Engagement Rings Auckland: 4 Tips For Shopping Before You Tie The Knot
Is it time to pop the big question? Then you need a ring to go with it. Buying an engagement ring and planning for a proposal so you can tie the knot soon can be a wonderful experience. It’s easy to get caught up in all the romance, but you should remember to take your time searching for the perfect engagement ring.
So, whether you’re shopping for engagement rings in Auckland alone or with a friend, this article can help you find the perfect engagement ring for that special person in your life.
1. Choose A Reliable Jeweler
A ring is a considerable expense. So, it would be advisable to buy it from a trusted jeweler in Auckland, to provide you with only the highest quality ring for the price you pay. If you’re interested, you can contact Diamonds On Richmond to learn more about their selections.
Basically, a jeweler should be equipped with knowledge and training to help you find the perfect ring according to your preferences and budget. You also want to look for a jeweler who has earned a credential from a highly recognized program such as the Applied Jewelry Professional (AJP) diploma program or a Graduate Gemologist (GG) in the Gemological Institute of America (GIA).
Additionally, it’s crucial to choose a jeweler that offers reliable warranties on their rings. Thus, you don’t have to worry about any manufacturing issues. Plus, it would be best if they honor returns or exchanges.
2. Understand Shape And Cut
When ring shopping, it’s essential to understand the difference between the diamond’s cut and shape.
Shape refers to the stone’s outline when viewed face up. In general, the most popular shape is round. However, other shapes are available, also known as fancy shapes, which include pear, marquise, square, heart, and rectangles.
On the other hand, the cut style refers to how the diamond’s facets are arranged. A brilliant cut is the most popular option since it maximizes the stone’s brightness. It can be seen in various shapes, from oval to round to marquise and square.
In general, the most popular and common shape and cut combination is the brilliant round cut. It’s also the most expensive option. Although, if you want to save money, you can choose a fancy shape with a brilliant cut.
Another popular cut style is step cut. It features long, sleek lines, providing the stone with a sophisticated and elegant sparkle. The emerald cut is a popular variation of step cut with a rectangular or square shape, featuring concentric rows of parallel facets and beveled corners. In addition, a radiant cut refers to a rectangle or square diamond cut in brilliant style.
3. Pick A Band Metal
Traditionally, engagement rings, and wedding bands, are made from yellow gold. However, some couples may also opt for silver, white gold, or platinum. In recent years, rose gold has also become a popular modern alternative.
When choosing a metal for the ring band, don’t just rely on its appearance. For instance, while platinum may look quite similar to silver, it’s significantly more expensive since it’s rarer and has a greater density. Furthermore, some metals may scratch easier than others, so consider your lifestyle and budget before finalizing your decision. And don’t forget to consider if you want the stones set in the band.
4. Take A Look At Setting
Diamonds and other gemstones are held in place by settings. In general, the diamond setting has two jobs– protect the stone from damage and hold it in place. In general, there are two popular types of diamond settings:
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Prong
Prong is a simple setting. In general, the stone is held in place with four or six prongs, which are narrow metal supports. These prongs can be sharp on top–also known as claw prongs– for a modern and edgy appearance or rounded for a classic, timeless look.
Six prongs can offer a brilliant round diamond a more rounded look while holding the stone securely. Meanwhile, a four-pronged setting can give a round stone a squarer appearance while covering slightly less of the diamond’s area.
Other variations of prong setting can be used in several ring styles including three-stone, solitaire, and more.
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Bezel
Bezel settings offer the most protection. In this setting, thin metal is pounded or pushed around the diamond to hold it in place securely. This means that you wouldn’t be able to view the stone from the side. However, it also means that there are no prongs that often snag on gloves and other clothing materials and ensure that all corners are well-protected.
Generally, a bezel setting is a perfect choice for diamonds with sharp points that are more likely to chip, such as a marquise cut or square cut (princess cut).
Takeaway
Shopping for an engagement ring can be as overwhelming as asking the big question. However, finding the perfect ring doesn’t have to be a particularly stressful process. By keeping the above tips in mind, you’ll be able to walk away with the best engagement ring.
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