Finding the perfect engagement ring can feel like a daunting task. First, there’s the romance of it all—this ring has to be as unique as your special someone. Then there’s the choice of diamonds or other gems, the size, and the price. With so many options to choose from, it’s completely normal to feel overwhelmed.
To simplify your search, follow this guide for the three tips to help you find the perfect engagement ring!
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Choose Your Stone Carefully
First, you need to decide if you are going with a classic diamond or something less traditional, like a ruby or sapphire.
If you choose a diamond, you need to pay special attention to the 4 Cs. With this knowledge, you can work to pick the perfect stone for you.
The 4 Cs are the yardstick by which a diamond’s quality is measured. The 4C’s consist of clarity, color, cut, and carat. These guidelines were established by The Gemological Institute of America (GIA). Here are those specific standards by which diamonds are graded:
- Cut: This determines how diamonds interact with light. It also accounts for design and overall quality.
- Color: Color grades range from D to Z and are based on the diamond’s amount of color or lack thereof. A completely colorless diamond will receive a D grade, whereas a diamond that is colored scores a Z.
- Clarity: Diamond clarity is a measure of a diamond’s appearance. Much of this depends on the visibility of inclusions inside the gem or external blemishes. The fewer of these imperfections, the higher the clarity grade.
- Carat: Diamonds are weighed in carats. One carat of diamond equals 200 milligrams.
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Figure Out Ring Size
Finding the ring size can be a time-consuming process. Since most people prefer to announce their engagements on social media, getting the right size the first time around can be a big deal.
This task is much simpler if you decide on ring shopping with your partner. You may simply ask for a professional measurement or use a ring sizing tool.
Perhaps you are going for the big surprise (and the resulting sensational Instagram photos.) In that case, you’ll have to determine their ring size using stealthier methods such as a ring size chart.
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Stick to a Budget
Natural diamond companies like De Beers have touted the 3-month rule for years. Nowadays, you don’t need to go into debt to purchase a diamond engagement ring. Pick the budget that’s right for you and stick with it.
What the ring means to you and your partner is what matters. There are also ways to make your budget go a little further: like lab-grown diamond engagement rings. Choosing a lab-grown diamond will save you 20-40% on your ring, and you can sleep well knowing you made an ethical choice.
Whether you’re spending $5,000 or $50,000, choose the price that’s right for you.
Final Thoughts
Pay attention to your partner’s sense of style. This will tell you whether you should be shopping for dazzling sparklers such as halo engagement rings or something more understated like a classic solitaire.
Engagement rings are an enduring symbol of the love and commitment between you and your partner, so it’s safe to say they’re worth the time and effort it takes to find one that’s a perfect match. Happy hunting!
