Getting married is one of the most exciting chapters of life to embark on. Choosing the right engagement ring is the most critical decision to make as this ring is meant to be worn and cherished for a lifetime by everyone. Most of the people get confused about how to choose an engagement ring. Here are some of the essential points to consider before making your choice;
Try to know your fiance’s preference in jewellery.
Diamond, sapphire, ruby – there are plenty of choices for your engagement ring. Try to know which stone, setting or colour of the precious metal does your fiancée like. For more details, consult your partner’s mother or close friends to get an idea of her preferences.
Determine her ring size
If you don’t know her ring size, the best solution is to borrow one of her rings secretly and have it measured by a jeweller. There can be a half finger size difference between left and right hands. Make sure that they can be easily adjusted after you have given it.
Decide whether to choose a diamond or any other stone.
Diamonds are the hardest substance known and have more brilliance as compared to other gemstones. It withstands daily wear and looks beautiful and elegant the same way for decades. Since ages, diamond has always been the traditional choice of stone for engagement rings.
Other popular stones used for the engagement rings
Sapphires and rubies are also prevalent engagement stones after diamond, and their degree of hardness makes them durable for a lifetime. Emeralds are not as durable as sapphires, diamonds or engagement stones; however, if set with a gold rub-over setting, it will stay protected in the long term.
Stones which are not ideal for the engagement rings include opals which crack with daily wear. Pearls, both natural and cultured, easily absorb liquids and stains. Diamond-shaped crystals of calcium carbonate known as the mother of Pearl, eventually erode and do not look as good in five to 10 years. Overall, it’s best to avoid stones which in terms of hardness are graded below 7 in the MOHs scale1.
The 4Cs
When it comes to a diamond engagement ring, the 4Cs represent:
- Colour
- Clarity
- Cut
- Carat weight
These are the four standards for judging the quality of any diamond. This grading system of 4Cs was developed by the Gemological Institute of America in 1953 and is used throughout the world. It is a trusted indication of quality.
The 4Cs are to be considered while choosing a diamond for the engagement ring. You should compare the different stones along with weight factors such as size against colour and clarity.
Importance of the diamond certificate
A diamond certificate documents vital statistics including weight, colour and clarity, proportions of the stone, the cut and polish. Always ask for a certificate whenever you purchase any diamond ring.
Important notes about setting stones in a ring
The number of prongs and the style of their construction is significant. The ring should consist of 4 to 6 prongs to secure the stone. It’s essential to assess the durability of the prongs.
Gold versus platinum
The decision whether to choose yellow, white, rose gold or platinum for the band is a personal one. Platinum is more dense than gold, and some people enjoy this more solid feel. Platinum gets dulled with age but can be polished. However white gold brightens with wearing, platinum is comparatively more ductile, so it is often used in delicate settings.
There is a wide range of designs, cuts and settings which can be of high quality and some with high values. It is best to have some proper knowledge before purchasing your ring as an engagement ring is a symbol of bringing the lives of two people together in a symbolic way of love, honour and commitment for many years.
