Buying an Engagement Ring
When buying an engagement ring, it’s usually something that can be a big purchase. Whether you spend thousands on it or very little, the gesture is a big one, and so it’s important to know exactly what you’re looking for or so that you can offer that guidance to your other half. Here are four tips for buying an engagement ring.
Know The Four Cs
Firstly, it’s important to know the four C’s when it comes to shopping for rings. That’s clarity, cut, colour, and carat weight. It’s a good idea to get a feel for what your partner is after when it comes to all of these. For carats, the variance between them can make a big difference. There’s actually a visible difference between a 1 Carat and a 1.5 option. Diamonds are usually colourless, but there are ones that have a tint of yellow or even brown in them. Clarity is the number of flaws it might have known as inclusions. The fewer inclusions, the better. And finally, the cut is the shape of the diamond itself, of which there are many options available.
Set A Budget
Everyone is going to have a different price in mind when it comes to shopping for an engagement ring. Some don’t see the point of spending thousands, where others may want to spend more for a more investment piece. There are averages that most people pay, but this is something that’s down to you and what you feel is a suitable amount. Some might not want the pressure of having a ring that’s worth thousands on their hand for fear of it getting lost or stolen.
Set a budget that works for you and for your expectations of what is a reasonable amount to pay. This will help when ring shopping to not overspend or go over your own budget.
Pick Your Metal
The metal is another important part of the decision-making process because again, there’s a lot to choose from. You might want sterling silver, platinum or perhaps you’re looking towards gold or white gold. With so many different variations of engagement rings, it can be quite overwhelming to know where to start. It’s always worth having these conversations with your partner as most will have a preference of metal or something that fits with their usual style and jewellery.
Shop Around
It’s always a good idea to find out what’s out there beyond the typical places you might usually look to when shopping for jewellery. Expand your horizons because you might find a more affordable option elsewhere that you perhaps wouldn’t immediately consider. Sometimes having something handmade might be cheaper depending on what you want. Also some people might prefer a vintage or antique piece which can also be more affordable.
LL x
*This is a contributed post
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