You've decided to propose to your partner, so it's time to pick the perfect ring. If you're not sure where to start, we're here with some tips to help.
First of all, whether you're shopping online or in-store, don't be afraid to ask for help. The staff are used to helping people who don't know where to start, and they'll be happy to guide you.
If you're looking for a diamond, it's best to have a general idea of the size you're looking for and what setting you want before you start, so you don't get too overwhelmed with choices. There are many setting options, but the basics are:
- solitaire, which puts all the focus on the diamond as it's one diamond attached to the band,
- halo, which can make a central diamond seem larger by surrounding it with smaller diamonds,
- and pave where the whole band is covered with small diamonds, meaning the whole ring sparkles.
There are other choices, especially if you want a vintage-inspired ring, but this is a good starting point.
You should also ask questions about sustainability to ensure the ring meets your partner's values. Many modern jewellers offer lab-grown diamonds, so there's no issue with conflict or mining and some offer recycled metals to lower the carbon footprint of your ring. If your partner is eco-conscious, make sure you're asking these questions.
What to Think About Before You Start
At the beginning of your ring buying journey, you should set a comfortable budget and stick to it. It's easy to get carried away when you see all the different rings on offer, and you want your partner to be impressed, but they wouldn't want you to get into financial trouble to get their ring. You'll have a wedding to pay for before long, don't forget.
Once the budget is decided, it's time to figure out your partner's style. Do they want a large statement diamond? Or are they more of a blue sapphire person? Maybe they want a minimalist band or delicate patterning. Do they prefer white, yellow, or rose gold? There are a lot of decisions to make when it comes to modern customisable rings, and the best place to start is by looking at her jewellery. She'll likely have more of one metal than any other, and that shows you her favourite. Look at the size of the pieces she wears regularly to give you a good idea of whether she likes sleek, minimalist pieces or chunky statement jewellery. Consider what style of clothes she wears, too, so you can make sure the ring matches her fashion choices. You could also reach out to some friends or family for advice, but make sure they won't let the secret out. You'll also need to know their ring size, which family members may know, or you could take one of their existing rings to a jeweller for sizing.
What are the 4 'Cs and Why Should You Know?
The 4 'Cs are relevant when you're buying a diamond, and they impact the quality and therefore price of the stone. If you're choosing a different gem, it's still worth knowing, but not all points will apply.
The first C is cut. This means the shape of the gemstone on the band. There are many to choose from, and the better the cut, the more the diamond will catch the light and shine.
The second C is clarity. This means whether there are any small imperfections called inclusions within the diamond. If there are fewer inclusions, the diamond is clearer and therefore more expensive. If there are many inclusions creating a cloudy appearance, these are called salt-and-pepper diamonds. These are cheaper and can make a stunning gothic ring, but they aren't to everyone's taste, so make sure you know your partner's style.
The third C is carat, which means the size of the diamond. Of course, the bigger the diamond the more expensive it is but consider the size of your partner's hands, as it's not always bigger is better. They'll likely be wearing this every day, so if it's too heavy, it won't be comfortable, and it has to suit their personal style.
The final C is colour. If a diamond is clear with little colour, it's higher quality and will be more expensive. Some diamonds with tints of colour can be charming too, and generally come at a lower price point.
When considering the 4 'Cs, it's best to decide which one is your priority, as you may be able to compromise on others. For example, if you want a large diamond, look for the highest carat you can afford. If you want the eye-catching sparkle, choose a high-quality cut with lots of facets as they're the part that catches and reflects the light.
Now you've got your ring buying checklist, it's time to find the right retailer. At Vinny & Charles, we think that we're the right choice. We have a range of options that are customisable with size, metal choice, and in some cases, gemstones. We also take fully custom orders to ensure you can find the right ring that they're sure to say yes to. Make a start by browsing our engagement ring range here.
