Rings And Things

By Tresa Erickson

You finally know how and where you are going to propose. Now all you need is an engagement ring. Not just any old ring will do, however. You want the perfect ring. But where do you start and what do you need to know as you shop for the perfect ring?

Before you go to any jewelry store, you need to educate yourself on the 4Cs: Color, Clarity, Cut and Carat. All help determine the value of a diamond. Generally diamonds have brown or yellow undertones, as well as interior and exterior flaws, such as scratches, nicks and inclusions. The less color and the more clarity a diamond has, the higher its value. A diamond that is cut proportionately and symmetrically will reflect more light, increasing both its sparkle and its value. The more carats a diamond weighs, the more rare it is and the more it is worth. To learn more about the 4Cs, go to the Gemological Institute of America’s Web site at 4cs.gia.edu.

Once you know a bit more about the 4Cs, check with the Better Business Bureau or local chamber of commerce for a list of reputable jewelers. You are probably going to spend a good deal of money, so you want make sure you get the real thing. You should also find out about the stores’ return and repair policies.

As you shop for a ring, take your time and stick to your budget. You don’t want to empty your bank account for the first huge diamond you see. Smaller diamonds are often of better quality than larger ones. Again, knowing the 4Cs will help you to choose the best ring for your money.

When choosing a ring, think about your fiancée’s tastes in jewelry. Does she wear a lot of gold or platinum jewelry? Does she like gemstones? Does she lean toward more simple or elaborate pieces? More importantly, what kind of lifestyle does she lead? If she is athletic or works in the outdoors, she might want a simple ring. On the other hand, if she prefers the indoors and works in an office, she might want something fancier.

To narrow down your selections, consider the 4Cs of the diamond as well as the setting. Platinum prongs are stronger than gold ones. The band of the ring should also be strong. You don’t want it to get bent out of shape the first day your fiancée wears it.

Once you’ve decided on two or three ring styles, visit several jewelers and compare prices. Then take your fiancée’s tastes into consideration and choose the one that will best fit your budget and her personality. Before you know it, you’ll have a ring in your pocket and you’ll be all set to propose.

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