How to Find the Perfect Stone for the Perfect Someone
Congratulations—you’re about to propose! Now all you have to do is find the ideal ring, plan your proposal, and hope for the best answer…don’t worry! We know it’s stressful, but we have the ultimate list of dos and don’ts for engagement ring shopping.
1. Do Take Your Time
There’s no rush to find the perfect ring. Give yourself ample time to scout designs and reputable establishments—you don’t want to speed through one of the biggest purchases of your life. Of course, you’ll need even more time to design a custom ring.
2. Do Your Research
Engagement ring shopping isn’t like a quick trip to the drugstore. The perfect stone is only found through diligent research, so make sure you look into what your partner wants. Listen to any clues they drop. Hit up Pinterest for inspiration. You’ll also need to find trusted sellers to ensure your rock lasts as long as your love.
3. Do Set a Budget
We know society sets arbitrary budgets, but don’t fall into the trap. The most important thing is you find an engagement ring your partner loves for a price that won’t sink you. Between the cost of a wedding and honeymoon, you’ll spend more than enough in the next few years—don’t dump it all into the ring.
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4. Do Try to Get Clues
It’s not always easy to get clues from your partner. After all, you want to sound aloof! However, you can always comment about celebrity rings to see what they say or recruit your loved ones to fish for hints. Scoring ideas beforehand makes shopping a lot easier.
5. Do Measure Their Size
Your partner likely has a ring or two already, so you have the perfect accessory to measure their size. Wait until they’re at work or in the shower before stealthily nabbing the size. On the other hand, some couples shop together, which means your jeweler can help find the exact fit.
6. Do Trust Your Instincts
You know your partner better than anyone, and you certainly know them better than a salesperson. Trust your gut about what they’d love—if a salesperson tries to upsell you or coerce you into another stone, you don’t always need to listen.
7. Do Buy From Someone Trustworthy
Part of your research should include reputable jewelers. Whether you’re custom-making a ring or shopping from the case, no one wants to find out their important purchase is actually a lemon.
8. Do Remember the Four Cs
The four Cs are the Holy Grail of engagement ring shopping—cut, clarity, color, and carat. Consider every one of these in detail before you even step foot in the store. When you walk in with your own knowledge, you’ll have a better idea of what to grab without relying on outside help.
9. Do Schedule an Appointment
Jewelers are busy, so schedule an appointment ahead of time. Proper appointments ensure other customers don’t pull a jeweler’s focus, which allows you to ask all your questions and pick the stone you want.
10. Do Consider a Custom Ring
After dozens of websites and hundreds of pictures, you still can’t find the perfect ring. Don’t fret—you always have the option of customizing one. These can take more time and they’ll likely cost more money, but they’re always an option if you’re not satisfied.
Now that we’ve finished the best practices, let’s explore some red flags to keep in mind when shopping.
1. Don’t Be Afraid to Ask Questions
Salespeople are there to help you. Don’t be afraid to ask about aftercare or to see stones in natural lighting. You can also ask about customization options, how many years of experience a jeweler has, and how long it’ll take before it’s ready.
2. Don’t Fall for Trends
Trends are fickle, so feel free to go against the grain. Though they’re good stepping stones, they’re not the be-all and end-all of your options. Engagement rings should reflect your partner’s personality above all else—proper research helps you find that irresistible design.
3. Don’t Forget About Ring Insurance
The purchase is complete and there’s no going back now! There is, however, ring insurance. Most jewelers have flexible policies in place that protect your rock against loss, damage, or theft. It’s an important step in wearing that ring with confidence.
4. Don’t Buy the First Ring You See
As mentioned, ring shopping is all about research and patience. Don’t grab the first one you find without asking all the right questions. It’s not a one-and-done experience, it’s one of the biggest decisions of your life! Your partner will wear that ring for the rest of their lives, so it's worth putting in the effort to find that forever stone.
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5. Don’t Make it About Someone Else
Don’t ignore outside opinions—but don’t let them influence you entirely. While it’s perfectly fine to bring a loved one along, they’re there for an opinion, not to give the final say. Remember that the ring is ultimately about your partner.
6. Don’t Be Afraid to Stand Out
No one said you have to buy your classic princess cut or white gold band. Don’t be afraid to stand out with custom rings or unique designs that display personality. From multi-colored stones to distinctive bands, rings come in all shapes and sizes.
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7. Don’t Forget About Store Policies
Remember to ask about return policies. We don’t want to think about broken engagements or incorrect sizes, but it’s best to prepare for the worst. Most stores allow at least thirty days to return your rock.
8. Don’t Second-Guess Yourself
You know your partner. You know what they like. Don’t forget that afterward! It’s easy to second-guess yourself after such a big step but trust your gut instincts. The first leg of your journey is done and now it’s time to plan the proposal.
9. Don’t Ignore the Wedding Band
While some couples don’t opt for wedding bands, others enjoy a matching ring. If you two plan on a set of rings, consider how they’ll look stacked together. You can even ask your jeweler if an engagement ring comes with a matching band, or get their opinion on which looks best.
10. Don’t Panic
We know it’s easier said than done, but try not to panic. Shopping with a cool head lets you pick a stone without stress—it also helps you avoid too many outside opinions. Don’t worry, you’ve got this!
