Engagement ring shopping can seem easier said than done. With numerous styles, fits, colors, and other small details added into the mix, excitement can quickly turn into stress. We have pulled together a few tips to get you started and on the right track to finding the perfect ring to propose to your significant other with. We hope they will make your ring shopping experience a little easier, and make sure your proposal is the most perfect moment to remember!
Budget
Engagements can be expensive, and financial stress can be one the main culprits for tarnishing the excitement that surrounds them. Sit down with your partner prior to proposing to discuss a budget you would like to stick to for the ring. If the proposal is to be a complete surprise, consider your own financials before shopping. Having a budget in mind can help refine your ring options, and ensure you donโt put too much of a dent in your wallet.
While establishing your budget for the ring, also factor in insurance. Insuring the ring provides coverage that financially protects the engagement ring in case of damage. A replacement ring of similar value will be an option, helping to protect your investment in the long run. It will also give you piece of mind in case an incident occurs, helping to further relieve any financial stress centered around your ring purchase.
Finding The Right Jeweler
Finding the right jeweler can have a large influence on your ring shopping experience. Make sure they listen to your wants and needs, and are also able to meet your budget and deadline requirements. Being transparent and upfront with your price range and timeline leading up to popping the question can ensure your chosen jeweler is able to work with you, and their processes meets those expectations. Stray away from jewelers who focus primarily on cost, and find one that really takes your input into account.
Also consider a jeweler that has in house repairs and resizing for future reference in case of damage or re-fitting. Asking all of these questions upfront can make the search for the right jeweler a little easier, with customer reviews also being something to consider. Look online at customer experience reviews to get a better idea of their service reputation. This can help to determine if the jeweler is credible and easy to work with. Their site can also confirm their credentials, licensing, and credibility, which are important to know when making a ring investment. So, be sure to peruse the web before hitting the shops to find the right jeweler for you, and to also avoid asking this long list of questions at your first visit!
Designing the Ring
Knowing a little background info about the four Cโs (cut, color, carat, clarity) can not only help to narrow down your choices, but also make your shopping experience run a little smoother. If your at a loss for what style your bride-to-be might like, ask friends and family for some help! If you want the proposal to be a surprise, get their input on a few rings, or sneak a peek at your partners Pinterest or Instagram. Find rings she has saved to get an idea of the style she likes. Or, if the proposal is not a surprise, try shopping together! This is a new trendy way couples are finding the right ring and can be done before or even after the proposal. Shopping online is another option, and can allow you to create a custom design. Blue Nile is an online jeweler that offers customizable and artisan designed engagement ring options, and has them shipped right to your door. This makes it easy to consult with your partner in the comfort of your own home, relieving shopping stress, and having a diverse collection to pick from.
Once you have a style and shape in mind, you can move on to the small details that make the ring special and the perfect fit for your partner. The four Cโs mainly focus on the stone or diamond you choose. When deciding on these details, think about your partner’s personality to help! If your significant other likes bold and flashy, go for a higher carat and larger cut stone, or even multiple stones! If your partner has more refined and simple taste, go for a smaller stone that still has beautiful clarity that makes it a statement without being overstated. Once the ring style is finished, add any personal touches like an engraving, and get it boxed up and ready for the big proposal!
