Jewellery

The ring is always the highlight of every marriage proposal.  In fact, it has taken such a major role that no engagement is ever the same without it.  This popularity has added to the appeal of the engagement ring as well as to its price.  Since engagement rings can be worth a lot, people who buy them have to make an informed choice.  Planning on picking up an engagement ring soon?  Here are tips on how to choose one:

Know what you want

Try to research about engagement rings before going to the store.  Even the choices available in a small jewelry store could overwhelm you.  Besides, an overzealous or clever sales person could easily persuade you into buying an engagement ring you or your fiancée may not like later.

Go online or read information about engagement rings.  If you’re planning to buy a diamond ring, for example, it would help a great deal if you know how diamonds are graded so you know exactly what to expect.  If you’re planning to buy a different stone, do the same thing.

Also important is the personality of the wearer.  Consider the style and design of the engagement ring so you could choose one that is the perfect fit.

Speaking of fit… make sure you know the size of the ring you want to buy.  That will save you the extra cost of having it resized later.

Determine your setting

When choosing an engagement ring, it’s also important to consider the setting.  The setting refers to the band upon which the stone is set.  This could consist of certain metals, the most popular of which are platinum, gold and white gold.  Of these, platinum is the most expensive, although it makes up for its price by being the most durable.

The setting comes in different purities which are measured in carats.  The lowest is usually at 10k while the highest (and purest) is 24k.  A good choice would be a setting from 14k to about 22k.  Remember that the setting is the part of the ring that keeps the stone in place.  It is also designed to show off the precious stone.

Mind your Cs

If you’re buying a diamond engagement ring, you need to understand the four Cs: cut, carat, color and clarity.  These are factors that determine the value and beauty of the stone.  If you understand what their importance is to the gem, you will be able to make a better choice in terms of quality and price.

Keep to your budget

It would be unwise indeed for anyone to purchase an engagement ring he/she can barely afford.  Do not make this mistake.  When choosing an engagement ring, think of a price range that is well within your budget.  Once you’ve decided on how much you can pay for, talk to a jeweler or a retailer and negotiate.

Explore other possibilities

Most engagement rings are diamond rings, mainly because diamonds are traditionally used and accepted as the jewelry of choice when making proposals.  However, do not feel pressured to limit your choices on diamonds only.  There are plenty of other precious stones you could choose from that could offer you as much value, durability, beauty and sentiment as a diamond can.