Rules of Engagement Rings
Okay Grooms, this one is for you! We’ve talked about what happens after the engagement, but what about before? Here are some tips to help you pick out the perfect ring!
Shape Is Crucial
Even before you start thinking about those 4 C’s (cut, clarity, color, and carat), you need to figure out what shape your fiancée loves. Shape indicates the actual geometry of the stone, so stalk them a bit…okay, not ACTUALLY stalk them, but look at their Pinterest boards, Instagram, and Facebook to find any pictures or ideas they have liked or shared.
Get The Best Setting
The setting is the frame that holds the beautiful jewel, so you want to do your research on what setting looks best with what shape diamond. The classic round setting gets a modern makeover with a bezel setting, and a trendy oval can look more traditional with a four-prong setting. So take your time and also ask the help of professionals to make sure you’ve got the perfect combo!
Spy on Her Style
Lots of couples nowadays shop together for the ring, but if you’re more of a traditionalist, here are some other options. You can ask one of her friends (and swear them to secrecy) to just “go for fun” and see what she likes. If you don’t trust anyone, you can look at what jewelry she usually wears (Like color and style), or you can casually walk into a jewelry store and see what they land their eyes on.
The Medal
The band…that piece that holds the beautiful diamond on her finger, but there are a few things you need to consider before you purchase your bride, or yourself, one. The band is the part that touches the skin, so you need to ask if your bride is allergic to any medals (and also see if you are…a red swollen finger is not that attractive). The most popular metal is platinum; It’s extremely durable and pure, making it a great hypoallergenic choice for brides and grooms with sensitive skin. Some other options are gold, (which comes in many different colors like white, gold, rose, and even green) palladium, titanium, or even a recycled medal.
Buy Loose Stones
Unless you’re buying and estate ring, chances are you’ll be looking at loose stones as opposed to stones in a setting. The stone accounts for the majority of the ring’s cost, so you want to make sure you get the best one (that also fits your budget). Be sure to inspect the stone with a loupe (a handheld magnifier most jewelers have). A good jeweler will be able to guide you and tell you what to look for.
Work Around Your Budget
I know she’s probably worth all the money in the world, but that doesn’t mean you HAVE all the money in the world, so go with a larger table, or surface, area. You won’t get as much sparkle, but a one-carat ring will look much larger if the stone isn’t deep. If you don’t want to sacrifice the look of the stone, buying just shy of the next carat (1.8 carat instead of 2) can equal savings of almost 20 percent! When it comes to clarity, buying a little less clear gives you the most wiggle room without affecting the sparkle (often defects are not visible to the naked eye).
Research The Shops
Always ask friends and family first! If you don’t get any luck, check for industry organization affiliation. Usually stores accredited by The Jewelers of America, or members of The Gemological Institute of America (GIA) are good starting places. Also check out their return policy, you want to be able to return the stone if she doesn’t like it!
Give Yourself Time
I know you’ve been waiting a long time to propose, and I’m sure you can’t wait to see that ring on her finger! But once ordered, a ring can up to six weeks to arrive (possibly longer if it’s custom designed). So plan ahead to make sure you have the ring on time.
Get The Paperwork
You’ve gotten the ring all picked out and now it’s in your hands…there’s only one thing left to do before you give it to your (soon-to-be) fiancée…the paperwork. Diamonds one carat or higher should be accompanied by a diamond-grading report issued by an independent gemological association like GIA or The American Gem Society. Some jewelers may give you a “fingerprint” of the ring on the bill of sale. It would include the stone’s four Cs, shape, dimensions, and any cosmetic enhancements. Make sure to note anything that affects its value (if it was made by a famous designer, an antique or period piece, or is handmade or custom designed).
Well there ya go! I hope this will be helpful in guiding you to the perfect ring for your perfect someone!
Good Luck!