If you are about to buy engagement and wedding rings, Phil Grieve says there are a few aspects to take into consideration.
Choosing the metal
White, yellow or red? The most important influence should be the colour that suits you rather than what is in fashion, as most people generally suit one better than the others. If you choose white, you will have the option of white gold or platinum. Platinum is the preferred option, being more durable. It also retains its whiteness and although it is approximately twice the price, white gold has to be rhodium-plated and over time will discolour and take on a greyish hue (and depending on country of origin can be quite yellow) so you will periodically need to replate the ring to bring back to its white colour again. Also, platinum can be repolished but with white gold the plating will eventually be stripped off and will have to be reapplied at extra cost.
Choosing the style
A ring might look nice in a picture but will it look good on you? Do you suit a solitaire or three-stone, a high-set ring or something lower, something that is fine and delicate or a ring that is more bold? These things can only be answered by trying rings on, so go into the jeweller's and try as many styles as you can.
There are various ways to set gemstones into jewellery and each will give you a different result; for example, a round brilliant-cut diamond set in four claws will give you a squarer look but with six claws it keeps its round appearance. Another example is channel setting, which is a clean, more modern look versus grain or bead settings, which give a more classical look. There are many different options to discuss with your jeweller.
Think ahead
When getting your engagement ring, think about the wedding ring to ensure the final result is the one you envisaged. If you want a straight wedding band, you must ensure that your engagement ring does not require a shaped wedding ring. If it does, make sure you are happy with the options. Often people are sold rings without being informed and are disappointed with the result. It is good to talk to specialised jewellers with workshops on the premises as they are more qualified to go through this with you.
Choosing the stones
Do you want diamonds or coloured gems? And what size and quality? The best option is to set yourself a budget that you are comfortable with and go see what there is out there. In any industry there are good companies and cowboys; this is an important purchase and you need to feel comfortable. There is usually a significant amount of money involved and you need to form a good relationship and trust with the jeweller. Word of mouth referrals from friends are always a good start, unlike testimonials from manufacturers, which are not necessarily reliable.
Beware of heavy discounting. This is aimed at drawing you in, so you have to question the integrity of the original price. Just like the cheapest is not always the best, nor is the most expensive.
Finally, shopping for your rings should be a fun experience.
* Phil Grieve is the director of Carats jewellers. caratsjewellery.co.nz
