Every groom-to-be needs a checklist for choosing a diamond engagement ring. Searching for the perfect engagement ring is an intimidating task, even if your fiancé has already accepted your proposal. This is one of the most important purchases you will make, as well as one of the most expensive, and you need to keep several issues in mind when making your decision. Everyone’s checklist is different, but these basic concerns will insure that you do not leave out any major considerations.
First, determine exactly how much you can spend on an engagement ring. Bear in mind that you will most likely be paying for part or all of the wedding and honeymoon costs, as well as starting a new life together, and it isn’t wise to go substantially in debt for the ring before other expenses are met. Budgeting for an Engagement Ring is a careful process and you should take plenty of time to ascertain your spending limit.
Finding the right engagement ring isn't easy. Listen to the experts at Whiteflash.com
Educate Yourself
Before setting foot inside a jewelry store, research the basics of diamonds and engagement rings. Knowing the terminology, such as the four Cs of diamond quality, as well as the basic differences between settings, shapes, and types of engagement rings will keep your search efficient without ignoring unique options.
Choose a Jeweler
After you have been properly educated, it is time for the next step in your checklist for choosing a diamond engagement ring: choosing a jeweler. It is important that you find a reputable, trustworthy jeweler. You can ask for recommendations from friends and relatives, or start with a local jeweler with a long history. Mall stores are generally reputable but have limitations, while independent jewelry stores also have risks, especially if you may be relocating. When in doubt, ask to see the jeweler’s certification and other credentials.
Choose a Metal
Most engagement rings are platinum, yellow gold, or white gold.
Should I choose Platinum, white gold or yellow gold? Don't worry guys, it's confusing to us too
Platinum
Platinum is the strongest metal and is considered rarer than gold. While it doesn’t wear, is resistant to damage, and won’t tarnish, it can be difficult to repair if it is damaged. Platinum is also significantly more expensive than gold.
Yellow Gold
Yellow gold is the most common and traditional metal for both wedding and engagement rings. 24-karat gold is pure gold, while 18-karat is 1/4 alloy. The higher the purity, the softer and more flexible the metal, making it more prone to damage. Most engagement and wedding rings are either 14- or 18-karat gold. Gold Engagement Rings eventually show wear such as nicks and scratches, but are easily repaired.
White Gold
White gold is measured by the same standards as yellow gold, but is treated to retain a white, silver-like finish. This finish eventually wears off and must be periodically reapplied. White gold is an excellent choice for a unique ring that will match any other jewelry.
Choose a Setting
Selecting a setting can be one of the most confusing parts of the checklist for choosing a diamond engagement ring. There are many different Engagement Ring Settings. Common settings include solitaires and bridal sets, while channel settings, three-stone rings, and other designs are becoming increasingly popular.
Solitaires
Diamond Solitaire Engagement Rings are single, elegant diamonds that may come in a variety of shapes (heart, marquise, round, pear, oval, emerald, etc.), settings (channel, bezel, flush, prong, tiffany, etc.), and sizes. If you haven’t already determined what your sweetheart likes, you might want to take her window shopping to get a general idea. If you would like for the ring to be a surprise, however, you may want to enlist the help of a close friend or relative.
Accent Stone Settings
Accent stone or side stone settings include both a larger center stone as well as multiple small stones that embellish the engagement ring band. Many accent stones are set in channels to protect them from damage. Some people prefer a combination of round stones and baguettes (rectangles), round stones only, or trilliums (triangles).
Three-Stone Settings
Three Stone Engagement Rings are considered nostalgic, with each of the diamonds representing the past, present, and future. The stones are set in a straight line without additional accent stones. Many people prefer to build their own engagement ring by choosing each of the three diamonds.
Bridal Sets
You can purchase engagement rings with matching wedding bands. The bands can be solid gold with a matching solitaire engagement ring, or they might have side stone settings in both the wedding band and the engagement ring, with the engagement ring also featuring a prominent solitaire. For many of these Bridal Set Engagement Rings, the wedding band cannot be worn without the engagement ring and the two are frequently soldered together before the wedding.
Ask for an Appraisal and Certificate
Your diamond should be issued an appraisal of its value. You should also ask your jeweler if the diamond has been treated with any fillers or other laboratory enhancements. If it hasn’t, he should issue you a certificate of authenticity. This paperwork is essential if you choose to have your ring insured.
Warranty
You also need to inquire about the warranty of your diamond. Some jewelers will continue to warranty the ring if you visit regularly for them to clean and check the setting of the ring. These basic maintenance tasks guarantee that your ring will remain as brilliant on your fiftieth anniversary as it was on your wedding day.
No matter which type of engagement ring you ultimately buy, by following certain tasks and approaching the purchase in an educated fashion, you will be pleased with an investment that will grow in value just as your love continues to grow throughout your marriage.
