J Lo’s 6.1 carat pink diamond engagement ring from Ben Affleck was worth $1.2 million dollars. It made headlines, but didn’t make her his wife. Soon thereafter, she weds Marc Anthony whom doesn’t even give her a ring. Apparently, “Love Don’t Cost a Thing.” A year later, he does get her a 14.5 carat, brilliant cut diamond ring on a platinum band, valued at more than $5 million dollars. So, I guess love does cost a Pink diamond? Good call Ben. How'd that work out for ya?
little…bit…more.
Don’t fret though fellas…even if you can’t drop down that million or two on a ring, here are a few tips on how to shop for the perfect engagement ring.
Set a budgetAccording to theweddingreport.com, the average amount spent on an engagement ring is $4,322. So, throw that “three-month’s-salary-common-rule-of-thumb” out the window! Accept your limitations. Let quality and value be the basis for your decision making, not the dollar amount.
Consider the four C’s: clarity, color, carat, and cut.The 4 C’s are either a man’s best or worst friend. The best value in clarity is a diamond with no inclusions, other minerals stuck inside the stone visible to the naked eye. A colorless or near colorless diamond also adds value to your ring, unless of course you’re going for another gemstone (like a sapphire) or a colored diamond. The third “C” is for carat weight. Although a larger stone is nice, bigger doesn’t necessarily make it better. An inclusion-free, colorless, large carat stone loses its brilliance and sparkle depending on the cut. There are several cuts to choose from: princess, emerald, round, and pear to name a few. Every woman will have their preference.
Know your diamonds!
Once you’ve chosen a rock, you’ll have to do a bit of research.Study the current jewelry style she wears; classic, fancy, antique, modern? Does she prefer white or yellow gold or maybe platinum? She may need a cathedral or contour setting (which means the diamond is set into the band) if she’s more active with her hands. A raised setting, works well for women that don’t have to worry about snagging their clothing, etc. Ask her friends if she’s pointed out anything specific and make them promise not to spill the beans!
Or, you can also simply ask her. Today, many couples are looking for rings together, which is an enjoyable and error proof route for you! In any case, stay within your budget, use the four C’s, consider her personal style, and you will have a fabulous ring to propose with!
Let me just say, that with the candlelight low, a bottle of bubbly, gazing into each other’s eyes, as you get down on one knee - she’ll probably say “Yes” before you bring out that little box. And whether it’s a 1 carat or a 14.5-carat ring, I guarantee, she’ll wear it like it’s worth a million bucks.
