Previously, the most important celebration in a couple’s life was the wedding, but for some time now, the significance of the engagement has been growing. Ladies look forward to this moment especially, while for men, the engagement often becomes a true test for their nerves. Perhaps the longest part is the review, evaluation, and search for that one and only ring. But you cannot do without it, because the engagement ring, placed on the ring finger, is the cornerstone element of this occasion. We can only be glad that the range of such rings on the market is incredibly wide, but this can sometimes make the selection process more difficult. Today, more choices can be found than ever before.
An engagement ring is a special symbol of love and commitment between two people. For couples, an engagement is a special celebration during which they decide to continue on a shared life path and spend their entire lives together. As mentioned, planning for this day usually starts a bit earlier for men. Choosing a ring for such an important occasion can be complicated: often it’s hard to decide how much budget to allocate, or whether a diamond ring or one with a different decoration is needed.
There are various ways to choose the right ring. Therefore, we present tips that will help you step-by-step to choose a ring that will truly surprise your future fiancée.
1. Set a budget
How much have you decided to spend on the engagement ring? Many claim that the budget is not the main criterion when choosing an engagement ring. However, if you want to save not only money but also a lot of valuable time, you should evaluate your financial capabilities. It is important to decide what budget you can allocate for the engagement ring.
Set at least an approximate amount that you would like / could allocate for the engagement ring. Knowing the limits will allow you to narrow down your search and choose the right piece of jewelry for your fiancée more easily and quickly.
In the context of the budget, it is important to mention the desire to save a little. However, it is not recommended to do this at the expense of quality, so if an engagement ring is suspiciously cheap, do not be in a hurry to rejoice – you might be buying a ring with a fake or enhanced stone. That is why rings, especially those with gemstones, are worth buying only from reliable sellers who have earned a strong market position and the trust of their customers.
Another tip – do not assume that a gold ring decorated with a gemstone will be very expensive. With some cleverness, you can save quite a bit. For example, if you want a ring with a diamond, choose not a round brilliant but a diamond of another shape – this luxury stone will be at least a third cheaper.
2. Choose a diamond
Once you have set your budget, you can start considering the diamond. It gives the ring exclusivity and beauty, so a given diamond engagement ring will surely make a pleasant impression on your sweetheart. It is important to choose the right stone type and size according to your needs, so that the ring meets both your expectations and your partner’s style.
We present the essential differences that, once evaluated, will help you decide which diamond suits you best.
Diamond shape
Pay attention to the shape. You can choose from various shapes: round, oval, rectangular, and others.
Keep in mind that round gemstones with 57–58 facets are extremely difficult to obtain, and much of the gemstone’s weight is lost during their shaping, making their price about 30% higher. It is these gemstones that earn the name “brilliants”. It is also worth mentioning that such brilliant-cut diamonds reflect light exceptionally beautifully – this is one of the most popular stone shapes due to their sparkle.
However, if you want the ring to cost a bit less but still be decorated with a diamond, choose other stone shapes, for example: square (princess), rectangular (emerald shape), square or rectangular with cut corners (asscher or radiant shape), marquise shape, hearts shape, etc. Many different types of stones are used for engagement ring designs – these include diamonds, sapphires, rubies, and others, so everyone can find the most suitable option for themselves.
Diamond color
Diamond colors range from white (colorless) to those with a yellow tint. Clear (colorless) diamonds with absolutely no yellow tint have the highest value.
Diamond clarity
Diamonds are also evaluated differently according to their clarity, which is determined by how many cracks, scratches, and inclusions are in the gemstone – these are measured by about 52 different indicators. Imperfections can even be visible to the naked eye, so choose a stone with clarity up to SI2. Neither poorer nor better clarity should be ignored, as it directly affects the diamond’s appearance.
Diamond processing – cut, symmetry, polish
This indicator describes how a diamond is cut and polished and how much light it reflects. The higher the cut grade, the more the diamond glows by reflecting light. The processing quality of diamonds determines their value and exclusivity.
Diamond weight – carats
When choosing a diamond, do not forget to evaluate the desired size. However, remember that a ring with a diamond of impressive dimensions is not necessarily more luxurious and expensive. This is determined by other characteristics of the gemstone.
Jeweler’s advice – diamond setting
Be sure to pay attention to how the diamond is set. Only very high-level jewelers can set it properly so that it does not fall out.
3. Choose the ring model
When considering how to choose a ring, be sure to think about the model. Once you have chosen the diamond’s characteristics, you can think about which ring model would match it best, or perhaps you will want a ring with other stones. Rings can be decorated with various stones that give the ring uniqueness and exclusivity.
These choices reflect different styles and needs.
We present the possible choices for engagement rings.
Classic design
An engagement ring of this model is thin, with one chosen diamond attached to it.
Modern design
Such an engagement ring can be of various widths, and most importantly – it can be decorated not only with one diamond but also with other additional decorative details (for example, a line of diamonds on both sides). Modern rings are often decorated with diamonds, which symbolize the strength of love.
Halo design
These are extraordinary rings where the central diamond is further decorated with other small diamonds. They are arranged in a circle to visually make the central stone appear larger.
Diamond band
The band of such a ring is encircled with encrusted diamonds.
With colored gemstones
An engagement ring can be decorated with a blue sapphire (a few examples – Princess Diana’s ring, the jewelry Napoleon gave to Josephine) or a green emerald, a red ruby. Sapphire is one of the most popular choices among colored stones, therefore it is often chosen when looking for an exclusive and fashionable ring.
This trio of gemstones is also a very frequent choice for engagement rings. Many different gemstones are used in engagement rings, depending on preferences and desired symbolism. They give the engagement ring solidity and refinement, which women like very much. Furthermore, sapphires, emeralds, and rubies are all associated with love and fidelity; they protect the family hearth, can protect against negative emotions and anger, strengthen self-confidence, and attract joy, happiness, and success. Thus, engagement rings with these gemstones will be a perfect choice for such an occasion.
Custom-made ring
By applying modern technologies, any detail can be produced that reflects your individuality.
It is obvious that there is plenty to choose from. To make it easier, simply evaluate the needs and consider what would match the girl’s image.
4. Choose the gold color
The design of engagement rings also depends on the gold color. Such a ring with a diamond or another gemstone can be cast in red, white, or yellow gold, or other metals.
For some time now, exceptionally glowing, very elegant, and luxurious-looking white-colored engagement rings have been among the most popular. They are also divided into two types: a warmer shade of champagne white (the true color of gold) and a cooler one – icy (true white gold covered with rhodium). White gold rings are extremely popular among brides due to their elegance and versatility – they pair perfectly with diamonds and other gemstones and suit various styles.
When choosing which metal color the ring will be made of, it is very important to consider the aspect that the girl might be allergic to some metal. This can even be gold – in that case, engagement rings made of, for example, silver or platinum should be in your sight. These metals are also very suitable for these rings – with charming aesthetics and the elegance of the color white.
When choosing a color, it is worth paying attention and observing which color dominates her jewelry.
5. Choose the engagement ring size
When choosing an engagement ring, one of the most difficult aspects is often choosing the size. Agree, buying an engagement ring without the girl is truly difficult, and you cannot exactly ask for her help.
So how to choose an engagement ring and get the size right?
Choosing the right engagement ring size is the final, but no less important, step. There are various ways to accurately determine the required ring size – from measuring with a ruler, borrowing a ring from your partner, to using online tools.
Use our online ring size tool created for your convenience. If you are not sure what rings your future fiancée wears, you can try to secretly check the size of another ring worn on the same finger. You can place the jewelry next to a ruler and take a photo.
Another option when ring size is important – you can ask for help from the future fiancée’s mother, sister, best friend, or another person who knows her well and could provide you with such information.
True, remember that most jewelry salons resize engagement rings for free, so do not be afraid to make a mistake. Of course, when choosing a ring, you should double-check whether the ring size can be adjusted for free and whether the chosen engagement ring model can be adjusted at all.
When choosing a ring, always think about what your girl might like. Some will prefer a more modest diamond ring, while others the opposite – one that stands out more and is more original. After all, you want to surprise her pleasantly, so the ring must match the beloved woman’s desires and even her lifestyle.
We advise you to pay attention to the design of the girl’s handbag, her shoes, and her clothing style – this says a lot about her preferences and what design of accessories she prioritizes.
