Engagement Ring Buying Guide: How to Pick the Right Diamond, Style & Budget
What to Know
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Getting an engagement ring your partner will love doesn’t have to be stressful.
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Use tips like the 4 Cs of diamonds to help you select a stunning ring.
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There are multiple ring settings, and your partner’s style should influence your choice.
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Working with Jeweler’s Touch will result in a personalized service and a ring for life.
Buying an engagement ring is one of the most significant purchases a person can make, and with factors like price and style, it can come with a lot of stress. The good news is that the whole process doesn’t have to be as complicated as it seems. For you to have the right knowledge before deciding on your budget and the type of ring, Jeweler’s Touch has created this handy engagement ring buying guide.
Why Buying an Engagement Ring Feels Overwhelming (And How to Simplify It)
We’re constantly bombarded with ads about choosing the right ring and arbitrary societal rules on how much to spend. The reality is, buying an engagement ring is much simpler than it’s made out to be. You don't have to be a Graduate Gemologist or need to max out a credit card to pick a ring that your partner will love.
The simplest way to decrease your anxiety is to understand the four factors that go into buying an engagement ring: knowing the difference between diamonds, choosing a style, selecting a metal, and establishing a realistic budget.
How Do You Choose the Right Engagement Ring?
Start with constant, but quiet observation of the jewelry your partner already wears. Does she prefer silver or gold-toned metals? Does she wear simple or more ornate ring styles? These clues will help you narrow down your engagement ring shopping guide. Also, does she work with her hands or exercise a lot? If so, she needs a ring that can withstand daily wear.
Understanding Diamonds Before You Buy
Diamonds are classified by the 4Cs: cut, color, clarity, and carat. Below are the 4Cs, clearly explained for your diamond engagement ring guide. It’s important not to get too “in the weeds” when picking a diamond because when it comes down to it, the diamond you pick is all about how it looks to you. You don’t wear the certification or report on your finger.
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Cut: A diamond’s cut refers to how well the diamond’s structure interacts with light, the proportions of the diamond, and the overall finish of the stone. The more precisely the diamond is cut, the more it sparkles and is captivating to the eye.
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Color: This actually refers to the lack of color in a diamond. Perfectly colorless or white diamonds are considered the highest quality, while some have a warmish yellow hue. There is a standard grading system for a diamond’s color.
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Clarity: This refers to the small imperfections in or on the outside of the diamond. In most situations, clarity isn’t as important as cut or color.
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Carat: Referring to the diamond’s overall size and weight. The carat count that you select will depend on the ring’s size and setting.
Engagement Ring Styles & Settings Explained
Each engagement ring style offers a specific aesthetic and some practical considerations. The setting holds the diamond and defines the overall look of the ring.
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Halo setting: The halo setting consists of the center stone being highlighted and propped up by a surrounding circle of uniform diamonds, making the center diamond appear larger than it is.
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Solitaire: This setting is definitely the most traditional, and offers a timeless look, with the center diamond front and center held by prongs, usually four to six.
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Channel setting: This places a row of diamonds in a band with no metal spacing. They are typically chosen for wedding and anniversary bands, but can work as engagement rings.
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Split shank: These engagement rings feature a band that divides into two or more strands as it reaches the center stone. It’s a modern and striking aesthetic.
Choosing the Right Metal for an Engagement Ring
Yellow gold is classic and traditional, complementing warmer skin tones. White gold is created by alloying yellow gold with white metals. Then it’s typically plated with rhodium for a bright white finish. Rose gold is for that romantic and vintage look, created by combining yellow gold with copper. They are both durable, while rose gold is distinctive.
How Much Should You Spend on an Engagement Ring?
Start by looking at some typical engagement ring costs and assess what you can comfortably afford without going into debt. An engagement ring is meaningful, but it shouldn't compromise your financial stability or create stress.
Custom vs. Ready-Made Engagement Rings
A custom ring allows you to create something unique that perfectly matches your vision and your partner's preferences. Ready-made rings offer the advantage of immediate availability and the ability to see exactly what you're getting.
Common Engagement Ring Buying Mistakes to Avoid
One of the most common engagement ring buying mistakes is prioritizing size over cut. While a higher carat weight does mean a bigger diamond, a well-cut, smaller diamond often appears more brilliant than a poorly cut larger stone.
Going in with no information on your partner’s current ring style may result in buying a ring that doesn’t fit her aesthetic. Also, try to figure out her correct ring size before you buy a ring. If you can’t, estimate on the larger side so you can slide it on her finger when she says yes! You can have it sized down later. Also some men will opt for a thin temporary solitaire setting for the proposal and then take their fiancée to pick out the perfect ring after.
Engagement Ring Financing Options
If you’ve found the perfect engagement ring, but it’s out of your budget, Jeweler’s Touch offers a flexible financing plan. Plans start with 12 months at 0% interest or 36 months at 9.99%. There is also the 90-day free layaway plan if you or your partner is unsure about the ring choice.
Why Work With a Local Engagement Ring Jeweler Like Jeweler’s Touch
As a local engagement ring jeweler, we’ve been helping people pick the right engagement rings to buy since 1992. Our team is made up of certified GIA (Gemological Institute of America) gemologists, certified diamontologists, and expert goldsmiths. We will give you a personalized experience and offer our engagement ring tips to make your buying process memorable and stress-free.
Service Areas
We are proud to offer engagement ring consultations in:
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Brea – 92821, 92823
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Fullerton – 92831
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La Habra – 90631
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And all of Southern California
Choosing an Engagement Ring With Confidence
Now that you have read our engagement ring guide, you should be able to buy that special ring with confidence. If you are still a bit unsure about how to decide on the right diamond, setting, style, or if you want a custom piece, Jeweler’s Touch is happy to help. Call today and start new memories with us.
Frequently Asked Questions
What diamond shape is best for an engagement ring?
The best diamond shape for an engagement ring is the one your partner will love wearing every day. While there is no universal best shape, round brilliant shapes offer the most sparkle and are the most popular.
What should I know before buying an engagement ring?
You should know your partner’s current jewelry style, your overall budget, and have a basic understanding of a diamond’s 4Cs. Always work with a jeweler you can trust, like Jeweler’s Touch.
How long does it take to buy or custom-make an engagement ring?
It can take less than an hour to buy a ready-made ring, but approximately four weeks for a custom-made ring. The experts at Jeweler’s Touch are here to help you make a custom design that fits your partner's lifestyle and your budget.