Buying an engagement ring can be overwhelming for many couples. First, this is likely one of your first major purchases. Second, it's unlikely that either of you are well versed in fine jewelry. Hopefully this tutorial will give you the tools you need to make a confident and educated purchase that you will cherish now and for generations to come.Step 1 - Set A BudgetYears from now, your engagement ring should rekindle feelings of love and excitement from that special moment when you decided to commit your life to one another. Setting a budget will help keep the purchase from spiraling out of control and turning into a sore spot in your marriage.
Step 2 - Set Your PrioritiesEvery engagement ring is unique, even a classic solitaire can have a different meaning to different brides. It can be a timeless and chic design for one bride, while another bride would prefer a more ornate setting for her magnificent stone. Prioritizing what you want most in a ring will help you invest your budget wisely.Engagement rings can be thought of as two purchases, the stone and the setting. A brief overview of the 4C's of diamonds will show you that no two diamonds are alike. Finding the perfect combination of color, cut, clarity, and carat will be different for every bride. The second purchase is selecting a ring from a vast assortment of engagement ring settings. From a classic solitaire to vintage engagement rings, each bride will have a different opinion on what they consider beautiful. Establishing a hierarchy of what qualities you desire most will help you prioritize your diamond and ring purchase.
Step 3 - Find Your InspirationSo, what is your definition of beautiful? Do you find beauty in classic engagement rings or maybe a timeless simple solitaire? Do you swoon over vintage engagement rings? If you are unsure, start a Pinterest board and pin any ring that catches your eye. You will soon see a pattern developing that will guide you to your ideal engagement ring design. Just be sure to keep an open mind, you will want your spouse-to-be to put in their personal touches to make the ring a purchase that is representative of your relationship together.
Step 4 - Do Your HomeworkThe language of fine jewelry is unlike any other. From gemology to learning to describe a classic solitaire, it's surprising how many terms there are to describe even the most minute details. Familiarizing yourself with diamond and jewelry terminology ahead of time will help prepare you to understand what the store's G.G. (Graduate Gemologist) and sales associates are explaining to you.
Step 5 - Find A StoreSkip the major chain jewelry stores and speak with a local fine jeweler. Many of these stores have been passed down from generation to generation and fine jewelry runs in their blood. You can not duplicate experience like that. Start by talking with close friends and family about jewelry stores in your area to see who they recommend. Then research their recommendations to see which stores have a gemologist on staff. A G.I.A. (Gemological Institute of America) trained G.G. (Graduate Gemologist) is best.
Step 6 - Leave Yourself TimeThis is no time to settle. If you do not find a ring that is absolutely perfect, then leave yourself enough time to bring those dreams to life and design your own engagement ring. Sure, it may take a few extra steps, but in the end, isn't it worth it to get the 'perfect' ring.
Step 7 - Get It InsuredThe heartbreak of having a ring stolen or lost is devastating enough, add in the price tag of replacing it and there's no coming back. Before you propose have your jeweler do an official appraisal and speak with your insurance agent about adding a policy.Still need more help finding the perfect engagement ring setting, here is some advice on finding the perfect ring for your bride-to-be!
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