Find the Right Engagement Ring Store, Get the Right Ring
Engagements are very special, it's a sign of commitment. Your love so deep that you'd want to spend the rest of you life together or in some cases, at least try to.
Vein of Love
The tradition of wearing engagement rings came from the Romans. The ring is often worn on the left hand on the third finger. They say that this finger has a vein that leads to the heart hence it is called vena amoris (vein of love).
Right Ring, Right Store
Every person has their own traditions and beliefs when it comes to the symbolism of the engagement ring. The problem is that they are so wrapped up in the air of "amore" that they forget that engagement rings are also investments which should be given considerable thought before purchasing.
Most of the time a guy, or a couple will just go into any popular engagement ring store without knowing that choosing the right ring does not only entail the prettiest design. There are a lot of things to consider before going into an engagement ring store and you as the guy should be prepared.
Budget
Whether shopping alone or with you fiancée, before going into an engagement ring store make sure that you have set a budget. Sales people are sometimes sneaky. They make you think that the cost of the ring speaks for the amount of your love. Don't be fooled! Know how much you can afford.
Do Your Homework!
Now you may think this is easy, but it's not that simple at all. You have to pay attention and do your homework before hand. When you go into an engagement ring store, you will be barraged with a lot of precious metals as your ring's setting. There's a choice of gold, titanium, rose gold, platinum, and white gold or a combination of precious metals. Then there's the design which do you think suits your beloved's taste? Traditional, understated, modern, or intricate?
The Deal Breaker
Everyone knows that the deal breaker is always the stone. The most popular choice is the Diamond; after all it is a girl's best friend. Unfortunately, fake diamonds are prevalent in the market so you have to be careful. When going into an engagement ring store, be armed with the knowledge that when you pick a diamond you have to know the "Four C's" Carat weight, Clarity, Cut, and Color.
An engagement ring store will always offer you diamonds that have already been preset. Sometimes if not always you can examine a diamond better when it has not been set yet, so choose a setting and a diamond separately.
If you want to surprise your girlfriend, bring a friend and make sure the two of you have read up on the fine points of choosing the right diamond. Ask for a certification on the authenticity of the ring. Lastly, pick a good and reputable engagement ring store, they can be a little pricey but you may be assured of the quality.
