Jewelry Showcase
The Perfect Diamond Engagement Ring
If you are ready to propose, then you are, no doubt, facing the small matter of buying the perfect diamond engagement ring. No worries, we’ve put together a short list of the top things to consider when buying a ring, so you can hone your purchasing skills before even setting foot in the jewelry store! And we’ve also put together a list of engagement ring trends to help you.
Below Ruth Batson, CEO of the American Gem Society, offers five foolproof tips if you are shopping for the perfect engagement ring.
Let There be Light. Look at the diamond in different light environments. It should retain its sparkle in a range of lighting conditions.
Shape Your Selection. Choose a shape that fits her personality. Someone who prefers more edgy fashions might go for a square cut, while a romantic might prefer a cushion-cut. Diamonds come in a variety of shapes: round brilliant, emerald, pear, oval and specialty cuts.
Final Cut. No matter the shape, cut quality affects a diamond’s beauty and value more than any of the 4Cs (cut, color, clarity, carat weight). A well-cut 1 ¾-carat diamond may actually appear larger than a poorly cut 2-carat diamond—and it will sparkle more.
Think Outside the (Diamond Ring) Box. If diamonds aren’t her style, consider sapphires or rubies, which are tough enough to withstand daily wear. Rings also come in a variety of precious metals.
Get a Second Opinion. Ask to see diamonds that come with a grading report from AGS Laboratories. These reports provide an objective analysis of the 4Cs so you know exactly you’re getting.
When you’ve found the right person, find the right jeweler, by visiting our Find a Jeweler page.
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