Tips For Shopping For An Engagement Ring

An engagement ring is likely the most sentimental and expensive piece of jewelry you will purchase. We at Swiss Watch Gallery understand that this is no small decision. Our experts have put together a guide to everything you need to know to prepare for this crucial decision of shopping for an incredible engagement ring.

Have Your Priorities In Mind

Before you enter any jewelry store, you will want to be sure you have decided your priorities and budget. For instance, perhaps the most prominent center stone within your budget is more important to you than a more costly metal or the presence of side stones.

When seeking the perfect engagement ring, having these things in mind will help you and the jewelers narrow down your options, making the task seem less daunting and the selection less overwhelming.

Narrow Down The Cut

The focal point of your engagement ring is the center stone, and the cut of said stone can help determine the overall aesthetic of the piece. The following are the most popular diamond cuts you will have to choose from:

• Round: A classic, perfect circle cut beloved for its many facets and unparalleled brilliance.
• Oval: Faceted similarly to the round cut but with an elongated, feminine silhouette.
• Princess: A bold, square shape that emulates vintage styles of jewelry and possesses a regal air.
• Emerald: A modern shape reminiscent of Art Deco styles. The emerald cut is characterized by a rectangular silhouette that creates a “hall of mirrors” effect with its unique reflection of light.
• Cushion: A square or rectangular cut with softly rounded corners for a romantic effect.
• Pear Shape: Similar to the marquise cut with one rounded side and one pointed side, creating a teardrop effect.

Decide On A Setting

Engagement ring settings come in a plethora of unique variations, allowing the bride to express her unique style through the ring she will be wearing for many years. These are the most common settings you will encounter:

• Solitaire: The most minimalistic of settings consisting of only the band and the center stone.
• Three Stone: Three stone settings represent the past, present, and future of a relationship and are characterized by two smaller stones flanking the center stone on either side.
• Halo: A halo ring is distinguished by a “halo” of smaller accent stones surrounding the center stone. This setting is excellent for adding extra sparkle and making the center stone appear more prominent.
• Side Stone: Side stone rings come in many styles, from pave to channel to prong-set. These settings are all characterized by accent stones inlaid into the ring's band.

Choose A Metal Type

The metal you choose to hold your center and any accent stones will help determine the ring's look and durability. Several precious metals are available for engagement rings, the most popular of those being white, yellow, or rose gold, stainless steel, and platinum.

Each of these metal types has its benefits and drawbacks, and the color of each communicates a different aesthetic. You will want to choose a metal that fits your budget and aligns with your bride-to-be’s style.

Shop Engagement Rings at Swiss Watch Gallery

We at Swiss Watch Gallery are well versed in the world of bridal jewelry and engagement rings. We have also helped our fair share of soon-to-be grooms pick out the pieces that best suit their budget and their future fiance’s aesthetic preferences. It would be our pleasure to help you make this critical decision, and we are sure you will find your ideal ring among our vast inventories in Brea and Mission Viejo, California. Contact us with any questions about our products and services, or browse our selection on our website today.