- How to Buy an
Engagement Ring [article] - Engagement Rings:
Custom Design 101 [article] - Smart Splurges [article]
- Wedding Band
Engraving [q&a] - How to Choose the
Right Veil for Your... [article]
An engagement ring is probably the most expensive piece of jewelry you and your finace have ever shopped for. It's important to do a lot of research before going to a jeweler and looking at engagement rings. Here are eight key things you need to know before you start shopping for an engagement ring.
Shape Matters Most
Even before those infamous 4Cs (cut, color, clarity, and carat), you must know what shape your future fiancee loves. Shape indicates the actual geometry of the stone, as opposed to cut, which relates to the angles of the facets in the stone.
Settings Are Second
A quality setting -- the metal framework in which your stone is mounted -- can set the tone for a ring. A classic round gets a fresh and modern makeover in a bezel setting. A trendy oval can look more traditional in a four-prong setting. Getting the right combo of shape and setting is key.
Spy on Her Style
The trend these days is for couples to ring shop together, but if you're more of a traditionalist and looking to surprise her with a ring she'll love, be sure to do some reconnaissance. You can ask her best friend or sibling for help -- and swear them to secrecy. But if you're set on not telling anyone, pay attention to the jewelry she wears. Is she more of a platinum/silver girl than a yellow gold one? Does she gravitate to vintage jewels as opposed to simple classic pieces? Watch her for a couple of weeks and take mental notes to size up her style.