After deciding to spend the rest of your life with your partner, shopping for an engagement ring is the next big step. Since an engagement ring is a significant emotional and financial purchase, you want to select a ring that your partner will love and represent your commitment to each other. However, engagement ring shopping can be a stressful experience, especially if you don’t know what your partner wants in a ring.
Having an open discussion with your partner is important to ensure you’re both on the same page. A survey commissioned by the Natural Diamond Council and backed by Eco Age found that 63 percent of couples picked out their engagement ring together. Is this the ideal route for you and your partner? Ask your partner the following questions to make informed decisions when engagement ring shopping.
What Is Your Centre Stone Preference?
The centre stone is one of the most important elements in an engagement ring, and the shape, type, and size depend on various factors, such as personal style, budget, and lifestyle. The most popular centre stone shapes for engagement rings are round, princess, cushion, and oval. Each shape has its own unique characteristics and can compliment settings differently.
Another vital element you should ask your partner is what type of centre stone they prefer, as they may prefer earth-mined or lab grown diamonds, coloured gemstones, or moissanite. Diamonds are the most traditional choice for engagement rings, but coloured gemstones like sapphires, rubies, and emeralds are becoming increasingly popular. Although some couples prefer to take the traditional route with a mined diamond, more couples opt for lab grown diamonds for their environmental benefits and cost advantages. However, even if your partner clarifies they want a lab diamond, there are many lab grown diamond shapes and sizes to consider before selecting the stone, so this requires a conversation.
Centre stone size is another significant factor as this can reflect the cost and look of the ring. A bigger size isn’t always better, even if your budget can accommodate it, so it’s essential to consult your partner before making this decision.
How Often Do You Plan to Wear the Ring?
Ask your partner how often they plan to wear the ring, which can influence the gemstone, setting, and metal. If they plan on wearing it every day, consider their lifestyle. Those with active lifestyles or jobs that require significant use of their hands will need a strong stone like a diamond that can withstand scratches. On the other hand, if your partner plans on wearing the ring just for occasions, you may not need to worry too much about its durability and can focus on the design.
Any Unique Details You Want Included?
Many unique details can be included in an engagement ring to make it special and personalized, and your partner may have some things in mind. Some unique details you can include in the engagement ring are an engraved band, a gemstone associated with a shared memory or place, and vintage or antique details.
Is There Anything You Want Excluded?
While finding out what your partner wants included in the engagement ring is equally important to learn what they don’t prefer. Since the ring will reflect your partner’s taste, it’s important to accommodate their preference. For example, they may be strictly against earth-mined diamonds, so you may need to choose lab grown diamonds or alternative gemstones, such as moissanite. Find out what your partner wants excluded from the design to ensure the ring matches their style.
Do You Want to be Involved?
Some people want to be surprised with a ring, while others prefer to have a say in the design and style. It’s important to find out if your partner wants to be involved in the selection process or if they want to be surprised.