There are many misconceptions when it comes to purchasing a diamond engagement ring. Often, men find themselves going into debt to purchase a high priced ring. The rational approach, when considering the finances associated with this purchase, is that buying a ring is an indication of the commitment that you are ready to make. No amount of money could be nearly equivalent to that.
The average cost of a diamond engagement ring is between $3,500-$4,000. It is recommended that the purchaser spends two months salary. Depending on whether or not these figures are practical depends on your ideology. The symbolic aspect of a diamond ring is a value that is priceless.
Before shopping for the perfectring, decide on the extent of your budget based upon your financial situation. Your decision should not alter or shift because of your desires to impress your lover or because of a salesperson’s recommendation. Also, before shopping, become familiar with the four most important factors that are associated with all diamond engagement rings: carat, clarity, cut, and color.
Carat: All diamonds are measured in carats. One carat is equivalent to .20 milligrams. Bigger carats, while nice to flaunt, usually have less clarity. The precision of their cut is usually smaller as well. Carats of more than three are found infrequently, yet are highly sought after.
Cut: This refers to a combination of various factors, such as the shape and proportion of the diamond. Among the most common shapes available are the round cut, pear shape, oval cut, the marquise, the radiant cut, the heart shape, and the princess cut. Proportionally, the amount of brilliance and fire that a stone exhibits is the ideal cut.
Clarity: A diamond’s clarity is based on how captivating its gleam is. Diamonds are classified by their clarity. Clarity is a feature that can only be examined by a jeweler’s 10X magnifying loupe.
Color: This feature of a diamond is labeled from D-Z. D is considered to be truly colorless and of the highest quality. E and F are also colorless, but do not withhold as much quality as the D grade. G, H, I and J are nearly colorless and K, L, and M have hints of color. The hue and tone of a diamond heightens after P. A comparison of several diamonds beside other colorless ones can truly show the hue and tone of a diamond (or lack thereof).
Once you have become significantly familiar with each, familiarize yourself with diamond certificates, which are the “blue print” of the diamond and certification of the grades. From this point on, the next most important step is to become acquainted with the different settings of rings. Settings are the bonds, accent stones, and prongs. These portions come in various metals and styles. Most feature gem stones such as sapphires, rubies, emeralds, tanzanite, etc. A majority of diamond rings are either gold or platinum. The recommended kartarage of a gold band is usually 18K, but 14K rings are lovely as well.
When buying either an 18K or 14K gold ring plan on spending between $2,000-$5,000. The price ranges fluctuate depending on the quality of the stone.
Do not limit yourself, when considering engagement, to only buying an engagement ring. Depending on the female that the ring is being presented to and her conception of love, a family ring could become a symbolic and endearing token of affection. Also, buying several small stones in a beautiful setting could create a ring that will knock her socks off. There are several techniques that can help you to save money, yet create a magical and enchanting engagement.
By Danielle Spanner