for things they love. Be it their favorite engagement rings or any favorite style. Again, if the partner has a Pinterest account, peek through to see whether she has pinned any rings or styles that catch her eye.
The 4 Cs of Diamonds
After you think you know her style, it's time to get familiar with the 4 Cs of diamonds: Cut, Color, Clarity, and Carat weight. Knowing these qualities will allow you to make a meaningful decision while choosing a diamond.
1. Cut
A diamond's cut is what gives it brilliance and sparkle. It refers to the excellence with which the diamond has been shaped and faceted. Cuts common among people include round, princess, oval, and cushion. A diamond that is well-cut will reflect light with beauty, hence its appeal.
2. Color
The Gemological Institute of America grades diamonds, ranging from D to Z; D is colorless, while Z is light yellow. In order to remain in a traditional style, it is advisable to pick a diamond in G-H grade. You will get quality at a reasonable price.
3. Clarity
Clarity is the measure of presence of internal or external imperfections called inclusions and blemishes. GIA clarity scale ranges from Flawless (No inclusions are visible under 10x magnification) to Included (Inclusions are obvious to naked eye). For VS1-VS2 level of Clarity grade would be a good choice, it offers beautiful appearance without any visible flaws.
4. Carat Weight
It determines the size of the diamond. A general rule of thumb is that the bigger diamond, the pricier, but the impact of size might be different for every cut. Sometimes, a smaller, well-cut diamond can look larger than a larger, poorly cut diamond. Know how much you can afford and weigh the two.
Choosing the Right Metal
The metal for the ring is just as important as the stone. Some great options include:
1. Platinum
Platinum is an extensive metal, hypoallergenic with an extraordinary fine luster. It is best for those who have sensitive skin conditions, they will appreciate, too, the classic appearance they deliver.
2. White Gold
White gold is one of the popular choices to platinum. It looks almost the same, only at a much cheaper price. Sometimes, this product needs re-plating in order to give it that shining impression.
3. Yellow Gold
Notable: Yellow gold is back. It's warm, producing tones that complement most skin tones. To top it all off, it's versatile-you can make your engagement ring old or classic.
4. Rose Gold
Rose gold has become the latest crush due to its romantic vintage feel. An alloy of gold and copper, rose gold displays a rich pinkish hue.
Selecting the Setting
The setting of the engagement ring not only influences the overall design but also affects the diamond’s appearance and security. Some popular settings include:
1. Solitaire
Solitaire is a single diamond that shows all its beauty and brilliance. It is one of the most timeless options for showing classic looks.
2. Halo
A halo setting encircles the center diamond with smaller diamonds, creating a dazzling effect. This style can enhance the appearance of the center stone, making it look larger and more brilliant.
3. Three-Stone
A three-stone setting depicts past, present, and future for your couple relationship. It has a center diamond surrounded by two smaller stones, which could be diamonds or some other gemstone.
4. Vintage
Vintage settings take elements from old pieces, such as Art Deco or Victorian-era pieces. Sometimes, the settings can be very ornate with fine filigree work.
Setting a Budget
You should decide on your budget even before you go out to get the ring. Although engagement rings are available at all price ranges, there is a drastic range you must consider based on your financial situation and choose a realistic budget. The following are tips to aid in deciding on your budget:
1. The Two-Month Rule
A common rule of thumb is to spend two months' salary on an engagement ring. That is just a rule of thumb, though; choose an amount that you are comfortable spending.
2. Prioritize Your Spending
If you have an idea of your style or the size of diamond you want, you can allocate your money based on these preferences. You might want to spend your money on a smaller stone but a high-quality cut versus spending it on a larger diamond with lower clarity.
3. Consider Alternatives
While a more classic diamond ring may be a bit out of budget, look for sapphires, emeralds, or even lab-created diamonds as alternatives for stunning beauty at far lower prices.
Finalizing the Purchase
Once you've decided on the ring, it's time to finalize the purchase. Here are a few tips for a less painful process:
1. Shop at Reputable Jewelers
Choose a jeweller with a good reputation. Look for reviews, certifications, and warranties that ensure the quality of the ring.
2. Get a Certificate of Authenticity
If you are buying a diamond, ensure to get a certification report from an accredited laboratory. The document provides proof of the diamond's quality. It could come in handy for insurance purposes.
3. Think About Insurance
You may wish to consider insuring the ring if it's been a considerable investment for you. Most jewelers offer an option to tie up a small bit of your insurance coverage or get the policy through your homeowners insurance.
