Getting engaged is one of the most exciting moments in your life! And if you’re a mom, there’s the extra special touch of committing not only to a partner, but to a family! When it comes to getting engaged, there is the joy around the ‘ask’ itself, the reveal of the ring, the special memories of the even (whether around people or alone), and the pure bliss of realizing that you’re ready to spend the rest of your lives together!
Although a proposal is often a surprise (if that’s the couple’s vibe – of course!), the ring doesn’t have to be. And many would argue that it shouldn’t be. Choosing an engagement ring is all about figuring out your personality, style, aesthetic, and what makes sense for both of your wallets and long-term goals.
Whether you’re moving forward with the next steps soon or planning for a distant future, here is a guide for choosing an engagement ring that’s perfect for you!
1. Set A Realistic Budget
Before you begin looking at stones, you should determine what’s a comfortable financial range that you can afford.
The three months’ salary is still a reasonable measure for cost; however, it can also be a little outdated, with a lot of modern couples now prioritizing their financial health and not pushing themselves into debt due to societal expectations.
Ideally, you want to pick a ring that’s not too expensive for your monthly income and that you can comfortably afford even if you’re saving for a few months or longer. It’s important not to spend so much that you’re compromising what you then spend on the rest of your wedding.
2. Understand The 4 C’s
Educating yourself (and your partner!) on the four C’s will help pick out the right type of ring for your style and preference.
- Cut – The most important factor to get the sparkle you’re after.
- Color – Ranging from D, which is colorless, to Z, which is a light yellow.
- Clarity – The presence of internal inclusions or surface blemishes.
- Carat – The weight of the stone; the heavier the weight, the more expensive it is.
There are plenty of resources online when it comes to understanding grading on a deeper level, too, so be sure to check them out!
3. Choose The Right Metal & Stone
Sustainability seems to be the main focus point for many customers who are buying engagement rings. That’s why there are more lab-grown diamonds now on the market, and these have become increasingly popular amongst newly engaged couples.
An example of this is an Emerald baguette lab diamond setting, using platinum, which is a durable and longer-lasting metal.
4. Identify Your Personal Style
Be mindful of the person receiving the engagement ring, whether that’s yourself or someone you’re giving it to.
Observe what current jewelry they have and identify what sort of style they have when it comes to rings specifically. There might be certain metals they opt for, or perhaps it’s a more vintage look over a modern style.
Also educate yourself on the different styles, too. Solitaire and Halo are two of the most popular, but many people are opting for three-stone rings that represent the past, the present, and the future. What works best is what represents the person wearing it and their values!
5. Prioritize Practicality & Protection
Finally, make sure you’re prioritizing both practicality and protection. When it comes to the sizing, it’s always a good idea to be as accurate as possible. Whether that’s getting a measurement or borrowing a ring that the person wears to determine fit, it’s helpful to avoid issues of resizing.
And, once you purchase the ring, ensure it’s protected immediately through an insurance plan or warranty. You’ll also want to make sure that the person wearing the ring cleans it regularly to keep it in good condition or to stay up-to-date on the warranty (as many warranties require regular cleanings).
With these tips, you’ll be able to choose the perfect engagement ring for your style or for someone you love this year.
Featured Image Credit: Taylor Heery