Have you decided to propose to your partner? Congratulations! While you’re probably excited about taking the next step in your relationship, it’s also easy to be overwhelmed with all the things that may go into planning the proposal. The first thing you’re likely going to want to consider is buying an engagement ring. Once you have the ring, you can then start thinking about the other things you need to do to plan the perfect proposal.
So, here is a guys guide to engagement rings to get you well on your way to finding the perfect ring.
Engagement rings can vary greatly in price, so it’s essential to set a budget before you start shopping. The traditional rule of thumb is to spend two months’ salary, but ultimately, the amount you pay should be what you can comfortably afford.
Take note of your partner’s style and jewelry preferences. There are so many options out there when it comes to engagement ring styles that you need a solid starting point.
Ask yourself the following questions; they will help guide you in selecting a ring that fits your partner’s style:
If you’re unsure what type of ring they prefer, it’s okay to ask them. Or, if you want to keep the proposal a surprise, ask a trusted friend or family member.
Engagement rings are typically made from precious metals like platinum or gold. Consider which metal would be most suitable for your partner’s lifestyle and preferences.
When considering metal, you also want to take skin tone into consideration – cooler skin tones work best with white gold and platinum, while warm skin tones work well with yellow and rose gold. If you don’t know which skin tone describes your partner best, look at the type of jewelry they wear – do they tend to go for yellow gold or white gold? Or maybe even rose gold.
If you’re going for a more traditionally masculine look with your engagement ring, you may want to consider other metal options, such as titanium, tungsten, or palladium. Read more about engagement rings for men.
The width of the band can affect the appearance of the ring. Narrow bands can appear more delicate, while wider bands can appear bolder. When considering the band width, it’s also important to consider your partner’s ring size – people with a smaller ring size are more likely to need a smaller one.
Lots of people still want to stick to the tradition of a diamond ring, but there are also many alternatives that can be just as beautiful and meaningful. Consider stones such as sapphires, emeralds, rubies, or even a non-traditional stone that has personal significance to you and your partner.
You may also want to forgo a stone entirely, and that’s okay too.
If you want to go with a diamond ring, here are some things to consider:
Depending on your budget, you may also want to consider lab-grown options as they are cheaper than mined diamonds and stunning.
Before you purchase an engagement ring, you should do your best to get your partner’s ring size or at least a close approximation. As mentioned previously, a person’s ring size can impact the style of ring that will look best on their finger.
The best way to get a person’s ring size is to size one of their current rings, but note which finger they wear the ring on as their ring finger isn’t necessarily the same size as other fingers. If that’s not something you can do, you may be able to ask a trusted friend or family member for support; they may know your partner’s ring size or can help you to get it discreetly.
If you can’t get the ring size, do your best to estimate it and let the jeweler know that it’s an approximation so they can ensure the ring you choose can be resized.
One way to get an approximation is to discreetly compare your fingers to your partners and get the jeweler to size your finger.
You may not find the perfect engagement ring in the stores if you know exactly what your partner is looking for in a ring. Instead, you could have one custom-made.
Some couples decide to have an engagement ring and a wedding band. If this is something you’d like to do, keep that in mind when considering which engagement ring to buy, as they may end up wearing them together. You may even want to consider purchasing them together.
If your partner already wears a ring, you can borrow it, trace the inside, measure the diameter and compare it to a size guide online.
There are no rules regarding who will wear a ring when engaged. Many men wear an engagement ring on their ring finger on their right hand, while others wear one as a necklace strung from a simple chain.
There was a ‘rule’ in the past that men should spend at least two months’ salary on an engagement ring, but there is nothing wrong with straying from tradition. Nowadays, several cheaper ring options exist, so you should consider your personal budget when purchasing a ring.
Generally, couples have been dating for two or more years before getting engaged and tend to tie the knot approximately 12 to 18 months after the proposal. That being said, there’s nothing wrong with going against the grain and proposing before you reach two years if you feel ready or later – do what feels right.
Consider reading our article – 5 Signs You’re Ready to Get Engaged.
It is absolutely common for couples to go engagement ring shopping together. If you’re thinking that it’s more romantic to be surprised, but you’re not sure exactly what your partner wants in an engagement ring, consider proposing with a cheaper prop ring and let your partner know after that you want to take them shopping for the ring.
Now that you know where to start when purchasing an engagement ring, it’s time to check out the stores and see what options are out there. Take your time and shop around – this is an important decision.
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