What questions should you ask your jeweler when purchasing an engagement ring?
Do not panic! Buying an engagement ring is certainly a risky exercise but it can be unforgettable and give you a lot of pleasure if you go about it the right way. It's a bit like skydiving after all. Before jumping into the void, you need to think things through and prepare a list of questions to ask. If you cannot answer them yourself, these questions can be used by a jeweler when purchasing the engagement ring.
Four essential questions when buying a ring
In order to help you structure your important mission which, above all else, is to please your future bride, (we are convinced that she will say yes!) let's take an overview of the questions to ask when purchasing a engagement ring .
- What is your budget?
- What metal would you like the ring to be made of?
- What stone will be chosen to adorn the engagement ring?
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What types of rings is your lover attracted to?
The size of the ring, manufacturing times and guarantees also matter when buying an engagement ring but we will focus on these four questions in this text.
- The budget
There's a balance between giving an eye-opening engagement ring and a dull piece of jewelry. The jeweler cannot determine your budget for you, but the majority of them agree that the purchase of an engagement ring should not exceed one to two months of your salary, even if it is modest. Moreover, it is always possible to modify the ring over time when you want to invest a little more. Three main factors vary the price of an engagement ring; the reputation of the jeweler, the constitution of the ring and its originality. However, it is possible to get a quality engagement ring at a reasonable price. You can consult this text on the prices to pay for an engagement ring to help you.
- The metal: Gold, Silver or Platinum?
In Quebec, it is common for the main interested party to participate in the purchase of their engagement ring , which takes away a little spontaneity but makes the decision-making process a lot easier. On the other hand, if you decide to go on an adventure of romance, you must study the preferences of your sweetheart before buying the engagement ring. Take the time to inspect her jewelry box or ask her loved ones if she prefers white gold, yellow gold or rose gold. For several years, white gold and platinum have been in the spotlight for engagement rings, but if her jewelry box is full of yellow precious metals, don't hesitate to give her one in yellow gold.
It should be noted that platinum, a rarer and denser precious metal than gold, is 30 to 40% more expensive but it retains its silver color forever, wears less quickly and requires less maintenance. White gold, not existing in its natural state, is an alloy that yellows over time. Simply plate it with rhodium to restore its silver luster. We strongly advise against sterling silver. This metal tarnishes quickly and requires a lot of maintenance. Does your lover like originality? Why not give her a two-tone rose gold and white gold ring?
Important detail; if you decide to offer a gold ring, you still have to determine whether it is 10, 14 or 18 carats. 18 carat gold being purer, it is also more expensive. To fully understand the difference, consult this text on gold and its carat.
- The Precious Stone
There can be one or more stones on a ring depending on your choice but let's identify the main stone first. The precious stone par excellence for future brides and grooms is undoubtedly the diamond, symbol of purity and eternity. The value of the diamond is judged according to four criteria (4C); size, weight, purity and color. Nothing compares to this precious stone when purchasing an engagement ring , but if you want a large natural diamond at a reasonable price, you will have to sacrifice on its purity and color.
More ethical, laboratory-created diamonds are less expensive and are, in all respects, identical to natural diamonds. To find out more, read this text on laboratory-created diamonds.
Moissanite, another stone created in a laboratory and almost identical to diamond, is also an interesting option because of its more advantageous price and its less significant ecological damage. This text on moissanite as an alternative to diamond may enlighten you.
Do you want a colored stone? Several choices are available to you. The gemstones most in demand are sapphire, emerald and ruby. These blue, green and red colored stones can even exceed the cost of a diamond when the clarity is right. Sapphire is the most traded gemstone in the world and evokes loyalty. Emerald expresses hope and ruby, passion. These gemstones are also laboratory produced and can be a very good alternative when purchasing an engagement ring.
diamond and moissanite
emerald
ruby
sapphire
See our metals and stones page for more details.
- The type of ring
Here's where the question gets tricky. Until now, you have been able to clearly identify the preferences of your future, but when it comes to the style of rings, tastes are natural. Do not hesitate to ask the opinion of those close to you, your family, without losing confidence in your judgment. Stick to a style similar to what she usually wears. No need to think outside the box for an engagement ring she'll wear every day.
Let's go to the style first. Is she more classic or fanciful in her way of living, dressing, wearing shoes? This is often a good clue! Does she like modern or rustic looks more? The size of the stones gives character to the ring. Round, princess and cushion are more classic sizes. Pear, heart and marquise have a more fanciful side. Trillion, emerald and asscher are more modern stone sizes.
More conventional, precious stones and diamonds mounted on claws are revealed in a more spectacular way and are highlighted. The bezel-set stones result in a less catchy ring, practical for daily activities and with a more sober design.
The solitaire is an engagement ring with a single stone. The half-eternity has a pavé of small stones that goes half the way around the ring. When the pavé goes all the way around the ring, it is an eternity ring. You can combine a solitaire with a half-eternity or eternity ring. Obviously, the more stones there are, the higher the price will be. Regardless of the shape of the ring, you have to remember that the wedding ring will eventually have to match the engagement ring when the big day comes. This is a very important question to ask your jeweler.
Making the right choice when purchasing an engagement ring
Obviously, we are not talking to you here about making the right choice of woman but about making the right choice of ring. You are now well equipped and ready to buy an engagement ring that will please your future bride. With all this information, your questions and research will be precise and your jeweler will be able to adequately guide you towards the right choice.
At Flamme en rose, our role is to support you in the significant moments of your life and our know-how is our greatest pride. In addition to offering incomparable customer service, all of our engagement rings are handcrafted in our Montreal workshop by experienced jewelers. You don't know the size ring you need? We can send you a ring sizer free of charge. If in the end, the size does not work, no fear, we offer the first size up for free.
Hoping that this text has been able to enlighten you in your efforts.
We wish you lots of happiness!
