How to Choose an Engagement Ring

Congratulations--you’re in love and ready to make a commitment. Keep the “first date” romance in your relationship by wowing your beloved with an engagement ring perfectly suited to her style and taste. The below steps will help you choose the ring she wants within the budget you can afford. This is one instance where size does matter. Rock on!

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

Things You’ll Need:

• Computer with internet access
• Department store circular(s)

1. Decide on a budget. Depending on your source, engagement rings can run from a few hundred dollars into half a million dollars or more. Having an idea of how much you are willing to spend will narrow your hunt.
2. Log on to an internet search engine and research the “four C’s” critical to every gemstone purchase: cut, color, clarity, and carat weight. The most accurate information can be found in online dictionaries and on retail jeweler websites.
3. Find out, as discreetly as you can, what style your soon-to-be fiancee prefers. There are a number of ways to accomplish this goal: ask what she thinks of a friend’s ring; leave the local department store’s jewelry circular open on the kitchen table; walk past a jewelry display and note which pieces she admires. Your question will prompt a more detailed response than you might imagine. You can also ask her friends for clues.
4. Visit reputable area jewelers and retail jeweler websites to gauge price for the type of ring your girlfriend covets. Ask to view pre-set rings as well as loose diamonds (which can be set to your specification later). Don’t be discouraged at the hefty tags on some of the high-end jewelers’ offerings--elements of their designs can be replicated by a skilled family jeweler in a less costly version.
5. Make your selection. Discuss payment options with your supplier as many stores offer payment plans to suit your budget.
6. Propose and live happily ever after!

Tips & Warnings

• Keep in mind that engagement rings can be “upgraded” to include more gems in various setting patterns. If you think your purchase will under-whelm your girlfriend’s expectations, present it as a starter engagement ring--you do, after all, have the rest of your lives to tailor it.
• Sales professionals who make commission on sales might pressure you into an immediate purchase out of your price range. If you feel uncomfortable, ask to speak with a manager.
• Be wary of websites offering “discount” rings. They are usually inexpensive for a reason.