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Rings 5

How to Find the Perfect Engagement Ring for Your Bride to Be

You found your soul mate; now you just need to find an engagement ring that she loves.

There are many things to consider when choosing the perfect engagement ring. The trend nowadays is for couples to ring-shop together, but if you are more of a traditionalist and are looking to surprise her with a ring she will love, you will need to do some investigation to ensure that you get it right. You can ask her best friend or a sibling for help, but if you are set on going it alone, pay particular attention to the type of jewelry that she wears. First of all, gauge the color she prefers. Does she favor silver? Then a platinum setting may be the type to select. If she wears yellow-gold, then that is the direction to follow. However, that is only the beginning. Does she gravitate to vintage jewels as opposed to simple, classic pieces? Take note of the styles and types of jewelry that she wears over the course of a few weeks and take mental notes to size up her style.

Even before a discussion of the 4 Cs (cut, color, clarity and carat), you must know what shape your future fiancée loves. The shape will dictate some of the dimensions and geometry of the stone, as opposed to cut, which relates to the angles of the facets in the stone.

Next, you need to consider the type of setting. A quality setting – the precious metal framework in which the stone is mounted – normally set the tone of a ring. A classic round engagement ring stone has a fresh and modern look when mounted in a bezel setting. An oval diamond might appear trendy in one setting, but will look traditional in a four-prong setting. Getting the right combination of shape and setting is key.

Unless you are buying an estate ring, chances are that you will be looking at loose stones as opposed to stones in a setting. The stone accounts for the vast majority of a ring’s cost, so be sure to inspect the stone with a magnifying glass. A good jeweler will be able to guide you and tell you what to look for.

Choosing the right jeweler is crucial to finding the right ring. Two reliable jewelers with a beautiful and diverse array of options to choose from are Anthony Laurence Jewelers, 139 Millburn Avenue, Millburn, N.J. and George Press Jewelers, 74 South Livingston Avenue, Livingston, N.J. Both stores have a friendly and knowledgeable staff that will help you pick the perfect ring for the perfect girl.