How to choose an engagement ring?
You need to buy an engagement ring, but you don't know which engagement ring to choose? Which stone or diamond to choose for your engagement ring? With the help of our diamond experts at Celinni, we are at your disposal to find and properly choose the engagement ring that you need and at the best price.
Many women and men dream of a marriage proposal where the love of their life will get down on one knee to propose with a beautiful engagement ring that symbolizes their union. But how can you be sure to choose an engagement ring that will meet her expectations, a ring that will mark her life and your marriage proposal?
Choosing an engagement ring should be a pleasant experience. You choose a ring for life. This choice can sometimes be difficult for some. The Celinni helps you in this choice:
With sufficient knowledge, the excitement of proposing to the woman of your dreams, the exercise should be quite enjoyable. You will discover in this article the most important things to choose the ideal engagement ring.
BE FAMILIAR WITH THE VOCABULARY OF JEWELRY
By giving the impression that you know what you are looking for, this will increase your confidence and help you communicate more easily with various jewelry sellers. Here are some of the terms to know:
ENGAGEMENT RING BODY
This is the circular part of the ring that goes around the finger. It is usually made from 18k gold, 750/1000 or 950/1000 platinum (Fact: it can also be made from another combination of metals). Gold is naturally yellow and is normally alloyed with another metal for longevity. Some prefer the lighter yellow color of less pure gold like 14k or 10k. White gold is yellow gold alloyed with white melting metals to give the impression of an off-white color and must be coated with another metal, rhodium, for a shiny silver appearance. The plating generally dissipates every 3 years, the Celinni offers a service to refurbish your jewel free of charge every 18 months.
Indeed, platinum is hard, solid and naturally silver but will slightly tarnish from a mirror finish over time with wear, which is not necessarily a problem.
ENGAGEMENT RING BODY
This is the part of the setting that holds the stone in place, it is the part that is attached to the ring body. Some jewelry combines a yellow gold body and a platinum setting to create a contrast that highlights the central stone. There are different types of settings. The most common is the 4 or 6 prong setting which beautifully showcases the diamond and provides maximum security.
PRECIOUS STONE OR DIAMOND?
This is THE centerpiece of the engagement ring. This stone is usually a diamond, it's a magical and exceptional stone. But it is also possible to have your engagement ring made with a center stone other than a diamond (such as an emerald, a sapphire or a ruby).
If your choice is a diamond, you need to know its main characteristics:
The 4Cs of the diamond: these are the carats, the color, the clarity, and the cut of the stone. Click here to learn more These 4 characteristics are sometimes not enough... There is a 5th C: Confidence. Indeed, a reputable diamond dealer is the first thing to consider for a smart diamond purchase. Your diamond dealer must have a perfect knowledge of his profession to assist you in this important purchase. Then, always insist on getting a diamond certified by an independent laboratory. A good professional will be happy to provide you with a certificate from an independent laboratory.
WHY AN INDEPENDENT GEMMOLOGICAL LABORATORY?
The aim is to ensure an objective evaluation of the diamond. There is always a conflict of interest if the person selling the diamond certifies it herself. We offer automatic certification for center diamonds weighing more than 0.50 carat. We can offer certified diamonds from 0.15 carat. Contact us for any diamond information.
WHY A DIAMOND LABORATORY?
A good laboratory has state-of-the-art equipment. Some characteristics such as the treatment or artificial magnificence of a stone can only be detected by advanced machines.
In short, a certificate is an expert's objective opinion. The certification of your diamond for your engagement ring is a guarantee for you. Moreover, the certificate itself is worth money.
CHOOSE THE STYLE OF YOUR ENGAGEMENT RING
This is not just any ring, it's the engagement ring, the ring that your beloved will cherish for a lifetime and wear almost every day for the rest of your life together. The solitaires from Celinni embrace current trends as well as those of the past. There is the simple engagement ring with only a central diamond or the one accompanied by diamonds on the sides to enhance the center stone like a diamond for example. A diamond engagement ring should match your skin tone with either white gold, yellow gold or rose gold.
The engagement ring can be worn alone or with the wedding band depending on the chosen setting, its thickness and the diamonds that compose it. There are multitudes of engagement ring styles, but we advise you to stick with classic and traditional that will stand the test of time such as:
● The solitaire: the classic, elegant and refined engagement ring
● The shoulder-set diamond solitaire: the engagement ring with a diamond in the center and surrounded by small diamonds
We will not advise you on a specific engagement ring, your choice should be a crush. It's a jewel that you keep for a lifetime and you should not get tired of, these two styles of engagement rings are examples but the choice comes from you.
CHOOSING AN ENGAGEMENT RING ACCORDING TO HER TASTE
Keep in mind that nowadays, the future groom or bride prefers to be part of the buying decision if it concerns a ring. Here are some ways to try to work on what your other half likes:
● Find out in general about their tastes for rings. If you pass by a jewelry store, pretend to be interested in watches. Then from time to time, make a comment on the style of rings saying that you like certain models and ask for their opinion. If you are good, the person will suspect nothing.
● Ask the family for ideas for additional information if you don't mind them knowing about your request.
● Another trick is to ask their friends to take them to the stores and find out about their tastes just for fun. You must have absolute trust in them so that they keep the secret. However, this is not the best option if you prefer to remain discreet until the time of the proposal.
● Take stock of their tastes in relation to their clothes and jewelry. You are best placed to discover their preferences. Use what you see to your advantage.
CHOOSING THE METAL FOR YOUR ENGAGEMENT RING
We recommend you to choose between yellow gold, white gold or platinum. These metals are refined, precious and durable over time. They will keep the shine of the first day with a little maintenance. Note that platinum metal is the highest-end and most expensive of the three metals, it is also the only hypoallergenic metal, so you will not have any allergy problems if your partner has sensitive skin.
There is also rose gold for a slightly more original engagement ring, but if you want a sure value, choose between yellow gold, white gold or platinum as the precious metal for your engagement ring
CHOOSING THE STONE FOR YOUR ENGAGEMENT RING
For the choice of your stone on the engagement ring, we strongly recommend the diamond. It is the stone you need: it is the symbol of purity, eternity, and love. Elle is also a stone that adapts to all styles and withstands all the trials of life.
It is the most chosen stone on our customers' engagement rings and the traditional choice, so don't hesitate and choose a diamond!
For the choice of the diamond, everything will depend on your budget, but be careful about the quality of the diamond.
To know the quality of the diamond, you have to take into account the 4C of the diamond (Carat, Color, Clarity, and the Cut of the stone) and the diamond certificate. If you want more information, don't hesitate to consult our information page on the 4C method and how to recognize a real diamond. You need to be aware of their importance. But above all, you need to prioritize one of them if your budget is more or less limited. These 4 characteristics are essential but depending on your preference, you will prioritize color or clarity.
Choose another type of precious stones if your fiancé completely rejects the diamond and your other half has told you that elle preferred something else.
Be careful, do not confuse the size of the diamond and its shape which elle is its geometric aspect. Choosing the shape of your diamond is also an important characteristic. Indeed, will you choose a round diamond, a heart diamond, a cushion diamond... Most of the time this choice is more a matter of taste. We recommend the round cut diamond. It is the stone that shines the most because of its number of facets: 57. If you want a slightly more original style, cushion or pear cut diamonds are a good alternative.
CHOOSING THE SIZE OF THE ENGAGEMENT RING
We don't think about it at first, but it's one of the most important choices for an engagement ring, to avoid a size problem when you propose. To choose the size of your engagement ring, it is advisable to measure one of your partner's rings using a ring sizer or directly at a jeweler or diamond dealer. This is the most reliable method, impossible to get the size wrong! However, if this happens to you, don't worry, it is possible to modify the size of the engagement ring, if she is not suited to your partner's hand.
WHICH ENGAGEMENT RING FOR MEN TO CHOOSE?
It is true that in most cases, the man proposes to the woman by making his engagement proposal. However, it is also possible for the woman to make this proposal if she wishes. For this, she will need to find an engagement ring for the gentleman. Some couples also decide to both wear a ring. There are no rules, the main thing is to do what pleases you!
The engagement ring is not a piece of jewelry reserved for women. Although generally the man only wears the wedding band, it is quite possible for both members of the couple to wear the same engagement ring before their wedding, for symbolic reasons.
Moreover, although tradition dictates that it is the man who offers the engagement ring, the woman can also take the initiative to offer this famous ring to her future husband, or a man to another in a homosexual couple, especially if this man is used to wearing jewelry.
If your partner is not the type to wear jewelry, make sure in advance that the choice to offer him an engagement ring is a good idea. It would be a shame to spend a large sum on a piece of jewelry that will remain in a drawer.
Choosing the ideal engagement ring for men
In order to select the ideal engagement ring for a man, as with every piece of jewelry, it is important to choose a model whose style perfectly suits the man who will wear it. Generally, men prefer rings that are more sober and simpler than those of women. Indeed, rather than a diamond solitaire, a man will more easily gravitate towards a signet ring in platinum or white gold or a gold band. You can also choose a diamond-set band for an engagement ring with a luxurious and sober style. The ring can be adorned with a stone or an engraved motif. If you want a ring with an engraved motif, opting for custom-made can be a good solution. At Celinni, we offer you the possibility to customize the model of your choice.
The ring for men can also be similar to that of the woman in order to match, in the same way as wedding bands. Some couples find that wearing the same jewelry brings them closer. You can also choose to match your wedding band with the engagement ring in order to wear them at the same time (and on the same finger if you wish). But be careful, if you choose to wear these rings on the same finger, make sure to select rings that match in terms of styles, shapes, metals, colors... If they are too bulky, it will be difficult to wear them together and you will have to wear them on two different fingers, for example the engagement ring on the right ring finger and the wedding band on the left ring finger. The customs are exactly the same as for the wearing of these jewels by a woman.
WHICH METAL TO CHOOSE FOR A MEN'S ENGAGEMENT RING?
The choice of metal is a crucial element of men's rings. Indeed, these rings tend to be quite simple and the metal is the most visible part of the ring. It is therefore important not to neglect this choice and choose the metal that will best suit your partner. Different metals are used to design men's engagement rings. The choice will depend on the style you prefer: rather classic or sought after. Several options are available to you:
● Le platine : the most resistant metal, it resists daily aggressions the best and is not likely to lose its shine over time ;
● L’or jaune : it is the most common, the most common and the most requested metal in jewelry. Although it requires a maintenance point, it does not scratch and never loses its shine ;
● L’or blanc : it is the current trend for men. White gold is just as strong as platinum and has a shiny silver color. 18 carat white gold is a mixture of alloys like yellow gold and copper or zinc.
THE RING SHOULD BE CHOSEN BASED ON YOUR FIANCÉ'S LIFESTYLE
If your fiancé has a constant and abrupt activity with his hands, it is better to consider a ring that can withstand the wear and tear of daily activities.
The higher the positioning of the central stone, the easier it is for her to catch clothes, accessories, hair, etc... as well as the probability of taking shocks is significant. Look for a type of diamond setting close to the finger for an active person, and maybe a higher diamond for a very meticulous person.
Don't know your fiancé's finger size? Find out how to know his finger size: here
CHECK THE DURABILITY OF THE ALLOY
The longevity of the engagement ring is important (it's the ring of a lifetime, elle must then last a lifetime). Why can the alloy wear out? It's the constant friction and daily activities that cause it. If you can afford it, platinum is the preferred choice for wedding jewelry because it is more durable than traditional gold. (Fact: the excellent alternative to platinum is 800/1000 palladium gold which is less expensive and very high quality!)
THE SUITABLE BUDGET FOR AN ENGAGEMENT RING
Everyone has their own budget, but diamonds require a minimum. At Celinni, we offer solitaires for small budgets, but of quality.
It is well known that the engagement ring is an expensive piece of jewelry that often requires a substantial budget. There are of course many models with very different prices ranging between 100 and 10,000€. Generally, the diamond or precious stones present on this ring significantly increase the price. Men's engagement rings, which generally do not have them, therefore require a smaller budget. Everyone spends the amount they want, there is no set budget for the men's engagement ring. There is a tradition that the person should use two months of their salary for the purchase of the engagement ring. Whether you do it or not, it's not the most important thing. What matters is that you select a ring based on what you can afford, so have a good idea of the different amounts before looking. It is quite possible to find engagement rings for less than 100€, in silver or 9 carat gold with cubic zirconia stones, in a supermarket jewelry store for example. On the contrary, if you want a high quality ring, you can count up to 5,000/10,000€, for custom-made rings. At Celinni, the starting price of our rings is around 700€ for gold and diamonds. The budget allocated for a ring is generally between 750 and 4500€. We advise you to consult one of our diamond experts to understand the method of choosing your ring.
When choosing the latter, it is important not to lose sight of your basic idea and not to sacrifice the style you really like for the price. It is better to favor a ring that will correspond 100% to your future husband, rather than a cheaper (or more expensive) jewel that does not resemble him. It is important to keep in mind that this ring is made to be worn for many years, so choose a ring that is up to par and if you hesitate between two models, favor the one of better quality so as not to have any regrets.
If you want to offer a model that will correspond 100% to your other half, imagine and create your own personalized model within our Celinni workshops.
Give the professional your budget so that he can show you what corresponds to it. Do not make the mistake of thinking that if you give your budget you will make a worse deal. In our time everything is checked on the Internet. (Fact: if you want to have a custom ring made, it will inevitably be more expensive. While a ring already present in the jewelry store will be less because there is no need to restart the creation process. At Celinni, you can do both). Talk to the jeweler about price options, schedule and possible styles.
WHERE TO BUY AN ENGAGEMENT RING?
There are three possibilities: you can go to a jewelry store, a diamond dealer, or buy it online via an online jewelry store, for example celinni.com
JEWELER'S OPTION IN SHOWROOM OR IN JEWELRY STORE
In order to select the ideal engagement ring for a man, as with every piece of jewelry, it is important to choose a model whose style perfectly suits the man who will wear it. Generally, men prefer rings that are more sober and simpler than those of women. Indeed, rather than a diamond solitaire, a man will more easily gravitate towards a signet ring in platinum or white gold or a gold band. You can also choose a diamond-set band for an engagement ring with a luxurious and sober style. The ring can be adorned with a stone or an engraved motif. If you want a ring with an engraved motif, opting for custom-made can be a good solution. At Celinni, we offer you the possibility to customize the model of your choice.
The ring for men can also be similar to that of the woman in order to match, in the same way as wedding bands. Some couples find that wearing the same jewelry brings them closer. You can also choose to match your wedding band with the engagement ring in order to wear them at the same time (and on the same finger if you wish). But be careful, if you choose to wear these rings on the same finger, make sure to select rings that match in terms of styles, shapes, metals, colors... If they are too bulky, it will be difficult to wear them together and you will have to wear them on two different fingers, for example the engagement ring on the right ring finger and the wedding band on the left ring finger. The customs are exactly the same as for the wearing of these jewels by a woman.
OPTION OF ONLINE PURCHASE, TO GET A BETTER PRICE
For this option, you must be prepared to have a little less control over the situation. Prefer a website that ships its products from France and has its workshops in France as well because tracking a package on the territory is much easier and if a measurement or any adjustment needs to be made, it will be much safer and faster to do the routing and work in France.
Finally, most foreign websites offer Tax-Free prices. This means that when paying, you will have to add the French VAT rate (nearly 20%). If you bring a jewel from outside Europe, you will have to pay transit fees in addition to VAT. The bill would become completely disproportionate. At Celinni, we ship our products from France and we have our workshops in Paris. Thus, it is easier to have a follow-up.
There is no secret, there is no ideal jeweler. You must look for a place where you feel comfortable. Sometimes, we even advise our customers to go buy a product two or three times more expensive Place Vendôme if it matches his character and especially his wallet because the important thing is to feel good.
If you can, check that the professional is a member of a trade union chamber, an interprofessional association. For information, the Celinni is a member of the Antwerpsche Diamantkring which is the rough diamond exchange in Antwerp. Only five French companies are listed there. (Fact: it is the highest jurisdiction in the diamond world).
MAKE A CUSTOM AND UNIQUE ENGAGEMENT RING
In order to select the ideal engagement ring for a man, as with every piece of jewelry, it is important to choose a model whose style perfectly suits the man who will wear it. Generally, men prefer rings that are more sober and simpler than those of women. Indeed, rather than a diamond solitaire, a man will more easily gravitate towards a signet ring in platinum or white gold or a gold band. You can also choose a diamond-set band for an engagement ring with a luxurious and sober style. The ring can be adorned with a stone or an engraved motif. If you want a ring with an engraved motif, opting for custom-made can be a good solution. At Celinni, we offer you the possibility to customize the model of your choice.
The ring for men can also be similar to that of the woman in order to match, in the same way as wedding bands. Some couples find that wearing the same jewelry brings them closer. You can also choose to match your wedding band with the engagement ring in order to wear them at the same time (and on the same finger if you wish). But be careful, if you choose to wear these rings on the same finger, make sure to select rings that match in terms of styles, shapes, metals, colors... If they are too bulky, it will be difficult to wear them together and you will have to wear them on two different fingers, for example the engagement ring on the right ring finger and the wedding band on the left ring finger. The customs are exactly the same as for the wearing of these jewels by a woman.
THE PURCHASE OF THE ENGAGEMENT RING
The last step is the purchase. At Celinni you can pay up to 10 times without fees.
Check beforehand with your insurance to what extent the jewelry is covered at your home and if there is no warranty, what actions to take to ensure the ring is insured.
Request an insurance-approved expert report. Certificates are very useful for knowing the origin and quality of the stone. International certificates are generally issued with diamonds over 0.50 carat. Below, you risk paying dearly for the paper.
Insure the ring! The ring is likely to be the most expensive piece of all the jewelry you have bought, and the most expensive piece your fiancé has ever worn. To avoid having to remove it for an insurance appraisal, retrieve the document before offering it to him.
WHY BUY YOUR ENGAGEMENT RING FROM CELINNI?
The last step is the purchase. At Celinni you can pay up to 10 times without fees.
Check beforehand with your insurance to what extent the jewelry is covered at your home and if there is no warranty, what actions to take to ensure the ring is insured.
Request an insurance-approved expert report. Certificates are very useful for knowing the origin and quality of the stone. International certificates are generally issued with diamonds over 0.50 carat. Below, you risk paying dearly for the paper.
Insure the ring! The ring is likely to be the most expensive piece of all the jewelry you have bought, and the most expensive piece your fiancé has ever worn. To avoid having to remove it for an insurance appraisal, retrieve the document before offering it to him.
1) We wear the wedding rings and the engagement ring on the left ring finger, because according to some beliefs, this finger would correspond to the vein of love: the one that would directly connect the hand to the heart
2) Weddings often take place in the summer. But the proposal is most of the time in December. This is the month with the most declarations
3) An old tradition says that the bride should also offer a gift to her future husband. The custom is that she offers him a watch
THE DIAMOND DEALER'S ADVICE:
- Be realistic with your budget so as not to find yourself in the awkward situation of saying "the diamond would be just perfect if it were cheaper"
- When buying an engagement ring, don't forget that afterwards elle will probably be worn with a wedding band. So you need to check with the jeweler about their ability to design the wedding band to match the engagement ring. This will save you time as it is often nice not to have to redo a whole search. At Celinni we offer you a wide choice of engagement rings and wedding bands
- Finally, if you find it difficult to find her style and taste, we suggest you offer a temporary ring and tell her that you will choose the definitive one together
Congratulations and good luck, you have all the cards in hand to take the plunge. It's time to propose, armed with your carefully chosen engagement ring! the links to our collections below!
OUR ENGAGEMENT COLLECTIONS:
We have a beautiful collection of engagement rings and diamond solitaires. We can also custom make the ring or jewel of your choice.
