For every man who intends to marry, the issue of an engagement ring will pop up in one instance or another. It may get quite stressful when you are shopping for the ring, but by following these guidelines, you can make it fun and enjoyable. The first tip before we begin is that you should only get something that is valuable and of excellent quality as it marks a huge stage of your life. Let’s regress a little to the basics.
What is an engagement ring?
An engagement ring is not an ordinary ring, as it symbolizes that the woman wearing it is engaged. It is worn on the left-hand ring finger. An engagement is not a new concept, as it did exist traditionally as a betrothal gift. Once the woman received the ring, it was a sign to show her acceptance to get married to the man. It is a ring set with a gemstone, the commonest being diamond.
Who should shop for the engagement ring?
It is a debate that many men have when they want to propose. Most wonder whether they should shop for the ring before proposing, or propose to the woman, and let her shop for the ring herself. It is a personal decision, but many opt for the latter.
Letting a woman shop for herself makes more sense because she gets to choose what is most appealing to her, and secondly, women love shopping. It may seem odd proposing without a ring, but it has its perks because you do not want your wife-to-be getting angry at you for choosing the wrong ring.
Tips for shopping for an engagement ring
Shopping for an engagement ring is not as simple as it seems. One never realizes this, until you start shopping, and you find that you so many alternatives to choose from, and they all seem stunning at first sight. You and the woman you love may be moving from store to store, and never choose. Here are two tips to help you;
Research
Never underestimate the power of research when you are choosing something. Get to know everything about rings, the types, gemstones, and any other necessary information. Every piece of information is crucial.
Seek help
In Australia, many professionals can help you choose a ring. The experts can help you with your research, and point in the right direction, helping make the process more straightforward.
Bonus tip: match your wedding ring with your band
It may surprise you to know this, but it is a common thing in Australia. The sight is spectacular and memorable when you have the rings matching with the band. Try it, and you won’t regret it.
Types of diamond engagement rings
Diamond is the best gemstone you can opt for, as it is valuable, durable, and stunning. Diamond comes in three types which are;
Solitaire diamond ring
The solitaire diamond ring has only one central diamond mounted at the centre of the band. It is simple, traditional, but elegant. The central diamond comes in several shapes such as princess, round, marquis, oval, pear, Asscher, cushion among many others.
Three-stone diamond ring
As the name dictates, it is a ring with three diamonds mounted on the band. You can have a ring with the same diamond shapes or one with different shapes. Whichever you choose the designers always find a way to synchronize the three diamonds to make a ring that is unique and lavish.
Diamond side-stone ring
The diamond side-stone ring has a central diamond at the centre same as the solitaire diamond ring. However, the diamond side-stone ring has some additional flavour, as it has some small diamonds set on the side, making it classier and stylish.
What to know when buying engagement rings
Having information with you is necessary when buying an engagement ring. Here are some things you should keep in mind when buying the rings;
A ring can be custom made.
You may be shopping with your wife-to-be and realize she does not seem to find what best suits her, and every ring has a certain element that does not fit her. If this is the case, you can find a jeweller that will design the ring according to her specifications. However, note that for a custom made ring, the process may take longer, and will probably cost more.
Delivery takes about six weeks.
Your timing must be good, and you don’t want the ring to delay your plans, so order your ring early. Keep in mind that delivery takes about six weeks, or more, especially if it is a custom made ring. If you wish to engrave anything on the ring, order for it during the time of the order.
Diamond engagement rings come with a certificate.
GIA is responsible for evaluating the authenticity of the diamond. They provide the manufacturer with a diamond-grading report which should be given to you. The report contains the detail about the diamond, and you should study it to ensure you are getting what you have in mind, and it is authentic. Every detail is important when buying an engagement ring.
The 4Cs
GIA grades diamonds using the 4Cs which are, cut, clarity, colour, and carat. Carat refers to the weight of the diamond. You should be familiar with the 4Cs as they play a vital role in helping you and your partner make the right decision.
Gauge what is more important to your wife-to-be. Once you identify the ‘C’ that takes priority, making a decision will be easier, as you can eliminate many of the options available in the market.
Bottom Line
Out of the many pieces of jewellery we buy in our life, the engagement ring is more than a simple jewel, it is a symbol. The choosing of the ring should be precise. One must always put his/her effort in researching about the rings to get one that is appropriate and charming. In Australia, there are many experts you can acquire help from, so do not hesitate to consult them.
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