If you know what your significant other desires in terms of diamond shape, which will help focus the involvement ring hunt immensely. Every contour (also referred to as a cut) is priced otherwise and each has a different price per carat. Round cuts would be definitely the most expensive whereas pear and marquise are somewhat less so. In case the size is important to you, you are able to get more carats in a better price when you decide on an alternate shape to the timeless circular cut. Before heading out to shop for an diamond ring online, research on ring reductions and have one (or two) favorites in mind.
2. Select a Metal for your Band
Traditionally, participation rings (and wedding bands, too) are made from yellow gold, white gold, silver, or platinum--but lately improved golden has surfaced as a brand new, modern alternate. While platinum might look quite like silver, platinum is considerably more expensive as it has a greater density (and is also rarer). Some metals scratch easier than others, so be sure to consider lifestyle--as well as budget, naturally --before deciding how important of a factor metals are the final decision.
3. Have a Carat Size in Mind
The age-old question of quality versus quantity also applies to engagement rings; some people today would rather have a bigger rock to a thinner rock, but others want the absolute clearest possible diamond, regardless of the carat count. "As much as people say size is not significant, it is consistently the kicking off line, because color and clarity may always be substituted to find something within your budget."
4. Get Measured Correctly
This might look obvious, but make sure you get your ring hands properly measured. You don't need a ring that is cutting off your circulation or, even worse, therefore loose it is at risk of falling off. It must feel snug yet comfortable. If you're not shopping for two carats diamond studs, with them, you can go get sized at a jewelry shop on your own and then casually mention that the size the next time the topic comes up (or inform your BFF so they'll know the answer when your spouse asks them).
5. Consider How Your Engagement Ring Will Look Together With Your Own Wedding Band
While it's not hard to get caught up shopping for the best diamond, the engagement ring is simply one half (less than half, if you are going the rink stack route) of this equation. Your wedding band--you know, the true symbol of your union --is the oft-overlooked additional half. Definitely think about what kind of wedding ring goes with your ring. Some engagement rings don't allow a band to fit flush from them, therefore it's important to take into account the complete bundle of prong versus pavé and channel-set stones before committing to an gemstone style.