Engagement Rings

You may have heard the rule that you should spend two to three months of your income on your engagement ring, but this rule was just a marketing ploy created by De Beers. Your engagement ring spend should be based on your budget and the type of ring you are looking to buy.

1. Budget: How much you are willing to spend on a ring?
2. Ring Style: Are you looking for a classic ring, a modern ring or maybe a vintage ring?
3. Metal: Rings can be made of platinum or different types of gold.
4. Shape: The shape of the center diamond in your engagement ring affects the overall look.
5. 4 Cs: The color, clarity, cut and size of the stone are important criteria in choosing your diamond.

For natural diamonds, the average cost is around $6,000 and the average carat weight is 1.25 carats. For lab-grown diamonds, the average cost is $4,000 and the average carat weight is 2.5 carats.

Engagement rings can be made out of platinum or gold. Gold can be mixed with various metals to produce different colors such as white gold or rose gold. Gold rings also come in different purities. For example, 18 karat gold is 75% gold and 14 karat gold is about 58% gold.

Start by considering the preferences and lifestyle of your partner. Understand the 4Cs (Cut, Color, Clarity, Carat) for diamonds or learn about other gemstones if considering alternatives. Think about the metal type for the band, the setting style, and any personal touches that could make the ring special. It's also helpful to set a budget before beginning your search.

Popular styles include solitaire, halo, three-stone, and vintage-inspired designs. Solitaire rings feature a single stone, halo rings have a central stone surrounded by smaller diamonds, three-stone rings symbolize the past, present, and future, and vintage-inspired rings reflect historical eras with intricate details.

Lab-grown diamonds are created in controlled environments using advanced technological processes that replicate the conditions under which diamonds naturally develop. They have the same physical, chemical, and optical properties as mined diamonds but are often more affordable and environmentally sustainable. Natural diamonds are formed over billions of years below the Earth's surface.

The setting not only affects the ring's appearance but also its wearability and the security of the gemstone. Popular settings include prongs, bezels, and pavé. The right setting can enhance the stone's beauty and ensure its longevity.

Look for diamonds certified by reputable organizations like the GIA, which track diamonds from mine to market. Consider purchasing from jewelers who adhere to the Kimberley Process or offer conflict-free and ethically sourced diamonds.

Yes, sustainable options include recycled metals, ethically sourced or lab-grown gemstones, and vintage or antique rings. These choices can minimize environmental impact and ensure ethical practices.

A prong setting uses metal claws to hold the gemstone, allowing more light to enter and enhancing its brilliance. It's ideal for maximizing a diamond's sparkle. A bezel setting encircles the gemstone with metal, offering better protection and a modern look. Choose based on the desired balance between sparkle and durability.

The cut of a diamond significantly impacts its brilliance and fire. Look for cuts with good to excellent ratings to ensure the diamond reflects light beautifully. Consider your partner's style preferences as well; while round cuts are classic, princess, cushion, or other shapes may align more closely with their taste.

The metal choice affects the ring's overall appearance, durability, and maintenance requirements. Gold (yellow, white, or rose) is traditional and requires periodic polishing. Platinum is durable and hypoallergenic but more expensive. Silver is affordable but tarnishes over time. Consider your partner's lifestyle and preferences when choosing.

Round diamonds are the most popular shape for engagement rings. This timeless diamond shape offers the most sparkle and flatters any finger.