Checklist for Choosing a Diamond Engagement Ring
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 fiancĂ© 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.
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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.
