When the couple is ready to purchase an engagement ring, they should first establish a budget, determine which ring style they prefer, and learn how to select a diamond.

When searching for engagement rings, couples should be aware of all available options before making a purchase. They should learn about the different types and values of engagement rings, diamond grading terminology and abbreviations, how to size a ring, and how to pick the best diamond for a loved one.
Buying an engagement ring is a big deal. Check out this video to ensure you're making the right decision:

 

History of Rings
Ring-wearing dates back to over 6,000 years, though it is not known exactly when the custom of giving and receiving rings was first established. All cultures have developed various types of rings throughout history, typically as a display of wealth, status, friendship, or love. The finger the ring is worn on also plays some significance, such as the wedding ring being typically worn on the fourth finger of the left hand. This tradition came about because some believe there is a vein, or nerve, that connects the left hand ring finger to the heart.

Discover Engagement Ring Styles

Couples traditionally choose a diamond engagement ring because diamonds represent purity and strength, but they can also choose a non-traditional engagement ring that features sapphires, rubies, or other gemstones. By shopping at our site couples will be able to search through thousands of engagement ring styles and seek out great deals. They can even purchase a new engagement ring setting and design their own ring from our huge selection of certified diamonds.

In order to discover which engagement ring style will best fit a couple’s needs, some sleuthing will need to be done. If deciding on a ring preference ends up being a difficult task, ask friends and family for advice (call or chat with one of our experts, think of us like your extended family).

We encourage our customers to follow our simple 1-2-3 process described below when choosing an engagement ring.

 

STEP 1: STYLE

Solitaire Rings (with or withought accents)

Diamond solitaire engagement rings have a single diamond set alone on a band. This style makes a good option when couples are unsure of style. The recipient can even choose a final setting later. Diamond solitaire engagement rings with accent stones feature a main stone, such as a diamond, and use smaller gemstones, such as diamonds, emeralds, and rubies, as decorative accents. Carat weight on accent rings includes the weight of all the stones on the ring, not just the main stone.

Three - Stone Rings

Diamond three-stone engagement rings, also called trilogy rings or past-present-future rings, have three brilliant cut round diamonds that represent the past, present, and future of a couple’s relationship.

Halo Rings

Micropave diamonds surround the center diamond in a circle of light creating an alluring style favored by pop stars, celebrities and royalty. It's a style that has its roots in the heirloom ring you might find in your grandmother's jewelry box. The halo expands the appearance of the center stone by as much as a half carat or more. Virtually all shapes and sizes of center diamonds may be accented with a Diamond Halo - in your favorite choice of beautifully hand-crafted metal.

Bridal Ring Sets

Couples can also buy a wedding band to match their loved one’s engagement ring right away by purchasing a bridal ring set. Featuring limitless combinations of stones and styles, bridal sets include a matching engagement ring and wedding ring that fit together. If the couple prefers antique or vintage jewels, consider a vintage engagement ring and wedding ring combination.

 

STEP 2: METAL (and metal color)

If the couple owns yellow gold jewelry, a yellow gold engagement ring and wedding band may be in order. If they prefer the look of silver, white gold, or platinum, they will likely prefer a platinum engagement ring or white gold engagement ring. Also, this is where you must take into consideration any known allergies your loved ones may have to certain types of metals or coatings on these rings. Various metal purities like 10K, 14k, 18k and PT950 are more of a budget and personal preference choices.

 

STEP 3: DIAMOND

Selecting a Diamond for Engagement Rings
When couples buy a diamond engagement ring, they should consider choosing quality over size and select the nicest engagement ring they can afford. We use the four "Cs" to evaluate diamond quality: Cut, Carat, Clarity, and Color. It’s important to become familiar with a diamond’s cut and shape, carat weight, clarity, and color before making a purchase.

It looks daunting but its not. Spend a few minutes viewing the videos below from GIA. Many in the industry consider GIA the gold standard of diamond graders. Established in 1931, the not-for-profit GIA has its headquarters in Carlsbad, California, and has a presence in a number of locations worldwide. We are proud and honered to offer GIA certified diamonds on our website.

 

1) Cut Video

 

2) Clarity Video

 

3) Carat Weight Video

 

4) Color Video

 

Avoid Conflict Diamonds When Buying Engagement Rings
Conflict diamonds, which are diamonds sold to fund wars, originate in countries such as Angola, Sierra Leone, and the Democratic Republic of Congo. We source our diamonds from suppliers who strictly adhere to the Kimberly Certification Process (KP). The Kimberley Process (KP) is a joint governments, industry and civil society initiative to stem the flow of conflict diamonds – rough diamonds used by rebel movements to finance wars against legitimate governments.

 

Conclusion
Engagement rings are considered a sign of commitment between two people dedicated to each other and a life filled with love and joy. Choosing the right ring is an important consideration when making a purchase. When buying that just-perfect ring, couples need to consider the different types and values of engagement rings, diamond grading terminology and abbreviations, how to size a ring, and know how to purchase rings safely and securely.