Engagement Ring Tips for Guys

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!