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Engagement Ring Advice for Guys
How to Buy Her a Ring She'll Love
Before we get started, can I be honest with you? The best way to buy her an engagement ring she'll love is to let her pick it out herself. She'll wear this ring every day. It must feel good on her finger and it must suit her lifestyle. Sometimes it takes trying on many, many stones and settings to determine which ring is truly "best."
But you still want to go it alone, right? Maybe because you want an element of surprise when you ask her to marry you, or because you don't want her to be involved with pricing and payment issues. That's fine--if you put some thought into it you can choose an engagement ring that she'll love almost as much as she loves you.
Number 1: PAY ATTENTION!
- What metal color does she wear? Most women have a definite preference. If she loves white gold or platinum, don't even look at a diamond or other stone mounted in a yellow gold ring setting.
- What type of jewelry does she wear now? Is it contemporary-looking, with bold styling? Does she prefer rings that look vintage, or would you say that the jewelry she wears is classic, resembling those timeless pieces that never go out of style?
The best indication of her tastes is the jewelry she wears all the time, not items she only wears occasionally, because it's the full-timers that she's most comfortable with.
Number 2: Has She Told You Her Opinions?
- Has she ever mentioned favorite styles, maybe pointing out engagement rings when you're shopping together? If not, go shopping.
- It isn't difficult to steer yourselves towards the jewelry stores. If you want to be subtle, say you're looking for a new watch (or something else), but be sure to pause at the engagement ring counters.
- Maybe she has a friend who recently became engaged. Does she like her friend's engagement ring? Why or why not?
- Does she like diamonds? Some women don't, but the gem you choose should be one that can stand up to constant wear. Sapphires and rubies are both durable gemstones that are often used for wedding jewelry.
Number 3: Her Hands.
What ring style would look best on her hands?
- An elongated diamond, such as a marquise or oval, can make short fingers look more sleek--but be careful not to overdo the look or it could have the opposite effect.
- Wide bands usually make fingers appear even shorter than they are.
Think proportional:
- For instance, women with long fingers can easily wear bold ring styles.
- A setting that's extremely delicate could get lost on large hands, over-emphasizing their size.
Number 4: The Right Shape & Setting
- Round diamonds are the number one shape chosen by brides, but maybe not your bride. She might prefer an elongated marquise, oval or pear-shaped stone, or a classic emerald cut diamond. Fancier shapes, such as hearts, are another option.
Do you think she'd like a solitaire diamond, set alone in a band, or would she prefer a cluster of stones? Her current jewelry can give you clues about that, and you'll get a sense of her preferences while you're out shopping.
Number 5: Her Lifestyle
- How will the ring fit in with her lifestyle? Does she work in a profession where fussy jewelry would look out of place? Even if she doesn't, remember that a pointy and prongy design will snag clothing (and people) and is harder to keep clean. Save that type of ring for gifts that will be worn on special occasions, not every day.
Number 6: Her Ring Size
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Does she have rings that she wears on her engagement finger? Maybe a friend or family member could get hold of one of them long enough for you to have it sized. Of course, you'll have to swear the messenger to secrecy.
Number 7: Buy a loose diamond
- If you think you know which shape she loves, buy a loose diamond to show her when you ask the big question. The two of you can shop together to find the perfect setting.
Now that you have a better feel for the style of ring she might prefer, it's time to start exploring facts about the diamonds that will go into it. Start with the Four C's, then take some time to browse other topics in Diamond Basics and Engagement Ring Resources. If she's not into diamonds, start with the articles in Colored Gemstones.
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