Buying the right engagement ring can be one of the most difficult and exhilarating processes in any individuals lifetime. Traditionally it has fallen to the responsibility of the proposer to find the ring; however, today couples often shop together to select the ring. Either way; this exciting challenge requires an understanding in order to find the engagement ring that is unique and will adequately reflect the true essence of this important milestone.
For many the starting point for purchasing a ring may well be budget setting. Conventional thought suggests that an engagement ring purchase should equal between one and two months’ salary, however, the far superior element is the thought and consideration put into finding your loved ones’ ring that they will likely wear forever.
You must identify the correct setting for your stone including traditional classic solitaire, three stone setting, side stones, tension setting and pave setting. Your individual taste and imagination will guide you through this choice and should you wish to have a truly bespoke design, an expert jeweller will offer an individually designed jewellery setting. This will allow any setting choice to be fully customised.
Selecting a diamond or gemstone can seem to be steeped in confusion, but time invested on understanding the options will provide you with assurance and satisfaction you have made the right choice. What do you need to discuss with your chosen jeweller?
Carat: the Carat weight is determined by the mass of a diamond. This corresponds to price but increases as larger diamonds are more desirable and less common.
Cut: accomplished craftsmen shape and polish diamonds with angles. The cut of a diamond is a precise mathematical equation and should not be confused with the shape of any gemstone.
Colour: the ideal diamond is perfectly transparent. As a natural stone, virtually every diamond has minor structural or chemical imperfections which in turn alter its value. This is almost impossible to see by the naked eye but the colour clarity will be graded and allows for a range of affordability.
Clarity: an inclusion is identified as a structural imperfection such as clouding, minuscule cracks or foreign material within the diamond. The variance in number, size, visibility and colour of these will impact the stones’ clarity.
The final decision is based around metal choice; ranging in price from platinum, white gold or yellow gold. All have their benefits and challenges but it is likely that your choice will be influenced not only by budget but by what existing jewellery your loved one is wearing.
Choosing an engagement ring may be a once in a lifetime event, however, time invested on finding a quality handmade local jeweller will result in an established relationship, likely to last a lifetime. This relationship will allow confidence and trust in purchasing wedding bands, anniversary jewellery and subsequent gifts.
Depending on your chosen jeweller, a form of guarantee or warranty is likely to be offered with your purchase. Understand your purchase and let your choice reflect the time and thought invested. The symbolism and significance of an engagement ring is an outward sign of your love; a high-class jeweller will appreciate this and will offer information, detail and advice to assist. The result equals the right choice and will give you immense pride when proposing!