Regardless of if you have been flipping through issues of Bride magazine, talking with your married (or soon-to-be-married) girlfriends or just browsing online, there is a good chance you know what engagement ring you want.
However, you still put it in the hands of your future fiancé to shop, right? What happens if he wants you to come along? While this adds a bit of complication to the situation, there are some tips that can help you get through this experience.
1. Do Your Research
Before going shopping together, you need to become familiar with the four C’s. This includes carat weight, cut, color and clarity. If you know what shape diamond you want, it will narrow down the options pretty quickly.
Each cut is going to have a different price, with round cuts being the costliest. If size is important, you can get a more affordable price by choosing a less expensive shape.
2. Don’t Forget About the Metal
While a platinum setting may be considered the “norm” today, they are also going to be the most expensive. In addition to being higher in regard to price range, this is also a high-maintenance metal. Because it is so soft, it will get scratched much more easily. Be sure to consider if this will complement your lifestyle and if not, choose a more durable metal such as 18k white, yellow, or rose gold.
3. Size Matters (and It’s Okay to Feel This Way)
There are some people who want a large stone rather than a clearer one. However, others want a diamond that is as clear as possible, regardless of the carat count. It is okay to tell your future fiancé what size stone you want, but make sure you are also flexible to fit any budget limits they may have.
4. Remain Subtle
One of the most difficult ways to shop with your guy instead of having him pick out the ring by himself is that you will have to give your opinion about all the options. While this may seem ideal, it can be a bit tricky to find a balance between your dream ring and reality.
There are discreet ways you can give your opinion without sounding so unrealistic. Take some photos along of rings you like, including your dream ring. This way he has options.
When it comes to choosing an engagement ring, there are several factors to consider. When you are shopping with your partner, using this checklist can help you both either choose a ring or custom design a ring that matches your style and budget.