What is an engagement ring? They are a token given prior to marriage. It is the ultimate tangible symbol of commitment, and is an indication that no one is allowed to woo the woman wearing it.
Traditionally, it is worn on the fourth finger of the left hand which is said to have the “vein of love” that is connected to the heart.
However, in other countries, it is worn on the second to the last finger on the right hand. The French men were said to have started the tradition of giving engagement rings to their loved ones during the sixteenth century.
There is a wide variety of modern and traditional engagement bands that will best convey your message of love to your dearly beloved.
Things to Consider in Choosing a Ring
Rings for engagement purposes vary in sizes, styles, stone ornaments, metal bands and prices. They are usually adorned with diamonds because of the latter’s stunning brilliance and timeless appeal. The metal bands vary from white gold, yellow gold, a combination of white and yellow, and platinum.
Make sure that the ring will not only suit your woman’s exquisite taste but will fit your budget as well. You would not want to put yourself into trouble by buying a ring that will cost you an arm and a leg.
In order to acquire the ring that will suit your specific needs, you should keep a few things in view. Make sure that the diamond is properly cut or well-angled to ensure that its brilliance will not be compromised. Arguably, the most popular cut or style of diamond rings is the round cut; though there are other cuts or styles to choose from, such as oval, heart-shaped and the ever-popular princess cut.
If you want a diamond that is rare and can withstand the test of time, settle upon the colorless white diamond variety. But do not expect it to be cheap, for fancy rings are usually costly. Clarity is another important consideration, for it affects the fire or the ability of the diamond to reflect and deflect light. Pick a diamond ring that is graded IF or internally flawless to ensure the ring’s quality and lasting durability.
Moreover, see to it that the ring’s carat is between one carat and half a carat, which is the standard size of most diamond rings. Diamonds can be substituted with other colorless stones such as white sapphire, topaz and quartz, so knowing the ring’s carat is essential.
Choose a ring that will fit your personal spending plan. The popular notion that you should spend one to two months worth of your salary in buying an engagement is nothing but a pre-set norm. Define your spending plan before purchasing a wedding band, and buy whatever you can afford. Remember, the ring can make or break the engagement so buy the best one available.
Other Helpful Tips on Buying the right Ring
Choosing rings should not be that hard, however, an engagement ring is the physical proof of one of the highlights and sweetest part of your marriage life. Most men would really devote their time and money in deciding which engagement ring they would give them to their future bride. Whether you are a man who wants to surprise your girlfriend or couple deciding upon engagement rings, here are some general tips to follow.
Make sure that you invest in a ring from a trusted jeweler to avoid ending up with a low-standard purchase. Buying online is discouraged for it poses great risks; since you will not be able to personally see and inspect the ring prior to delivery. If you want to have a good deal and purchase a ring that is popularly priced, consider buying one on “slow months” like August.
Make sure that the ring has an authentic gemological certificate, and that it has a warranty to justify its value. Remember, buying an engagement ring is a huge decision; and careful consideration and real effort is necessary to ensure that you will get the perfect one that will leave your fiancé in state of awe and excitement.
Affordability
First, you might want to ask yourself, “How much can I afford?” This will narrow down your options so you can better choose. If your budget is limited, you may check out jewelry stores that give big discounts or when they will be on “sale”. Some online jewelry stores also give discounts to their customers.
But if budget is not a problem with you, there are lots of options. You can design your own or have it done by a professional engagement ring jeweler and you can even have your engagement ring personalized (like engraving names or special message on it) to make it more unique.
Whether you are going to buy a ready-made or customized ring, part of your preference would be the sizes, shapes, colors, carats, and kind of gemstones. While there is no specific guidelines to what kind of gemstone is used for an engagement ring, Diamond is the most common gemstone, simply because of its elegance and purity. Other gemstones like Sapphire and Rubies are also gaining their popularity.
Make some research on something that will reflect your personality and lifestyle. Engagement rings will be more valuable for both of you if it has a description of your life. Some couples also consider their culture and religious belief.
You can even choose something similar (or perfectly the same) as what the famous people and celebrities have worn. Antique engagement rings are also available in some jewelry stores. But you might also want to check its durability. It is important as some gemstones can have scratches easily and require high maintenance.
Where to Look for Help when Searching for Your Ring?
Consult your friends and family members. These people can give you a lot of helpful suggestions especially those who are married ones since they have already experienced this kind of decision-making process you are going through right now.
You may also seek professional advice. Jewelry stores usually provide guides in choosing jewelry for different occasions – not just for engagements, but I guess if you are going to ask them, most of them will lead you to buy the most expensive one and will maximize your budget.
Though most experts would still ask your personal preference. Like all other gifts, rings are presented in a package. So you also need to choose a beautiful, well-presented engagement ring box.
However, other guys prefer to give it as plain as it is (like putting it in the dessert, in a glass of wine, and other style to make it surprising).For women, engagement ring comes with the acceptance of marriage and love that is bound to last for a lifetime.
For men, engagement ring is the symbol of your respect and unconditional love to your future bride; that you want to be with her for the rest of your life. But no matter what kind of ring you decide to give her, what matter most is the promise that you will take care of her, love her, and will be with her as long as you both lives. And with that, I am sure he or she will love wearing his/her engagement ring as much as he loves you.