Are you ready to propose to your significant other?
If so, you’ve come to the right place. Buying an engagement ring is a big investment, and making an educated purchase is the best way to ensure that you end up with a ring your partner will love.
With so many cuts, shapes, stones, and prices, ring shopping can be a little overwhelming. However, doing some research on how to shop for engagement rings can make this process a lot less stressful and a lot more fun.
If you’re feeling a bit nervous about this whole thing, keep reading for the best tips and tricks to find the best ring for your significant other.
1. Set a Budget
Traditionally, people recommend spending two or three months of your salary on the engagement ring. However, ring shopping is a very personal experience, and following this trend is not possible for everyone.
Whatever your situation is, having a clear understanding of how much you’re looking to spend on an engagement ring can help you narrow down your options. Although the average ring costs about $5,000, you can always adjust size, stone, and metal to fit your budget.
2. Know the Terms
Knowing basic diamond terms can help you make a much more educated decision on the stone you end up purchasing. Keep these in mind when you are out shopping:
- Cut: This refers to how well the stone was cut. It is important because it determines how the diamond reflects light, and will ultimately be a huge contributor to its overall beauty.
- Color: Diamonds are graded on their lack of color. The purest diamond has no hue. This is graded on a letter system; a colorless diamond will fall on the letters D, E, and F and will likely be the most expensive.
- Clarity: This is a term used to determine if the diamond has any inclusions (internal characteristics) and blemishes (external characteristics). Ultimately, it measures how much these characteristics affect the appearance of the diamond.
- Carat: This refers to the diamond’s weight. The heavier the diamond is, the higher the price.
3. Decide on the Setting
The setting on the ring will hold the main stone. Therefore, it has a huge impact on how the overall ring will look. Some ring settings to choose from include:
- Halo
- Prong
- 3-Stone
- Pave
- Channel
If your partner prefers a more traditional look, Channel-set, Pave, or Prong-set might be the way to go. If you are looking for something more unique, consider looking into a Halo set.
4. Pick the Metal
Besides picking a beautiful stone, it is also important to pick the right metal to go with it. Usually, you’ll be able to go for platinum, rose gold, yellow gold, and white gold. Some people prefer to wear certain metal colors, so make sure to observe your partner’s style and consider it when making this decision.
As for the quality, the most popular engagement ring metal is 14K. This is cheaper than the 18K option but will be just as beautiful and durable.
5. Get the Style Right
There are a lot of options of rings out there, so if you are not sure what style to go for, there are a few things you can do.
First, you can try finding an online style quiz. This can help you match your significant other’s style with a ring.
If you can’t seem to get it right, there is no shame in asking for help. Talking to your partner’s friends and/or family (if you are okay with them knowing about your plans) can be a huge help.
6. Nail the Size
An easy way to get the right size is to measure one of your partner’s existing rings. Be very observant about what rings they use, and take one that they usually wear on their ring finger to a jeweler or use a free online tool to measure it yourself.
You can always send it back to get it fixed if you don’t get it right. However, nailing the size from the beginning will make the whole experience a lot easier and ultimately more exciting.
7. Find the Right Jeweler
To find the best ring, you’ll probably have to visit a couple of vendors. Online ring shopping is a fantastic option if you want to browse several stores without having to commute. Websites like www.DreamlandJewelry.com are great because they have a large selection of rings of all styles and prices.
However, if you like to take a more traditional approach to ring shopping, you can also visit jewelers in your area. A good rule of thumb is to look up reviews to find the best options around you.
Going to a diamond ring shop is a good way to go if you prefer to take a closer look at all the stones and finishes available.
8. Consider Unique Options
Although engagement rings are traditionally made with diamonds, many people opt to think outside the box and go for more unique rings.
If you see a ring that your partner would love, don’t be afraid to get it just because it doesn’t look traditional. Unique rings are very personal and can be an unexpected way to show your partner how well you know them.
9. Don’t Buy the First Option
Ring shopping is a lengthy process, and therefore you should never purchase the first one you see. Give yourself time to review some options to avoid buyer’s remorse. Ask jewelers to hold your top picks, and make your decision after you have seen a variety of styles.
10. Don’t Rush the Process
A lot of times, jewelers will need a couple of weeks to make adjustments and ensure that the ring you purchase turns out perfect. Therefore, you should give yourself enough time to shop. Typically, rings are purchased a couple of months before the proposal.
Ready to Go Ring Shopping?
Congrats on being one step closer to popping the question to your significant other! Now that you have a general idea of the things you should know when you go ring shopping, chances are you’ll pick a ring that your partner will absolutely love.
If you are looking for more tips and tricks, make sure to check out our blog.
