You thought the decision to get married was the hard part? Now it's time to buy the ring. Engagement ring-shopping can be quite daunting to the novice so before you make this important purchase familiarize yourself with the basics of diamond buying. You need to know about terms such as clarity, cut, facets, carats, and girdle. Determine how much you can spend and do a bit of research. Your personal values and circumstances may allow you to spend or less than the standard two months salary guideline.
Some important diamond basics: Carats are the unit of measure in which diamonds are weighed. While the size of the diamond you purchase is important, the biggest stones are not always best. You must also consider the shape, cut, and clarity of a diamond to determine it's value. Diamonds come in many shapes--pear, round, square, rectangular, marquise, oval and even heart-shaped. Cut does not refer to the shape, it refers to the number and angle of the facets cut into the stone. Facets reflect light and determine the diamonds sparkle and brilliance. A diamond that is too broad and shallow will not reflect as much light. A narrow deep diamond will have similar problems. The brilliant round cut in a yellow gold setting is the most common and one of the most attractive choices. Your significant other may prefer bolder and more daring shapes and settings so pay attention to her other jewelry and hints she may drop about her likes and dislikes.
Diamonds also vary in color. Generally, the less color the better when it comes to the quality of the diamond. Some diamonds may appear unflatteringly yellowish or cloudy; however, a few colors of diamonds are extremely rare and can have a higher value. Clarity goes hand in had with color. Imperfections and flaws in the stones, although they may be imperceptible to the average person's eye, lower the value of diamonds.
After choosing a stone that meets your expectations and price range look for a setting that will make the most of the diamond. Yellow gold is the most common but white gold, platinum, and titanium are also popular. The beauty of your diamond can be accentuated with smaller gemstones. Smaller diamonds set around the center diamond can also make the ring look bigger. For example a Bezel setting completely surrounds the center gem. Consider your fianc's taste and style and choose something similar to pieces she already owns or jewelry she has admired in magazines or on friends.
About the Author
To find out more about buying diamonds and finding diamond resources on-line see our site to buy diamond rings .