The holidays may seem far away as we laugh at stores already displaying holiday ribbons and bows in September, but if you are planning a holiday proposal take their lead and start looking at potential engagement ring settings now.
As you begin the daunting and unfamiliar tasks of looking at endless diamonds and engagement ring settings and setting up the perfect proposal, you will surely be faced with some big questions. Take a deep breath and remember just why you are doing this in the first place (and use this helpful guide).Hiccups happen all the time, make sure you have enough time to work through them. Recently, a friend proposed to his girlfriend. He was determined to find a vintage engagement ring and searched for months through endless ring settings. Eventually, the reality of finding the perfect ring in the perfect condition made the search hopeless. Luckily, he budgeted time to work with his local jeweler and custom design her ring. Keep time on your side! Don't be caught on the perfect day without the perfect ring!WhoIt may sound silly to ask yourself who am I marrying, but examining you special someone is perhaps the most important step in buying the right ring. If their favorite activity is hiking then you want to look at lower profile die struck settings. If antiques fill your home, you may want to develop a rapport with a reputable estate jewelers. If your fiance has a definite vision of the ring you may want to begin the process of a custom designed engagement ring.What
This is the technical end of the process including the type of metal, the method of manufacturing and the shape/make/size of the diamond.
- The metal choices will vary dramatically depending on aesthetics as well as lifestyle and budget. Popular metals include 14KT gold in yellow, pink, green or white, 18KT gold in white or yellow gold, and Platinum
- Manufacturing is key to making sure that your ring, which is a symbol of your love, will be here as an heirloom for future generations by investing in a die struck setting. Die struck jewelry is highly
- dense, durable and able to stand up to the test of the time far greater than cast alternatives. Jabel's die struck documentary is a wonderful resource to explain the process.
- Diamonds come in a variety of shapes, sizes and qualities. To get start I recommend learning the "4 C's of Diamonds." Even the most basic understanding of these principles will help you communicate more clearly with your local jeweler what you want so you get the best diamond for your budget.
- Learning the vocabulary will also help you work through your vision with your local jeweler. Here is a great blog to get started.
WhenThe jewelry industry experiences different rushes throughout the year, with the holiday rush being the most detrimental to a rushed engagement ring order. This is more than a ring. It is an investment as well as a symbol that will be loved and cherished for generations to come and you want to make sure you have time to get exactly what you want.WhereDeveloping a rapport with your local jeweler is crucial in the wedding process (email us to find a jeweler near you info@jabel.com). Remember, after you purchase an engagement ring you will need to follow up with two wedding bands, attendant gifts, wedding gifts etc.
WhyJabel has been making rings since 1916 and I can personally tell you after receiving countless email from 2nd, 3rd and now 4th generation owners of these rings, your ring will become a symbol and it will be a loved and revered long after you are gone. Your purchase today is tomorrow's heirloom.