You’ve finally met ‘the one’, and you’ve decided that you’re ready to pop the big question. So, what’s the next step? That’s right, choosing a ring. While many couples today have elected to shop for engagement rings as a unit, in most cases, this enormous responsibility befalls only the male in the relationship. Choosing the ring is one of the biggest decisions you’ll make (and likely the only one you’ll make in pertinence to the wedding itself).
If you’re about to embark on the engagement ring buying journey, and you have no idea where to start, the following tips may help you on your way.
First of all, set a budget. While the general rule of thumb is to spend two months salary on a ring, this may not be practical for every man. Don’t feel pressured into buying a ring that is outrageous in price if it means you’re going to struggle with bills or eat into the down payment on you and your beloved’s first home. Chances are, your wife to be will carry the same mindset. And in most cases, women prefer a diamond that is selected from the heart, not the bank account.
Next, consider the woman. Know her ring size before you shop. No woman enjoys getting engaged and then turning around and giving up the ring for sizing the next week. It’s a good rule of thumb to ensure the ring will fit before you slip it on her finger. Also, do your best to determine what style of engagement ring she likes – In a round about way, of course. You will be able to tell a lot from the type of jewelry she currently wears and her general ‘maintenance’ routine. If you’re gal wears striking jewelry that stands out from across the room, select a ring that will match. Conversely, if your gal wears understated jewelry, opt for quality over size.
Which brings us to our next topics, quality, cut, and color. It’s a well known fact that most women will sacrifice a little quality for carat. Meaning, they would prefer the ring be a little bigger but a little lower quality as the other way around. Most people who see the ring will never ask about it’s clarity, but they well comment on its size (whether big or small – carat is the primary focus of ‘girls night’ after an engagement).
Most women prefer colorless diamonds that look like diamonds. There are a few exceptions to this rule, but if you’re in doubt, go colorless. When it comes to cut, this is you’re area to add your own touch to the purchase. In most cases, the cut of the ring is where men get the license to purchase what appeals to them. Choose a stone based on your opinion of what you see. Adding this personal touch to the purchase will let you’re fiancé know that, while the ring is hers, the idea was yours.
Getting engaged is a big deal, and buying an engagement ring is a huge investment. Remember to take your time with the decision and purchase your ring at a retailer that offers certificates of authenticity and a maintenance program for all the jewelry they sell. Typically, brining the ring in every six months for cleaning and a prong check will ensure that if anything should happen to the stone, the jewelry store will replace it for free.
