So you’ve found the woman of your dreams
and are thinking of popping the all important question? First of all –
congratulations! Second of all let’s get down to the next and probably most
important stage of your proposal – picking the ring.
You don’t have to provide a rock the size
of a tennis ball to prove your love to her – if you do, then the chances are
that maybe she’s not the one for you. You do however need to take certain steps
to ensure that you’re both happy with the chosen ring.
Whether you have £300, £3,000 or £30,000 to
spend – choosing the right ring can be stressful, so here are your steps for
picking the perfect ring that will guarantee she says yes.
Budget
Know how much you are spending and try to
stick to it. There will always be a sales assistant in a jewellery store
telling you that the next size up diamond has the real ‘wow’ factor etc. Try to
find an amount you are both comfortable with and can afford, but don’t be a
skin flint!
Her
Tastes
You know her well enough to know if she
wants a princess cut diamond
ring in a platinum setting or a sapphire cluster ring on a gold band? Nope
– too specific? Okay, so what do you know about her tastes? Pay attention to what
jewellery she does wear – this ring isn’t about your tastes – it’s about her.
Does she prefer platinum or yellow gold? Is she quite traditional or is she
quirky? The chances are that if you have reached the stage of proposing she has
already hinted at what she likes at some point. Remember these and take note.
Don’t ask her – no matter how casual you think you are being, she will know and
it will spoil the surprise when you do propose. Also a ring can always be
re-sized but the closer you get to her ring size the better – you may need help
from a close friend of hers or family member for this.
The
4 C’s – Cut, Carat, Colour and Clarity
These four factors are used to assess the
quality of diamonds. Cut is the style and shape of the diamond such as – pear,
round, princess etc. This is key – try to find out what her favourite cut of
diamond is – once you know that the rest should be easy. Carat is the weight
and size of the diamond and both colour and clarity are about the subtle
‘marks’ or ‘blemishes’ that affect the value of the diamond. Women tend to have
varying attitudes to diamonds where some will value quality over size and
others will prefer a larger diamond and be willing to compromise on colour and
clarity.
Choose
the right Jeweller
A decision as big and expensive as this
requires a jeweller you feel comfortable with. Do your research and pick out
specific places to visit, rather than randomly trawling the high street and
falling into any one that is convenient. A large chain shop may seem reliable
but you may find you get more for your money at a one off jeweller.
Check
your Paperwork
So you’ve made your decision – chosen the
perfect ring and are about to hand over the money. Don’t forget in your
excitement of finally choosing a ring that you need to ask for diamond
certificates - which authenticate its attributes. You also need a written
valuation and keep your receipt as proof of purchase and value. Also - make
sure you read all the small print of your insurance policy. It might be helpful
to get this added or itemised on your home insurance – just in case!
So now you have the perfect ring, it’s time
to plan the perfect proposal!
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