When I set out to buy an engagement ring for my partner, I didn't have a clue where to start! I had never purchased a piece of jewellery in my life - let alone something as important and symbolistic as an engagement ring! Luckily, I had a friend who had been through exactly the same process a few years earlier, so I had his expertise (if you can call it that!) on my side. What he told me was really valuable - so valuable that I am going to share it here with you today to give you a friendly helping hand if you're struggling to know where to start where engagement rings are concerned.
#1: The Perfect Stone?
If you read any guide to diamonds, you'll be au fait with the "four C's" - colour, clarity, carat and cut, but the grading a diamond has received shouldn't be the only thing you take into consideration. A completely flawless diamond isn't needed to make a stunningly beautiful ring; therefore, it's wise to judge a ring on how it looks to you and how it makes you feel, rather than it's official grading.
#2: Think Outside of the Box
With the sheer number of options available, it is wise to consider thinking outside of the box and opting for something 100% unique rather than going for an 'off the shelf' option. Technology allows for pretty much any type or style of ring to be created, so don't be afraid to think outside of the box and go for something truly original.
#3 - Don't Be Afraid To Ask For Help
If you're reading this article, you've definitely sought help from the internet…but it doesn't have to stop there! Speak to anyone who has bought an engagement ring in the past. The more opinions and advice you receive, the better you will be equipped to make the decisions. Of course, the adage' too many cooks spoil the broth;' does spring to mind here, but ultimately it will come down to you and the wants of your partner.
#4 - Your Budget
For many years there has been a 'tradition' that you must spend two months salary on a ring, which is a lot of money! Don't feel pressured into doing this. There are no hard and fast rules about how much you must spend; it's all about your budget and what you can afford - and how to maximise what you have saved up to get the best quality for your money. Don't be forced into buying something because a salesperson has persuaded you to do so (that's their job, remember!); instead, stick to your guns and focus on quality and getting the best ring for your budget. Price is just an arbitrary figure that ultimately means nothing. The ring itself will do the talking, not how much you spend (which no-one will know anyway).
#5 - Don't Forget The Metal!
The main focus when buying or designing a ring is typically on the gemstone. This is not surprising given that it is the centrepiece of the ring and is what people will spend most of their time looking at when they do look at the ring (who doesn't look at a sparkling gemstone?!), but the band is just as important! Think about what metal(s) would complement the cut of gemstone you've opted for and how it will fit in with the overall design.
And there you have it - 5 nuggets of information that will hopefully help you buy the most amazing ring!
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