Having made the decision to spend the rest of your life with that special person and you are ready to ask them to marry you, you are making one of the most important decisions of your life. Maybe you have questions such as, How to choose an engagement ring for your bride? How much should you spend on an engagement ring? How many carats should the engagement ring be? Should we go shopping for an engagement ring together? How much should I spend? All the plans you make are important and should be well thought out. When it comes to picking an engagement ring, do you pick it out yourself, or do you make that decision with your future fiancee? This is a very special time. Take time to enjoy the process.
How to Pick An Engagement Ring FAQ
How Much Should You Spend on an Engagement Ring?
An old adage says you should spend three months’ salary on an engagement ring. That saying came from a jewelry marketing ad in the 1930s. Much has changed since then. There is no rule concerning what you should spend on an engagement ring. The average is between $1,000 and $5,000. Some spend more, and some spend less. Remember, there is no rule.
How to Choose an Engagement Ring Setting?
When you first look at a ring, you usually notice the center stone before anything else. The setting is the next thing you usually see. Not only does the setting secure the stones to the ring, it has an impact on the whole appearance of the ring.
Two things to consider are the color of the metal and the shape of center stone.
The most common setting for engagement rings is the prong setting. Other settings include: Halo setting, Channel setting, Bezel setting, Invisible setting, and pave’ and micro pave’ settings.
Consider your fiancee’s taste and style when deciding on the setting.
How Many Carats Should an Engagement ring be?
There is no rule about the number of carats. The average is between 1 and 2 carats.
- Size and price are important. It is also important to have an understanding of the 4C’s of diamonds: carat, cut, clarity, and color.
- Different cuts make a stone look larger or smaller.
- Make a budget; do the research, and
- take your time deciding.
Should You Go Engagement Ring Shopping Together?
According to research done by Brides Magazine, “62% of couples choose to go shopping for an engagement ring together.”
There are pros and cons, but the bottom line is do what makes you comfortable. There is the surprise and the tradition. There is also the fact that many couples are already living together and making decisions together. Every circumstance is unique. Hopefully, if you are planning to propose, you have already discussed getting married, and perhaps your future fiancee’ has given you some idea of what they would like in an engagement ring. You may also talk with their friends. Look at their Instagram account.
Should I Ask my Future Fiancee What Engagement Ring They Want?
As mentioned earlier, a major survey determined that 62% of couples shop for the engagement ring together.
The most important thing to remember is you want a ring they will be happy to wear for the rest of their life.
It probably is not the best idea to surprise a person with a ring, if you have not discussed getting married. There are so many things to consider with an engagement ring. For instance, the cut of the diamond, the type of gem for the center stone, a solitaire, three stone, the type of metal, and the type of setting are just some options to consider.
How Do I Know What Engagement Ring They Like?
The best way is to ask them or take them shopping and let them pick it out. If you plan to spend the rest of your life with someone, it is good to start making major decisions together. If you ask them and they would prefer that you pick it out, you might ask the person they are closest to other than you if they have any idea what they would like. At Joseph’s Jewelry, we have jewelry experts to help you with your decision.
Who Buys the Man’s Wedding Ring?
Years ago, the tradition was the groom bought the engagement ring and the wife’s wedding band, and the wife and wife’s family paid for the wedding and the groom’s ring. Although some still follow that tradition, much has changed. Often couples join their finances and share all the wedding expenses, including the engagement ring and the wedding bands.
How Long Should You Wait Before Proposing to Buy the Engagement Ring?
General consensus seems to be three months. That gives you time to do some research and establish a budget. You want to learn the 3 C’s of diamonds and what other lab-created diamonds, or gems are used as the center stone.
- If this is something you and your future fiancee are planning to do together, it is a great idea to go shopping together.
- It is also a good idea for your future fiancee to try on various styles to see what they like best on their finger.
- That is also a great time to find the correct engagement ring size. It is always best to be able to order the perfect size.
Sometimes you discover that you are not able to find exactly what you want. At Joseph’s Jewelry, we can help you design the perfect engagement ring and make it for you.
What if They Do Not Like the Engagement Ring?
It does happen. Sometimes that special moment comes and you say, “yes” and then you are offered an engagement ring you cannot imagine wearing for the rest of your life. You will not be the first nor the last person to have that happen. Now what?
Remember your love for this person and their desire to spend the rest of their life with you. Perhaps spend a few days with the engagement ring and see if it grows on you. Ask your partner why they chose that particular ring.
Sometimes they have a sweet reason, or perhaps it is a family heirloom. Often knowing the reason they chose that ring will make a complete difference in the way you feel about that ring.
However, if after a while you are still disappointed or just do not see yourself wearing that engagement ring every day for the rest of your life, there are some options to consider.
- Broach the subject when you are feeling loving and with kindness.
- Thank your partner for loving you and let them know you appreciate the time and love behind the ring they picked.
- You may share that you have a particular type of ring you have dreamed about for years.
- Or that it doesn’t fit your lifestyle.
- Be honest.
If your partner bought it new, go back to the jewelry store where he bought it and ask them to help you with options. You might be able to keep the center stone and pick a different ring setting. You might use the center stones and have an engagement ring custom designed. You might find a wedding band to go with it that would change the appearance altogether.
What is Most Important When Picking an Engagement Ring?
The most important thing when picking an engagement ring is that your partner will love wearing it every day for the rest of their life.
Things to consider are lifestyle ( what kind of work they do, are they athletic). Would your partner want an engagement ring that is a statement piece, or would they want something more minimal?
According to Jess Hannah, founder of Los Angeles-based jewelry line J.Hannah says, “Now, a ring is more an extension of someone’s personal style.”
That means they are empowered to go against the traditional and find something that speaks to them on a personal level.
Deciding to spend the rest of your life with that very special person may be the most important decision you will ever make.
It is certainly a landmark decision in your life and should be savored as such.
The two of you are setting out on the sweetest and most incredible adventure together.
Choosing an engagement ring is a bold statement that is a symbol of that love and commitment. The jewelry experts at Joseph’s Jewelry are eager to help you explore the many options available to choose that very special engagement ring for that very special person. We carry the largest selection of fine gold and diamond jewelry near you on the Treasure Coast, including jewelry for men. You’ll find exactly what you’re looking for without having to drive around Stuart, Hobe Sound, Palm City, Jensen Beach, or Port St. Lucie for fine jewelry. Our professional jewelers will help you find the perfect gift every time you visit us nearby. You just don’t get that with an online jewelry store.