When you find that special someone and decide to spend the rest of your life with them, there are a lot of things that come to mind. One of them will be how to get the ideal engagement ring that will make her excited to begin her life with you. Today, there are so many choices that it might be daunting.
In fact, if you walk into a jewelry store without a plan or a concept of what you want, you are unlikely to leave with a purchase, and even if you do, you are unlikely to be satisfied with what you choose. This is due to the fact that there are so many possibilities and so many things to make you question what she would truly enjoy. Choosing the proper ring, on the other hand, does not have to be difficult, and it is something that anybody can accomplish.
You will be able to discover the ring that will make her as happy as knowing that she is going to marry you with a little patience and the love that you feel for that particular someone. Finding a perfect ring requires learning to listen to her and the topics she discusses. You must also be aware of a few facts about her that will be really useful.
Prior to Purchasing an Engagement Ring
1. Go out on a date for a while
One of the most common errors individuals make while getting married is getting married too soon. No one wants to be in a relationship that ends in divorce or a broken engagement. Before someone can truly know if things will work out, they must spend a large amount of time together and get to know one another well. They will be able to forecast if they will be satisfied with one other and how dating will proceed if they do this. So make a point of remembering these things and dating each other for a time before deciding whether or not you actually want to get married.
2. Have a Future Discussion
Before you get engaged, you should be upfront and honest with your fiancĂ©e about your future plans. You and your partner should have comparable life goals. You’ll want to make sure that you desire to spend the rest of your lives together and that you see each other in your dreams. Consider your future with your girlfriend as your wife as one of the best things you can do. Then think about your future without her. If you think the one with her in it is a lot better than the one without, it’s a good indicator that you should get engaged.
3. Recognize that your ideal family is the same as hers.
You and your partner should be discussing what you want for your family in the future. Consider children. If you want to start a family, be sure your partner wants to start one as well. If you don’t want to have children, be sure your partner doesn’t want them as well. Many relationships end because of this, and it is something that should be explored before deciding whether or not to become engaged. This is not an area where one person should try to influence the other in a particular route. Instead, it’s a terrific method for couples to see if they’d be better off going in a different direction.
4. Have a general idea of the types of rings she prefers
When it comes to the many types of rings available, there are a few factors to keep in mind. You must know what she loves because there are so many various sorts of rings that you will never be able to decide what to buy. More antique styles, cluster rings, solitaires, and a variety of other options are available. Pay attention to the aspects she likes when she sees other people’s rings and realize that this is a terrific sign that you’ve found something she’ll like.
5. Talk about Ring Dreams.
One excellent tip is to speak with her about the many styles of rings she enjoys. Before you go shopping for a ring, ask her what she wants. Recognize that she most likely already has a good sense of what she wants, but also that she may not desire what everyone else wants. Some ladies despise diamonds and refuse to wear a certain stone on their ring finger simply because it is customary. Others have no idea what they want and would be content with anything.
6. Discover her true feelings about a ring
If you come across a ring, ask her what she thinks about it. Laugh and inquire whether she’d want a ring like that or if there’s anything else she’d prefer different. If you don’t want her to know you’re going to start looking for a ring for her, casually question her in separate discussions or when you see an ad.
7. Be Aware of Her Size
When you go to get engaged, one of the worst things that might happen is if the ring does not fit on her finger. There are several methods for determining her ring size. If you really want to surprise her, acquire a little sizer and test it on her while she’s sleeping. You might also approach her and inquire about her ring finger size. Most women are aware of this truth since they long for the day when they will be engaged and married.
8. Find out what metals she prefers.
With her ring, you’ll be able to choose from a variety of metals and finishes. Understand her preferences in terms of metal. To mention a few, there’s silver, titanium, white gold, yellow gold, and platinum. There’s also a smooth finish, a satin finish, a glossy finish, and several more finish options. There are many various metals to pick from, depending on what you want to do.
9. Find out if you have any metal allergies.
Make sure you’re aware that metals can cause a variety of allergies. Some women have gold allergies, while others have silver allergies. Determine whether your partner is allergic to any of the several metals. If she is, ensure that the ring you are considering does not include any of this metal. For various reasons, different metals are occasionally combined together.
10. Check Out Her Favorite Stones
Determine whether or not your girlfriend like diamonds. While this is the most common stone for an engagement ring, it is not the only option. Some ladies desire a stone that isn’t the same as what every other bride has on her ring finger. Some ladies choose a ring that has been manufactured in a more ethical manner and has stones that have been obtained under safe working circumstances.
11. Recognize her favorite shapes
Stones come in a wide range of forms and sizes. Find out which shapes your partner prefers. Consider the size of her finger as well as the shapes that will look best on her. A princess cut diamond would not look as stunning on a tiny woman as an emerald cut diamond would.
12. Recognize Her Personality
Every lady has her own personal style. Understanding the various styles can help you come up with a list of styles that she will enjoy. If you require assistance, there are several fundamentals that will make things easier for you. A girlfriend with a traditional style wears khakis, polo shirts, and cardigans. Your girlfriend can be boho chic if she has a hippy or laid-back style. If she prefers dresses, blazers, and pearls, her style will most likely be deemed more formal. Choosing the proper style will make it easier for you to communicate your desires to a jeweler.
13. Know Where You’re Going
Before you start shopping, you should know where you’re going. If you have the funds, a private jeweler will be able to provide you with the greatest options. Consider what jewelry stores are accessible in your neighborhood if you have a more limited budget. This will make it easier for you to find what you want when shopping.
14. Take into account insurance.
There are a variety of reasons why you should insure your girlfriend’s ring. Before you start shopping, check with your insurance agent to see if you can get the ring insured through them. If you can’t afford it, get insurance before you go ring shopping. If you are buying something valuable, you should have it insured on the day you pick it up and take it home.
15. Make a financial plan.
Before you can shop, you must first ensure that you have the appropriate budget. You must determine how much you can afford and how much you are prepared to spend on a ring. Of course, this does not imply that you will know exactly how much you will spend. One decent rule of thumb is to budget for one month’s worth of wages. Many ordinary people cannot afford to spend this much money, therefore it may not be the ideal option for you.
16. Pay Attention to Her Favorite Things
When you’re looking for an engagement ring, be aware of the many aspects that your girlfriend like in general. Pay attention to her favorite items and what she’ll like wearing on her ring finger on a regular basis. If she has a special interest, you may include it into the engagement ring so that she always has it with her. Just remember to think logically and select a high-quality ring that will not shatter easily because she will be wearing it all the time.
17. Pay a visit to a jewelry store with her.
When it comes to attempting to buy an engagement ring, many people make the mistake of never going jewelry shopping with their girlfriends. Tell her you want to pick out the right necklace or bracelet if you don’t want to give it away. When you’re waiting for someone to help you, stand near the engagement ring case and watch if she notices anything. If she remembers what she’s pointing out, that is.
18. Locate a Reputable Jeweler
You may make or shatter your relationship with the appropriate jeweler. If you’re looking for a good jeweler, ask your friends and family for references. If you know someone who buys a lot of jewelry, you might ask them if they can recommend a jeweler. Using a jeweler to acquire precisely what you want for your girlfriend while also getting exactly what she wants is a fantastic idea.
19. Before you go shopping, don’t form any opinions.
One thing you should remember is to shop with an open mind. Allowing oneself to build opinions before entering the business is not a good idea. Many individuals make the mistake of concluding they don’t like something before even seeing it. This will prevent you from viewing a plethora of options, one of which may be ideal for your partner.
20. Think about opening a jewelry store chain or a single store.
You have a lot of options when it comes to where you may buy an engagement ring. Consider going to a chain jewelry store or a general store that is also a chain. There are so numerous stores now that sell engagement rings that people may choose a range of options regardless of their financial situation.
What to Do When You’re With a Jeweler
21. Locate the Ideal Stone
When you’re with a jeweler, the first thing you should do is decide on the stone you want in the ring. You can choose from a range of diamonds or something else entirely. Consider your budget and the setting you desire, and select the greatest quality choice that you can afford without exceeding it.
22. Select the Most Appropriate Location
When you’re with a jeweler, the next thing you need to decide is what kind of setting you want for your ring. With so many settings to choose from, you’ll be able to find some fantastic selections for your future wife. Consider her favorite items as well as her fingers to see what would look best on them. Choose a high-quality location that will be both comfortable for her and attractive to her.
23. Make a Strategy
Before you go shopping, you must have a strategy. Having a strategy can assist you in making the best decisions from the possibilities available to you. It will also assist you in knowing what you actually want and avoiding being pressured into buying something that isn’t ideal by a pushy salesperson. Even if the salesperson believes your future fiancee would prefer something else, trust your instincts because you are the one who knows her best.
24. Put it Down on Paper
When you’re visiting multiple jewelers and trying on different rings, make sure you write everything down. If you’re willing to buy immediately, some jewelers will try to give you a better bargain on a ring. If you return at a later date, they may raise the price as a result of this. Have them write everything down for you so you know exactly what you’re receiving, and have them assist you in making sure you can have the same ring you talked about in the future if you decide to buy it.
25. Request a Photograph
Explain to the jeweler that you are still hesitant and would like to be able to show friends and relatives to see what they think. If it’s a bespoke item, agree that you won’t reveal it to anybody else. Talk to them about why you want the photo as well. Explain to the jeweler that you want to compare the ring to another ring and gather feedback from your girlfriend’s close friends and relatives. Always seek permission before taking a photo, as it may be deemed impolite to do so otherwise.
26. Examine Certification
Because diamonds may be verified, one of the things you should look for in a ring is one that can be certified. This is something to consider when obtaining insurance to replace your ring with one of comparable quality if it is stolen. It can also assist the ring retain its worth in the event that you have an emergency and need to sell it.
27. Be aware of the four Cs
When it comes to diamond purchasing, the four Cs are quite crucial.
1. Cut – Many people mistakenly believe that this refers to the diamond’s form, but it actually refers to the proportions. It makes little difference what form a diamond is, but it must be cut and polished properly to have brilliance. Because the light is reflected back to the person gazing at it, a diamond that is cut perfectly will have greater sparkle.
2. Color – Most people are unaware that diamonds may come in a variety of colors. There are three types of diamonds: black, yellow, and white or colorless. The majority of individuals are seeking for a colorless diamond. The major diamond rating system, which is used to define color, spans from D to Z. Diamonds with a D grade are of the greatest quality. D, E, & F, on the other hand, are colorless; G, H, I, & J are virtually colorless; K, L, & M have a faint yellow hue; N, O, P, Q, & R have a very light yellow color; and S, T, U, V, W, X, Y, & Z have a light yellow tint. It might take years of practice for someone to be able to recognize the difference between diamonds and the letters assigned to them.
3. Clarity – A diamond’s clarity relates to whether or not it has faults and where they are located. The clarity score of a diamond is determined by seeing it under a magnification of ten times. VVS (very, very small inclusions), VS (very small inclusions), SI (small inclusions), and I (internally flawless with minimal surface defects) are the scores (imperfect which means inclusions are visible by the naked eye).
4. Carat – The weight of a diamond is measured in carats. Diamonds gain in value as they rise in carat size because they become increasingly uncommon. Diamonds of greater size are far more rare than diamonds of lesser size.
So it’s a good idea to have a basic understanding of these items and the ranking before you go. This can help you comprehend why two diamonds that appear to be identical can have such a wide price range.
28. Do some research
It’s a good idea to do some study before going shopping. Look up diamond sellers on the internet and compare pricing for several sorts of diamonds that are identical to the one you desire. To avoid being ripped off in the end, know what a decent price on the diamond you desire is. If you go without doing your homework, you run the chance of being sold a lower-quality diamond for a higher-quality diamond price.
29. Have a clear idea of what you want
Be mindful of the fundamentals that you desire. It’s a good idea to keep this in mind if you desire a bigger ring but are ready to sacrifice some clarity and color to make it more cheap. Some individuals choose to gift a smaller, more perfect diamond and want the best quality possible for the money they have to spend. Determine what is most essential to you, and make sure the jeweler is aware of this.
30. Be aware of ring statistics
Before you go shopping for rings, you should be aware of basic statistics. One of them is that before buying a ring, the average male visits four different jewelry stores. Take away from this that it’s fine to shop around for rings and that you should check out other stores. That is not to say you should pass on the perfect ring if you are fortunate enough to discover it on your first try, but it does imply you should evaluate what else is available if you do not find exactly what you are searching for. Remember that most men will wait at least four months after purchasing the ring before proposing since it is natural to want to be sure that this is the lady with whom you want to spend the rest of your life.
31. Let Her Assist You to Calm Your Nerves
If you’re still stumped and getting nervous just thinking about going ring shopping, consider whether or not you’d like her to assist you. You might ask her to show you some of her favorite rings and ask her what she wants on her ring finger. You might be surprised by what you learn. For example, I had diamonds from both of my former spouses, but I didn’t want another diamond from my current husband. I wanted something spectacular and one-of-a-kind, and I didn’t want him to buy me a ring just because he was obliged to. For me, the diamond had lost part of its luster, and while I still see some beautiful rings that I would love to have, I would much rather have something unique that he had designed specifically for me. Because we had been together for a long time and were merely going to the courthouse, we got married with only bands.
32. Know Your Shopping Averages
When it comes to shopping for an engagement ring, there are a few statistics to consider. One of them is that if the pair does not live together, the average guy spends around one month’s pay on an engagement ring. In couples that live together, however, the average guy spends just 25% of his monthly salary on a ring. This is due to the fact that they are responsible for paying expenses and operating a combined home, and it appears that women who live with their potential spouse have lower expectations of them. Another thing to keep in mind is that the typical engagement lasts 16 months, so even if you aren’t ready to marry yet, your engagement will give you time to relax and prepare for the next step.
33. Recognize that it is OK to visit more than one jeweler.
When a guy considers visiting more than one jeweler to look at rings, he often feels terrible. Women are known for shopping around and trying to get the greatest discounts, while most men like to go to just one store and not have to search around for stuff. As a result, you may discover that it is a good idea to shop around and see what fresh offers you can get with the many rings that are available. Additionally, you will be able to guarantee that you receive the finest variety and see the many options that are truly available to you.
34. Refuse to be swayed by pressure tactics
Jewelry salespeople employ a variety of high-pressure tactics designed to make you feel compelled to buy the ring right away. One of these methods is when a salesperson makes you feel as if you’re the only one looking at the ring you’re looking at. When they say this, they’re emphasizing that they can’t save the ring for you or hold onto it if someone else buys it before. Another method of applying pressure is through sales. The salesperson may inform you that there is a fantastic secret sale going on right now or at a later date. If this is the case, keep in mind that jewelry is one of the most expensive items. When you return to make a purchase, even though the deal is not ongoing, you can persuade the salesperson to sell the item to you at the sale price since the markup is so huge that they are still making a lot of money. Finally, a jeweler may try to persuade you that this is the only ring like it accessible, that there is none like it everywhere and that there will never be another one like it. Let’s face it, even the most extraordinary and one-of-a-kind ring has at least one other ring that is quite similar, if not identical. So, don’t be fooled by these high-impact sales techniques. Just because you wish to wait doesn’t imply you won’t be able to acquire the identical ring for less money.
35. Seek Out Something Distinctive
Not every bride will be pleased with the solitary diamond ring that most people envision when they receive an engagement ring. In fact, some brides will be like me and desire something unique that represents the two of you rather than a ring that everyone else has. There are certain ladies that desire that massive diamond, but if your girlfriend is one of them, you should already be aware of this. If you have an artsy girlfriend that is constantly thinking outside the box, you should try doing something unique for her. It could be a good idea to think of a method to include her favorite object into the ring.
36. Evaluate Alternatives
Because there are so many rings to choose from, it’s a good idea to take your time and carefully consider all of your options. You may compare rings from two distinct retailers as well as rings from various stores within the same store. You could discover that it’s a good idea to bring someone else with you who you trust’s viewpoint. If you can’t decide between different styles and locations, you could wish to involve someone who is close friends with your partner.
37. Obtain a numbering system
Once you’ve chosen a ring, make sure to get it numbered. You want to be sure that this is your ring, and having it numbered is a terrific method to help secure it in the event that it is misplaced or stolen. Just tell the jeweler before you pick up your ring that you want it numbered.
Have paperwork on it (number 38)
Paperwork is another item that you should have on your diamond. Certified diamonds and other high-quality options should come with papers detailing the ring’s details as well as the many quality factors. Choosing to have the proper papers made out is crucial and will only serve to increase the ring’s worth in the future.
39. Understand how to save money
You may save a significant amount of money on a ring in a variety of ways. One of ways is by selecting a metal other than the ones that everyone else uses. Gold is an extremely soft metal that is easily scratched and damaged. Instead of picking something as valuable as gold, you might want to consider something else. Personally, I like the appearance and feel of titanium, which is also less expensive than silver and can handle the extra wear and tear that a mother’s ring receives. I regularly forget to take it off when I’m doing dishes or cleaning, and it still looks exactly the same as the day we bought it.
Additionally, if your lady isn’t a fan of diamonds, consider other stones. Moissanite is one of the greatest stones for engagement rings. This is a magnificent stone that, in my view, does not receive enough attention. This is because the stone is really magnificent in person, was ethically mined, and shines like none of the diamonds I’ve ever seen. It’s a terrific option for a bride who wants something unique while yet maintaining a sense of beauty and sophistication.
40. Keep in Mind That You Can Always Trade Up
When shopping for rings, many men feel insignificant if they can’t afford something as large as they want. Consider the engagement ring to be a beginner ring, similar to how you could think of a starter house as a forerunner to your ideal home. Consider the possibility of exchanging the ring for something greater in the future. Some jewelers and jewelry stores will give you a complete refund if you exchange in your old ring for a new one. This implies that if you wish to trade it in for something greater in the future, you will lose nothing and will receive the same amount of money as you spent for the ring. This is a fantastic price and something to keep an eye out for if you plan on trading in the ring in the future.
41. Make an original contribution
There are a plethora of creative methods to add something unique to an engagement ring. Consider writing a few lines from your song on the band’s interior. Consider how you can add a one-of-a-kind element or design to the ring that you haven’t seen before. I’ve always thought the bands that seemed like they meant a lot to you were adorable. I have a buddy who has a golden flower with a stone in the middle and another who has five diamonds set in the shape of a star.
Visit the World Wide Web
42. Visit a variety of websites
There are a lot of fantastic locations where you can buy engagement rings online. Of course, as a skeptic, I would strongly advise taking the ring, together with any papers and information, and having it evaluated once you have it. Also, be sure you can obtain a complete refund if the ring isn’t what they claim it is. This implies that if you buy a certain clarity and it isn’t as good as the jeweler claims, you may get your money back and return it to them.
Consider browsing at handcrafted websites to find one-of-a-kind pieces from actual jewelry artisans and craftsmen.
43. Take a look at Tiffany’s.
When they become engaged, any woman who has ever watched a romantic movie or seen a fantastic ad will secretly be wishing for that tiny blue box. Even I, who am not usually that sort of lady, would love to have a Tiffany’s ring. Tiffany’s will astound you with their enormous selection, which varies greatly in price and specificity. There are a plethora of options open to everyone.
44. Increase the number of options available
When it comes to rings, never settle. Make sure you keep exploring online to discover what options are available to you. When you go online, you can see a wide range of options that you wouldn’t see if you went somewhere else. There are several factors to consider, as well as numerous options to examine.
45. Examine More Specifications and Options
Search for those keywords if you want to be able to locate whatever you’re looking for. Consider your perfect ring and then go out and find it. You could even be able to utilize a search engine to find the best jewelry store or jeweler for your needs.
Prior to Posing the Question
46. Be 100 percent certain
Of course, before proposing, you should be very certain that this is the lady with whom you want to spend the rest of your life. Keep in mind that, despite all of her positive characteristics, there are certain to be some aspects of her that you dislike. All of this is very normal. You may feel convinced that you have picked the proper lady for you if you can live with the worst of her and be pleased.
47. Be aware of what irritates you about her.
It’s a good idea to have everything out in the open before proposing. Consider your girlfriend’s flaws and the things that irritate you the most. Imagine living a life where you must deal with these issues on a regular basis. Consider the possibility that you’ll have to cope with her unpleasant habits on a daily basis. Is this something you’ll be satisfied with in the future? If that’s the case, it’s a good idea to think about whether or not it’s the proper person to ask to marry you.
48. Think about asking your parents first.
Some women cry at the prospect of their lover asking her parents for her hand in marriage. Other ladies find this custom to be rather outdated. Know the lady you’re dating and whether or not she’ll appreciate you approaching her parents first. If you and your family have a good relationship, this is a great act of respect that shows her parents that you care about their opinion and that you value their blessing.
49. Make a Special Arrangement
A one-of-a-kind proposal will be a story she will tell for the rest of her life. It’s also a terrific method to remember yourself how much she meant to you and how much you wanted to marry her when things got rough. There are a plethora of creative methods to plan something special. Just remember to include her favorite items, and it will be even more precious than before.
50. Make a Memorable Moment for Her
Your engagement should leave a lasting impression on your future bride. It should be a wonderful celebration of your love for one another as well as the many years you’ve spent together doing everything you’ve always wanted to do. When you’re attempting to make this memory, don’t sweat the tiny stuff. Relax and appreciate the opportunity to present her with the wonderful ring that you recently selected for her.