Buying an Engagment Ring...
 

Yes... You read that right.


So, I've been reading advice and crap online for the past week or so... And it's making me more confused then I was when I started. I know this should be a somewhat simple process and I'm making it harder on myself... We will most likely go shopping together when the time comes.


So, to all our married or soon to be married peoples... Any advice?

First of all, congratulations.

My own experience was wonderful. I found a local goldsmith who custom made a ring. It's a white gold Celtic knotwork design with a somewhat heavy bezel setting for the diamond (which suits her). It looks solid rather than dainty, which is what we wanted. That's the thing, you can tell the guy making it what you want. Plus, depending on the operation (this one is small: him and his wife), it will be a bucket of cash cheaper.

If you want to go this route, take her with you to have a look at the designs. I guess it would be kinda like getting a tattoo. You talk to the artist, have a look at their portfolio, and then tell them what you want.

Here's where I got the ring. Have a look and see if you have a similar place locally: The Claddagh House

Assuming you're getting a diamond....

Ask around and find out who knows someone in the jewelry industry, preferrably on the wholesale side. You'll be guaranteed to pay 20% less (at least) if you can buy direct. The_Wife's ring appraised 40% higher.

And congrats, King. I'm truly happy for you.

Thanks guys...


And here's the main issue that I forgot to mention... She makes jewelry for a living. She knows way more than I do...

I've already asked... she won't make her own ring.

I'm a terrible person for advice on this one. I doubt any other woman would have wanted what I wanted. Still, you asked.
Not a fan of diamonds, and my husband knows it. He gave me a thin white-gold band with a masculine style. It attracted a lot of attention from my friends, simply because it was so different. He purchased it from a local jeweler.

Does she know someone who she'd like to make it?

Have you asked her what she'd like to wear for the rest of her life?
And kudos to World'sChick for not making her own ring.
Ask her if she has any thoughts, then take that info and go exploring: online, custom shops, festivals.... You'll know it when you see it, I suspect.

I was going to give advice, right up until you said she makes jewelry. Then I realized you are in a pickle...good luck and congrats.

We found we could fly to the virgin islands, stay for 2 days, pick a ring there and fly home for the same amount as the same ring would cost in the states. Just a thought.

How awesome for you WK, Congratulations.

Have you seen any of her jewelry, I am sure you have.... The shopping will help as you can listen to her talk about what she finds attractive about different cuts, color, clarity, carat, the 4 C's. Then come back with what you feel she is attracted to, or what she says she likes. It is important to know the order she places the 4 C's, as she views them before you pick her ring, is carat more important that clarity (at what inclusion does she say uh, no), is cut more for depth than width (sparkle will vary with cut depth and width, so does the illusion of size), what color range is she comfortable with, and if she leans toward modern design or something traditional or even antique. How fun, I loved ring shopping aaawwwww. :)

Check out here to get the basics of what to ask her or just to listen for.

About the 4Cs

and

Tutorials - The 4 Cs of Diamond Grading

How exciting!

Does she even want the classic diamond ring?

Ask her like noodle said.. I personally would rather have something a little more unique and fitting to my personality, and would love an antique ring that came with a story.

All she's told me so far is that she wants something shiny.

That narrows it down.


I wouldn't want anyone she knows making the ring. They're all a little... um... weird. We're looking for something a little on the traditional side. At least that's what we kind of decided for wedding rings... the engagement could be a different story. I'd like to keep it as simple as possible.

I picked out my own engagement ring. We got it at Costco. They have a great selection, so if you know someone with a Costco card, check them out. Conflict-free diamonds, and we didn't break the bank, either.

Never would have thought of going to Costco. Interesting. Do you have to buy a 24-Pack?

Hahaha, no. But everyone is surprised when they see my ring and find out that I got it at Costco--it has a pretty unique design.

If you go here, you can see a picture: http://www.tfproject.org/tfp/ladies-...ml#post2781025

Never forget that and you'll have many years of wedded bliss. :D

Congrats. :thumbsup:

I'll have to take the time and read through that thread... could be some good input.

First of all congratulations WK! :) Clearly I've been gone for longer than I had thought.

Anyways, I agree with everyone else that says to ask her but if she won't tell you then get something you like. One thing I would suggest is to compare different stores on the same day so you can see the quality differences back to back. If you have someplace like Shane Co that carries a variety of loose diamonds that's a good way to figure out what you like/want to spend. (if you want to go the diamond route that is)

Good luck!

We've talked a few times the past couple of days...


She really wants an uncut diamond... Which I guess is a lot cheaper. I met with a guy from Hyde Park today. He took me through the entire process. I'm a little bit more clear on what it's gonna take. I'm not freaking out as much about the whole thing. The money issue is really the only freak out part right now. The good thing is that we're not in any sort of hurry. We aren't gonna get married till she's out of college.

I'll keep everyone updated... and keep the advice coming.

I have no advice to offer, but congratulations!

And you're gonna buy one for Ono when?

congrats & good luck finding the perfect ring,

Congrats to both of you!

I'm jumping on the "ask her" bandwagon. Check around on Etsy.com - lots of good, original craftsmen there, and even if they don't have something suitable there may be someone whose work you like and you can ask them if they'll do a custom design with the stone you buy.

Thanks for the link...


We've talked a little more about it. We aren't going with anything traditional... like at all. So... we shall see what happens.

I just flat-out showed my bf what style ring I like. I keep reminding him once in a while so as to not forget it. :D

Congrats on making the move to get a ring! It's not easy...been watching my buddies shop for the past year. First wedding of many is this month. Wonder when my turn is?

Anyway, whatever you get, I'd get a GIA grading report on it before you make the purchase. All my friends did. They look confusing at first but when you break it down, it's comforting to know that the money you're spending is on something legit.

Good luck!

We're kind of holding off on the ring till we find a place to live. Kind of...