If you’ve ever researched diamond rings, you will have encountered mention f the the 4 C’s – cut, colour, clarity and carat. While these principles are fun to navigate and definitely make the search for the perfect diamond far more tolerable, take my advice and don’t obsess about them too much, in case you become overwhelmed.
Ask someone
Luckily it has become relatively easy to access the knowledge of experts who know their way around the world of diamonds, and can help you make the perfect decision after a short assessment of how much you can spend, and what your (or partner’s) style is, and whether you choose a cheap yet glamorous engagement ring, or a gigantic stone that tips the scales!
Here’s how to find your way around the rubbish
Find out what your partner’s ring size is – without that, there can be no engagement ring. If she is a regular ring wearer, use one of her existing ones to determine the size of her finger. It’s easy to record – just trace the circumference onto a piece of paper and take it to your jeweller! You could even take an impression into a piece of putty, or even soap!
Gen Z and Millennials in particular experience major anxiety about purchasing rings – rest assured, it is easier than it seems. Take your partner’s lifestyle into consideration: if she is active or spends a lot of time outdoors, a cheap but elegant princess diamond ring might be just the thing. If she prefers a more ornate style, statement designs, more intricate setting and a stone of higher carats might be more suitable.
Moving with the times
Fashion has shifted in the past few years from yellow gold to rose gold engagement rings. It echoes influences of the late nineteenth century, and is popular due to its naturally romantic appeal. Vintage-style rings work particularly well in a rose gold setting. But that is not to say that yellow gold is off the menu! The warmth of traditional gold has earned its reputation over the years for the way it beautifully offsets the colour of gemstones.
In for the long haul
Remember that, when your partner becomes your wife, this ring will become a permanent fixture in her life. She will wear it with everything, from sportswear to formal outfits. If you have any doubts about her shape preferences, rather stick to classic designs. These shapes have stood the test of time, because they go with most outfits, and suit most people.
If you choose a diamond cut with fewer facets, it is advisable to pick a diamond with a higher clarity. Round, Oval and Marquise shapes work very well in multi-stone settings. When you move to pear shapes and heart shapes, it starts getting more challenging.
People who are drawn to clean lines tend to respond well to diamonds with a square or rectangular cut. Traditionalists tend to like round shapes, while artistic temperaments have been shown to like Trilliant, Marquise and other unusual shapes.
Photo by Jackie Tsang on Unsplash
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