How To Choose An Engagement Ring: Helpful Guide For Men

1. Set Your Budget

Before you can even begin to think about how to buy an engagement ring, you need to consider your budget. You don’t want to go overboard, and this can happen very easily if you get caught up in the moment. Think what you can realistically afford and stick to it. Remember that some jewelers will offer lay-away or payment plans.

The “two-months salary” standard is old-school. You don’t want to go into debt just for the engagement ring. Remember, you will have to pay for her wedding ring, your honeymoon, your tuxedo, grooms gifts and so forth. Not to mention your future! Think rationally!

2. Find Out Her Ring Size

You can find out her ring size with making her the least bit suspicious. You can “borrow” one of her rings and bring it to the store with you. Or trace one of her rings on a piece of paper and use a ring sizer to figure it out.

Most rings are able to be resized if needed. We advise that you go up a size rather than down. The average ring size for a woman is 6 to 6.5. You could always ask a family member or friend to find out her ring size for you!

3. Determine Her Style

Most modern couples shop for engagement rings together, but if you are old-fashioned and a romantic at heart, you want to have some idea as to what type of engagement ring she will want. You can always enlist the help of her sister or best friend. Or you could observe her to see what type of jewelry she likes? Is she a traditionalist? Does she prefer elegance and simplicity or does she like big, chunky jewelry? Does she like Victorian style jewelry or something more modern? What type of metal does she prefer? Does she wear a lot of yellow gold or does she prefer white gold or platinum. Watch her closely and make mental notes before you start ring shopping.

4. Give Yourself Enough Time

You might have to shop around to find the perfect ring so give yourself some time. Also, keep in mind that if you are having a custom designed ring or you need to special order her ring to be sized, you should allow for up to six weeks for delivery.

5. Shop Wisely

Make sure that you are purchasing your ring from a reputable source. Check for applications and accreditations. Ask your friends and family for suggestions and look at online reviews. Also, search on the Better Business Bureau website for complaints. Also, find out their exchange/return policy.

6. Choose A Gemstone

Traditionally, a diamond is the gemstone of choice. However, your girlfriend might have something else in mind. Sapphires are the second most popular choice for engagement ring gemstones, with emeralds and rubies not too far behind. Make sure that you know what type of stone she prefers before you make your selection.

7. Decide On The Gemstone Shape

Diamonds come in many shapes and sizes. However, the traditional diamond engagement ring is usually round. However, round diamonds are also the most expensive so unless your girlfriend has her heart set on a round diamond, you can save a great deal of money by choosing a differently shaped diamond. The princes cut is the second most popular diamond shape, followed by the cushion cut.

8. Choose The Metal For The Ring

The choices for precious metal for traditional engagement rings are white gold, yellow god, rose gold and platinum. White gold and platinum are the metals of choice, Keep in mind that platinum is extremely durable, which is why it is the most expensive.

9. Choose A Ring Setting/Style

This is perhaps the most difficult part of choosing an engagement ring. You need to have some idea as to what type of setting your bride-to-be would like best? Detailed, Vintage, Delicate, Modern, Flashy, Simple?

If you are still confused, you can always ask one of her friends or a family member to help you choose the ring. They can even accompany you while you shop. Make sure that you can trust them not to blurt it out and swear them to secrecy!