Engagement Rings and How to Buy Them

You are ready. This is the person you want to spend your life with; they laugh at your jokes, watch the same television shows, and check off all the boxes. Now, all you have to do is pick an engagement ring. As it turns out, this is just as complicated as finding the person to marry. There are plenty of high-end fashion designers and jewelry makers, each with a unique signature philosophy. When you throw in diamonds and all of the possibilities they offer, it becomes even more complicated. No need to worry, as our experts are here to help with this helpful guide and in store daily.

Defining Your Budget

The first thing to do is make a budget and stick to it. As there are so many options, this helps narrow down the search. Note that the common claim that a ring should cost ’three months? salary? was a marketing strategy by De Beers and is not a cold hard fact. The first steps in marriage need not be a financial strain on a relationship. Do not forget about wedding bands while budgeting as well.

Tying the Diamond Knot

The diamond center stone is the next thing to consider. This is for a few reasons. First, they can be expensive and significantly impact the budget. Second, they affect the ring’s overall aesthetic. Third, not all settings fit all diamonds. There are four c’s when it comes to diamonds: clarity, cut, carats, and color.

• Clarity means the GIA rating of the stone. The Gemological Institute of America rates diamonds based on the number of flaws, or inclusions, in the gem. This affects their brilliance, as well as what cuts suit them best.
• Cut affects their shape, which we will discuss in the next section. Note that some cuts, like emerald, are more suitable for higher clarity diamonds.
• Carats refer to the size of the gem. The average center stone is around one carat.
• Color is also important. The most sought-out jewels are colorless.

The Shape of the Stone

A diamond’s cut is very important. It affects the brilliance of the stone as well as what types of settings will look best. The classic round cut is the most common and makes up around 75% of all diamonds. As a result, most designers make settings that fit them. Other cuts bring their own unique qualities to the table.

An oval ring brings an unorthodox aesthetic to every ring, while an emerald cut allows the diamond to steal the show. Marquise cut diamonds are elongated ovals with sharpened tips that are an uncommon elegance. There are plenty of options, so pick something that speaks to you.

How to Choose a Ring Setting

There are a plethora of options in ring settings, but they can be narrowed down. There are solitaires, side stones, three stones, and halos. These vary in the number of complimentary diamonds from zero to many, respectively. For those who want a more minimalist, affordable ring, a solitaire is excellent. For additional radiance, a halo, or a circle of diamonds around the center stone, is ideal.

After picking the amount of accentuating diamonds, contemplate design approaches. Are geometric, modern designs more attractive, or are nature-inspired bands exhibiting floral accents? Consider what’s important to you and browse online catalogs, or else speak to a professional at a jewelry retailer. With some places, you can even book a reservation for a personalized shopping experience.

Buy an Engagement Ring at Northeastern Fine Jewelry

For the ultimate shopping experience and the best selection, Northeastern Fine Jewelry is the answer. We offer the finest designer brands in fashion and bridal jewelry, as well as luxury timepieces. In addition to our collection, we have professional jewelry services like custom pearl stringing and custom jewelry design. Check out our website to find a showroom near you.