Shopping For an Engagement Ring: Our Expert Tips
How to Shop for an Engagement Ring: Our Expert Tips
If you’ve decided to spend the rest of your life with your partner, shopping for an engagement ring is one of the most important (and exciting!) steps. This piece of jewellery symbolises your commitment and is an accessory you or your significant other will likely wear every day. Since buying an engagement ring is also a significant investment, you'll want to make an informed choice.
Whether you're shopping solo or browsing in-store with your partner, there are many factors to consider. Determine the design, including the shape and size of the stone and the metal of the band. Assess the quality and legitimacy of each gem while keeping your budget in mind since engagement rings typically come with a hefty price tag.
Get Your Ring Finger Measured
Before doing anything, ensure you have an accurate measurement of your or your partner's ring finger. The last thing you want is an ill-fitting engagement ring, so finding a band that feels snug but comfortable is crucial. If you’re shopping as a couple, you can easily get sized at a jewellery store. If you're secretly shopping for your partner, ask a mutual friend or take one of their rings to a jeweller for sizing.
Determine the Shape You Want
Deciding on the shape of the centre stone before you shop will streamline the process. Familiarise yourself with different shapes and identify one or two favourites. From round-cut and princess-cut to cushion-cut and emerald-cut, there are many options. Each cut is priced differently per carat. For instance, round cuts are the most expensive, whereas pear and marquise cuts are more affordable. If you're on a budget, choosing an alternative shape to the classic round cut might be your best bet.
Have a Carat Size in Mind
Carat size is another essential factor. As much as people say that size isn't important, it's always the starting point because colour and clarity can be tweaked to fit your budget. Decide whether a larger stone or a clearer diamond is more important to you. To save money, consider less common carat sizes, as diamond prices increase significantly at whole or half-carat weights. Buy a diamond just shy of these common weights—you'll save money, and no one will notice it's a .92 carat instead of 1 carat.
Choose the Right Metal
Next, consider the metal for the band, such as yellow gold, white gold, rose gold, silver, or platinum. Your lifestyle and budget will influence this choice, as some metals scratch more easily and some are more expensive. For example, while white platinum and silver look similar, platinum is pricier due to its rarity and density. Also, consider whether stones in the band or multiple bands suit your or your partner’s style.
Consider Matching Your Wedding Band
While the engagement ring is crucial, don’t forget about the wedding band. When searching for an engagement ring, think about what style of wedding band would match best. Some engagement rings don’t allow a band to fit flush against them, so consider prong versus pavé and channel-set stones before committing to an engagement ring style.
Consider Working with a Virtual, Private or Online Jeweller
While you can browse retail jewellers, choosing to work with private or virtual jewellers means you can avoid unnecessary markups and create a more unique ring.
The Ultimate Engagement Ring Guide
Assess the 4Cs
Whether you choose a retailer or wholesaler, assess the 4Cs—cut, colour, clarity, and carat—of each diamond. According to Ira Weissman, creator of The Diamond Pro, the quality of colour and clarity doesn’t need to be a top priority. Even the lowest colour and clarity diamonds can appear colourless and flawless to the naked eye, offering significant price savings. However, don’t compromise on the cut, which gives the diamond its sparkle. A perfectly cut diamond, even if the rough diamond is so-so, will look stunning. Conversely, a poorly cut top-of-the-line diamond will look lacklustre.
Check That It’s Certified
Ensure the diamond is certified by an accredited laboratory like the American Gem Society or Gemological Institute of America. Some jewellery stores mark up prices with less reputable certifications, misleading customers about the diamond’s quality.
Ensure the Certificate Matches the Diamond
Most diamonds have a laser inscription on the girdle (the thin perimeter dividing the crown and pavilion). Ask your jeweller to check the girdle with a loupe, a magnifying lens used for inspecting diamonds. Look at the diamond and match the imperfections to the map on the certificate.
Negotiate the Price
If you've found the perfect ring, try negotiating the price. Engagement rings can be marked up significantly, so it’s worth discussing. A good jeweller will work within your budget and get you the best quality for your needs.
