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Buying an Engagement Ring
QUICK REVIEW:
You should know your budget, and have decided if you are going solo (without your future spouse) or not. If you are going solo, are you going total solo, that is no input or help from anyone or have you "fished" for some help from her, friends, or family to at least know the shape of diamond and general style of ring she likes. You may choose to set your diamond in a simple solitaire to propose with, then reset it into a ring she chooses.
DIAMOND BASICS
You need to understand the basics, which is here for you to go as deep as you like. BUT, I caution you that you really need to see and compare diamonds side by side, with someone who can walk you through the qualities. This way you can see your own tolerance for each attribute of diamonds. Many stores have Diamond Consultants that have a lot of experience and knowledge that can be very helpful.
When discussing diamonds, you will here a lot about the "4C's", Cut, Color, Clarity and Carat weight. These attributes will determine the price and value of the Diamond. But again, you need to see with your own eyes to which of these are more important to you.
LEARN MORE ABOUT DIAMONDS
Here are links that may help you understand more about Diamonds
RING BASICS
This is where the decision of going solo or not comes into play.
If going solo: You can simplify this step by deciding to put your Diamond in a Solitaire type setting, propose with the Diamond in this simple setting, then go together to pick out and reset into the final style.
OR
Hopefully you have a basic idea of what she likes, or you are going to pick out the style with no input or "Hints" from her
RING MATERIAL: What metal will your ring be made in ?
You have three basic Choices: Platinum, Gold, or Palladium. Silver, is a precious metal but is a very poor choice for an Engagement Ring.
You can click on any button to learn more about each option !
RING STYLES: What will your ring look like ?
The Engagement Ring Mounting can vary in style. From Left to right: Halo Style, Split Shank twisting style, colored gemstone accent, and traditional style. The final style could be moved by the styles that friends have or styles that appear in ads. Vintage style rings are becoming popular. The final option is that you may want to take bits and pieces from many different styles and create your own. The "Where to Buy" page discusses this, making a custom design, one that you can call your very own can be a very personal process.
Hitting the Target !
At the end of this stage, You Should begin to start getting closer. You should have a few rings and a few diamonds. These all should be close to your expectations. Expectations such as: Diamond size and Quality, Ring Styling and Budgets. You should also be aware of any time constraints the different options have, insuring that the final product can be delivered in the time that you desire.
You should also be comfortable with the place and person that you are dealing with, as this will pay you dividends now and throughout the rest of the process!
Some things to consider in this: Did they present you with sufficient options, are they knowledgeable and experienced, can they fully fulfill every aspect needed for your purchase, do they accept the method you prefer to pay with (Provide Financing is desired)