How to Choose the Perfect Engagement Ring: Expert Tips for Size, Style & Gemstones
Choosing the perfect engagement ring is one of the most important purchases you’ll make.
It can be difficult to know where to start at times, as there are so many different options. We have simplified the process into three steps to help you make the perfect choice for your loved one. Whilst you may feel some pressure to make this decision, the most important thing is that you’re picking something that you think they’ll love, and for the majority of people, that’s more than enough, no matter the ring that you pick.
How to Find the Perfect Engagement Ring Size
The first step in buying the perfect engagement ring is to find the right size. You can get engagement rings altered, however, it is best to try and get the size right the first time! The best way to do this is to discreetly borrow a ring from their jewelry collection. Take the ring to a jeweller and they will be able to tell you the ring size.
You could also ask a close friend or family member if they know; however, the more people who know, the less likely it is that you will be able to pull off the surprise. Factor into your budget potential resizing costs just in case, as it isn’t the end of the world if it needs to be changed slightly to be perfect. A high-quality resizing will cost around $80, which is reasonable considering how much engagement rings are worth.
Why Visit a Jeweler for Engagement Ring Advice
If you’re not sure where to begin in terms of style (we hope our next tips will help with this!), we’d recommend going to a jeweller. You don’t have to purchase when you visit a jeweller, and the right place will just want to help you start the journey and find the perfect ring for your loved one. They’ll probably ask you some questions about your fiancé, then make some suggestions about where to begin with engagement rings.
Rather than all the buzz words around jewellery, they will keep things simple and, at a minimum, help you realise what you do want and don’t want, along with showing you different rings and helping you to get some inspiration. This can be a great way to at least start looking and narrow down your options!
Modern vs. Vintage Engagement Rings: Which to Choose?
Your next decision will be whether to go for a modern or vintage engagement ring. Vintage engagement rings are typically more unique and full of character, so they make a fantastic choice if you want something personal for your loved one.
Modern engagement rings tend to look more polished, as they are brand new, and can have a more simplistic design, which some people love. Also, the styles are more contemporary, so they make a good choice for people with a modern jewellery taste. Many modern engagement rings also feature lab-grown diamonds, making them a more affordable choice for the same quality of diamond!
To summarise, vintage engagement rings tend to have more character, yet modern rings are more polished and easier to care for!
Choosing the Best Gemstone and Metal for Your Ring
Diamonds remain the most popular choice for engagement rings due to their durability and timeless appeal.
The next step is to select your gemstone. The most popular choices for engagement rings are diamonds, emeralds, and rubies, as they are the four categories of precious stones. They are also very durable, making them ideal for everyday wear.
If you are unsure of what direction to go in, it is safest to choose the diamond. A diamond’s neutral color complements any outfit, making it a versatile choice. And it is the most popular choice, so it is hard to go wrong. For something with more character, choose a colourful ring.
The deep blue sapphires, bright green emeralds, or striking red sapphires are stunning, so if you feel confident that you know your partner’s taste well, this is a fantastic option. If you select a vintage jewellery ring, you can find some beautiful and unique gemstones that are hard to find in modern jewellery.
Finally, select a metal. The most common and durable choices are silver and gold, so take a look at their current jewellery collection and make an informed decision, because you want it to match the pieces they wear most often. Think about what they usually wear and the jewellery that means the most to them, like gold Arabic necklaces or silver birthstone jewellery, and have a chat with your jeweller, as they are there to help!
Picking Up the Timeless But Trendy Lab-Grown Diamond Engagement Ring
You can find a few recent trends that correspond to timeless vintage motives, in our blog. Tens of years later, they will be as trendy as they are today.
Final Thoughts
Overall, just think about what you can picture your loved one wearing for the rest of their lives. Go to a certified jeweller and they will be more than happy to help you with your choice. If you give them some information about their style and interests, they can help you make the best decision!
- Know your partner’s style: Check their jewelry collection for metal and gemstone preferences.
- Set a budget: Factor in resizing costs and potential customizations.
- Consult a jeweler: Get expert advice to narrow down your options.
Photo by Nimble Video Productions Sydney
