Engagement Ring Guide

GUIDE Engagement Finding an engagement ring that complements her unique style is easier than you might think. BUDGET FACTORS Before starting the process, establish a budget for what you can afford. While an amount equivalent to two months salary is a common starting point, many couples choose to spend more or less. Consider other financial factors Jeweler Quality reputation You'll want to Make sure the jeweler Wedding and honeymoon purchase a diamond with the highest you choose is a expenses. reputable seller with Student loan debt, setting up possible quality within your budget. a history of satisfied a new household, credit card customers. balances, and vehicle debt. CHOICE OF METALS 18K GOLD 18K gold consists of 75% gold and 25% alloy metals. Fine jewelry experts consider this karat weight to possess 14K GOLD 14K gold consists of 58.3% gold and 41.7% alloy metals. Priced slightly less than 18K gold, it's a popular choice among those shopping on a limited budget. For those who prefer white gold, 14K offers a whiter coloring than 18K white gold. the ideal balance of metal purity and strength. For those who prefer yellow gold, 18K exhibits a deeper, richer coloring than 14K yellow gold. YELLOW GOLD GOLD If your bride-to-be wears mainly If she currently wears white gold WHITE GOLD or sterling silver jewelry, a white gold engagement ring may be a wise choice. White gold offers a yellow gold jewelry, choosing that metal for her engagement ring will complement her current style. Yellow gold is a classic choice for engagement smooth, contemporary appeal and blends well with other jewelry rings, complementing those with warmer skin tones. pieces and clothing colors. PLATINUM Quickly growing in popularity, platinum is the most precious and rare of jewelry metals. PLATINUM VS. WHITE GOLD While white gold and platinum are both white metals that beautifully reflect light, there are some fundamental differences between the two: PURITY HARDNESS Platinum is more pure. Platinum is harder and more durable than 18K white gold. Platinum 95% pure (approx.) Gold 18k gold, 75% pure 14k gold, 58% pure If allergies or skin sensitivities are a concern, 2-year old white gold ring 10-Year old platinum is more hypoallergenic. platinum ring PERMANENCE PRICE For those who prefer the look of platinum but need an economical alternative, white While platinum retains its solid white coloring permanently, white gold can begin to exhibit a slight yellow hue over time as gold offers much of the same visual appeal the outer layers of metal wear off. at a significantly lower price. CHOOSING A DIAMOND SETTING Settings with Matching Bands Diamond Solitaire Settings Engagement Rings • Timeless setting style. • More elaborate look. • Coordinating sets are designed to be worn together for a dramatic, cohesive look. • Showcases a single • Center diamond with diamond on a metal band. additional stones. • Popular choices for side stones are: diamonds, sapphires, emeralds, or other gemstones. • Most popular four or six prong setting. Purchasing a matched set ensures that your • Many other setting types engagement ring and wedding ring will match perfectly. are used to secure the diamond, such as a bezel setting, which adds more protection. • Many brides pair their diamond with their birthstone. CHOOSING THE DIAMOND Color Cut Clarity Carat weight Remember, a diamond doesn't have to be perfect to be beautiful. DIAMOND SHAPE In regard to diamonds, cut and shape are not synonymous terms. While the diamond's cut refers to the number of facets and their proportions, its shape is used to describe the overall form of the finished stone. Below are a few of the most popular engagement ring diamond shapes: Round Princess Emerald When selecting a diamond shape, examine a variety of shapes in different setting styles to find a diamond that will look beautiful on the bride-to-be's finger. THE SURPRISE FACTOR While it's not uncommon for a couple to shop together for an engagement ring, some grooms still prefer to surprise the bride-to-be with a ring of their choosing. Ask for a second opinion from one of the Try to obtain bride-to-be's close friends or from her mother. one of her rings and size it. MAKING YOUR PURCHASE 24 Obtain a gemological Get a certificate from an Verify that the jeweler offers a money-back independent diamond grading facility. * appraisal that confirms guarantee and a hassle-free return policy. the ring's value for insurance purposes. * Gemological Institute of America (GIA) or American Gem Society (AGS), which details the center diamond's grade. PROTECTING YOUR PURCHASE When purchasing an The most commonly offered policy for jewelry: engagement ring, it's important to get insurance replacement coverage. Guarantees a payment that will purchase a ring to protect your diamond in the event that it is lost or identical in quality, design, metal, and setting. Other types of coverage may be available depending on the policy of your insurance company. stolen. Whether you're planning an intimate proposal or a public proclamation of your love, presenting your bride-to-be with the perfect ring will enhance the joy of the moment. She's sure to remember your proposal forever, and will treasure her carefully chosen engagement ring as a symbol of your enduring love. www.youtube.com/user/brilliancecom A http://blog.brilliance.com BRIlliANCE- @brilliancecorp O Toll Free: 866-737-0754 www.brilliance.com Email: [email protected] Ring