Engagement Ring Buying Made Simple

Most jewelers talk about Color, Cut, Clarity and Carat weight when buying an engagement ring. Here are some other points they may or may not mention. When buying an engagement ring you have a few simple decisions to make

Are you looking for a traditional engagement ring?

Solitaire versus side stones?

If you choose a simple, traditional, engagement ring with a single center stone, you can possibly put some diamonds into your wedding band instead. You could also use that savings to get a larger center stone. If you choose to have stones on the side be careful of the setting type. The way stones are added to an engagement ring may make it harder to find a wedding band that fits flush up to it.

Shape of the center stone:

Whether you choose a solitaire or a ring with diamonds on the side, you must choose the shape of your main (or center) stone. I have a strong bias when it comes to this. A round brilliant cut diamond is the best in my opinion. Not only is it the most traditional but it is also the most brilliant (hence the name) and timeless. The way the light reflects through the top of the diamond and bounces off the facets (angled properly for just this purpose) exploding out of the top, is most magnificent in the round brilliant cut.

Other popular shapes (also known as fancy shapes) are; Princess, Radiant, Emerald, Marquise and Pear shapes. In fancy shapes the light is actually drawn out and a shadow can be created in the center. Some call this a “Bow Tie” effect, found most often in Marquise and Pear shape diamonds. The Princess cut diamond can be square or triangular but the square is most popular. Princess cuts are ok reflecting light, but not nearly as well as the round brilliant diamond can. Remember: stones with sharp corners are very vulnerable. If a princess cut diamond gets loose in a ring setting it is very risky to have it tightened by just anyone. Corners on a diamond can be chipped easily on a stone with sharp corners. Yes, diamonds are hard but they can chip.

Four prong or six prong?

The next decision you will have to make is whether or not you want the center stone to sit in a four prong or six prong setting. Depending on your decision you may have to order a custom wedding band. When choosing 4 or 6 prongs you need to keep in mind that a wedding band will eventually be added, and sit next the engagement ring. The combination of the way the engagement ring prongs are configured with a wedding band may cause a noticeable gap between the two, pushing the band away from the engagement ring. This will make the two rings look awkward together and happens most in an engagement ring with side stones. You can prevent this from happening by getting a custom wedding band made.

These are just a few simple tips that you may want to keep in mind when buying an engagement ring and wedding band.

Good Luck!