How to Choose An Engagement Ring?

5 Steps to Choose an Engagement Ring

It is never quick when it comes to how to choose an engagement ring, even if you or your partner already have a general idea of what you want. This is because there are many practical considerations, such as brand, budget, and other key points. But complex things can be simplified. Start with the five steps outlined below and gradually refine the details as you go.

Step 1. Select the Ideal Ring Brand

Many guides recommend starting with a budget, which makes sense. However, prioritizing the brand is also important, as a trustworthy purchase and service make your budget more worthwhile. It's recommended to first look into well-known brands like Tiffany and Pandora, which, despite being luxury labels, offer more affordable engagement ring options.

Next, consider choosing an engagement ring from a brand like Darry Ring, which offers both quality and excellent service. As an emerging jewelry brand, Darry Ring boasts a diverse product line, including both classic and modern designs, with diamond shapes like round, emerald, pear, and oval. Additionally, all engagement rings above 0.8 carats come with at least one certification from NGTC, GIA, or IGI, whether it's a natural or lab-grown diamond.

What's more, the brand offers competitive prices compared to luxury brands, yet the service is equally top-notch. Its customer support, available even on weekends, can always assist with any pre-purchase or after-sales questions, ensuring a smooth shopping experience.

Most notably, Darry Ring adheres to its "Buy for One Person in a Lifetime" philosophy, and has introduced the Love Check feature, which helps the recipient confirm that the ring is an exclusive custom piece. Such a romantic concept and design not only allow your loved one to better understand your sincerity but also make her say, "Yes, I DO!" with confidence.

Step 2. Set a Reasonable Budget

The question of how to choose an engagement ring is closely tied to your finances. That's why the saying "engagement ring, three months' salary" has been widely circulated. Specifically, it suggests that the price of an engagement ring should ideally be around three months of your salary. Spending much more than that could create financial strain in your life. While this adage might be a bit outdated and may not keep up with market fluctuations, it's always a good idea to save up beforehand and set a suitable budget range for your engagement ring.

Step 3. Measure Your Ring Size

Ring size is the third key step in choosing an engagement ring, and it's a necessary prerequisite. If your partner is aware of your ring selection, you can directly ask and measure their finger. A free ring sizer can be a helpful tool. Don't forget to measure your own if you plan to exchange rings.

For a surprise proposal, you can measure your partner's finger while asleep. You can even ask for help from her family and friends who will surely be happy to give you clues. Learn from How Do You Measure Ring Size at Home for more engagement ring finger size tips.

Step 4. Explore Engagement Ring Styles

Engagement rings are typically made of white gold, yellow gold, or platinum, with a larger center stone (usually a diamond). This is the basic feature of most designs. From there, engagement rings can be classified into solitaire, three-stone, halo, and other styles. They also differ based on the diamond shape, including round, emerald, pear, princess cut, and oval.

These styles are numerous and complex, but there's no need to get bogged down in the details. The most important thing is to understand the preferences you and your partner have for the ring style, as this will be the key factor in your final decision on picking an engagement ring.

Step 5. Try on the Ring if Possible

The final step in figuring out how to choose an engagement ring is to try it on in person, especially if the brand has a store nearby. This allows you to directly assess craftsmanship, diamond cut, and diamond certification. Meanwhile, not only does this save you time on sizing your finger and learning about the styles, but it also ensures that the ring is comfortable to wear.

If visiting a store isn't possible, actively contact customer service to request more photos of the ring from different angles and diamond certification documents. Also, checking other customers' reviews and real-life wearing photos is a great way to help you pick an ideal engagement ring.

7 Professional Tips When Picking an Engagement Ring

The five steps above can help you clarify your thought process for choosing an engagement ring, but they might not be enough. Check out the 7 expert tips below to make an even better engagement ring selection.

Prioritize Preferences

As noted, your partner's preferences for design and style are what matters most when choosing an engagement ring. Be sure to pay attention to your partner's preferred metal color, gemstone shape, and design style through daily activities such as magazine reading, TikTok binge-watching, and chatting, ensuring the ring perfectly matches their taste.

Avoid Following Jewelry Trends

An engagement ring is a symbol of love and carries the expectation of lasting forever. Fashion trends do offer some inspiration for engagement ring selections, but they fade away after the hype. So it's advisable to prioritize designs that carry emotional significance to make your engagement ring more meaningful.

Follow the 4Cs of Diamonds

When it comes to how to pick an engagement ring, you need to have a basic grasp of the 4Cs of diamonds: carat, color, clarity, and cut. Cut determines a diamond's brilliance, while color and clarity affect its visual purity. Carat weight directly relates to the diamond's size. Achieving perfection in all four aspects can be expensive, but by balancing these factors within your budget, you can find the best value for your engagement ring.

Stick to Certified Diamonds

An engagement ring can be one of the most expensive investments of a lifetime. It's essential to ask the jeweler if the diamond comes with international certifications such as GIA, AGS, or IGI. These certificates provide detailed 4Cs of the diamond, ensuring the quality is reliable. They also help you avoid ethical concerns surrounding conflict diamonds when selecting an engagement ring.

Consider Diamond Settings

The question of how to choose an engagement ring is closely tied to diamonds. Generally, diamonds in rings are secured in place through various settings. Prong and bezel settings are two popular options. The former can have four or six prongs and offers a classic look, while the latter fully encases the diamond, providing the best protection, especially for sharp, easily chipped cuts like princess and marquise.

Choose Durable Materials

Engagement rings are meant to be worn frequently, at least until the wedding. Thus, it is necessary to pick an engagement ring with durable metal like platinum or 18K gold. Platinum is naturally corrosion-resistant and hypoallergenic, while 18K gold is both strong and available in various colors.

Check Brand Reviews

Before choosing an engagement ring, make sure to take the time to research the reputation and customer reviews of the brand. A reputable brand not only offers high-quality rings but also ensures excellent after-sales service, giving you peace of mind.

Final Words

As an important milestone in love, choosing an engagement ring is a long journey, but breaking it down into clear steps can help. Once the basic framework is established, the reset will become easier. Also, don't forget to consider the tips mentioned in this article regarding preferences, diamonds, design, and brand reputation. They are able to guide you towards a more informed and confident decision. For any extra questions about how to choose an engagement ring, Darry Ring is always here to assist you!