How To Buy Your Engagement Ring
Here is a nice article on how you should approach buying a engagement ring *
How To Buy An Engagement Ring *
An engagement ring is an important purchase as it marks a special time in the
lives of two people. As with any important decision, a little time and energy
should be spent preparing and planning.
First, take the time to learn about the 4C's - cut, carat, color and clarity.
These are the standards by which a diamond is graded. By understanding what
they are, and which are most important to you, it is possible to make a plan
that will bring you the most satisfaction with your purchase, and give you the
most diamond for your money.
Cut refers to the shape of the diamond, and different shapes come with different
price tags. Marquise, oval, round, pear, square, emerald are some of the popular
shapes that are available. The cut has a great affect on the overall appearance
of a diamond, as a poor cut makes a beautiful stone look dull. How it is cut
changes the way the light is reflected through the diamond and back. That is
what makes it sparkle.
Carat refers to weight. Larger diamonds are more valuable than smaller ones.
Total carat weight refers to the combined weight of several stones in a setting.
You may want to consider the cost of one larger stone compared to several smaller
stones grouped in an attractive setting when working within your budget. The
classic diamond should be clear or nearly colorless.
Color for a classic diamond is graded alphabetically, with listings lower in
the alphabet being less desirable. Many people don't realize that diamonds are
available in a rainbow of colors. Pink and yellow diamonds are being marketed
for their color, and pink are becoming especially popular with younger people.
But, when choosing an engagement ring, nearly colorless is the classic standard.
The final "c" refers to clarity. When you look at the diamond, you should see
no visible, internal flaws. Remember, a diamond is a stone. Often stones have
simple flaws in their surface. Because a diamond is nearly colorless, you can
see to the inside. If you notice little imperfections, that diamond will be
rated less desirable in clarity.
General recommendations are to spend approximately 2-3 months salary on an engagement
ring. Establish what you are willing and able to spend, and work from there.
Make some decisions about the features that are most important to you and your
fiancee. You may decide that the cut of the stone is most important. The most
popular cut, the round, is also the most brilliant. If so, compare the cost
and appearance of stones in that particular cut. Most people can not see minor
imperfections in a diamond, so striving for the most perfect diamond is unnecessary.
Consider the setting as well. Do you want a platinum, yellow gold or white gold
band? Platinum and white gold would require whiter diamond which can mean a
higher price. With a yellow gold setting, a less clear diamond would not be
as noticeable. Once you have determined the most important attributes and the
amount you are willing to spend, go shopping. Spend plenty of time comparing
the settings and the stones.
Don't allow anyone to pressure you into making your purchase prematurely. Talk
to the sales people and make sure that you feel comfortable with their level
of knowledge and the advice that they give you. Their number one priority should
be your satisfaction. Once you feel comfortable with your ability to compare
the features in diamonds, and you have determined what is most important to
you, you will be well equipped to choose the right engagement ring.
How To Buy An Engagement Ring >>
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