Congratulations! You're engaged or thinking of proposing, and you're looking for that extra special ring to mark the occasion.
But choosing an engagement ring is a big decision, even if you and your partner are doing it together. There are many aspects to consider, some of which you may not have even thought of yet. Asking yourself the following questions will help you narrow down your search and get you on the right track for finding your perfect ring.
What's my budget?
There is so much choice today that if you launch into ring shopping without considering a budget you may end up spending more than you'd hoped. Make sure you set one early on, and find out what sort of ring fits into that budget. Decide if there's any leeway with the number you've set, and if you're prone to overspending (let's face it, we all are sometimes!), share your budget with a friend and ask them to keep you accountable.
Is there a ring already in the family?
Bear in mind that there may be a ring in your partner's family, or your own family, that has been passed down for generations. Be sensitive to these traditions, even if it just means using the diamond from a family heirloom to create a new ring. Which leads us on to the next question...
Should I design my ring?
Asking a jeweller or goldsmith to help you design a ring is a very popular option, as it means you'll be getting something extra special and completely unique. A ring designer will work with you to bring your ideas to life, whether it's making a ring from scratch or reworking one you already own. It's good to keep this option in mind when you first start browsing, because if you have a particular style in mind but you cannot source it, you can have the ring made for you.
Am I looking for brand new or second hand?
There are advantages to both brand new and second hand rings, but it all depends on what you are looking for. Vintage or antique rings have a lot of character and can be much better value than buying new, but some brides-to-be don't like the idea of wearing a ring previously worn by someone else. If you're not sure which to go for, the Cuttings shops have a fantastic range of both antique and new rings - feel free to pop in and we'd be happy to show you!
Where would I like to buy my ring?
Here at Cuttings we're advocates of the independent family jeweller; the prices are much less than big brands, and you're guaranteed to get a friendly and personal service. But wherever you decide to buy your ring, make sure it's somewhere you trust and feel comfortable to return to in the future if you require any further assistance.
If you need any more help with choosing your engagement ring, please just give us a call or pop into one of our branches!