Nothing symbolises commitment quite like a diamond engagement ring. And when on the hunt to find the one, you will undoubtedly meet a dazzling array of options that will make your heart skip a beat.
We're here to guide you through this whimsical adventure of finding "The One" – the perfect engagement ring that captures their unique style and your everlasting love.
Get ready to say “I Do” to the perfect engagement ring.
Tip #1 - Determine Your Partners’ Desired Diamond Shape
Knowing your partner's desired diamond shape is like having a treasure map that leads you straight to the perfect ring. However, it's important to remember that each shape can have a unique price range and cost per carat. For instance, a brilliant round cut is like the A-list celebrity of diamond shapes. It's classy, timeless, and, you guessed it—a tad more expensive.
On a budget? No one said you couldn't have your wedding cake and eat it too! If you're hunting for a great deal without sacrificing style, consider exploring alternative shapes like pear or marquise—they offer a delightful blend of elegance and affordability.
Moreover, going for a non-traditional shape might be your secret weapon if your other half is all about that size (and, honestly, who isn't?). Think princess or cushion cut; they can provide more carat weight without draining your bank account.
Our ultimate tip: Educate yourself on Choosing The Perfect Diamond Shape For An Engagement Ring and have a couple of favourites in your back pocket.
Tip #2 - Selecting the Perfect Metal for the Band
Let's talk metals. After all, they're the shining foundation of your engagement ring—the crown of your diamond, per se. Each metal has its unique character, so choosing one that speaks to your partner's style and personality is essential.
Traditionally, rings are crafted from yellow gold, white gold, silver, or platinum. And more recently, rose gold––its warm, rosy hue adds a touch of romance and uniqueness to any ring. Excuse the pun, but platinum takes the crown when it comes to cost and durability! Although it may look like silver, it's often more affordable and screams luxury. Yellow gold, on the other hand, is a metal that exudes timeless charm, while its counterpart, white gold, offers a sleek and contemporary look. And silver, in comparison, is the epitome of understated elegance.
Beyond the look of your chosen metal, you'll also need to consider your partners’ lifestyle. Some metals are more prone to scratches than others, so if your partner leads an active life or works with their hands, opt for a sturdier choice. Practicality meets style—now that's a winning combination!
Our ultimate tip: Regarding style, remember to think about whether you want stones set in the band. Diamonds, sapphires, or other gemstones can add an extra touch of sparkle and personality.
Tip #3 - Have a Carat Size in Mind
Here's a secret to remember: sometimes, what we think we want and what truly dazzles us can be worlds apart. When looking at engagement rings, staying open-minded can lead to unexpected delights. Your significant other might have a specific size or shape in mind, but trying on different rings can spark a change of heart. It's all about that "aha!" moment when they see the ring on their finger, bringing their vision to life.
There enters the age-old debate of quality vs. quantity––when it comes to engagement rings, this question often pops up. Some couples lean towards a larger stone, while others prioritise absolute clarity, regardless of carat count.
Understanding carat size is essential before embarking on the perfect engagement ring journey, as it's often the initial focus point. Remember that while the carat size sets the stage, it's just one aspect of the journey towards the perfect ring. Explore various options to strike the ideal balance between size, colour, and clarity.
Our Ultimate Tip: Diamond prices can soar when they hit the most desired carat weights like half and whole carats (hello, 1, 1.5 carats!). Consider choosing a carat weight slightly below these standard sizes—for example, a sparkling .92 carat instead of a 1 carat. You'll save some significant cash and have a diamond that looks almost identical to the naked eye.
Tip #4 - Cut, Colour, and Clarity: Crack the Code
The Brilliance of Cut: When we talk about the cut of a diamond, we're referring to how expertly it has been shaped and faceted. This aspect has a direct impact on the diamond's brilliance and sparkle. You see, a well-cut diamond knows how to play with light, reflecting it in just the right way to create maximum radiance. Proportions, symmetry, and polish are the key players that determine the cut grade of a diamond.
So, when you're on the hunt for the perfect diamond, make sure you prioritise an excellent cut. It's what will make that diamond shine and captivate, regardless of its size or colour.
The Spectrum of Colour: Diamonds come in a range of captivating colours, from the classic and colourless to the rare and fancy. The colour grade of a diamond determines its hue, from D (colourless) to Z (light yellow or brown); subtle colour variations can impact a diamond's appearance and value.
The Clarity Within: Clarity refers to a diamond's internal or external characteristics, otherwise known as inclusions and blemishes. From Flawless (no inclusions or blemishes visible under 10x magnification) to Included (inclusions visible to the naked eye), each is a unique identifier and ultimately forms a diamond's "fingerprint".
Balancing the 4Cs: While the previously mentioned carat size and the abovementioned cut, colour, and clarity are important individually, they also create a harmonious and visually stunning diamond. Understanding that these factors interplay and influence each other will help you prioritise them based on your preferences, budget, and desired diamond appearance. With this knowledge, you can make informed choices that suit your unique tastes.
Our Ultimate Tip: Our Quick Guide to GIA Diamond Grading is worth reading before entering the wide world of engagement ring hunting.
Tip #5 - Shop Smart, Buy Certified
When buying an engagement ring, being a savvy shopper is essential. After all, it's a significant investment, and you want to ensure you're making the right choice—but we aren’t just referring to being cost-savvy.
Remember the power of gemstone certification when it's time to make that special purchase. The Gemological Institute of America (GIA), among others, offers grading reports for diamonds and other gemstones to provide customers with a clear assessment of their stone's quality.
Obtaining certification of your chosen stone is your assurance of transparency, authenticity, and getting the quality you deserve.
Our Ultimate Tip: Always go for a certified stone.
Protect Your Engagement Ring
When you've discovered that one-of-a-kind engagement ring, the epitome of your love story, keeping it safe and protected is essential—you want to shield it from any unfortunate events like loss, theft, damage, or anything unexpected that may come its way.
That's where JewelCover's specialised engagement ring insurance steps in as the ultimate bonus engagement gift! With their comprehensive coverage, you can give your new fiancé peace of mind knowing that their precious engagement ring is safeguarded, allowing you both to fully embrace and enjoy your beloved symbol of love without worry.