3 Factors To Think About When Buying An Engagement Ring
An engagement ring is one of the most important purchases you can make, and so it is important that you take all of a ring's most important aspects into account. While every proposal naturally features a slightly different ring, there are a number of things that everyone should consider when comparing engagement rings. Take a look below at just three of the most important ones to keep in mind before you choose the ring that is perfect for your future spouse.
Stone
There are many gemstones you can include in your engagement ring, many of which may have special meaning for you and your significant other. By far the most popular, however, are diamonds, which are found naturally in the earth as well as grown synthetically in labs around the world. The way that diamonds absorb and reflect light means that they can be attention-grabbing while not being overly flashy, and can be as traditional or unique as you desire. In these and a number of other ways, diamonds are often the perfect fit.
Carat
A carat is a basic unit of measurement used for diamonds and other gemstones that are popular in engagement rings. One carat weighs exactly one fifth of a gram, and so the heavier the diamond, the more carats it will be. While many heavy diamonds are also larger than their lighter counterparts, it is important to note that a carat is not used as a unit of measurement for size. Engagements rings, such as a 13-carat oval cut diamond ring, that include heavier diamonds will usually be more expensive, but this is not always the case. There are many other factors that determine the price, including the clarity of the diamond, as well as any imperfections that may mar the overall quality.
Cut and Shape
Another major factor you should consider when buying an engagement ring is the cut of the diamond itself. While the term 'cut' is often used as a shorthand for the shape of a diamond, it more specifically refers to the stone's symmetry and proportions. A stone that is too shallow or too deep may not reflect light as brilliantly as another that has a perfect cut. As for shapes, one particularly popular cut is an oval cut, which has a slimmer profile than many round cuts. Many people find that not only are oval cuts more attractive, but they also fit more practically on the ring finger than other cuts such as asscher or emerald.