The day you propose to your special someone may be the most important day of your life. When you’ve found that person that you want to share your life with, you want to give her the ring of her dreams; however, with the current state of the economy, your budget may not allow it. That doesn’t mean that you can’t find a beautiful engagement ring. Here are some tips on how to find a gorgeous ring, without breaking the bank.
1.    Determine how much you can afford.Â
The old saying is that one should spend two months’ salary on a diamond engagement ring. Times have definitely changed. While you want to buy a fabulous ring that will impress your girlfriend, you don’t want to enter a marriage in debt. Find out how much money you can comfortably afford. If it isn’t much, you can always switch her ring with a larger replacement ring when your financial situation improves.
2.    Consider a non-traditional alternative.
Many people are using various stones in their engagement settings. Unique and unusual stones, such as rubies or sapphires, are usually less expensive than a diamond. Find a stone that has a special meaning to you, maybe her birthstone or her favorite jewel.  Keep in mind, that the ring you choose should be based on your relationship, and not the price tag.
3.    Buy synthetic.
If your girlfriend is more traditional and has her heart set on a diamond ring, you might want to opt for a fake diamond ring. New advancements have made these synthetic counterparts look less perfect, and more like actual diamonds.  They are the perfect alternative to classic diamonds, and much more affordable.
4.    Choose an inexpensive band.
Platinum seems to be the most popular choice when it comes to choosing a band for your ring. Although platinum is a quality material, consider using gold or white gold instead. White gold closely resembles platinum, and is much more affordable.
5.    Consider antique.
Not only does an antique ring possess a beauty from another time period, but it has a history all its own. Whether you use your great grandmother’s ring, or you purchase a classic ring from an antique shop, your girlfriend won’t be able to refuse your proposal.
6.    Educate yourself.
Before you visit the jewelers, educate yourself on the basics of engagement rings. Make sure that you understand what to look for in a ring, as well as what price ranges to expect. Knowing the various terms that are used will improve your communications with the jeweler.
7.    Shop around.
Never buy a ring from the first jeweler that you visit. Be sure to shop around in order to compare the prices, and quality of the merchandise. Since the internet allows you to shop at many different stores in a short amount of time, it’s a great way to see what is out there before visiting the various jewelry stores.
Whether you choose to take your girlfriend with you to pick out the special ring, or you want it to be a complete surprise, buying an engagement ring is an exciting process. Purchasing a ring that you can afford will get you off to a great start.
Attached Images:
- Â License: Image author owned
Author courtesy of Moissanite.com by Charles and Colvard.
Uhh.. so many things to consider. Thank god, I don’t have to go through this again 😀
Hey, this is the kind of topic I can share with my audience on my website. I am a San Antonio wedding photographer so it fits right into the whole scheme of my business. I am going there now to get you some exposure. Will tweet it and +1 your nice article too.
Basic knowledge about the engagement ring you’re going to buy (what is it look like, price range, material, etc.) is A MUST.
Because you don’t want to waste your money to buy something awful for your important event in your life, do you?
Nice tips, though. Thank you.