10 tips to honing in on your dream ring!

Sofia Kaman Bridal Rings

Helping someone choose an engagement ring is one of the most rewarding parts of my job! So whether you’re getting a wishlist together to suggest to a special someone or choosing the most perfectly suited engagement ring for your honey, we are here to help! As seen in Flutter Magazine’s Jan 2015 issue, which I highly recommend picking up, here are my 10 best tips for honing in on your perfect ring!

1)  S T A R T  B Y  D E F I N I N G  Y O U R  P E R S O N A L  S E N S E  O F  S T Y L E

An engagement or wedding band is such a meaningful and personal symbol to cherish for a lifetime. It should reflect who you are! Are you a minimalist who appreciates natural, understated beauty? A vintage romantic with a flair for a touch of drama? Or do you appreciate modern shapes and clean, smooth textures? You can take our “Discover your Wedding Style” quiz  if you need some help pin pointing your style!

2)  B A N D  T O G E T H E R

When choosing an engagement ring- think about if and how you’d like to pair with a wedding band. Do you prefer an evenly stacked set, do you mind if the band doesn’t sit flush against the engagement ring, or would you even consider wearing engagement and wedding band on different hands?

3 )  C O N S I D E R  Y O U R  J E W E L R Y  W A R D R O B E

Do you wear yellow gold all the time? Deciding you want to try rose gold for your engagement might not be the best idea, if the ring doesn’t pair well with all your other favorites!

4)  C O N S I D E R  Y O U R  L I F E S T Y L E

If you have a profession where you work with your hands (medical professional, artist, etc) choosing a ring with a low profile and bezel might fit in best, rather than something extremely high set with prongs. If you know you are hard on your jewelry but you love delicate vintage pieces, that might possibly require extra care, think about choosing a newly made ring that has a vintage feel. Choosing a ring that fits into your life best will most likely give you the most longevity and most happiness along the way!

5)  S P A R K L E  F A C T O R !

Are you a diamond diva or an alternative gem type of gal?

“The type, quality and size center stone contributes the most to both cost and style of your ring.”

If you truly enjoy sparkle a traditional round cut brilliant colorless diamond is going to give you the look you want. If you are more interested in having something with a more modest brilliance, consider a rose cut, rustic diamond or even an alternative gem like sapphire or ruby… Just a note about colored stones- for the guys: If you are considering a colored stone, be sure that she not only loves the color, but that she is comfortable wearing it EVERY day.

6)  P R I O R I T I Z E  Y O U R  B U D G E T

“The main thought to keep in mind when working around a tight budget is to PRIORITIZE. There are many ways to create or select a beautiful ring by choosing the elements of a style in smart way.”

If you know you MUST have a 2 carat diamond, because anything smaller just looks “tiny” on your long fingers, then consider a beautiful champagne shade instead of completely colorless or perhaps think about a halo design in the same color as your center stone to create a larger look. Both of these changes will typically give you a larger impact for your money. Don’t think you’ll be a diamond expert overnight by reading everything online, but also consult with a trusted diamond or jewelry professional to help guide you in making the smartest choices to get the best value for your investment.

7)  S E N T I M E N T A L   V A L U E

An engagement or wedding band is perhaps the most sentimental object someone can have. Consider if you or your partner have a family heirloom that could be passed on or re-purposed in some way. Sometimes a dated style may possess a beautiful diamond that could be re-set in a new design, giving it a new life and creating beautiful way to remember those in our lives.

8)  G O   G R E E N

Ethical and environmentally sound gem and metal sourcing are big considerations for many people. Definitely check whether your favorite jewelry store provides conflict-free diamonds and works with suppliers who abide by the Kimberley Process. If diamonds are not your best friend, for ethical reasons, consider colored stones. Ask where the stones are mined from and inform yourself on the types of mining practices of that region. Finally, if your goal is to create as little environmental impact as possible, look into finding a diamond that’s not been newly mined, though a company such as Avilan Storied Diamonds, and using recycled metals as well or going with a vintage ring.

9)  A   W O R K   I  N  P  R O G R E S S …

Sometimes that dream ring is really that- a distant dream! Whatever your situation may be, understanding that the greater idea in marriage is to be together for the duration, can be helpful. There will always be room for upgrades, times will change, and your life together will change. Don’t forget that your ring can change too!

10)  T H E   “G U M B A L L  R I N G”

Everyone loves a great proposal story that starts with “a gumball ring.” Designing or picking an engagement ring together can be a romantic process and ensure that everyone is happy with the outcome. And most of all, have fun with it!