Buying a diamond engagement ring can be a scary process for a man. But with the proper education and guidance it doesn’t have to be. Before you get started, here’s a list of 5 important things you must know.
1) Find Out What She’s Hoping For
First and most important question – what shape diamond does she like? Let’s make one thing clear. The opinion that matters most on the shape of the diamond is hers. She is the one who will wear it, and she’s the one you want to please. There are a number of different options, from the classic round brilliant to the vintage style of the cushion shape, to the understated elegance of the emerald cut. It’s your job to find out which shape appeals to her.
Second question and equally as important – what style of ring setting does she like? There are many different ring styles and there’s a good chance she has one in mind. Does she like the traditional simplicity of a solitaire platinum mounting? Maybe she prefers side stones, such as tapered baguettes or pear shapes. Or maybe she wants small pave diamonds on the band.
It’s possible that she’s dropped some hints for you along the way. Perhaps you can ask her best friend. Maybe the two of you have been to a jewelry store together. But one way or another, it’s a good idea to find out the answers to these questions. Any inside information you can gather before starting the process will help you along the way.
2) Get Her Finger Size
When you give her the ring, you’ll really want it to fit on her finger. This makes the process of getting her ring size in advance an important one. For some suggestions on how to get her ring size, see our section on Tips on Getting Her Ring Size. Try to get as close as possible, but don’t worry too much if it’s not exact. A ring can be sized up or down slightly after the fact if need be.
3) Set Your Budget
There are a number of different guidelines and suggestions on how to decide how much to spend on a diamond engagement ring. But the most important thing is that you pick a budget that is comfortable for you. Remember that this is a lifetime purchase and that stretching that extra step may ultimately only amount to a small number when spread over the long-run. But never spend more than you are financially comfortable with. The most beautiful element of a diamond engagement ring is not the size or the cost but the sentiment of love with which it is given.
4) Do Your Homework
It’s always important to do some research on your own to learn about the basics of diamonds, often referred to as the 4Cs. An educated consumer is the best consumer and having a basic understanding will help you find your way through the process. Talk to friends or family members who have been down the path, visit a jewelry store to see some diamonds in person, and read the education tools on some reputable Internet sites.
5) Pick a Jeweler To Guide You
Once you’ve given thought to steps 1-4, you need to make perhaps one of the most critical decisions of the engagement ring buying process – selecting a jeweler who will work with you to find the perfect ring. You will want someone who can show you a range of options and who can provide wise guidance to help you select from among the choices. Trust is a critical element of the process, and you must feel comfortable with the person you work with. This is the first stage of what can become a lifelong relationship with a jeweler, so it’s important that you choose wisely.
