“We believe that we invent symbols. The truth is that they invent us.”
So, you’ve finally found that special someone. The one to whom you wish to dedicate your life. And, the time has come to choose the perfect engagement ring.
This is a thrilling time! We can feel your excitement as you prepare for one of the most sublime moments in both of your lives.
You will say the words: “Will you marry me?”
And you’ll want the engagement ring to do the rest. To speak the words that you cannot.
Because there are some feelings that go beyond words. There are some sentiments that are greater than description.
And, there are some moments that are destined to last forever.
Your Engagement Ring is the Ultimate Symbol
The truth is the engagement ring you choose will always be so much more than a piece of beautiful jewelry.
It will stand for something. It will mean something. It will speak when all is silent.
Your engagement ring is a symbol of your life together. It’s a symbol of your laughter. And, when it comes to your love, it’s the greatest symbol there is.
You’ve found the perfect someone? Congratulations. We couldn’t be more excited. Now, let’s find the perfect engagement ring.
Are you ready to take some incredible engagement ring advice from real life couples?
Great! Let’s get to it.
1. Certification
Before you even begin to search for the perfect engagement ring, look for the right type of diamond certification. In this regard, make sure that you consult a jewelry expert.
You’re probably going to be investing a considerable sum of money on that precious stone. At a minimum, ensure that the diamond you are purchasing comes with diamond certification from a reputable lab.
The most renowned authority across the world on diamond standards is the Gemological Institute of America or GIA.
2. The Diamond 4 Cs
No two diamonds are ever alike but every diamond across the world can be assessed on quality using a universal method. That method is known as the 4 Cs: Color; Clarity; Cut; Carat Weight.
Color
The more colorless a diamond is, the closer to perfection it is. When purchasing a diamond, less color means a higher quality stone.
Clarity
Diamonds with the fewest amount of flaws – inclusions and blemishes – are considered more valuable.
Cut
A diamond’s cut grade is concerned with how well it interacts with light. The higher the grade, the more dazzling the diamond.
Carat Weight
Diamonds are measured in carats, so the carat weight of your diamond has a significant effect on its price.
As you can tell, there is a real art to choosing the perfect diamond. As such, it’s best to familiarize yourself with the 4 Cs before you embark on your diamond adventure.
3. Give Her What She Wants
Becoming an expert on the 4 Cs is a truly tremendous feat, but knowing the right type of ring to buy is right up there with breathing in terms of importance.
Consider yourself a special investigator. Your job, in the build up to your big proposal, is to gather as much intelligence as you can.
What kind of person is this beautiful woman you want to marry? What is her sense of style? Is she modern or more traditional in outlook? And, what about her preference for white gold or platinum?
Now is not the time to go rogue. Nor is it a time to cater to your own particular tastes.
The lady in your life has her own sense of style so it’s important to infuse that style into your engagement ring plans. This can be as simple as sneaking a look in her jewelry box or paying attention to the jewelry she already wears.
Most of us know how wonderful it feels to be really listened to. Over the next while, you will want to shower your fiance-to-be with your powerful listening skills. Every time she speaks of style and fashion, your ears should bristle in anticipation.
If all else fails, consult one of her friends or relatives if you need a little extra advice (assuming, of course, that they can keep a precious secret).
4. Her Ring Size
Those powers of investigation that you’ve been expertly using need to be pushed into high gear for this one.
Getting her ring size is important and there are a number of ways that you can do it:
- Sneak one of her rings out of her jewelry box
- Trace a ring that she wears onto a piece of paper
- Download a printable ring size sheet
You might not be Sherlock Holmes, but you can get that ring size with a little effort.
5. Set a Budget
How much is enough?
You will hear all kinds of rules and pronouncements when it comes to the amount you should spend on the engagement ring.
The best advice here? There are no rules.
Though now is not the time to scrimp and penny pinch, the perfect ring is really perfect if it fits into your budget, or goes a little beyond.
Decide on that budget ahead of time, though it’s important to leave a little wiggle room too.
6. Pre-set Ring or Custom Design?
Did you know that the diamond and the setting of your engagement ring do not have to come as a package?
It might seem easier to buy a ring that you can see, but a great jeweler can give you a ton of expert advice about custom designing your own ring.
If that sounds too complicated, think on. A unique piece designed by you may be that extra something special that you’re looking for. In many cases, designing your own ring is no more expensive than purchasing a pre-set one.
If you do choose to custom design the ring, you have the following considerations to bear in mind:
- What metal will you choose? Popular options include White Gold, Platinum, Rose Gold, Yellow Gold
- What setting is best? The setting is the way the diamond is placed on the ring
- What is her preferred stone? Most people prefer diamonds but some women choose other gemstones, such as a sapphire
- What shape will the diamond be? There are 10 standard shapes of diamond to choose from.
7. Insure It
Whatever amount you choose to invest in the engagement ring, we’re guessing that it is going to be quite an investment for you.
And that investment isn’t just a financial one. It’s an emotional and sentimental investment as well.
So, it’s best to protect that investment. Insure the ring as soon as you take it home.
Engagement Ring Advice for the Perfect Proposal
The engagement ring you choose is the ultimate symbol of your love. Make that symbol as remarkable and as dazzling as your bride.
There is an old saying that goes something like this: “Be careful who you make memories with, those things can last a lifetime.”
And that’s precisely what we wish for you.
Magnificent memories with your bride-to-be, the kind of which last a lifetime.
