When it comes to engagement rings there's are as many styles as there are women and personalities. So how does one know what the perfect engagement ring looks like? Glad you asked!
Contrary to what many would like you to believe, buying an engagement ring doesn't have to be a risky business. Did you know for the majority of people buying an engagement ring will be the third largest purchase they make only superseded by a home and a car. It's no wonder you break out in a cold sweat at the thought of having to find the perfect diamond ring.
Shopping for engagement rings has taken on a new dynamic now thanks to online shopping. It used to be you'd visit your local jeweler store, choose from a limited selection, but feel confident in the quality because you were buying from a local business. Today you can save a bundle, view an endless number of engagement rings, but may feel a little uncertain about the quality because you don't get to know the online jeweler storeowner.
Looking at engagement rings and shopping online doesn't have to be scary. The key is to be an educated diamond shopper. When buying a diamond the key is to understand the four Cs of diamonds.
> Cut - This is the most important of the four C's but it's also the toughest. How brilliant a diamond is for the most part determined by the cut.
> Clarity - There are few perfect diamonds. Most have some types of inner flaws, which occur during the formation of the diamond. The number and size of these inclusions, combined with their visibility determine the clarity.
> Color - Colorless diamonds allow the most light refraction, which gives the diamond its sparkle. Colorless diamonds are the most sought after but they are also the most expensive so there's always a balancing act between budget and color.
> Carat weight - The carat weight is how the diamond is measured. The smaller diamonds are more common than the larger diamonds and they are also less expensive.
When shopping for engagement rings these four C's can really help you make a wise decision. You set your budget, then you decide what's most important to you. For example, you might opt for a larger carat weight but lower clarity or a higher color. Or you might opt for a superior cut and clarity and choose a smaller weight.
There's one last C you should be aware of and that's the certificate. It's often referred to as the fifth C. The diamond certificate is like a report card for your diamond. The four C's are evaluated by a qualified gemologist and then this information is put on the certificate and signed. This is a bit like a security blanket. With the certificate, you know you are getting the diamond(s) that are being advertised.
Shopping for engagement rings online is a great way to get more for your money. Your buying power increases significantly. Enjoy the opportunity that awaits you. After all, the love of your life is worth it - isn't she?
