By TLO
Preparing for a proposal can be a nail biting experience; especially when it comes to selecting the much anticipated engagement ring. Since the perfect proposal begins with the perfect ring, you can avoid some of the pressure by getting a plan together. Here’s the “Ultimate Engagement Ring Checklist” to get you started…
#1. GET AN IDEA: Have you been given any hints about the diamond shape, metal and carat size that would make the perfect ring? If so, listen; because you are now equipped with one of the most important “Honey-Do” lists you will ever have. Having an idea of what your intended likes ensures that you purchase a ring that will be pleasing no matter you budget range. It also makes your meeting with a jeweler more productive. You may also want to ask close friends or family members if they have any ideas about the type of ring desired. It’s not absolutely necessary, but, if possible, bring a picture or drawing of your desired ring. Remember what they say: “A picture is worth a thousand words.” A good one may also save you a thousand headaches if it helps you avoid giving a ring that never gets worn.
#2. GET THE 411: Familiarize yourself with the “Four C-s,” the diamond basics every engagement ring shopper should know below.
-Carat: The “carat” refers to the actual weight and dimensions of an individual diamond. Simply put, a carat speaks to how “big” the diamond is. Each individual diamond, depending on its cut, color, and clarity, will be priced differently per carat. For example, a smaller stone of higher quality may cost the same as a bigger stone of lesser quality.
-Cut: The cut refers to – not to the shape of the diamond – but to how the diamond is trimmed and formed from within its original shape. The cut determines the dazzle and brilliance your diamond. When cut properly, your diamond will sparkle and shine for a lifetime. There are many traditional cut diamonds, with round brilliant most popular one. Other basic cuts are Pear, Princess, Heart, Oval, Marquise, and Emerald.
-Color: Diamond “color” refers to the actual tint within the color of the diamond. Colors come in a range of beautiful options, from “colorless” and “near colorless” to what are termed as “fancy color” diamonds. Color is determined along a “D” to “Z” tint range. The often sought after “colorless” diamonds start the scale at “D;” and “Z” diamonds indicate a pale yellow or brown tint. Colorless diamonds are often the most desired and are on the higher end of the price scale.
-Clarity: A diamond with a lesser degree of flaws will be more valuable than one with more obvious imperfections. If the flaws (or inclusions) are difficult to locate, the stones are graded VS , which stands for very slight inclusions. If they are easy to locate under magnification, the stone is graded SI clarity or slight inclusions.
Did you know there is also a Fifth C?” Coined by the experts at the Diamond and Jewelry Gallery Studio City, the “Fifth C” stands for cost. And, here’s where that comes in…
#3. GET A BUDGET: Size matters if budget and cost figure very heavily into your plan. If that’s the case, opt for a higher quality diamond that may be smaller in carat size but is of a higher quality when it comes to the clarity and color. You can always upsize the diamond later and it will be worth more when the time comes to sell it or trade it in toward a larger diamond. An expert jeweler can advise you on choosing the highest quality diamond within your budget range.
#4. GET THE DETAILS: Paying attention to details will make all the difference in the ultimate look of your ring.
-Metals: The most popular choices are white gold, yellow gold or platinum. Currently white gold and platinum are the most popular, but rose gold is trending, quickly becoming a favorite choice for many. When in doubt, ask; or pay attention to the other jewelry your intended wears most often and choose the metal in accordance with that.
-Settings: Almost every engagement ring you find features some variation of two popular settings to hold the center stone in place. The most common setting is the prong setting, which uses thin metal prongs that move from the ring base to the top edges of the diamond center stone to hold it in place. Another popular one is the bezel setting, which safely encircles the center stone in a metal rim. Choosing between the two – or from the many other setting options – will determine the look and profile of your ring.
-Side Stones or Halo: Side stones refer to the smaller diamonds situated on either side of your center stone. Popular choices are 3-stone and 5-stone rings. A Halo is an accentuating row or “halo” of small diamonds that surround your selected center stone. Rings with halo detailing can make your selected center stone seem much larger.
Lastly – and this one has everything to do with the experience you will have…
#5. GET A DIAMOND GUY: Buy your ring from a trusted and reputable jeweler with a proven track record for excellence. Read reviews, see what others are saying about their shopping experience. Work with a jeweler who is also a direct diamond importer which ensures that you are not paying extra money for the scouting services of a middleman. No matter what your budget, the engagement ring purchase is one of the most important investments you will make. Choosing the right jeweler, or “diamond guy” will make all the difference in the impact that your ring will have when you present it.
The smart and highly-reviewed choice is the Diamond and Jewelry Gallery Studio City, voted “Favorite Jewelry Store” by the L.A. Daily News. In business as direct diamond importers for more than 40 years, and with customer referrals as their number one form of business, they offer one of L.A’s largest selections of certified EGL and GIA diamonds with discounts often at 50-75% below retail. Known as the “engagement ring superstore,” the Diamond and Jewelry Gallery Studio City showcases offer 1000s of stunning choices. The store specializes in custom designed rings and is also the exclusive home of the Johnny N Signature Designer Line of engagement rings and fine jewelry. Most importantly, they’ve developed a reputation for walking their customers through the step-by-step process of creating the perfect engagement ring at the most affordable price. You’ll find them in the heart of Studio City’s beautiful red carpet district at 12456 Ventura Blvd. For info, contact them at 818-982-4444, or diamondandjewlerygallery.com. Watch the video from a recent engagement ring shopper who visited their store.
#6. GET THE “YES!” With this “Ultimate Engagement Ring Checklist,” you’re well equipped to create a dream engagement ring. Now, all you’ve got to do is come up with a brilliant plan for a proposal that gets you the “YES” and goes viral when you release your social media video. No pressure at all. -TLO