Engagement Rings

Nothing sparkles more than a woman in love...

They say diamonds are a girls best friend, so we should know them pretty well for our engagement rings!

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Budget

Deciding on a budget early ensures you can find your perfect ring within your price range. It's likely you may have heard the guideline, two months' salary should be allotted on the ring; however, every couple is different. Keep in mind, this phrase was also developed in the 1940's by a diamond producer's advertising agency. Many people spend more, many spend less, what is important is that you determine how much you are comfortable with spending. 

Metal

White gold, yellow gold, platinum, oh my!

Gold is a classic option for engagement rings, most are offered in 14K and 18K gold. 

Platinum is also growing very popular. It is 95% pure, where white gold is only 75% pure. This makes platinum more hypoallergenic and a better choice if allergies are a concern. Platinum is also durable than white gold and retains its luster permanently. 

4 C's: Cut, Clarity, Color, Carat

Cut: unique arrangement of facets, finish, and proportions of the diamond. This is key in the diamond's ability to reflect light, making it sparkle!

Color: less is more. Colorless diamonds are rare (and expensive). Diamond colors are measured on a scale beginning at D (colorless) and ends at Z (light yellow). 

Clarity: the blemishes or inclusions a diamond has. Graded on a scale between FL (flawless) to I (included). 

Carat: The most remembered and straightforward is the diamond's weight. 

Although Carat might be an important choice, be careful not to sacrifice quality for size. Some diamonds have a larger surface which makes them appear larger than they actually are, and settings can help here as well!

Shape

The picture below will help you get to know the diamond shapes, and see what they could say about your personality. 

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Settings

Like I said regarding carat size, settings like a Halo, can make a diamond appear larger, without sacrificing quality. 

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Some unique ideas for rings include choosing to wear a colored gem. Sapphire rings are trending right now as well. 

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For a more antique style, consider wearing a pearl. 

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Certification

Last but not least, make sure the diamond is certified and insured. It's important to obtain a gemological appraisal that confirms the ring's value for insurance purposes. Reputable jewelers should also provide a certificate from an independent diamond grading facility, such as the Gemological Institute of America (GIA) or American Gem Society (AGS), which details the center diamond's grade. 

-Gina