Tips for Buying an Engagement Ring
Are you ready to propose and start shopping for the perfect ring? Water Street Jewelers is here to help you choose the perfect ring! And here are a few of our tips to get you started...
Think timeless...not trendy
While trends may come and go, an engagement ring should be a timeless, enduring symbol of your love. Focus on finding a ring that perfectly complements your future fiancé's style, a ring they will love and cherish for many years to come. Consider their preference for gold or platinum, as well as their inclination towards bold statement pieces or delicate classics. Bringing photos of your fiancé during ring shopping can serve as a helpful visual guide for our bridal specialists.
The perfect stone...doesn't have to be perfect.
Diamond experts often assess stones based on the "four Cs": color, cut, clarity, and carat. While these factors are important, they shouldn't be the only criteria when selecting a stone. Achieving perfection in a stone isn't necessary to create the perfect ring! We can assist you in choosing a stone that aligns with your fiancé's personal style and your budget.
You can learn more about the 4 C's here:
Size matters...sometimes...
Remember, bigger isn't always better. It's important to consider your future fiancé preferences. If they gravitate towards larger, statement pieces, a larger stone might be suitable. However, if they lean towards understated, classic looks, there's a diverse range of stone shapes and sizes to explore. Let us help you navigate through the options.
Consider the source
If you're concerned about the origin of the stone you're selecting (and we hope you are!), Water Street Jewelers offers ethically sourced, high-quality diamonds and gemstones. We're well versed in the intricate world of diamonds and gemstones and can guide you in choosing between traditionally mined diamonds, lab-created diamonds, or even diamond alternatives.
To learn more about diamond mining, diamond choices, and their alternatives, you can reference a few of our other educational posts.
Lab Grown Diamonds vs. Mined Diamonds
What are Conflict Free Diamonds
Diamond Alternatives; Sustainable, Ethical and Gorgeous
The setting is everything...
Once you've chosen a diamond, it's time to select a setting. The setting is where you have the opportunity to define the ring's aesthetic, character and personality. Consider factors like the type of metal (gold or platinum), color preference (white gold, yellow gold, or rose gold), and the style (modern, classic, or vintage). The possibilities are endless. We carry the full catalog of Sylvie Jewelry, the #1 brand in bridal jewelry. Their vast catalog of designs allows you to create your own ring and we can help you do just that!
Be Unique
Traditional options aren't the only path to follow. There's an abundance of choices available, and what truly matters is selecting a ring that resonates with your partner's unique personality. While diamonds are a classic choice, they can be combined with gemstones or other elements to craft something distinctive, personal, and unexpected. You might even consider a ring created solely with gemstones!
Go Custom!
Do you already possess a diamond or a cherished heirloom piece? Could any of your existing jewelry be transformed into a bespoke, new ring? This is our specialty at Water Street Jewelers! Our accomplished master jeweler and store owner, Daniela Balzano, excels at crafting extraordinary pieces from concept to completion or reimagining your existing jewelry into a timeless masterpiece you'll treasure forever.
Shop with a friend
If you feel uncertain about shopping on your own, consider bringing along a trusted friend. Engagement ring shopping can be an overwhelming experience, and having some support can be immensely reassuring. If you have a friend who's been through this process, their guidance can be invaluable. Additionally, seeking style advice from one of your fiancé's friends can be a great idea...provided they can keep a secret!
Price doesn't matter
And forget the old rule of thumb that you should spend one month, two months or three months salary on a ring. The best price is the one that you can comfortably afford. We specialize in helping you choose just the right ring...at just the right price.
If you're excited and ready to start ring shopping, visit our Engagement Ring Buying Guide and make an appointment with one of our bridal specialists.
