photo by Marta Branco via Pexels

by carolyn mitchell, guest contributor 

Congratulations — it’s time to start ring shopping! Getting ready for a proposal is a huge milestone moment! As exciting as it is, purchasing a ring is typically a considerable investment. You need to make sure you choose the right ring. Since there are so many incredible styles to choose from, engagement ring options can feel endless and overwhelming. Don’t fret! We’re here to help you pick the ring of your dreams!

Here are 9 tips to keep in mind when shopping for an engagement ring.

1. Decide on the Diamond Shape

Knowing what shape diamond or stone you or your partner wants will focus your search and help immensely. Every shape, or cut, has a different price point based on carats. The carat is also known as the weight of a diamond. The higher the carat, the more expensive the stone is. Understanding the weight and shape to cost ratio will help determine what shapes and styles are within your budget.

2. Choose Your Choice of Metal

Engagement ring bands are traditionally made from a select few types of precious metals. Yellow gold, white gold, rose gold, silver, or platinum. Each metal has its own unique pros and cons. Some scratch easier than others, and some are more expensive than others. Be mindful of your budget and your lifestyle when deciding what band is right for you.

3. Figure Out Your Ring Size

A ring that’s too big can fall off, and one that's too small can cut off circulation — either way is problematic. Any jeweler can quickly and easily measure your ring finger. If you and your partner are shopping together, consider getting measurements while browsing. If you’re shopping in secret, grab a ring from your partner's jewelry box to take with you for reference. 

Image by Scott Webb via Pixabay 

4. Look at Wedding Bands

Remember that an engagement ring is only half of the equation! Couples often get so focused on an engagement ring that they may overlook wedding bands until further down the road into wedding planning. It is important to remember that not all wedding bands and engagement rings work well together. Consider the complete jewelry set and your preferences before choosing an engagement ring.

5. Always Buy Certified

Shop smart — we cannot stress this one enough. Purchase a certified diamond or gemstone stone from an accredited source, like the American Gem Society or Gemological Institute of America. This ensures the quality of your stone!

6. Consider Cut, Color, & Clarity

Diamonds are graded on an alphabetical scale for cut, color, and clarity. The cut is what catches and reflects the light, making your stone sparkle. The color refers to the color or lack of color in a diamond. Clarity refers to the purity of the diamond and can range from flawless to included. It is important to keep all of these attributes in mind, along with your budget, when choosing a diamond engagement ring.

Photo by Andre Jackson on Unsplash

7. Think Long-Term

Trendy jewelry may be the right style for some couples but more often than not couples want something timeless. Your engagement ring is a representation of your lifelong commitment so it’s important to make sure it’s something that will age gracefully with you.

8. Think Outside the Box

While it’s true you want your engagement ring to age well, it should also be a reflection of the love shared between two people. Something unique and personal that is symbolic of the relationship will never go out of style.

9. Don’t Shop Alone

Call in reinforcements! Ask for help when you need it. Get jeweler recommendations from engaged friends or family. Talk to your future spouse about what their aesthetic expectations are. The better informed you are, the better the shopping experience will be!

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