5 Things to Consider When Choosing Your Engagement Ring

Planning a wedding is an exciting but overwhelming process as there is so much to think about. One of the biggest parts of preparation is choosing an engagement ring (which can be a complex task in itself). 

Nowadays, a woman choosing her own engagement ring is not unheard of. After all, they are the ones that will have to wear it forever! You may already have an idea of the ring you want, but work out the small details using this guide. The perfect ring begins with a little thought and preparation beforehand. 

Here are 5 practical things you can think about before purchasing an engagement ring to make sure you find one that suits your style and price range. 

1. Know Your Budget

Considering your budget first is a great place to start, as this will inform many of the other decisions you make about your engagement ring. It will also ensure you don’t overspend and get you in the mindset of budgeting every element of your wedding. 

Think about how much you can reasonably afford to spend on a ring, and try to stick to this. Don’t forget that weddings overall are an expensive affair, so it’s best not to blow your budget with the very first purchase!

Remember, there is a wide range of beautiful rings to suit all budgets, so you’re sure to find something you’ll both love within your price range.

2. Decide on a Style

Personal taste will dictate a lot about the ring you end up choosing, so take some time before hitting the shops to really consider what it is you and your partner like. Online searches will bring up thousands of images of all kinds of engagement rings which you can use to create a mood board of the kind of thing you’re looking for.

Also, think about how the style of the ring will fit with any other jewelry you wear on a day-to-day basis. Your wedding band should be a particular consideration, as it is usually worn alongside your engagement ring on the ring finger.

3. Familiarize Yourself With Diamonds 

The majority of engagement rings feature diamonds, so it’s worth thinking about what kind, shape, clarity, and carat you’d like if you’ve got your heart set on a diamond ring. 

Use a guide to buying diamonds to make sure you’re in the know before visiting stores. This will make it easier for you to narrow down both what you want and what you can afford. 

4. Know Your Metals

While traditional engagement rings are made from gold or silver, platinum and rose gold have become increasingly popular choices in recent times. It’s important to consider which color metals you prefer, which metals you can afford, and which is most practical for you. 

Platinum, while it looks similar to silver, comes with a much higher price tag as it’s a rarer, denser metal. Some metals are more prone to marking and scratching than others, so be sure to consider how active and hands-on your lifestyle is before selecting a metal. 

5. Get the Ring Size Right

Most jewelers will be happy to assist you in determining your ring size. If you’re visiting lots of jewelry stores, get measured in one shop, and make a note of your size. Make sure both you and your partner are measured so that your wedding bands will fit too! Your ring should feel snug but comfortable on your ring finger.

Conclusion

Choosing an engagement ring is one of the most exciting activities before your big day, but it can also be quite stressful if you don’t know what you’re looking for. Be prepared before you start shopping with these 5 practical considerations to ensure you find the perfect ring!