Do’s and Don’ts when buying engagement rings

Sergey Bobik // Shutterstock

Do’s and Don’ts when buying engagement rings

A woman tries on a diamond engagement ring.

Shopping for engagement rings can be an exciting but intimidating experience. From choosing the perfect ring to navigating budget constraints, there are several factors to consider to ensure a smooth and enjoyable shopping experience. To help you make the right decisions, VRAI Ten basic dos and don’ts when buying engagement rings are detailed.

Top Ten Dos and Don’ts When Buying Engagement Rings

So you’ve met your life partner and are ready to commit, but everything from the diamond shape to the center stone to the bracelet style doesn’t make sense? Here are some basic rules for buying an engagement ring.

Set a budget

While it’s natural to want to splurge on the perfect ring for your partner, it’s important to set a realistic budget and stick to it. Overspending can put unnecessary strain on your finances and rob you of the joy of the moment.

Instead, focus on finding engagement rings that fit within your budget while still meeting your partner’s preferences and expectations.

Focus on what elements you want to prioritize when looking at engagement rings. Do you need a large center stone? Do you need a specific ring style? Is platinum a must or do you want to show off your love for yellow gold? Knowing what’s most important to you when it comes to finding your own unique ring is key and helps you decide where to focus your budget.

There is good news for those looking for a large diamond as a center stone. Lab-grown diamonds are often more affordable than mined diamonds—meaning lab-grown engagement rings offer you more sparkle for less money.

Do your research

Before you dive into the world of engagement ring shopping, take the time to learn about the different aspects of diamonds, gemstones, and ring settings. Check out 4C of Diamond Quality— cut, color, clarity and carat weight — and consider factors such as ring metal, style and durability. Armed with knowledge, you’ll be better prepared to make informed decisions and avoid common mistakes.

There is no right or wrong way to do your research, you can either start by looking at online interaction blogs or go to a jewelry store to talk to a good jeweler or diamond expert to get pointed in the right direction. Their advice can give you a better idea of ​​what you’re looking for and maybe even help you decide on your engagement ring and wedding jewelry.

Give yourself time

One of the most important things when shopping for engagement rings is to give yourself plenty of time to explore your options. Rushing into a decision can lead to regrets later. Start your search early so you can carefully review and compare different styles, designs and prices.

Know that a completely custom engagement ring can take several weeks to create, so don’t go shopping expecting to walk out the same day with the ring of your dreams. While this can happen, it’s best to plan ahead and give yourself plenty of time and less stress.

Make an appointment

When visiting jewelry stores, it is advisable to make an appointment rather than showing up unannounced. This ensures that you receive personalized attention from a knowledgeable salesperson who will guide you through the selection process and answer any questions you may have.

Additionally, making an appointment can help minimize wait times and ensure the store has the exact ring styles you’re interested in.

Measure your ring size

Before you make a purchase, be sure to determine your groom-to-be’s ring size to ensure a perfect fit. You can secretly borrow one of the existing rings or ask the help of a trusted friend or family member to obtain this information. Additionally, many jewelry stores offer free ring sizing services to help you find the perfect ring.

Don’t do this for anyone else

While it’s natural to seek advice from friends and family, ultimately the decision should be between you and your partner. Don’t fall into the trap of outside opinions or expectations and focus on choosing a ring that resonates with your relationship and reflects your partner’s individual style and preferences.

Don’t dwell on what you don’t like

When it comes to choosing an engagement ring, it’s important to trust your instincts and choose a ring that you truly love. Don’t feel obligated to settle for a ring that doesn’t excite you or meet your expectations. Take the time to explore different options until you find the perfect ring that captures the essence of your love and commitment.

Often couples feel like their only option is an inexpensive and easily accessible ring. But if they are patient and willing to develop a creative budget, they may quickly realize that their dream is within reach.

If the ring is a surprise for you, don’t choose a ring that doesn’t match your partner’s style. Ask your best friend or family member, or even look at their Pinterest board to find out what they really want.

Ask about resizing and returns

Before you complete your purchase, check the store’s resizing and returns policy. While most jewelers offer free resizing services to ensure a perfect fit, it’s important to understand their return or exchange policies in case your ring doesn’t fit.

Don’t forget to buy insurance

Once you find the perfect ring, be sure to invest in insurance to protect your investment from loss, theft, or damage. Many jewelry stores offer insurance options at the time of purchase, or you can look into individual policies from reputable insurance companies. Having insurance provides peace of mind knowing that your ring is covered in case of unforeseen circumstances.

Think about your wedding rings

When buying an engagement ring, it’s worth considering how it will fit with your future engagement rings. Consider factors such as metal type, width and design to ensure a cohesive and complementary look. Planning ahead can help make the process of choosing engagement rings easier in the future.

What are the rules for buying an engagement ring?

When it comes to buying an engagement ring, there are no hard and fast rules. However, when making a decision, it is important to consider factors such as budget, style preferences and lifestyle. Ultimately, the most important rule is to choose a ring that symbolizes your love and commitment to your partner.

How much do you spend on an engagement ring?

A traditional rule of thumb is to spend about two to three months’ salary on an engagement ring. However, this guide is not set in stone and it is important to choose a budget that you are comfortable with. Focus on finding a ring that fits your financial means but also meets your partner’s expectations and desires.

How big should a diamond be on an engagement ring?

The size of the diamond in an engagement ring depends on personal preference and budget. While larger diamonds may look more impressive, they also come with a higher price tag. Consider factors such as cut, clarity, and carat weight to ensure optimal brilliance and brilliance within the constraints of your budget.

Please note that some diamond shapes will appear larger than others of the same carat weight. An elongated shape, such as an oval cut diamond, will look larger on the hand than a round cut diamond of the same weight. So if you want a larger stone for less money, shape will be a deciding factor.

Should an engagement ring be a surprise?

While the element of surprise adds romance to a proposal, there is no rule that says an engagement ring should be a surprise. Many couples choose to shop for a ring together so that both partners are happy with the final choice. Ultimately, the decision to surprise your partner or involve him in the selection process depends on the dynamics and preferences of your relationship.

Is it possible to go shopping for engagement rings together?

Shopping for engagement rings together can be a meaningful and enjoyable experience for couples. This allows you to explore different styles, designs and options together, ensuring that you find a ring that resonates with both partners. What’s more, shopping together can ease the stress of choosing the perfect ring on your own and strengthen your bond as a couple.

Buying an engagement ring is a major milestone in any relationship, and it’s important to approach the process with thoughtfulness, care, and consideration. By following these guidelines and taking into account important factors such as budget, style preferences and time, you can ensure you have a memorable and rewarding experience that culminates in finding the perfect ring to symbolize your love and commitment.

This story was produced VRAI and reviewed and distributed by Stacker.

---