Many women dream of the day their partner pops the question — but deciding what you want in an engagement ring can be difficult. There are so many shapes, styles and sizes to pick from. How do you know what will look best on your hand? Will I ever get tired of the shape? These questions among many others are asked by future brides everywhere. Your ring is something you will wear every day, so of course you want it to complement both you and your personal style. Read on for tips to help you and your partner choose the perfect ring.

1. First, Learn the Cuts

The phrase “diamond cut” does not pertain to the shape of the diamond. While a diamond must be cut to get such a shape, the shape is essentially the diamond’s overall form (round, square, etc.), whereas the cut is the diamond’s sides and dimensions gives diamonds their sparkle and brilliance. Here are the names of the cuts:

• Princess
• Emerald
• Asscher
• Cushion
• Marquise
• Oval
• Pear
• Radiant
• Heart

 

2. Flatter Your Hand

When thinking about the actual diamond shape of your ring, it is important to ponder your finger shape and what will flatter your hand. For long, slender fingers, consider wearing a round brilliant, cushion cut, or princess cut. These shapes will help accentuate your hand without overpowering your hand or visually weigh it down. For those with wider fingers, you can explore rings with different settings, such as a cluster or halo, as well as a wider or longer diamond shape like emerald or radiant cuts.

3. Compliment Your Existing Collection

Another item to consider when ring shopping is your metal. Think about what other pieces of jewelry are staples in your collection. While gold is the most common choice for engagement rings, there are a variety of metal choices available that each offer a different look. Platinum, silver, rose gold and even tungsten could be options for you. If you find yourself wearing more silver-toned jewelry, then a silver or platinum band would mesh nicely with your collection. What would compliment your favorite necklace, earrings or bracelet?

4. Match Your Personal Style

What words would you use to describe your wardrobe or how you decorate your space? Do you have more of a classic style, or would you think of yourself as more bohemian? These characteristics can often be applied to your ring to ensure it matches your clothing and personality!

Classic

If your closet is full of timeless pieces that will last a lifetime, you might want a ring that is clean and elegant with a little bit of drama. You might enjoy a solitaire or princess cut diamond with a simple setting. These styles will stand the test of time and be a piece that you will enjoy looking at for years to come.

Bohemian

If you like to wear fun colors and incorporate vintage or retro items in your daily wardrobe, a unique ring shape might be for you. A marquise or teardrop shaped stone could be contenders. The asscher cut might also catch your eye. Quite similar to the emerald cut, this square shape has a retro and art deco feel, and might be just the touch of vintage that you are looking for in a stone. You might even enjoy a fun-colored stone, something different than a classic diamond, such as an emerald or morganite.

Vintage

If you want a ring that’s effortlessly and timelessly chic, a vintage cut like the Asscher is an excellent choice. With its fabulous square shape, the Asscher cut is a classic display of the art deco style. Popularized in the 1920s and 30s, the cut features a thick profile, corners clipped deep enough to make the diamond’s shape resemble an octagon, and stepped sides. Other great vintage, dramatic cuts are the princess cut and the emerald cut.

Glamorous

If your style consists of lots of glitz and glam, an emerald cut stone might be just the shape for you. Popularized in the 1920s, this cut is known for its extreme clarity. Or you may think about a hard-to-find brilliant cut diamond. You might even be interested in complimenting your stone with gallery detailing around the edges to frame your stone.

Romantic

Of course, when anyone looks at their ring, they are reminded of their love for their partner. But if you see yourself as a hopeless romantic and have a dreamy or whimsical style, you would love a heart-shaped ring. This shape of diamond is a true classic, going all the way back to the 1500s – with Queen Elizabeth flaunting hers in 1562. Heart-shaped gemstones, like pear-shaped diamonds, can be longer, and the glitter and beauty of this form is determined by the diamond cutter’s talent and precision. Because it’s tough to pull off, the diamond must be closely inspected for imperfections before deciding to make it into a heart.

5. Consult With a Professional

The most important tip when finding your dream ring is to consult with a trusted jewelry professional. Trying to research and find the perfect ring can be overwhelming, but a  professional can provide recommendations just for you based on your likes and dislikes. You can also explore items within your price range and a jeweler can give you tips on how to create a similar look for your ring within your budget. Take a look at independent jewelers in your area and maybe even visit a few to make comparisons. These businesses will spend time with you and your partner understanding what shapes, sizes and colors will help you find an impeccable ring. Not to mention, trying a ring on in person will help you seal the deal and insure that this investment is one that you’ll enjoy for years to come.

Shopping for a ring for yourself or your partner can be stressful, but if you take these tips into consideration, finding the engagement ring of your dreams will be so much easier. Once you’ve settled on your dream diamond shape and find the right jeweler to work with, everything else will fall into place!

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