Engagement ring stone size: a few considerations
Buying an engagement ring can be a little daunting. It’s meant to be a life-long symbol of your love, devotion and faithfulness. It will certainly be shown to every friend and family member of your beloved (and perhaps judged by more than a few of them). That’s enough to make anyone’s knees feel a little weak! Everyone wants to find the perfect ring and the best diamond to make every jaw drop. It’s a big decision and you’ll need to arm yourself with plenty of knowledge before buying.
Finding that perfect engagement ring will eventually lead you to the question of size (and that doesn’t mean the diameter of the band). The size of the engagement diamond is usually the first thing the buyer considers and often for good reason. The size of the stone is usually in close proportion to its cost so size is a big factor in the decision. However, there are a few additional considerations about your engagement ring size that you should not ignore.
Bigger isn’t always better
A bigger diamond is not always a better diamond; beware of anyone who tells you differently. Size is only one factor is a diamond’s value and its beauty. In a culture that constantly screams “Bigger is better, supersize it!”, this may be a hard fact to consider. If you buy a huge stone with an equally large flaw, you won’t be getting a good value and you won’t get all those “oohs” and “aahs” you’re hoping to hear.
A big but poorly cut or polished stone won’t have the sparkle that a slightly smaller but very finely cut stone will have. Flaws and inclusions can even compromise the integrity of the stone and make it prone to breaking. Your stone won’t be so big if it breaks! Concentrate on finding the best quality stone for your budget, not just the biggest your money will buy.
Debt isn’t romantic
Speaking of your budget, that stone has to fit inside it. Going into major debt before you’ve even popped the questions isn’t sexy and it isn’t romantic. Set a budget that you feel comfortable with and stick to it. Don’t skimp; this is a symbol of your relationship, after all. Likewise, don’t sacrifice your future marriage for the engagement ring.
There are good-quality stones in a range of sizes and at plenty of price points, plus you can always upgrade later if you want. You can start with a simple setting and add on a diamond halo or an eternity band as an anniversary gift, for example.
Practicality should be considered
Your beloved’s lifestyle should be considered before choosing a stone size because practicality has to play a part in this purchase. This is not just a piece of jewellery to accent an outfit. It’s meant for everyday wear. Consider your fiancée-to-be’s hands. Are they in and out of latex medical gloves all day? Do they spend long hours gardening, painting or kneading bread dough? Are those hands especially tiny or are the fingers rather long? These practical matters will often determine the best size stone to choose for that special pair of hands.
It’s OK to ask for help
Don’t go it alone when you choose the engagement ring. Ask for help from reputable sources. And it’s perfectly acceptable to shop around a little. Ask lots of questions and gain some knowledge about the stone you’re buying.
Insurance is NOT just for suckers
Life can take a toll on even the hardest of diamonds, no matter what size. They can chip, break, fall out of their setting, or get lost altogether. Big or small, insure your engagement ring. Talk to your insurance agent about adding it to your homeowner’s/renter’s policy for actual value or replacement, or ask your jeweller about reputable insurance companies that cover gems.
The size of your engagement diamond is ultimately a personal choice. Remember to look first for quality and then for size, but keep it all within budget and you’re sure to find the perfect fit.
