So, you are about to get engaged!!! You are finally going to get your fairy tale moment, the one you have been obsessing over and dreaming about. The one that is in the final scene of your favorite sappy love movie. The one that makes you think. " When will it be my turn". Well the wait is almost over and the most important box you will open is on its way!
Before you say YES to your engagement ring, here are some tips to help guide your future fiance to say yes to the right ring for the right reasons. This means saying yes to a ring with the right style, shape, origin and cost for you.
How Big Is Your Love:
We've all seen them. They are those gigantic diamonds that could have caused the titanic to capsize. The diamonds that carry the same price tag as a small country. For many it's a dream to own something of this magnitude for a lifetime and only one will do.
You have been dreaming of the moment since, you watched Breakfast at Tiffany's and you saw Holly Golightly standing in front of the most iconic jewelry store. Always awaiting the day you get to select exactly which ring goes in your infamous little blue box. Yes, Kim K can make them look like "must haves", but don't get sucked into the idea that only a rock you can see from outer space can fulfill your lifelong marriage hopes. It is not the ring that counts. The most important move you can make is entering into your marriage in the best financial shape possible .
That huge hope diamond is not always a happy marriage or bank account make. Make sure you are entering into this commitment for the long haul and less for the thrill of Instgram likes from posting your new bling online. Now that the serious stuff has been discussed, lets get on with the fun and excitement for being presented the best question and incentive to say yes you will likely ever face!
Cut, Color, Clarity, Carat:
All jewelers should emphasize the four C's of diamond buying to your fiance. the four c's of diamond buying are: Cut, Color, Clarity and Carat. The Cut of a diamond is the shape the color of the diamond. Some popular shapes are cushion, princess or marquee. The color simply means that there is no yellowness or discoloration due to low value. Remember the diamond should be white and easy to see through. Clarity means that there are no imperfections in your diamond that it is as sparkly as desired and is a true authentic stone. The lack of clarity is an easy way to spot a fake diamond. Carat is what can effect the budget the most. it is the weight of the diamond and the price difference between 1ct-2ct. can be astronomical. But the most important important choice your fiance will make happens before they even walk in the store. Your future fiance should do their research to find a trustworthy professional and ethical jeweler who they can depend on. This is especially important when creating a custom piece.
Your jeweler is someone with whom you may establish a life-long relationship. They can help you going past your engagement day with your wedding band selection.They might even turn into your partners "go- to" for birthdays, Christmas or anniversary presents. These points emphasize the need to look for quality not only in the ring selection but in the jeweler as well. This is one of the biggest purchases your fiance will ever make. So they need to be working with someone who is looking out for their best interest and not someone looking to take advantage of your moment.
All That Glitters Does Not Have To Be Gold:
Current trends have gotten away from the traditional single stone rings with a simple gold band. If this is your style there is absolutely nothing wrong with this. But If you want something more intricate or unique there are so many amazing options out there. When it comes to the metal of your ring, don't be afraid to choose the color that matches your personal style. If you are a strictly a silver girl, try a white gold band. If you want something more unique, try a rose gold or bronze band. If none of these fit your budget, try a sterling silver or tungsten band. These options can help save you thousands of dollars and help get the exact style you love without breaking your budget. Whatever you decide, make sure the certification of the metal and the diamond is given to you upon purchase. You want a quality band that will hold up as long as your marriage. Another very important purchase your fiance should make is ring insurance. Before they give you the ring tell them to purchase a simple policy that can be added to renters or homeowners insurance that will give you both peace of mind.
Are Diamonds Still a Girls Best Friend?
if you don't love the idea of diamonds think outside the box ( literally) and go with a more non-traditional stone such as an emerald, ruby, amethyst. If these gemstones aren't in your current budget then Morganite or lab grown diamonds might be for you. These stones are absolutely stunning and extremely hard to discern from diamonds. No two rings ever have to be the same. Just follow your heart and help steer your partner in a direction that makes sense for you all. The only thing you need to worry about being timeless is the love you share with one another. Choose a modern design and if it goes out of style or you change your taste over time you can always have your diamond reset.
Are Heirlooms Just For Tomatoes?
When setting up a budget for your dream ring, never forget the importance of tradition and family heirlooms. It might be your grandmother's wish that you wear her 1920's art deco stunner, Or your future mother-in-laws 20th anniversary diamond from her first marriage. Either way, you should choose the one that is right for you. Even though a sentimental diamond is on the table you should not immediately feel pressure to select it. Ultimately this is YOUR ring so that means making sure the style fits your personality. If your family member is willing to part with their ring, you can always ask them if you can redesign the ring to fit in your taste. If the origin of the ring is a concern ( perhaps it comes from a broken marriage or someone you never knew personally) try to see the big picture. Selecting this piece could help you shift your budget toward a down payment on your first home or bolster funds for a larger honeymoon.
With this lifelong piece make sure you feel 100% confident and comfortable accepting it and that you aren't doing it to fit into someone eases ideal for you.
This is Not The End:
There isn't one correct path to acquiring your dream ring. This ring this not the "end all be all" of your marriage. If you don't get the exact ring you wanted there are always milestone anniversary's and special occasions that present themselves as grand opportunities. Years from your engagement moment, you and your spouse will be more established in your careers, making your dream ring more affordable. This first selection can serve as a place holder for your future rock. On the other hand ( no pun intended). You should not compare this ring with anyone else's the only comparison you should make is that you are able to remain as happy with your partner from the moment you say "Yes" throughout your marriage. This allows you to help take the pressure off your future fiance and enjoy this very special time.
While selecting your ring is one of the more fun and exciting parts of getting engaged, remember that much like diamonds, marriage and the love you share with your loved one is forever.