8 Top Tips for Choosing the Perfect Engagement Ring

1. How Much Should You Spend

Before you take to the shops online or offline, it is important to set your budget. Diamond engagement rings vary largely in price, knowing your budget will narrow down your search. A general rule of thumb would be to spend two months salary on the ring. Of course this is a personal decision and completely up to the buyer.

2. Choose Your Metal

It is a good idea to think about the jewellery your fiancé is already wearing when considering the metal. Yellow Gold is considered very classic and traditional. While White Gold tends to show off diamonds beautifully. However, it does require some maintenance. Coated in rhodium plating to enhance the shine, this metal would not suit anyone working with chemicals. Rose Gold has gained some popularity in recent years, and is favoured in vintage inspired designs. Platinum is the hardest metal, weightier than gold. It is typically the most the expensive choice.

3. Know The 4 C’s

You must have heard mentions of the 4 C’s in Diamond quality. Cut, Clarity, Colour and Carat.

Cut

Probably the most important C, is the Cut of the diamond. This refers to the number of facets, the angle and alignment. The cut determines the sparkle of the diamond. Round Brilliant Cut Diamonds tend to have the most sparkle of all cuts. Hence they are the most popular choice in Engagement Rings.

Clarity

Clarity is a measure of how clear a diamond appears.  The GIA use the following to grade clarity :

(FL) Flawless 

No inclusions and no blemishes visible under 10x magnification

(IF) Internally Flawless

No inclusions visible under 10x magnification

(VVS₁ and VVS₂) Very, Very Slightly Included

Inclusions so slight they are difficult for a skilled grader to see under 10x magnification

(VS₁ and VS₂) Very Slightly Included

Inclusions are observed with effort under 10x magnification, but can be characterized as minor

(SI₁ and SI₂) Slightly Included

Inclusions are noticeable under 10x magnification

(I₁, I₂, and I₃) Included

Inclusions are obvious under 10x magnification which may affect transparency and brilliance

Colour

Diamonds are valued by how colourless they appear. Starting at D (colourless) and going up as far as Z (hints of brown and yellow). The less colour the higher the value. However, it is worth noting that many  would not notice the difference between a D and G unless placed side by side.  In  fact G-H are the most commonly bought.

Carat

The Carat Weight (CT) measures the diamonds size. It is simply the weight of the stone. A carat equates to 200 milligrams. And each carat is made up of 100 ‘points’. You will often hear jewellers and sales associates describe the weight of a diamond below 1ct in terms of points. For example, a 0.25ct stone will be called a ‘twenty-five pointer’. However, anything above 1ct will be described in carats and decimals. Therefore a 1.3ct stone will be described as ‘one point three carats’

Of course because larger diamonds are so rare, the higher the Carat, the higher the price. If you or your partner would love a larger stone but don’t have the budget to match, a Cluster type Engagement ring could be the best option for you. Offering a bigger show for a lower price, Clusters contain smaller diamonds set to form the traditional Diamond Shapes.

Another great option for larger diamonds without the hefty price tag is Lab Grown Diamonds. Our Guide on Lab Grown Diamonds will tell you everything you need to know to make an informed decision when shopping LG Diamond Engagement Rings.

It is also important to compromise when it comes to Diamond Engagement Ring shopping, as all the 4 Cs factor into the price. You might decide to go for a lower colour grade for a larger stone. Often we cannot tell the difference between a D and an F until they are side by side.

4. The Diamond Shape

5. Don’t Forget Your Gemstones

One of the most famous engagement rings is the Sapphire Cluster given to Princess Diana, now worn by the Duchess of Cambridge Kate. Sapphires, Rubies and Emeralds are not to be forgotten when considering an engagement ring. These beautiful vibrant stones are favoured by many and offer a striking alternative to Diamonds.

6. Consider Your Wedding Ring

Some engagement ring styles are simply stunning worn alone! However it is important to remember a wedding ring will be added at a later stage. Make sure you are happy with your choice and that the ring does in fact suit a second ring. Some styles will have wedding rings made to match. It is important to discuss when buying the Engagement Ring.

7. Get Measured

Whether buying for your fiancé as a surprise proposal or shopping together, it is vital to get the size right. Too loose and the ring will spin, too tight and it will be uncomfortable. Be sure to get measured. For tips on sizing read our ring size guide.

8. Diamonds Are Forever

A Diamond Engagement ring is for life. Therefore, it is important to buy what you love rather than what is in fashion. Don’t get caught up in current trends when choosing your forever ring.

Our helpful and knowledgeable staff are here to help you choose this very special ring. Our website only shows the smallest selection of our diamond engagement ring range. With many more styles in our shop in Galway, you will not be disappointed. Book an appointment today with one of our experts to find your perfect ring.

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