Choosing the right engagement ring can be a huge challenge, especially for those who don’t usually wear jewelry themselves. Your ring, after all, needs to be somehow a reflection of the person you’re going to marry and your relationship. It should also look great on them and be to their taste. This is a tall order to fulfill, but with this guide, you’ll be able to pick the perfect engagement ring.
Consider Your Partner’s Style
The first step in choosing an engagement ring is to consider your partner’s personal style. Take note of the jewelry they wear on a regular basis, as well as the clothes they wear. Are they more classic and traditional, or do they prefer a more modern and contemporary look? Do they prefer gold, platinum, or silver? Do they wear colored gemstones or diamonds? By paying close attention to the details, you can narrow down your options and choose a ring that suits their style.
A good place to start is in their existing jewelry box or see if they have a Pinterest account where they’ve been saving ideas. Take pictures for reference, and use those to help you find either an existing ring or to help you create a custom ring, which is a service you can do at certain locations. You could, for example, have these Hatton Garden jewellers design the perfect ring for your bride-to-be.
Determine Your Budget
Before you start shopping, determine your budget. Engagement rings cost between a few hundred to tens of thousands, so it’s important to decide how much you’re willing to spend. Remember that an engagement ring is an investment, and you want to make sure you’re comfortable with the price you’re paying.
Choose the Right Diamond
If you’re opting for a diamond engagement ring, the four Cs (cut, clarity, color, and carat weight) are important factors to consider. Cut is the most important factor as it determines how well the diamond will sparkle. Clarity refers to the number of flaws in the diamond, and color refers to the presence of any yellow or brown tints. Carat’s the weight, but keep in mind that a bigger diamond doesn’t necessarily mean it’s a better diamond. What’s most important is that you strike a balance between the four Cs to choose the perfect diamond for your partner.
Choose the Right Setting
The setting of the engagement ring is another important factor to consider. The most common settings are prong, bezel, and pave. Prong settings hold the diamond with metal prongs, while bezel settings surround the diamond with metal. Pave settings feature small diamonds set close together, creating a sparkling effect.
Also consider your partner’s lifestyle when choosing the setting. If they’re active (they play lots of sports, for example), a low-profile setting may be a better choice.
Consider Customization
If you can’t find the perfect ring for your partner, consider customization. Go to those special jewelers that offer customization services, and design a ring that’s tailored to your partner’s taste. You can choose the diamond, setting, and metal to create a one-of-a-kind engagement ring that your partner will treasure for years to come.