Choosing The Right Engagement Ring: Stress Free!
Choosing anything for your loved one can strike fear in the hearts of many men. What if I get it wrong? What if she’s disappointed? The engagement ring can provide a real challenge, not least because you want the proposal itself to be completely perfect. If you intend to spend a substantial sum on a piece of jewellery, it’s better to do your research and avoid making costly mistakes!
The Four Cs
The cut, clarity, color and carat of a diamond make up what is known as the ‘four Cs’ and all these factors influence the appearance and quality of the ring you choose. The cut and clarity impact on the sparkle of the diamond, and a poorly cut gem can seriously compromise its appearance. The color of diamonds does vary, the clearer and more colorless diamonds being substantially more expensive. Carats is a measurement of the weight and size of the diamond, not to be confused with karats, the measurement of how pure gold is.
Pay Attention To Her Style
This is where it gets tricky! Play detective and figure out what kind of ring would be best suited to your girlfriend’s taste. What kind of jewelry does she already own? Does she favor yellow gold, rose gold or more silvery tones? Is her style ostentatious or more toned-down and subtle? If your partner is very active or fond of the great outdoors, you’ll require a ring that reflects her lifestyle and is especially durable. If you need extra help, reach out to her friends and family members. Chances are they will love being involved and keep the secret safe!
Go Non-Traditional
Don’t be afraid to do something different. If you want to choose a ring with a cluster of different gems around the diamond, or eschew the diamond altogether in favor of something different, do so. Just be sure that your other half is in agreement! An alternative to buying something displayed in the jewelers is to look at creating a bespoke ring that is unique to you and your partner. Diamond Boutique offer a bespoke ring service allowing customers to get creative.
Buy Within Your Budget
It is popularly believed that an engagement ring should cost two month’s salary, but this is not a rule. It’s much more important to buy what you can reasonably afford and bear in mind that you need to have funds left for the wedding itself and your new life together. Make sure you have a suitable budget fixed in your mind so as not to be tempted by rings that fall outside of your price range!