Are you gearing up to propose to your significant other? Buying an engagement ring can be both exciting and overwhelming. There’s a lot of pressure to find the perfect ring.
Since a ring is a fairly large investment, it’s important to choose wisely. Here are some tips to keep in mind when choosing an engagement ring.
Set a Budget
Most of us can’t afford a $350,000 engagement ring like the one Prince Harry gave Meghan Markle. But how much should you spend on an engagement ring?
There’s really no right or wrong answer. You may have heard that you should spend three months of your monthly income on the ring. That is nothing more than an age-old myth. Your budget should depend on your own financial situation and your partner’s personal ring preferences.
Although it can be easy to get caught up in the quest for the perfect ring, it’s important to remember that the relationship is more valuable than any piece of jewelry. It’s best to avoid buying a ring you can’t easily afford.
Understand the 4 Cs of Diamonds
You may have heard about the four Cs of diamonds. If not, let’s break it down for you:
- Cut: The cut of a diamond determines its ability to transmit light and sparkle. Of the four Cs, this is the most important factor.
- Color: The color of a diamond is based on a 23-grade scale, ranging from D to Z. On this scale, a D is considered colorless. It’s also the rarest and most expensive. Anything past a J is noticeably yellow, brown or grey — and, therefore, less desirable. Most jewelers sell G through J diamonds, which are “near colorless.”
- Clarity: A diamond’s clarity is a measurement of how clear or transparent it is. A diamond’s clarity assesses its blemishes or inclusions.
- Carat: Carat weight is a measure of a diamond’s weight. One carat is 1/5 of a gram.
Together, the four Cs make up the quality of a diamond and help determine its price. When you’re shopping for a ring, it’s important to consider which of the four Cs are most important.
Customize the Ring
If you already know what type of ring you want to get your significant other, consider customization. It’s a great option because you can even have an old ring that holds sentimental value customized. Visit a custom jewelry and repairs store for a consultation. They can offer advice on whether it’s better to repair and customize an old ring or create a new one based on your desires and budget. When you build your own engagement ring, you can choose the diamond cut and precious metal. This is the best way to ensure that you’re getting exactly what you want.
Visit a Jewelry Store Together
Choosing the right ring comes down to one thing: what your significant other wants. Visit a jewelry store together to explore the options. Sometimes, brides-to-be think they want a certain ring style, only to find that they want something completely different when they try rings on.
Here are some of the things you should know by the end of your shopping trip. What diamond shape do they prefer? How many carats do they want? Is size or diamond clarity more important to them? Do they want yellow gold, white gold or platinum? All of these factors make a difference when it comes to choosing the right engagement ring.
Know Your Significant Other’s Ring Size
Ring size is an important factor to consider when shopping. How do you know if it’s a good fit? According to experts, the ring should be able to easily slide over the knuckles, but not be so loose that it will fall off.
How do you figure out her size? The best option is to visit a jewelry store together to get her fitted. If you’re surprising her with the ring, ask one of her close friends or family members to find out her size for you.
These are just some things to keep in mind when choosing an engagement ring. The right ring can be a lifelong investment if you choose wisely.