You’ve made the most important decision of your life. You’re going to ask the woman of your dreams to tie the knot with you. You couldn’t imagine spending your life without her. Now, it’s time to make her yours for life. You need to find the ring that says how you feel. Use this checklist to help you when you are ready to buy an engagement ring that will show your special lady how much she means to you.
Make Sure You Choose a Ring You Can Afford
When you are choosing an engagement ring, it shouldn’t put such a financial burden on you that will keep you from paying your bills or enjoying your life. If you have money set aside, think about an amount that will work for you. If you plan on financing your choice in rings, make sure you get a monthly payment that will fit your budget.
Pick a Ring that Complements Her Persona
Consider your girlfriend’s style. Does she wear much jewelry? When she wears jewelry, does she like to go big or keep it simple? In some cases, less is more. If your girlfriend has made a point of telling you she would like a small engagement ring, respect her wishes. On the other hand, start looking for something that will really make a splash if she loves to make a statement with everything she wears. Pay attention to other pieces of jewelry that she wears. When you choose a ring, you should be able to picture her wearing it.
Size Matters
You may get so caught up about the size of the stone that you forget about the size of the ring. If possible, get a hold of one of her other rings. Bring it into the jewelry store to get the size of it. If that doesn’t work, ask her to get her ring size checked the next time you are browsing at a jewelry counter. You can always ask one of her best friends to lend a hand if you are out of luck.
Don’t Pick the First One You See
Once you know how much you are willing to spend and you have an idea of the style you want, the journey to pick the right one among the bridal engagement rings begins. Don’t be impulsive and take the first one that catches your eye. Browse through the store. Ask for your favorites to be taken out of the case. Hold it in your hand. Picture it on her finger. Go to several jewelers to compare your options. You’ll find that there are a variety of settings for stones. You also have many options when it comes to the shape and color of the diamond itself. You may prefer a teardrop, a round stone, or a heart-shaped diamond. When it comes to color, you don’t have to go with a traditional diamond in white. Colored diamonds are growing in popularity. If you choose one, you’ll be giving her a ring that is set apart from the rest.
Insure Your Purchase
Once you choose the ring that fits your bride-to-be, buy insurance on it. You have just made a considerable investment for your future. If the ring should become lost or damaged, you’ll be covered. You can go through a company that specifically deals with insurance for jewelry or you can add that ring to your homeowner’s insurance. You’ll need to keep copies of your receipt to present to your insurance broker. You should ask for an appraisal of the ring when you purchase it in the event your insurance broker requests it.
Talk to Her Parents
If you are going to follow tradition, sit down and talk with your girlfriend’s parents before you plan the big moment. It’s a courtesy and a chance to let them know what your intentions are. Hopefully, you’ll walk away with their blessings. Once you get married, they will be your family too. It’s a good idea to include them in this milestone in your life. Get them to swear their secrecy. You don’t want anyone to let the word get out about your intentions.
Pick the Perfect Time and Place to Ask the Big Question
Choosing the ring is only the first step. You need to plan how and where you are going to pop the big question. You could take her away on a weekend away or just out of town. Think about what she loves to do most. That could be your ideal opportunity to propose to her. Pull out all the stops. You want her to remember the moment you asked her to be your partner to last for the rest of her life.
