You’re ready to pop the question and already have a plan for the most amazing proposal. You even have this beautiful speech. You’re stuck on this one crucial thing: the ring. You must be at a loss as to whether to choose used conventional engagement rings to save some money or to invest a specific amount.
Rings are a seal of love and commitment. It’s a prized possession that you can pass down to generations. While it’s a considerable purchase, its value doesn’t lie in its hefty price tag alone. Here are tips to help you get down on one knee with the best engagement ring:
Consider Your Budget
You might’ve heard of the two- or three-month rule, which dictates that your engagement ring should cost two or three months’ worth of your salary. Unknown to most, it was a marketing ploy back in the 1930s to boost diamond sales. This outdated concept shouldn’t compel you to burn a hole in your savings.
Most couples are more practical nowadays. According to the Knot 2021 Jewelry and Engagement Study, couples spend an average of $6,000 for an engagement ring. When setting a budget, determine how much you’re willing to pay and work your choices around it. There are wonderful preowned engagement rings for between $1,000 and $3,000 if you’re looking for a fantastic offer.
Do Know the Four Cs
It’s daunting to check out ring options when you have no idea what you’re looking at. Pretty soon, the displays will start to appear unidentifiable. Picking out a particular style would be a challenge.
The four Cs—carat, cut, clarity, and color—will be your guides when looking at diamond displays. These factors primarily influence an engagement ring’s quality, beauty, and value. Here’s a quick rundown of what these are:
Carat
The metric carat is the standard measurement used to weigh a diamond. A single carat is equivalent to 1.5 grams. The rarity of large diamonds raises their value, so the higher the carat, the more expensive the diamond.
Cut
It is a common misconception that a diamond’s cut only refers to the shape of the stone. The cut is the craftsmanship behind a diamond’s proportion and finish, which dictates how it reflects natural light. You owe the diamond’s sparkle and beauty to its cut. Some of the most popular diamond cuts are round, princess, oval, and cushion.
Color
Although you might know diamonds as clear and glass-like, colorless diamonds belonging to the D–F color scale are hard to find. They’re also way up in the price range. Other diamond color classifications are near colorless (G-J), faint yellow (K-M), very light yellow (N-R), and light yellow (S-Z).
Clarity
Naturally flawless diamonds are scarce. The degree of a diamond’s internal inclusions and external flaws is measured by its clarity. These imperfections are evaluated by diamond graders under a 10x magnification apparatus and are unlikely to be visible to the naked and untrained eye.
Defy the Norms
It’s no secret that engagement rings are synonymous with diamonds. Society’s “A diamond is forever” expectations often make you think diamonds are the only option. As stunning and long-lasting as a diamond, there are a plethora of gemstone alternatives for engagement rings. Take it from Victoria Beckham’s cushion-cut emerald, Katy Perry’s ruby, and Emma Stone’s round pearl.
Look into Your Partner’s Personal Style
Snoop into your partner’s accessory caddy to get an idea of their jewelry choices, such as whether they like gold or platinum bands. Subtly ask for hints or tap their friends if they’ve talked about ring preferences.
You can also think of words to describe their aesthetic. Do they like to doll up glamorously, or are they more into simple, casual wear? Is he or she a minimalist or a maximalist? Do they favor colorful or muted shades? It helps you choose a ring that matches your personal style.
Get the Measurements Right
It’s a real dilemma if you’re planning a surprise proposal. The easiest way to get their size is to sneak out a ring they own and use it as a size sampler. If this isn’t viable, you can discreetly slip a thread on their ring finger. You can also ask your best buddies for help. Whatever you do, find the best way to take the correct measurements to the jeweler so you can propose a great ring that fits them perfectly.
Win That “Yes”
Whatever its design or cost, your engagement ring should express your desire to deepen your relationship with your spouse. Her answer will be influenced not only by the right ring choice but also by how she feels when you propose and your sincere feelings.
