Getting engaged is an exciting event and is often commemorated by sealing the promise to marry with a special ring. Your bride-to-be will be wearing this ring every day for the rest of her life, so it’s important to find something special that suits her personality and taste. While shopping for engagement rings can be a lot of fun, it’s also a stressful time, especially if you’ve never done it before!
To help you and your partner find the right ring for your aesthetics and budget, we’re talking about the ten things you need to know when you’re shopping for engagement rings in Denver, CO.
The Stone and Setting Are Sold Separately
The setting (the metal framework of the ring) and the center stone (usually a diamond, but other gemstones are gaining in popularity) are typically sold separately. When shopping for an engagement ring, you may see completed engagement rings, but these are often just samples, so you get an idea of how the ring will look.
While some rings come complete with the center stone, such as antique or heirloom engagement rings, it’s more common now for couples to find a setting they like and then select a gemstone that fits their budget, including the type of stone, the size, and the quality.
The Four Cs
Diamonds are still the most popular stone for engagement rings, often a large solitaire. Finding the best diamond means understanding the 4 Cs, the quality gradings of diamonds.
- Cut, the grading of how well the diamond is cut, which will affect how it captures light and sparkles
- Color, which measures how colorless a white diamond is (can also refer to a diamond being pink or yellow)
- Clarity, which grades the diamond on how flawless it is, both internally, with no inclusions, and externally
- Carat, the weight measurement of a diamond that indicates how large it is
The price of a diamond isn’t just related to how large it is but also how it rates for the other three Cs. A smaller diamond with a higher rating in the cut, color, and clarity will often cost more than a larger carat diamond flow flaws or a poor cut.
Prioritize Your Diamond’s Cut
Speaking of which of the 4 Cs to consider, many jewelers recommend prioritizing the quality of the diamond’s cut. A poor quality cut will limit how well the stone reflects light, which will make it dull and dim. However, a superior cut will allow the ring to catch the light as her hand moves, sparkling away.
Consider the Shape and Style Of Your Ring
The shape of your center stone and the style of the setting have the largest impact on the overall aesthetics of your engagement ring. The shape of the stone can be round, princess cut, oval, teardrop, emerald, and more. The setting of the ring also impacts its style. Some settings have accent stones or “halos” around the center stone, while others may be minimalist, allowing the center stone to shine alone. You may also have vintage settings, or modern and sleek. The setting should complement the center stone and not overshadow it.
Order in Advance
Your local jeweler will need some time to create your engagement ring unless you’re ordering a preset engagement ring. Some rings are only made after your order, paying in full, or putting down a deposit. If you’re waiting to propose until you have the ring, make sure that you place the order far enough in advance to ensure it’s ready by your big day! Six weeks is a good rule of thumb but speak with your jeweler about how long your ring will actually take. The times before Christmas and Valentine’s Day may be busier than others.
There’s Not a “Right Amount” to Spend On Engagement Rings
An old rule of thumb for how much to spend on an engagement ring was two to three months’ salary, but these rules have fallen out of favor lately. Modern couples now may wish to purchase a cheaper engagement ring and save money for a house or honeymoon. However, do bear in mind that an engagement ring is a piece of jewelry that will be worn every day, so investing in a higher-quality ring ensures that it will last.
Consider Upgrading Later
If you and your bride have your hearts set on a large, flashy ring, but it’s not in your budget, you can always upgrade later. Some couples may select a smaller ring to propose with and then upgrade to a larger center stone after a few years. You can incorporate the same setting with a larger stone later or include your initial center stone in the design of a new ring if you choose.
Understanding Precious Metals
Engagement rings aren’t just gold. Several precious metals can be used to create the setting of your ring. Or, a jeweler may have the same style available in different metals. Platinum, white gold, rose gold, and yellow gold is the most popular precious metals for engagement rings. The kind of metal you choose will determine how often you need to clean it and how to best care for it. Some precious metals aren’t designed for everyday wear, so consult with your jeweler about the best metal for your needs.
Don’t Forget Jewelry Insurance
Jewelers will offer warranties on many jewelry pieces, but this isn’t the same thing as jewelry insurance. In fact, these are quite different forms of protection. Jewelers may offer an extended cleaning and maintenance plan for the ring or protection from manufacturing defects and normal wear and tear. On the other hand, Jewelry repair protects you from things like loss or theft.
Customization For Engagement Rings
If you can’t find your dream engagement ring setting, you can always create a custom ring. Some people may have a sketch of the final product and work with a jeweler for a bespoke ring.
Your Denver, CO, Engagement Ring Source
When you’re shopping for the perfect engagement ring in Denver, CO, there’s really only one choice – Matheu’s Fine Watches & Jewelry. We’re professional jewelers with years of experience helping couples find the perfect engagement ring. Come visit our showroom or browse online to learn more!
