An engagement ring isn’t just a symbol of love. It’s a gift that will last a lifetime. But with so many choices available, it’s hard to get a grasp on finding the right one for The One. But if you’re in a ring daze, we’re here to make life a little bit easier with these simple pointers.
1) Set a budget
Before we even delve into the business of gem selection, the very first step is to set a budget. You’ve probably heard the saying that an engagement ring should cost about two months’ salary. Don’t give it too much credence. It was part of a massive marketing campaign in the 1940s by diamond retailer DeBeers (the company also coined the phrase ‘a diamond is forever’). A better guideline is to set a budget that won’t drive you to bankruptcy. Your future fiancée will probably prefer a reasonably-sized ring and a solvent partner rather than a bigger stone and an indebted husband-to-be.
2) Select the right stone
When it comes to an engagement ring’s centrepiece, the most sought-after gemstone by far is the proverbial ‘girl’s best friend’: a diamond. If you’re sticking to this classic, make sure you balance the 4 Cs – colour, clarity, cut and carat weight. (Flummoxed? Check out our guide to diamonds here.) If you inclined to be a bit more adventurous, your partner’s favourite gemstone or actual birthstone might also be avenues to explore.
3) Pick the right shape
Diamonds and other precious stones come in all shapes and sizes ranging from the classic round cut and square-shaped princess cut to oval, heart, triangle and pear cuts. Ultimately, choosing a suitable shape depends heavily on your loved one’s personal tastes. But if you’re unsure, opt for the ever-popular round- or princess-cut gemstones.
4) Choose the right band
White gold, rose gold, yellow gold, platinum. Choosing the material can be pretty straight-forward if you pay attention to your partner’s tastes in jewellery. Keep an eye out for her favourite pieces and match the material!
5) Size the ring correctly
There’s nothing more disheartening than proposing with the perfect engagement ring, only to discover that it doesn’t fit on your new fiancée’s finger. Though it may not be a complete deal breaker, nip any potential awkwardness in the bud by getting the right size before you go down on one knee. Discreetly borrow one of her less-used rings and take it to a jeweller to get an accurate measurement.
Ultimately, picking the perfect engagement ring will take a goodly amount of time and thought. But with proper planning, it can be a manageable and even educational journey. Explore all options carefully. High-end jewellery ateliers like Tiffany & Co. or Bvlgari will have plenty of ready-made designs, but if you have something specific in mind, don’t be afraid to approach a custom jeweller. Or explore both sides of the family for an heirloom to give your engagement an added dimension. Good luck!
Text: Tenzing Thondup