Knowing how to choose a ring is easy if you do your homework up front!

There are several steps to helping you choose a ring that will best represent the unending union between you and your bride to be. As you begin your search you should begin by thinking about the following questions:

1. What type of ring does she like?

2. How much ring can you afford?

A great way to find out what type of ring she likes is to stop by a reputable jeweler at your local mall. If you are trying to be discreet consider, looking through the internet, or bridal magazines. Another great way to choose a ring is to find out what she likes is to talk with her girlfriends or her family members.

How much ring can you afford?

Only you know the answer the second question. You want to choose a ring that your special lady can be proud of, but you don’t want to sacrifice the house, the kids or the future.

A continuing misconception about the ring is that an expensive ring somehow denotes more love for your partner. This simply not true, a woman worth having, will respect your financial position and she will realize that the ring is only one of the cornerstones on which you will build your future. But listen guys, don’t be tight. If you have been listening, then you have started this quest long in advance. Remember your choice will be talked about, so always do as best as you comfortably can.

How to Begin

You should begin your search long in advance. Sure you want to choose a ring, but it doesnt have to be the first ring, so give yourself some time. You don’t want to make an impulse purchase on something as important as an engagement ring. There are many things to consider when buying a ring and you want to make an informed choice.

As you are doing your homework, I want you to pay special attention to settings, sizes, colors, and shapes of rings. Additionally, you should take a look at the “wedding band” options for any ring you are considering. (There is nothing worse than buying the perfect wedding ring and having it contrast with the band you select.) Many designers are creating beautiful band sets. These are a generally a good idea because they guarantee that your ring and band will be a happy union.

Next I want you to take a good look at your ladies’ current jewelry. Does she wear gold or does she like white gold or platinum? Look at her necklaces, her watches, etc. Don’t be the guy who buys a gold wedding ring for a platinum lady. Once you are certain that you have an idea of what type of setting and what type of material you want, you will be ready to select the diamond.

The Four Cs

1. The Cut, Most people assume that the cut of a diamond refers to its shape. And, while there are many shapes of diamonds(emerald, heart, marquis, oval, pear, princess, radiant, and round) the term cut actually refers to the proportion of the stone and how well it disperses light. Talk with your girl to get her preference.

2. Color

Diamonds come many colors but for the sake of your proposal, you will want to find one as near colorless as possible. Gemologists rate stones from D(colorless)to Z(light yellow). The closer a diamond is to colorless than the more the light will pass through it and it will be said to have more brilliance. I strongly suggest you stay in the D to I range.

3. Clarity

Clarity refers to the location of flaws within a diamond. If a diamond has no flaws or blemishes it is said to be flawless and can fetch a healthy amount on the open market. But for most of us, you will concern yourself with any of the diamonds listed in the slightly occluded range. Of course the fewer occlusions the greater the price. I recommend staying above Si on the chart.

4. Carat Weight

And finally we come to the big question, how many carats should I buy? Only you know the expectations of your honey in terms of carat weight. It is my opinion that some discussion early on in the relationship can help make this decision much less frustrating than it is for most. You and your honey should discuss finances, and you should discuss your personal family priorities. With that said, and if your funds permit it you should try to stay between .75 and 1.5 carats. Diamonds witihin this range can range from 2 thousand to 15 thousand dollars. If you don’t make over 100k per year, I would strongly suggest you stay in this range.