Choosing an engagement ring can be a difficult process, but it doesn't have to be. Traditionally, diamonds have been the ultimate choice when it comes to engagement rings, and with good reason. While other stones are also popular thanks to their unique designs, diamonds remain the top choice for a lot of people.
Their sophistication, elegance and sparkle remain unmatched. Diamonds have earned quite the reputation for being a "girl's best friend," and they will indubitably draw people's attention to your loved one's hands. While this might seem enjoyable, getting an authentic diamond ring can be quite confusing.
Here are a few things you should know before buying a diamond engagement ring.
Settings and Diamonds Are Often Sold Separately
One of the things to consider is the metal you want to set the ring on. Band metals range from white gold to yellow gold and even platinum. Some women don't like wearing gold and, as such, prefer sterling silver. Ensure you have an idea of the metal you want to buy.
Most people don't know that the setting and the centre stone are often sold separately. So when you visit the jewellers, you're often shopping for the diamond and the setting. While some rings come with a pre-set centre stone, it's more common today for jewellers to sell the centre stone and setting separately.
Consider the 4 Cs
The 4 Cs are the quality gradings of a diamond, and you need to understand them before buying a diamond engagement ring. The first C is the diamond cut. It's the grading of how well your chosen diamond is cut, which affects how it will reflect light. If a diamond is poorly cut, it will not sparkle and will look dull and dim.
The next C represents the colour. It is a measurement of how colourless the white diamond is. The third C is for clarity. This grading represents how flawless the diamond is, both externally and internally. The fourth C is the carat measure. This is a weight measurement, which gives you an idea of how large the diamond is.
Prioritize the Cut
While each of the 4 Cs is vital, you should always prioritize the cut when choosing a diamond. The last thing you want is an engagement ring that looks dim and dull.
Shape and Setting Style
The shape of your centre stone and the setting style really affect the engagement ring's final look. The shape could be round, oval, princess cut or cushion cut. Your engagement ring's setting will also affect its style. The setting can be vintage-inspired, modern, classic, unique or something else.
Order in Advance
Unless you're buying a preset engagement ring, your jeweller will require some time to set your diamond into the ring. Some engagement rings are made only after you've made an order, which may take a little time. Ensure you order well in advance so you can have your engagement ring on the date you want to propose.
A diamond engagement ring is an excellent investment. It's a timeless and high-quality ring, not to mention its classic and tasteful nature. With diamonds, you can be sure you made the right decision.
To learn more about diamond engagement rings, contact a jewellery store.