Getting engaged is an exciting milestone for every couple. You get to think about what your wedding will look like as well as the rest of your life.

Before getting to the wedding planning, though, you need to make another major decision. What kind of diamond engagement ring are you going to have?

If you’re ready to pop the question, don’t take this decision lightly. For one thing, there are a lot of the ins and outs to navigate when it comes to choosing the right one. The engagement ring industry is a vast one, expected to generate over $39 billion in 2027.

The good thing, though, is that you’ve come to the right comprehensive guide. Below, you’ll find everything you need to know about choosing and purchasing the perfect engagement ring for your beloved.

Consider Quality When Buying Diamonds

When buying a diamond engagement ring, it’s crucial to consider the 4 C’s: Cut, Carat, Color, and Clarity. Let’s take a closer look at these.

Cut refers to the diamond’s proportions and symmetry. A good, clean cut will reflect light beautifully. It might be worth noting that the most common cut is the round diamond.

Carat is the weight measurement of the diamond. Obviously, larger diamonds are generally more valuable. That doesn’t mean smaller diamonds are always less valuable, though – the rest of the qualifications can come into play here.

Color refers to the absence of color in the diamond. A perfect one would be completely colorless and the most valuable.

Clarity refers to the presence of internal or external flaws. It’s important to remember that perfection is somewhat of an idealistic goal when it comes to diamond clarity or cut. You might find one that’s almost perfect, and this should be the one you go for.

Diamond Certification

A diamond certificate, also known as a grading report, is an important document. It provides information on the diamond‘s quality based on the 4 C’s.

It’s important to buy a diamond that has been certified by a reputable gemological laboratory. Two examples would be the Gemological Institute of America (GIA) and the American Gem Society (AGS). Certification by either one of these institutions will give you confidence in the quality of the diamond you are buying and its value.

Don’t Forget to Consider Your Budget

When buying a diamond engagement ring, it’s important to set a budget and stick to it. Diamonds can range in price from a few hundred dollars to hundreds of thousands of dollars.

Several different things can contribute to the varying price beyond just the cut and clarity of the diamond. The choice of metal for the band might be more or less expensive, too.

It’s easy to get carried away when making such an important purchase. Determine what you can comfortably afford and stick to it to avoid overspending.

That being said, be willing to save up for this important purchase well in advance. You’ll be happy you did so when you get to choose a diamond without sacrificing quality or value. In some cases, you might even be able to finance your diamond purchase, depending on your chosen supplier.

The Setting of the Ring

The setting of the ring is just as important as the diamond itself. The setting can greatly impact the appearance of the ring and the diamond.

Popular setting styles include solitaire, three-stone, halo, and pave. Consider the setting style that best suits your personal style and the style of the person you are purchasing the ring for.

If you’re interested in what kind of setting might be trendy or popular these days, you’re in luck. Check out this article for all of the engagement ring trends you should keep an eye out for this year.

What Metal Should the Band Be?

Choosing the metal for the band of a diamond engagement ring is an important aspect of the purchasing process. Different metals offer different benefits and should be selected based on personal style, budget, and durability requirements.

Popular metal choices include white gold, yellow gold, rose gold, and platinum. White gold is a popular choice for its classic and versatile look, and it is often plated with rhodium for added shine.

Yellow gold is a traditional choice and has a warm and rich tone. Rose gold offers a unique and modern look, and it is a popular choice for those who prefer a pinkish-toned metal. Platinum is a high-end option and offers the ultimate in durability and strength, making it a great choice for those who want a ring that will last a lifetime.

When choosing the metal for the band of a diamond engagement ring, it’s important to consider the maintenance requirements of the metal, too. For example, white gold and platinum will need to be re-plated with rhodium periodically. Yellow gold and rose gold will not need to be re-plated as they will naturally develop a patina over time.

Ask About the Return Policy

Finally, make sure to understand the return policy of the retailer you are purchasing the ring from. In the event that you need to return the ring, it’s important to know what the process entails and what conditions need to be met.

Make sure to keep all receipts and documentation in the event that a return or exchange is necessary. Ask your potential engagement ring supplier about all of the purchasing policies before signing any paperwork. This can be of particular importance if the recipient of the ring would prefer a different style than you expected.

Get Your Ideal Diamond Engagement Ring

Thanks to the above guidance, you now know way more about buying your perfect diamond engagement ring. You know better than to take this decision lightly.

Still, if you have some more questions about the purchasing process, that’s why we’re here. Our team of experts knows how important this choice is, and we want to help ensure it’s a moment worth remembering forever when you decide to marry each other. Get started by taking a look at our diamonds available to you now.