A Guide to Purchasing the Perfect Engagement Ring
Planning a proposal is one of the most special times, but it can also be overwhelming. The pressure of deciding just the perfect time and place to ask, figuring out what you’ll say, and getting permission from her father or family are all big steps. For many men, this is also the first big jewelry purchase they’ll be making. With so many designs, styles, price points, etc., it can be extremely confusing at this already overwhelming time. That’s why we’re here to give you a step-by-step guide that’ll get you started and lead you in the right direction to finding the perfect engagement ring for that special someone.
Establish a Budget
First and foremost, it’s crucial to establish a realistic budget. When you walk into a jewelry store, this is one of the first questions they’ll ask you, since the price range for engagement rings can vary immensely. While there are plenty of old theories about how much you should be spending on a ring, for example, 2-3 months' salary, the reality is that you should pick a budget you’re comfortable with. There’s no need to go into crazy debt to purchase a ring. It’s meant to be a symbol of your love, and the thought that goes into the purchase of the ring is just as important. Once you’ve landed on a pricepoint, a jeweler can better guide you.
Determine Her Ring Size
This is a big one! While it is possible to have rings resized if you were to purchase the wrong size, you’ll save yourself a whole lot of hassle, money, and potential embarrassment by finding out her ring size first. If you want to keep the surprise factor, there are a few ways you can get it without asking her size. Try to grab a ring from her jewelry box that you can bring with you to the jeweler. You can also ask a family member or friend that you trust to keep the secret!
Research Her Style
Once you’ve settled the logistics such as the budget and ring size, this is where you can have some fun and get creative! You’ll want to take note of the type of jewelry she normally wears, and her overall style. Does she like bold, flashy pieces? Or is she more of a subtle, dainty type? Think about her personality, too. If she’s outgoing, she might like a big, sparkly diamond, whereas someone who’s more reserved might prefer something small and elegant. You’ll also need to consider the band; Does she wear more gold, silver, or platinum? Getting some help from her girlfriends might be helpful for this one, too. Chances are, she’s already described her dream ring to them!
Selecting a Diamond
When choosing the perfect diamond, you’ll want to keep in mind the 4 C’s: Cut, color, clarity, and carat weight. These factors, in addition to the shape, should all match her style and preferences. A jeweler will be able to guide you through the diamond selection. At Bostonian Jewelers, we specialize in custom engagement rings, and love being able to be part of these special moments with our clients! To learn more about our custom jewelry process and CAD technology, click here! You can also check out some of our ready-made pieces here.