So you found the woman you want to spend your life with—but you have yet to make it official. Your first hurdle is choosing the perfect engagement ring. Most guys have no idea where to start, so don’t worry—you’re not alone. We’re here to help. Below are the most important things you need to know when buying an engagement ring.
1. Set your budget: Do not go beyond your means, but don’t be too cheap, either. The traditional two- to three-months salary convention is a good starting reference, but there really are no rules. Spend what you’re comfortable spending.
The engagement ring should not cause you to be in debt. Factor in your monthly obligations as well as future expenses-including wedding costs when setting your engagement ring budget. Regardless of the money you spend, quality and value should be your most important considerations. Having a clear budget will help the jeweler narrow down the selection to those that fit your range.
2. Buy at wholesale prices: To save money, try shopping in wholesale jewelers that allow individual shoppers to get the same discounts for single purchases. This will give you access to beautiful diamonds without paying the huge retail mark-up.
3. Educate yourself on the basics of the 4 Cs: There are four factors determining the quality of a diamond; carat, clarity, cut, and color.
When looking at the carat weight, remember that bigger is not necessarily better. Two diamonds with the same carat weight can have unequal values, depending on the three other Cs. It’s possible to find a lower carat but superior diamond.
4. It is about her personal style, not yours: Remember, she will wear the ring forever. What you think looks great might not be her style. Is your girlfriend a classic type of girl, or is she more modern? Does she wear delicate jewelry, or chunky pieces? Does she wear lots of gold, or does she prefer silver or platinum? You can enlist the help of her closest friends and family. To figure her size, slip one of the rings she owns on your finger so you can get a rough idea.
iWedPlanner LLC 