Finding the perfect engagement ring is a journey of love, attention to detail, and personal taste. Settings, stones, sets, and solitaires – it can be easy for anyone to get overwhelmed when shopping for engagement rings. Fortunately, in this guide, we will navigate the nuances of selecting a ring that will not only dazzle but also resonate with your fiancé-to-be style and personality. Here are the 7 steps on how to ensure you choose the ideal engagement ring:
1. Set Your Budget
First things first: determine how much you are willing to spend. The old adage of spending two months’ salary on an engagement ring can be outdated. Instead, focus on what feels comfortable for you financially to make sure that you don’t break the bank. Remember, the significance of the ring comes from the thought and love behind it, not just its price tag.
At Michael Trio, we can assist you in working around your budget to find you the perfect diamond and setting to accommodate your budgetary limits along with your personal taste.
2. Know Your Partner’s Preferences
Understanding your partner’s style is crucial in choosing the right ring. Are they more inclined towards a classic look, or do they prefer something modern and minimalistic? It is important to grasp not just the general aesthetic your partner prefers but also her specific definition of size and style. For instance, clarify what she considers “big” in terms of diamond carat and how it aligns with her day-to-day lifestyle.
You should also consider their everyday jewellery to get clues about their preferences. You can also ask their friends or family for insight or even browse through their Pinterest board if they have one.
At the same time, it is important to find out her ring size at this stage which may include some James Bond actions/planning if you wish to find out her size without her knowledge.
3. Learn About the Diamond 4Cs
The global standard, Diamond 4C’s — Cut, Color, Clarity, and Carat play a crucial role in determining the overall quality and appearance of a diamond. If you want only the best for your engagement ring, learning about the 4Cs should be something that you should not skip before going to the next steps.
Cut: The cut of a diamond refers to how well it has been shaped and faceted. The diamond cut affects the brilliance of the diamonds. A well-cut diamond will appear more luminous.
Colour: Diamonds come in a variety of colours, and the Gemological Institute of America (GIA) grades them on a scale from D (colourless) to Z (light yellow or brown). The less colour a diamond has, the higher its grade and value.
Clarity: Most diamonds have imperfections called inclusions. Clarity assesses the presence of any internal flaws (inclusions) or external blemishes (blemishes). The GIA grades clarity on a scale ranging from Flawless to Included.
Carat: This refers to the weight of the diamond. While carat weight contributes to a diamond’s value, it’s essential to balance it with the other three Cs for the best overall appearance.
At Michael Trio, we have a section to educate our visitors on diamonds (4Cs, diamonds certificate, etc). If you find the information overwhelming to understand, our diamond consultants can assist you in making an informed decision.
4. Choose the Right Diamond
Besides acquiring knowledge of the 4Cs of a diamond, you will also want to take into consideration a diamond’s shape. You can opt for a diamond that balances the 4C’s to suit your budget and your partner’s preferences. Each characteristic influences the others; a slightly lower carat weight could allow you to invest in a better cut and enhance the sparkle of the diamond. Below is a list of a few possible diamond shapes you can consider for the ring:
5. Choose the Right Setting
After working out your budget, calculating her ring size and gathering all background knowledge of her tastes, preferences and lifestyle, you are now in a much better place to choose the right style of setting for the unique diamond. It is important to choose the right setting because the right setting will highlight and enhance the stone’s best features.Some popular categories of ring settings include the classic solitaire, side stone, channel, pave, halo, and vintage. When you choose the ring setting that the diamond will be mounted in, you may want to consider the wedding band and how it will look with the engagement ring.
Solitaire
The solitaire setting keeps things simple and classy, making it a timeless pick. It’s like the little black dress of engagement rings. With either four or six prongs holding the diamond, this setting lets in lots of light, making the diamond shine bright. It is a great choice if you are not sure what style your partner likes and it won’t break the bank either.
Side Stone
Adding some bling to your ring, the side stone setting features smaller diamonds set alongside the main one. It is like having a supportive entourage for the star of the show. These side stones not only add extra sparkle but also help visually balance the ring, especially for larger finger sizes. Just be careful to choose the right setting to keep everything in proportion.
Channel
In the channel setting, small diamonds are set into a groove in the band, creating a sleek and modern look. This setting is great for those who lead an active lifestyle or work with their hands a lot since the diamonds are more secure and protected.
Pavé
Pave setting includes small diamonds that are set closely together to create a continuous sparkle along the band. They add glamour and brilliance to the ring while maintaining a delicate and feminine appearance.
Halo
The halo setting is like a frame around the main diamond, making it appear larger and adding extra sparkle. It is like putting a spotlight on the star of the show. This setting is great for someone who loves vintage or romantic styles and wants their ring to make a statement.
Vintage
Vintage settings are all about bringing old-world charm and elegance to your ring. They often feature intricate details and filigree work, giving the ring a timeless appeal. This setting is perfect for someone who loves antiques or has a nostalgic soul.
6. Select the Metal for the Band
Once you have chosen the ring setting, you can move on with selecting the metal for the band. The choice of metal affects the ring’s overall look. The common options include platinum, gold, and silver:
Platinum: Platinum is an excellent choice for those seeking a ring that will withstand the test of time. Its natural white luster enhances the brilliance of diamonds, making it a popular choice for engagement rings. Additionally, platinum is hypoallergenic, making it ideal for individuals with sensitive skin. While platinum tends to be more expensive than other metals due to its rarity and density, its timeless elegance and longevity make it a worthwhile investment.
Gold: Available in yellow, white, and rose shades, each offering a different vibe. Yellow gold exudes warmth and tradition, while white gold offers a contemporary and sophisticated look. Rose gold, with its romantic blush tones, adds a touch of femininity and charm to any ring.
Silver: Silver shares a similar appearance to platinum, with its cool, white sheen. While it may not possess the same level of durability as platinum, silver is still a popular choice for engagement rings due to its affordability and versatility.
7. Make the Purchase
Once you have finalized and chosen your ring, it is time to make it official. Another tip before making the purchase is to make sure you buy your ring from a reputable retailer that provides a diamond certification and a good return policy. This documentation is important for insurance purposes and future upgrades or appraisals.
Next, Plan Your Proposal!
Now that you have the perfect ring, plan a memorable proposal that reflects your relationship. Whether it is a grand gesture or an intimate moment, you can devise a plan to make it personal and meaningful.
Get Expert Help From Michael Trio
Choosing the right engagement ring is a significant step in your journey together. With the right approach, you can find a ring that not only marks the occasion but also passes down as a cherished keepsake through generations.
If you are looking for personalized guidance, do not hesitate to consult with us at Michael Trio. Feel free to visit us at the Michael Trio showroom in MYTown Mall, Kuala Lumpur. Our team is ready to assist you in person and ensure you find the perfect ring that matches your preferences and exceeds your expectations.