So you’ve found the perfect girl, and now you want to find the perfect ring. Forget the bubblegum machine and, no, a cigar band isn’t going to do. Several factors go into finding the “perfect ring.”
If you’ve discussed the subject with the future Mrs. (hopefully you like the sound of that!), she has probably given you some direction, which means you’re a step ahead of the game. If she hasn’t, that’s okay too. Here are a few questions to ask yourself:
- Does she like to keep it simple, or can you see her bling from the other side of the room?
- Do you feel comfortable asking her family or friends for any ideas she may have mentioned “in passing”?
- Do you have a preference on the shape of the diamond or the setting you’ll be putting it in?
These are things you will have to factor into your final decision, along with the cost. What’s that? You’re not independently wealthy? Should you reconsider and wait a while? Take a deep breath.
Buying the perfect ring doesn’t require a huge budget and, fortunately, it doesn’t have to be as daunting as it sounds.
Who Decides?
Traditionally, the man goes out, buys a ring worth at least three months’ salary, and surprises his future bride by getting down on one knee in the most romantic setting possible. If you don’t think she’ll enjoy the element of surprise, bring her along on the ring hunt; I highly doubt she’ll protest going into a jewelry store.
Letting her make the decisions takes the pressure off of you…and while that may be exactly what you think you want, there are a few things to consider before letting her in on the purchase. Not only will letting her pick out the ring ruin your chance to surprise her, it may also lead to a much lighter wallet than you had originally planned. Unless you have that coveted unlimited budget, you should consider at least discussing your budget with her before you go shopping together.
Trust Your Source
No matter who is making the decision, it’s very important to look for a reputable jeweler whom you feel comfortable with. Give yourself some time to shop around and get to know a local jeweler who can walk you through the process of learning the basics so you can easily make the right decision, with or without your beloved by your side.
Here are a few pointers to think about before you head to the jewelry store:
Budget
Give this serious thought and stick to it. Don’t make an impulsive decision to overload a credit card just because buying the most expensive ring in the showcase makes you feel good – you will regret it later.
Diamond Size
Half carat? One carat? Two carats? My suggestion is to start conservatively, even if that’s not your style, and give yourself room to upgrade later. If you buy her a giant rock now, what are you going to do when your fifth, 10th, and 25th anniversaries come around? Those are traditionally the years when most men surprise their wives with an upgrade.
Setting
Think about going with a traditional solitaire ring for the initial engagement. A simple solitaire is timeless and has historically been the staple of engagement rings since the early20th century. Solitaire settings look great regardless of the size of the stone, and they give you the option to upgrade in the future.
Customization (aka “Brownie Points”)
If you decide to stray from solitaires but just can’t find the perfect setting, some jewelers now offer customization: the ability to turn her dreams (or yours) into reality. CAD (computer aided design) is used to create a three-dimensional rendering of the ring before the manufacturing process begins to ensure that the design is exactly what you want. Once the rendering is cast, you’ll own the bragging rights of proposing with a one-of-a-kind ring. I’m quite familiar with at least one local jeweler who does this…
Finally, since I know you’re really enjoying how complicated this is, the ring you choose doesn’t necessarily have to showcase a diamond. Recently, sapphires, rubies and other stones have been trending as centerpieces. Now I know, something else to think about is exactly what you need, right? But believe me, it will all be worth it when you see that smile immediately after the “yes!”
Have fun, go with your instinct. and remember the real reason why you’re going through all of this. If nothing else, she’ll surely give you an “A” for effort!