If you are planning to buy an engagement ring, there is no need to be confused. With the right knowledge of what to look for in a ring, along with your happiness in proposing to the girl of your dreams, you will enjoy the process of adapting your new skillset of choosing a ring with the money available. In this article, you will learn some of the most important things to consider when choosing an engagement ring for the girl you love. Begin with Step 1 to begin the process of selecting an engagement ring for your bride-to-be.
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Method 1 of 3: Selecting a Band
Step 1. Choose the right band
The band is the part of the ring that goes around the finger. Bands are usually made of gold, silver, or platinum, although they can be made of a combination of other metals. Note that metals rub against each other and affect each other, so you should only wear rings of the same metal if worn close together. When choosing an engagement ring, you should know what kind of ring is best for your lover. Take a look at her current jewelery collection for an idea of what kind of ring she likes, by recognizing the differences between these three most common metals:
- Gold is naturally yellow and orange in color and is usually smelted with other metals to make it stronger. Some people prefer light gold with a slightly pale yellow tint, such as 14 or 10 carat gold, because the reflection of the yellow color will give the diamond a little color.
- White gold is gold that is intentionally mixed with other metals to give the mixture a grayish-white color and must be plated with other metals to give it a brilliant silvery color. The gilding will fade, but some jewelers offer free re-gilding whenever needed if you make a deal beforehand.
- Platinum is a hard, strong metal and a natural silvery color but will fade a bit with frequent wear but that's not a problem for most people. Since the gold setting will make the diamond look slightly yellowish, it is a waste to buy a diamond with a high color level for this ring
- Silver is rarely chosen for engagement rings, but it is cheaper. Silver is usually smelted with other metals to maintain its strength and luster.
Step 2. Choose the right settings and gems
Setting refers to the part of the ring that binds the gem, attached to the band. Settings can be "fence" or "invisible". Some rings combine a platinum setting with a gold band for certain reasons, such as being able to display a special color luster and contrast, diamonds don't emit the color of gold, and platinum is strong. A setting with a bezel, or at least six fences, will be safer for rings that tend to be worn in significant activities. Here are other things to know to choose the perfect setting and gems for your future wife:
- Gem: A gem is a special part of a ring, usually a diamond. Sometimes, gems are also called "stones". Most people think the bigger the stone the better, although it is more important than this general assumption to suit your lover's personality and tastes. Gems don't have to be diamonds (see below), but if you have a choice other than diamonds, you'd better have a good reason!
- 4 C: That is carat (carat), color (color), clarity (clarity), and cut (cut) gems (especially diamonds).
- 5th C: 5th C: Cubic Zirconia. Cubic zirconia is a beautiful stone and is difficult to distinguish from diamonds except by jewelers or gemologists. This stone is softer than a real diamond, so over time it may become dull. Lab diamonds are a great alternative to traditional diamonds. They generally cost only 5-10% of traditional diamonds and look just as beautiful so this option is worth further study. A rhodium-plated silver ring may be indistinguishable (except for the markings that must be placed on the inside of the ring by an honest seller) from a rhodium-plated white gold ring. All of these can be great options for couples with limited funds. Another alternative is a smaller real diamond (the difference between the price of a small diamond and a large one is sometimes very large, so a beautiful diamond of less than half a carat, whose surface area is larger than half a one-carat diamond, is still in the millions) with a pure gold ring simple.
Step 3. Check band durability
The durability of the band is very important because the constant friction and impact from everyday activities can damage the band. Office work is also bad because paper acts like fine sandpaper on a gold band. If you can afford it, platinum is a better choice for an engagement ring because it is more durable than gold. Titanium and steel are also quite strong, while for gold, the purer it is, the more malleable and vulnerable it is.
Gold with a higher carat is more resistant than a lower carat, and is less prone to scratching
Step 4. Choose the right size
Choosing the size of the band circumference is an important part of choosing the right engagement ring. One way to find out your lover's ring size is to "borrow" one of the rings he often wears and take it to the seller to find out what size it is, just for a moment so he doesn't realize it's not there. You can also estimate the size with the naked eye, but this method is less reliable. The average ring size of a woman is 7 and you can estimate whether your lover's finger size is larger or smaller than average.
If your guess is wrong, you can of course resize it bigger or smaller. If you're not sure, it's better to choose the larger one because the ring size is easier to reduce than increase. Enlarging the ring makes the band look thinner and can be more expensive. Plus, if you propose with a ring that's too small, he won't be able to wear it until it's been shrunk, and that's kind of sad
Method 2 of 3: Picking Diamonds
Step 1. Know about diamonds
Diamonds tend to be the choice of traditional engagement rings because they are timeless and go well with anything. Diamonds are the hardest material so they are suitable as gems for engagement rings. Diamonds do not lose their luster and are resistant to scratches. Diamonds can only be scratched by other diamonds. Since engagement rings and wedding rings are worn on a daily basis, people prefer diamonds which are suitable for everyday wear due to the above-mentioned properties. Choose gems other than diamonds only if your lover is very fond of other stones, or has expressed a strong dislike of diamonds. When choosing a diamond, pay attention to the 4 C's outlined below.
Step 2. Use carats to determine the general weight or size
Carat refers to a diamond's unit size, i.e. weight, not size. Each carat has 100 points which is basically a measure of the carat percentage of a diamond. For example, a 75pt diamond means 75% or 0.75 carat. Higher carats are generally larger in size, and more expensive.
Step 3. Consider whether you want clear or colored diamonds
Diamond colors vary widely and most people prefer white diamonds for engagement rings. Colors are graded from D (colorless and rare) and the best quality diamonds are around F and H. However, all grades from D to I are nearly identical when set.
Step 4. Pay attention to the clarity of the diamond
Because diamonds are naturally formed, there are imperfections in almost all diamonds. These are called inclusions, and occur because there were slight blemishes when diamonds were formed millions of years ago. The fewer imperfections a diamond has, the better its clarity and the more light is reflected so that the diamond "shines". Naturally, the clearer the diamond the more valuable it is. Perfect diamonds with no internal defects or surface defects are very difficult to find because they are so rare.
- The scale used to determine clarity is F1 for flawless diamonds, VVS1 and VVS2 for very few inclusions, VS1 and VS2 for very few inclusions, SI1 and SI2 for slight inclusions and I1, I2 and I3 for imperfect diamonds.
- Diamonds are viewed with a magnifying glass up to 10 times larger to judge clarity because even the smallest imperfections are difficult to see with the naked eye. This means there are several diamond options available even for low budgets. However, if you can see defects without a magnifying glass, think again before buying. The location and darkness of any diamond-grade imperfections (although it may not be the very small "VVS" inclusions and rare VS inclusions) can affect the appearance so the safest step is to view the imperfections with a magnifying glass or a magnified photo before purchasing.
Step 5. Choose the right diamond cut
There are different ways to cut a diamond and the type of cut affects the shine of a diamond. The cut that produces the most shine is the round (brilliant) cut, while the radiant and princess cut are great for hiding blemishes. Other cuts include square, emerald, pear, marquise, cushion, asscher, and heart shapes. Oval shapes look best on larger stones, and look larger than round cuts. A high-quality cut (not necessarily above "ideal") is more important than weight or very high color and clarity. Diamonds, like road reflectors, shine light back in the direction it came from and break slightly in the process. The cut is considered to be the fourth of the big "4 C's" you should know when choosing a ring.
- If the sides are at the wrong angle (sometimes due to less than perfect workmanship, sometimes to increase the weight with extra depth or width), there's a bit of light that won't shine as it should, more of a shimmer that will be lost due to a faint yellowish tint, blotches. brown, or dots visible under a magnifying glass.
- It is also important that you base your diamond selection on objective data such as ASSETs or Idealscope images that can be obtained from the seller. This is especially important if you are buying a diamond engagement ring over the internet.
Step 6. Consider the practicality of the ring
If your lover is the outdoorsy type, consider a ring that can withstand wear and tear from constant activity. The higher the position of the gem on the ring, the easier it is to get caught in clothes, tools, hair, etc., and the more likely it is to come off. Look for gems that are set lower for active girls and higher for fashionable or glamorous girls.
Of course she can also remove her ring, but a suitable shape and size will be worth her interest in the great outdoors as an adventurous girl will prefer a ring that is strong and unobtrusive than a fashion conscious girl who puts a lot of effort into preparing her appearance
Method 3 of 3: Buying a Ring
Step 1. Find out what your fiancé wants
If you buy a ring without him and are planning a surprise, it will be more difficult to choose because obviously you can't ask him. Keep in mind that in this day and age, most women want to be part of the decision to buy a ring that she will wear, so if you are having a hard time figuring out her style and taste, give her a temporary ring when proposing and say that you will choose the actual ring together. A few ways to try and figure out the taste are:
- Ask him about the ring in general. If the two of you pass a jewelry store, pretend to be interested in a watch. Then, casually comment on the style of some rings, say that you like a certain type and ask her what she likes. If you do very well, he will not know your tactics. If you can't do it well, he might get suspicious but still don't know when! Or, when you're alone, comment on a friend's engagement ring and at the same time ask her what kind of ring she likes. For example, "I think Mira's engagement ring is a bit flashy. What do you think?"
- Ask the family for ideas. This of course depends on whether you want his family to know about your plans before he does.
- Another trick is to have a friend take him to a shop and ask him about the ring "just for fun." You have to put your full trust in the friend to keep quiet and keep a secret. This method is not a good choice if you prefer to keep your plans to propose a secret.
- Of course, if you're very open and comfortable talking about marriage with him-you also need to make sure he's willing to marry you before proposing-you can ask him what kind of ring he'd like. You can let him guess by asking a few months before actually proposing, so he may start to think you're just asking casually.
- Estimate her taste from the clothes she wears and the jewelry she owns. You're in a great position to know if he likes simple, fancy, patterned, big, or small styles. Is he a traditional, classic, modern, or unusual person? Use what you know about his fashion sense to make things easier.
- Is he a supporter of Fair Trade and human rights? Make sure you look for recycled gold and conflict-free diamonds when choosing a ring.
Step 2. Set a budget
There is a tradition that a man should spend two months salary on an engagement ring. Your decision to buy a ring for twice your salary depends on your willingness to stick to that tradition. The most important thing is that you have to choose a ring that fits your abilities, so make sure how much money you can afford before looking. If you're short on money but really want to propose, make sure you're with a woman who understands that. If you really want to propose and feel that your boyfriend doesn't care about expensive rings, you can buy a ring that fits your ability and buy a more luxurious ring later on. While price should be a factor if it's important to your boyfriend, don't let that stop you from proposing.
- One thing to think about is whether you or your loved one have a ring that has been passed down through the generations. If your grandmother gave you her ring and you think it will suit your sweetheart's tastes (you can even show her the ring subtly), you can use it as an engagement ring. It's just that you have to make sure that he wants it and that he feels special to be able to have something that is part of your family, and not think that he's being belittled.
- Tell the seller what your budget is so he can show you some options that fall within your range.
- Keep in mind that it is possible to order the ring as you wish. Talk about possible price, time, and model options with the craftsman or shop.
Step 3. Choose a good seller
The main thing to remember here is that expensive does not necessarily mean the ideal seller. Look for a store that makes you comfortable, whose staff is pleasant and very helpful, and whose advice is useful to you. Also, make sure you find a place that fits your budget, this is to avoid disappointment when you find the "perfect yet expensive" ring. If you can, check to see if the seller is registered with an association, association, or organization that regulates, certifies a dealer or jeweler. Also, don't be afraid to buy diamonds online. You can save up to 100% compared to buying in a big reputed diamond shop.:
- Ask your friends or family for recommendations of good and trusted sellers. Of course, this means they'll know about your surprise plans, although you can tell them that you just want to buy some nice jewelry.
- Online salespeople can also be a good option if you don't mind having a little "role" to get a better price (you can consider it an advantage because there's no pressure from the seller, but a good salesperson won't pressure you). Make sure the seller has a good reputation as consumers are more at risk of clever scams with diamonds and precious metals than most other products.
- Another thing to discuss with the seller is whether you can match the design of the wedding ring to the engagement ring. You may need to think more about this because a matching wedding ring and engagement ring is an amazing combination.
- If you prefer to propose first before buying a ring together with your fiancé, also consider the store of choice. This will be easier because the choices and tastes are taken into account completely. It's still romantic, but means you have to provide a mock ring when proposing and explain to her that it's better if the real engagement rings are chosen together.
Step 4. Buy the ring
Pick up the ring at the seller right before you propose. That way you don't have to worry about a safe place to store it. Here are a few things to keep in mind when you buy a ring:
- Ask for a certificate of authenticity and warranty along with the ring. Certificates are very useful to include with a diamond so you can know where it came from. Usually certificates and guarantees are only available on purchases of diamonds over 1 carat. For smaller diamonds, your diamond will cost more because you have to pay a few million extra to get a certificate.
- Insure! The ring may be the most expensive piece of jewelery you will ever buy, the most expensive piece of jewelery your fiancé will ever wear. So that he doesn't have to take it off for an estimate or insurance once he gets used to it, sort this out before you propose. Make sure that insurance covers the loss, or request insurance from a jeweler if available. This is very important.
- Get ready to kneel in front of your lover. Now is the time to apply!
Tips
- If you buy a ring without any input from your lover in the decision making, he or she may not like the shape, color, or other elements of the ring. Make this a deep consideration because this ring is the ring he will wear until death do you both. On the other hand, some girls will be disappointed if you propose without providing a ring. Ask the seller if the ring can be exchanged if your boyfriend really doesn't like your choice.
- If your lover has a sister or close friend, invite the relative/friend for advice when you buy a ring.
- If you buy a ring online, buy a round setting. You won't be able to see any flaws in the other designs.
- If your girlfriend is close to her mother, chances are she knows what she will like.
- Ask him about the ring, but don't make it obvious that you're planning to propose. For example, "What kind of ring do you like?" Don't ask something like, "If I proposed to you, what kind of ring would you like?" That's very obvious.
- You may be interested in another gem as the centerpiece of the ring. A three-stone ring with diamonds on both sides of colored gemstones can make for an impressive engagement ring. While rubies and sapphires are durable, emeralds are more delicate. These stones are also much cheaper than the traditional options of diamonds. Again, clarity is also important with these stones and the color should be intense and bright.
- What metal do you choose?
- The most popular metals for engagement rings are white gold, yellow gold, and platinum. These metals are very durable and therefore suitable for jewelry that will be worn for many years.
- If you're buying a ring online and looking for a cut other than the round, make sure you can see a picture of the diamond you're buying so you can judge its shape.
- Avoid diamonds. Most diamonds come from mines where the workers are more like slaves than miners. In addition, the price and supply of diamonds is controlled by the De Beers cartel.
Warning
- Keep in mind that much of the “tradition” has to do with diamond engagement rings produced by De Beers who was once a diamond monopoly holder, in order to increase sales. These traditions include, but are not limited to the "two-month salary rule".
- Make sure your ring is insured, or purchased at a price that won't cause serious problems if you have to replace it with your own money. Consider the cost of periodic insurance when buying a ring worth tens of millions of rupiah. Consider a separate policy if losing the ring causes a disproportionate increase in the overall cost of the main policy that covers it.
- Don't be fooled into thinking that white gold or palladium is the same as platinum.
- Make sure the ring you buy has a warranty.
- Watch out for jewelery markets, pawn shops, or jewelery shops which are low quality and full of scammers (but some of these businesses are actually legit). Do your research before buying.
- There are many sellers who offer credit.
