Now that you've finally found the love of your life it's likely you're also looking for the ideal engagement ring. Even though purchasing an engagement ring can be a lot of fun, it can also be a little challenging if you're new to purchased fine jewellery. Here is our list of the top four things to think about before choosing an engagement ring to assist you in your search.
Consider the metal and type of band
With so many metals to choose from, how do you choose the right one? Consider the jewellery that your partner usually wears. Do they prefer cool colours like silver and platinum, or warmer ones like yellow gold and rose gold? Do they have any metal allergies? Once you have this information, you can look over your metal options, which include platinum, silver, yellow gold, white gold, and rose gold.
The metal you choose will affect the price and durability of the ring, as some metals are stronger than others. Click here to read our blog on the Different Types of Metals Used in Jewellery, where we go into greater detail about each metal and its durability.
Selecting a gemstone
When it comes to engagement rings, diamonds are a timeless and classic option. Diamonds are not only the hardest gemstones, but they also have the most fire and brilliance (sparkle), attracting the attention of onlookers. Why limit yourself to diamonds when there are so many other long-lasting gemstones to choose from? There are four gemstones that are considered precious stones, the 'Big Four'.
Diamonds
When it comes to engagement rings, diamonds have been a classic and timeless choice for decades. We can certainly understand why! Nothing sparkles quite as brilliantly as a diamond. Cut, clarity, carat, and colour are the four "C's" that are used to precisely grade diamonds. Powells Fine Jewellery handpicks and advises on the best diamonds for our customers suitable for each budget and requirement.
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Rubies
Rubies have long been used as a symbol of protection, love, courage, and passion. The gemstone makes a wonderful choice for an engagement ring because of the sentimental significance it holds. On the MOHS hardness scale, rubies come in at number 9, just behind diamonds. The durability makes a ruby perfect for everyday wear.
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Emeralds
Emerald engagement rings have recently grown in popularity in recent years. An incredible emerald ring was featured in the new film “Luckiest Girl Alive” starring Mila Kunis. Due to their versatility, emeralds go well with a wide range of settings. This opens up a wide range of alternatives for a non-traditional engagement ring option. Just like diamonds, emeralds are valuable gemstones that often maintain their value over time, making them a wise investment piece.
Sapphires
Engagement rings made of sapphires are a wonderful non-traditional option. Kate Middleton, who currently wears Princess Diana's engagement ring, is credited with making this design of engagement rings fashionable again. Sapphires are recognised for their variety of colours, whereas diamonds are admired for their fire and brilliance. On the MOHS hardness scale, sapphires are rated a 9 for durability, just like rubies are.
As your engagement ring will be an accessory you will be wearing on a day-to-day basis it is important you consider a gemstone with durability of at least a 7 on the MOHS scale. Keep in mind that gemstones on the lower end of the MOHS scale, the softer the stone will be.
Diamond shapes and cuts
Now that you've decided on your metal and gemstone, let's move on to the next big decision: the cut and shape of your gemstone. You must first understand the distinction between the jewellery terms diamond shape and diamond cut. Diamond shape refers to the diamond's outline when viewed from the top. Diamond cut, on the other hand, is a more specific term. It is used to describe the actual facet arrangement of a single stone that results in the shape. These elements are important as it affects the brilliance or brightness which gives you that eye-catching sparkle.
Always try on a range of various engagement ring styles to see what you like most and which diamond shape looks best on your significant other. No matter how your hand is shaped, the round cut is universally attractive. But shapes like marquise, oval, and pear would be the best choices if you want to give the appearance of a long, slender finger. You can read more about diamond shapes and cuts in our previous blog by clicking here.
A ring suitable for your lifestyle
Finally, consider how the ring design you choose will work with your lifestyle. There are many beautiful design options available and some will be more practical for your lifestyle. Rings with delicate and dainty bands may be impractical for an active or hands on lifestyle. Instead opt for an engagement ring with a sturdy platinum band. A metal like platinum would be more ideal due to its durability.
If you need assistance designing your dream engagement ring, click here to book an appointment with one of our experts.