A ten minuite flying start guide to buying an Engagement Ring

So you think she’s the one and you want to buy an engagement ring for her. You’ve thought about it. Fret about it. Possibly dreamt about it. But the time has come to make a decision. If she is the one. Then it is only right that you seal that decision with a commitment. One that is written in stone. A precious stone.

Finding the right engagement ring for your beloved is not an easy decision. Just like popping ‘the question’ will require a great deal of energy and preparation. However, when choosing this symbol of your love and commitment, need not be too much of a problem. No matter what you choose, as the saying goes, it’s the thought that counts.

But.

When making such a crucial decision. One that along with your beloved will stay with you (fingers crossed) for many years. It is only right that you expend some time, ask the right questions, look in the right places, and consider your options. Prior to making the crucial decision. Remember, you did not arrive at this decision on impulse, or in the course of a short duration. The choice to make your love permanent is something that you have deeply considered. Hence it is only right that you think carefully it before moving forward.

Here you will find 6 Key Factors that you must consider before making this decision. One that, if you follow carefully, will ensure that you’re that your choice: a beautiful ring, with a precious stone, that is worth your time, effort and money. And most importantly, something which pleases the girl you have chosen.

1. The Budget

Let’s get the main hurdle out of the way. How much are you able, but more importantly, willing to lay down to seal the deal with your girl? This is a tricky question. For it clearly depends on a number of factors. No two persons are the same. And in economic terms, no two person’s financial standing is the same.

There’s an adage which says that you must be willing to part with three months of your paycheck, in purchasing that special ring. Funny. Caz that of course would depend on how much you’re making. For an a-list footballer, who makes a hundred thousand dollars a week, spending his three months salary on an engagement ring might be a bit too much. Whilst those on a different end of the spectrum may need to reconsider. Not three, but maybe five.

Costs aside, what matters is what you’re expecting in return for your hard-earned money. If she means a lot to you (she must), then the cost should not a factor. This girl will become your wife. A person you will spend, decades (hopefully) of your life with. In sum, don’t let money get in the way of love. The engagement ring is a special token of your commitment. 

2. Her Preferences

It’s always dangerous to assume what a woman wants. Especially so when it comes to, what is possibly the most important gift to her (well besides yourself). The precious engagement ring. Precious, for more than simply its economic value. With this ring, you are telling her, not only that she means so much to you. But that you also understand something about her.

As a first step, talk to her. Not too directly of course. Don’t want to give it away. Take her out, and maybe swing by a jewellery store. Get a feel of what she wants. If’s she into it, you are bound to get a good idea. And don’t forget her measurements. Don’t want the ring to be falling out!

The keyword here is options. Have about six ring designs in mind. Believe me, engagement rings come in many shapes, designs, colours and sizes. For besides the type of precious stone, learn about her desired metal. And of course, she desired stone. This takes us to point number three.

3. The Center Stone

It is not all about Diamonds. Whilst this precious stone might be the most obvious, it’s not always the most affordable option. There are other options out there when choosing your ring’s precious stone. Sapphires are often the next best thing for an engagement ring. In fact, your girl might like it more. Especially if it's the right colour. Blue Sapphires are the mainstay of engagement rings. When set within your (or her) favourite metal. Then there is little that can go wrong. 

Just bear in mind the designs, for there are many out there. Finding the right source for your precious stone and ring design is key. Don’t get this one wrong.

4. The Colour of the Metal

The metal that holds the precious stone(s) of the ring, tends to be light in colour. Traditional gold (yellow) might be the most popular metal for jewellery. But engagement rings tend to be lighter. Platinum, white gold and even silver and other quality metals, are also options to consider. Bearing in mind the costs, the ring is both for you and her. So there’s nothing wrong with aiming higher.

Bear in mind that your choice of precious metal will affect the design of the ring. If you’re a high-spending person, then platinum is a good option. Though white gold is also a good place for the engagement ring. Oh, and when it comes to getting the right metals for your ring, quality matters. Are you looking for 18K or 14K? If you have made up your mind. Your choice of seller is the next key option. So onto the next point.

5. Your Jeweller

When it comes to buying a ring, the visual element is naturally the centrepiece. ‘It must look good to feel good’, tends to be the buyer’s thinking. However, given the range, and variety of options out there. It may seem like you’re spoiled for choices. Why not just go to the first jeweller, that is advertised on Google: jump to the engagement rings sections. Find something that you “think” is good for her. And if the price is reasonable, just go for it.

Now this approach, whilst seemingly straightforward, is not the wisest. The web is filled with many a store, jewellers, marketplace etc. That promises to give you the right bang for the buck. But do you know what is right for you? For the right price, may “promise” quality, durability and attractiveness. But can they deliver?

And quality and price are only two variables. What about customer support. Maintenance and other services. Learn about where your seller is located. The nearer the better. If you’re looking for that connection, help from the seller when needed is essential. For good jewellers value their customers in the long term. 

6. Make a Decision

You’ve done your research. You have spoken to your married buddies who’ve been through the same process. You’ve gotten as much as you could out of your future wife, about her tastes and interests. You have the budget (and then some, if you get any ideas). So now’s time to make a decision. Procrastination does not get you anything in life. Not peace of mind and certainly not a happy engagement. So now is the time to combine your information. Which would include:

• Budget,
• Her tastes
• Measurements
• A choice of ring designs
• Your desired additions (the engagement ring is about you too)
• And finally, you’re choice of jeweller

Once you have these (it’s not over yet), it's time to put this knowledge to some use. The internet is a powerful tool. But you must know how to use it. The credibility of the makers, the quality of stones, and the durability of the final product must be considered. For behind the ring, there is a company, made of persons who are dedicated to your satisfaction. Choose wisely. So as to have a happy engagement and even better marriage.

7. Bonus Point (The Question)

Since we love what we do, we thought about throwing in another option. When it comes to asking the big question. You have a few things to consider. First the time, setting and what comes next.

Pick a time, when both of you are free from too many distractions. Holidays are a good option. Once you have asked the question (and she says yes) it's time to enjoy that moment. The passion will be high. Time for yourself is important.

Pick the right spot. A romantic getaway is always nice. But it not always be a trip to Venice. A place where both of you have spent quality time in the past will work out fine. Just make sure you do all the preparations. And drop some hints in advance.

Have some plans on what you want to do next. Wedding plans can wait. Time to enjoy this period. As you plan your future together. All the Best