Sparklers, Anyone? Selecting an Engagement Ring

The need for an engagement ring was decreed by Pope Nicholas I around 860 so that there will be a clear indication of intention to marry between two individuals. Traditionally, engagement rings are made of semi precious stones like sapphires and emeralds. However, the diamond increasingly became the signature gem for engagement rings, particularly in the United States.

Choosing the Diamond

Choosing a really valuable piece of diamond requires a bit of specialized knowledge; you can’t merely gaze around at displays and point to one that catches your eye unless you want to bring your would-be fiancé an enormous yet relatively worthless diamond ring.

You have to consider the diamond’s clarity, color, cut and carat. These are the most important criteria for grading a diamond and this is what you should use when you select your diamond engagement ring.

Clarity, color and carat are inherent characteristics of a piece of diamond. Nearly flawless diamonds, those that have almost no inclusions or impurities, are rare in nature so these types of diamonds are of course more valuable. When it comes to color, the more colorless the diamond, the more valuable it is. The carat is the standard weight measurement of diamonds. A two-carat diamond will always be more valuable than two one-carat diamonds of the same quality because big diamonds are rarer finds than smaller ones.

The most important thing that you have to consider in choosing your diamond, though, is the cut. The depth and the height of the cut as well as the symmetry of the diamond facets will determine how brilliant the finished gem will be.

To avoid making a mistake in choosing your diamond engagement ring, make sure to consult a trusty gemologist about your choice stone. Choose the best possible diamond that fits within your budget.

Choosing the Setting

Choosing your diamond is not the end of your task. Now, you have to consider the setting of the stone. Usually, diamonds go well with gold and platinum bands. Platinum is more expensive but it’s more enduring.

You can choose a solitaire setting with a single diamond for adornment. You can also opt for a setting with two smaller diamonds flanking your main diamond or a main diamond with tiny diamond studs all throughout the band.

Of course, after all the thought that went to purchasing your diamond engagement ring, make sure it fits. Ask her mother or filch a ring she wears on her left ring finger to find out her ring size.