All the things to know before Engagement Ring shopping
We know that shopping for an engagement ring is one of the most exciting, but sometimes stressful and overwhelming times in your life. With so many different diamonds, styles, stones, settings and price ranges to choose from, it’s easy and normal to feel a little lost before you even begin the shopping process! But no worries- we’ve created a guide to help you feel confident, informed, and prepared every step of the way.
From setting a realistic budget, to understanding how engagement rings and wedding bands stack together, and learning the basics of diamond knowledge and quality, we’ve covered all the essentials. Whether you’re planning a surprise proposal for your partner, or together as a couple, these tips will help make ring shopping simple, meaningful, and stress-free. No matter how you approach it, choosing a forever ring should feel as special as the love it represents- and we’re here to help make sure it does!
Set a Budget That Works for You
Let's be transparent- we know that engagement rings are a big purchase with lots of preparation and saving involved! Before you fall head over heels for a ring, it’s important to have a clear idea of what you and your partner are comfortable spending. Engagement rings come in a wide range of prices, and there’s no one-size-fits-all number to expect, despite what myths might tell you.
Start by having an open and honest conversation with your partner about not only the expectations of the ring, but the financial boundaries. Whether the ring will be a surprise or a joint decision, aligning on a budget can help avoid stress and discomfort later on. This is a big purchase, but it doesn’t have to come at the expense of your financial well-being later on.
With a clear budget in place, look for jewelers who prioritize transparency and respect your price range. A good jeweler will never pressure you to spend more than you planned or are comfortable with- they will help you find something beautiful that fits your budget and vision!
GAGE TIP: If you’re looking to maximize size and sparkle without breaking the bank or stretching your budget, we can’t recommend considering lab-grown diamonds instead enough! They’re chemically and visually identical to natural diamonds, but often cost 30-50% less– meaning you can often get a larger, higher-quality stone for a cheaper price.
Understand the Timeline
Timing is everything when it comes to engagement ring shopping– especially if you’ve got a set proposal date. It’s important to note that every jeweler operates on a different timeline, depending on whether the ring is made-to-order, or fully customized, adding in plenty of time for adjustments and trials is crucial!
Some rings may be available, while others can take several weeks to craft and deliver. That’s why it's a good idea to start shopping well in advance – ideally a month or two before your intended proposal date– to allow for production, resizing or any unexpected bumps and delays.
Here at Gage Diamonds, we want you to feel confident and comfortable in your purchase. That’s why we have a 20-25 business day turnaround time, for even the most custom rings. Be sure to check turnaround times and policies wherever you shop, that could be a decision maker.
Do Your Homework
Before you make any decisions and start shopping, take some time to educate yourself on the basics of engagement rings. A little research on engagement ring TikTok can go a long way in helping you feel confident and informed when it’s time to shop.
Start by familiarizing yourself with the 4 C’s of diamonds– cut, color, clarity and carat. These factors are not only what makes your ring personalized to you and your love, but determine a diamond’s quality and value. This is when you should be thinking about what is most important to you about the stone. Do you prefer a larger stone, with lower clarity or a flawless sparkle in a smaller size?
Next, look into different ring settings and metal types. From a classic solitaire with a halo setting, to a asscher cut with a vintage-inspired or modern bezel setting, the style of the ring can dramatically change its overall look. Consider your partners lifestyle, personal taste, and preferences when deciding between something timeless and elegant, or bold and unique.
Finally, don't forget to look at ring styles and trends. Instagram, TikTok, Pinterest and jeweler websites are great places to gather inspiration, see what’s out there and find out your yes’s and no’s. The more knowledgeable you are, the easier it will be to communicate your vision and make a choice you’ll love for the rest of time!
Try Everything On– Even the Ones You Think You Won’t Like
It’s easy to go into ring shopping with a specific vision in mind, but one of the best things you can do is keep an open mind. Styles that look perfect in photos might not look or feel the same on your hand– and the opposite of often true, too! You might be surprised by how much you love a shape, setting, or stone you never considered.
Trying on a variety of diamond cuts, settings, bands and metal types, even if you are 100% sure it’s not for you, can help narrow down exactly what you like and dislike. Bring along your sister, mom and best friends to give you honest feedback, a fresh perspective and an experience you’ll never forget. Seeing different options in person and on your finger helps you understand what flatters the best, what is reasonable and comfortable and what truly reflects your personality and love!
Even if you don’t end up choosing one outside of your comfort zone, the process will help you feel more confident and in love with your final decision! Plus, it's fun, enjoy this memorable experience!
Think About the Stack
When choosing an engagement ring, it's easy to get caught up in the excitement of the ring itself– but don’t forget to consider how it will pair with a wedding band. The way your rings stack together can affect both comfort and overall appearance, so it’s worth thinking ahead about. One key factor to consider is the setting height of the ring, with a higher setting and lower setting. A higher setting, like a cathedral or elevated solitaire styles, allows a wedding band to sit flush against the engagement ring, creating a seamless, stacked look. Whereas, a lower setting, or rings with decorative side details, may require a contoured or notched band to fit snugly, or a small gap between the rings for a more airy, modern look. Considering whether you want a simple band, a matching diamond band, or even a stack of multiple rings over time, trying on different combinations can help you visualize the full look, making sure everything looks and feels cohesive.
At the end of the day, your engagement ring alone is temporary, your bridal stack– so choose something that not only stands beautifully on its own, but also complements the pieces that are to follow.
Have Fun!
Engagement ring shopping is a meaningful milestone, and it should feel just as exciting as the proposal itself. By setting a clear budget, finalizing your timeline, doing some diamond research, and keeping an open mind during the shopping process, you’ll be well-prepared to find the perfect ring reflecting your love story. Take your time, enjoy the journey and trust that the perfect ring is out there waiting for you!