How to Pick the Perfect Engagement Ring
For most men, picking out an engagement ring can be a daunting task. Not only is an engagement ring a symbolic representation of your future together, it is an expensive purchase that can be stressful on your budget. With the right preparation and communication with your jeweler, picking out an engagement ring can be easier and more rewarding than you think. This quick guide will provide you with essential information when selecting an engagement ring.
Establish a Budget
Before visiting a jewelry store, it’s important to figure out your budget. This gives the jeweler clarification on what you are looking for and lets them choose options that are relative to your price range. Remember that the price of a ring can be negotiated. Instead of following the two-month salary rule, purchase the nicest ring you can afford. What matters is the thought you put into purchasing the ring, not how much money you spent. There’s no point in going into debt over a ring, as the woman in your life would probably rather you be debt free and able to pay for other living necessities. An engagement ring is a symbol of love, not money.
Get the Right Size
There is nothing more awkward then getting down on one knee, proposing, then slipping the ring on her finger only to find that it doesn’t fit. To avoid a devastating moment like this, make sure you purchase the right size. The easiest way to get her ring size is to find a ring she isn’t wearing and take it to a jeweler to be measured. Try to grab a ring that she doesn’t wear much so she doesn’t notice it’s gone and you can maintain the surprise.
Pick the Band and Diamond
The common metals you choose from when selecting a band are yellow gold, rose gold, white gold, platinum, and silver. Platinum is durable and can last a long time, although it dulls quicker than gold. Gold is shinier and easier to buff, but can wear down faster. Silver is the most popular option out right now among women. If she’s more traditional, a yellow gold band might be the best option.
When picking out a diamond, remember the 4 C’s: cut, color, clarity, and carat weight. These 4 C’s determine the specific quality and cost of each diamond. Cut refers to the angle and proportion of the stone. A diamond with a great cut will reflect light and create the sparkle you see. Color is all about preference, yet white color diamonds are the most popular. Clarity is measured on a scale and refers to the fewer amounts of imperfections a diamond has. Carat weight refers to the diamonds weight, and a heavier diamond is more expensive.
Shape and Setting
The shapes you can select are all personal preference. The most common shapes are round, princess, pear, oval, and heart. The ‘setting’ of a ring is how the diamond is placed on the ring. Common types of settings are Tiffany, eternity bands, bezel, and channel. It’s important to have the jeweler demonstrate the different settings in the store so you can get a feel for what her personal preference might be.
