So you've found the woman of your dreams? Congratulations, the hardest part is over! Well, that is until you've got in-laws...
Still, prepping for the perfect engagement starts with choosing the perfect diamond ring. Fortunately, this doesn't have to be a daunting task. Whether you're a professional jeweler or you're a new-ring novice, here are 5 tips on choosing the perfect diamond ring for your fiancee.
1. Set a Budget We list this as the first tip of ring shopping because well, it
should be first.
If you don't
set a budget before you shop, you're going to find it extremely difficult to match wants with resources. This doesn't mean you need to, (or even should), share this amount with your future fiancee.
Knowing what you can reasonably afford
before you begin the search will protect you from unwanted debt, and help narrow your choices so selecting the right ring is easier.
After all, engagement should be a time of preparation and joy, not frustration or awkwardness. Tactfully let your future fiancee know, "here are a range of rings within the budget you might consider." Or, ask what her tastes are and choose a similar ring within your range.
This will help her get an idea of what's possible without restricting her to one specific ring.
2. Choose a Shape Yes, girls tend to like surprises and romance. But at the end of the day, no woman wants to be stuck with a ring shape they don't actually like.
This is why having your future fiancee choose the diamond's shape is so vital. It will ease your search and ensure she's thrilled with what you give her.
3. Decide on Carat Size Here's a sneaky trick of the trade. Did you know that if you select a diamond ring in a less "common"
carat size, you could save a boatload? It's true!
Most diamonds are cut in typical sizes like .5 carats or 1, 1.5, etc. But if you ask to have a .87 carat diamond, no one will be able to tell it's not a full 1-carat diamond and you'll save significantly on the cost.
Keep in mind too that size isn't the only consideration. You'll want to think about clarity and cut as those will also affect your end price and satisfaction.
4. Negotiate, Man! For those looking to design a custom ring like those found on
RockHer, this advice is especially useful. Negotiate!
When it comes to choosing a ring, nothing is set in stone (see what we did there...?). With the right sellers, you can negotiate on everything from the band to the setting, to the cut, to the price.
5. Buy a Diamond Ring Wholesale Avoid markups by sticking with a wholesale diamond instead of the big chain sellers. They don't have to pay the say overhead costs that commercial jewelers do so you're more likely to get more for your money.
Making the Purchase Choosing the perfect diamond ring will be easy if you create a plan of action and understand your sweetheart's tastes before ever speaking with a seller. As the saying goes, "preparation precedes power."
For more life-hacks and financial advice, browse our other blog entries. Happy shopping!