Engagement Ring Shopping Guide

Engagement Ring Shopping Guide

With so many different styles, metals, and gemstones to choose from, shopping for an engagement ring can be an overwhelming experience. Many people need help knowing where to start or what they're looking for, which can lead to frustration and confusion. It's essential to research beforehand, have a budget in mind, and consider your partner's personal taste and lifestyle when shopping for an engagement ring.

Engagement Ring Styles

When it comes to engagement ring styles, Rumanoff’s Jewelry offers a wide plethora of styles to choose from, each with its unique charm and appeal. From classic solitaires to elaborate floral-inspired designs, the perfect ring is out there for everyone. Whether you prefer a modern, vintage, or nature-inspired aesthetic, the right ring can symbolize love and commitment that will last a lifetime. Remember that all owners – new and old – need to learn the ins and outs of engagement ring care.

Floral and Natural

Floral and nature-inspired rings feature whimsical designs with intricate details and often incorporate floral or leaf motifs. These rings are perfect for nature lovers and those who appreciate playful, feminine aesthetics. If you plan to match your engagement ring with your wedding band, opt for a balanced look with a more understated band.

Modern

Modern engagement rings, on the other hand, offer a sleek and minimalist chic aesthetic. These rings are perfect for those who prefer clean lines and simple designs over intricate details. They often feature a single, large diamond or gemstone set in a modest metal band.

Vintage-Inspired

Vintage-inspired engagement rings offer a nostalgic aesthetic and unique beauty. These rings often feature intricate filigree and engraving, which adds a romantic and antique feel. They are perfect for those who love vintage aesthetics or who appreciate the craftsmanship of eras past.

Engagement Ring Settings

When it comes to engagement ring settings, the options are endless. They can add an extra element of personality to an engagement ring. The variety of diamond settings available allows each individual to express themselves through their unique style. From classic to contemporary, there is a setting for every taste, and each can offer a different way to showcase the beauty of the center stone.

Three Stone

Three stone diamond settings are beloved thanks to their romantic and sentimental nature. This style represents the past, present, and future, and they are often gifted to mark significant milestones, such as anniversaries or the birth of a child. Beyond their sentimental value, these rings are also known for their glamorous and radiant design, making them a stunning choice for any engagement ring.

Solitaire

Solitaire engagement rings are the epitome of classic, minimalist design, and they have been a popular choice for generations. While many are simple engagement rings, designer brands often infuse unique metalwork and details to make each ring stand out. Whether it's a twisted band or a surprise diamond accent, each solitaire ring can be tailored to suit the unique tastes of the wearer.

Side Stone

Side stone engagement rings feature accent diamonds or gemstones that enhance the beauty of the center stone. There are different options for side stone settings, including channel, prong, and pave, each of which can accentuate the center stone in different ways. These rings offer a beautiful way to add sparkle and glamor to an engagement ring, making them beloved by those who love a bit of extra bling.

Halo

Halo settings feature a ring of smaller diamonds or gemstones surrounding the center stone, creating a "halo" effect. These rings can utilize larger gemstones for a bold and striking appearance or smaller diamonds for a more delicate and understated look. The halo ring is a versatile choice that can be customized to suit different tastes and styles.

Diamonds

Diamonds are the most popular choice for engagement rings, and for good reason. They are durable, timeless, and symbolize love and commitment. When selecting a diamond for an engagement ring, it's essential to consider the four C's: carat weight, cut, clarity, and color. These factors determine the overall quality and value of the diamond and can influence its appearance and brilliance. Whatever diamond you select, make sure your ring sizing is done correctly.

Cut

Diamond cuts refer to the shape and facets of a diamond. The most common diamond cuts include round, princess, and cushion, although many other unique cuts are available. Each cut can influence the overall appearance and sparkle of the diamond, so it's essential to select a cut that suits the style and taste of the wearer.

Clarity

Diamond clarity refers to the presence of inclusions or blemishes within the diamond. These imperfections can reduce the overall grade of the gem, although they give each stone a unique identity. The clarity grade ranges from Flawless to Included, with most diamonds falling somewhere in between. It's important to select a diamond with a clarity grade that is eye-clean and does not detract from its beauty.

Color

Diamond color is another important factor to consider when selecting an engagement ring. While diamonds are ideally colorless, most have a yellow-brown tint. The color grade ranges from D to Z, with D being completely colorless and Z being straight yellow. Blue and pink diamonds are also used in jewelry but are exceedingly rare and expensive.

Carat

Diamond carat weight is a measurement of a diamond's weight and is used to determine its size: The higher the carat weight, the larger the diamond. A carat is equal to 0.2 grams. However, carat weight should not be the only factor considered when selecting a diamond, as the cut, clarity, and color can also impact the overall appearance and value.

Natural and Lab-Grown

While lab-grown diamonds are becoming increasingly popular as a more affordable and eco-friendly alternative to natural-mined diamonds, there is still significant value in natural-mined diamonds. Natural-mined diamonds have a unique story and history; their rarity and beauty make them highly sought after. Lab-grown diamonds have a lower price point but lack the same emotional and monetary value as their counterparts. Ultimately, the choice between the two is personal and depends on individual preferences and values.

Precious Metals

Precious metals are an essential component of fine jewelry and engagement rings. They are metals that are rare, beautiful, and valuable, making them the perfect choice for special pieces that are designed to last a lifetime. Precious metals include gold, platinum, and silver, each with its own unique properties and characteristics. For more information, read our precious metal for engagement rings guide.

Yellow Gold

Yellow gold is the classic and iconic choice for jewelry, and it's easy to see why. It's warm and lustrous tone has been popular for centuries and remains a timeless choice for engagement rings and other jewelry pieces. Gold’s purity is measured in karats, with 24k gold being the purest form. Lower karat alloys are reinforced by harder metals like nickel, chrome, and copper.

White Gold

White gold is a modern and sophisticated choice for engagement rings and other fine jewelry. It's made by mixing gold with other white metals such as nickel, silver, or palladium. However, white gold does need to be redipped by a jeweler to maintain its bright white appearance.

Rose Gold

Rose gold is a romantic and glamorous choice for engagement rings and other jewelry pieces. Its warm pink tone is achieved by adding copper to gold, resulting in a beautiful and unique metal that has become one of the most popular metal types for engagement rings.

Platinum

Platinum is the most valuable, rare, and extraordinary precious metal used in fine jewelry. It's a dense, heavy metal that is naturally white, so it doesn't need to be rhodium-plated like white gold. Platinum is incredibly durable and hypoallergenic, making it the perfect choice for engagement rings and other pieces that are designed to last a lifetime.

Browse the Best Engagement Rings at Rumanoff’s Jewelry

When it comes to finding the perfect engagement ring, Rumanoff's Jewelry is the best place to start your search in Hamden, Connecticut. With over 75 years of experience in the industry, we have an extensive selection of engagement rings and wedding bands. Our knowledgeable staff is always on hand to answer any questions and help guide you through the buying process, ensuring you find the perfect ring for your budget and style. Call (203) 230-1199 for the answers to all your questions about engagement rings.