Things to Think About When Picking an Engagement Ring
So you've finally decided to pop the question to the love of your life, but have no clue where to start when it comes to ring shopping. Many modern couples choose to shop for rings together so that the bride gets exactly what she wants. However, that option takes away the surprise element of the engagement. A little research and detective work will ensure that you surprise her with a ring she likes and that you can also afford.
Other People Are Reading
-
Budget
-
Your budget should be the first thing you establish before you get anywhere near a jewelry store. Ignore any preconceived notions about the amount you should spend on a ring and decide what your limit is based on what you can afford. There is no sense in going into major debt on a ring, especially when you consider the costs of the upcoming wedding. Go into the jewelry store with a top limit and tell the jeweler not to show you anything above your price range.
Fiance's Diamond Style
-
Some men may have no idea about the different diamonds shapes available. Common diamond ring shapes include round, princess and emerald cuts, both of which are square-shaped. Try to gauge which style your girlfriend prefers by listening to her talk about the engagement rings of her friends. You should also enlist her closest friend secretly to help you find out what she likes the best. Otherwise, if she expects you to pop the question soon, she just may leave her own hints such as leaving a magazine open to a particular ring advertisement.
-
Setting Types
-
Aside from the shape of the diamond, you must also consider the style of the setting, which is the way the diamond sits in the ring. Setting styles include those that feature the diamond standing out above the band such as a Tiffany cut, and those that have the diamond sitting inside a rim, such as a bezel cut. She might also be more into the older, antique styles of wedding rings, which you may have to search for at specialty jewelry shops. In addition, you need to choose a platinum, gold or other type of band for her. Again, consult her friends and watch for any hints she may leave you.
Ring Size
-
You will need your girlfriend's ring size if you want to avoid embarrassment when you try to put the ring on her finger, only to discover it is much to small or too big. Even if you don't know the exact number, you should try to get an estimate of her ring size so that you can come close. One way to do this is to take a ring she wears occasionally for style to the jeweler who will measure the ring.
Insurance
-
Considering that a ring is a pricey investment, you may want to purchase insurance in case anything happens to it. You can purchase insurance for the ring directly from the jeweler. Insurance options include policies that will reimburse you the cost of the ring minus depreciation and ones that will reimburse you the full current rate for the type of ring you purchased. Choose an insurance type based on your budget.
-
References
Resources
- Photo Credit Jupiterimages/Photos.com/Getty Images
