Enagagement Rings, Diamonds, And Information You Should Know

Now that you've decided to make the commitment it's time to buy the ring. An engagement ring is one of the most important purchases you will ever make and you need to get it right. To set your mind at ease familiarize yourself with some diamond-buying basics. Plan a budget and set some guidelines on what your are able and willing to spend. the rule of thumb is 2 months salary, but your personal circumstances may allow you to spend more or less.

Diamond Basics: Diamonds are measured in carats, the unit of weight. The bigger the number, the bigger the diamond; however, biggest is not always best. Consider the size, shape, cut, and clarity of a diamond. What is the difference in cut and shape? Shapes are obviously round, oval, heart-shaped, square, rectangular, pear, marquise, etc. but the cut does not refer to shape. Cut refers to the facets cut into the diamond. Their purpose is to reflect light and give the diamond it's brilliance and sparkle. A diamond that is to broad and shallow or too deep and narrow will lack sparkle regardless of how much it weighs. The Round Brilliant diamond is by far the most common shape and cut but your soon-to-be wife's style may demand the bolder look of a square or elegance of a marquise.

Diamonds can also vary in color. Generally, the less color the better when it comes to the the diamond in an engagement ring, but some colored diamonds are quite rare and valuable. Watch out for stones that appear unflatteringly yellowish or cloudy. Clarity goes hand in had with color. Imperfections and flaws in the stones, although they may be imperceptible to the average person's eye, lower the value of diamonds.

Once you have chosen a satisfactory stone in your price range it's time to choose a setting. Gold is the most common but settings also come in white gold and platinum. If you have to choose a smaller stone the setting can make it look larger by surrounding it with smaller stones. For example, a Bezel setting completely surrounds the stone. Consider your fianc's sense of style and choose one that is similar to pieces she already owns or rings she has pointed our and admired to her friends.