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5 Tips to Follow When Buying an Engagement Ring

July 15th, 2024

An engaged couple holding hands, the engagement ring in clear view.

Shopping for an engagement ring is a pivotal moment in your love story, marking the beginning of a profound lifelong journey together. This ring is not just a piece of jewelry— it’s a symbol of your unique bond and commitment. At Davidson & Licht, we understand the immense significance of this decision. Our expert staff is dedicated to helping you find the perfect engagement ring that best symbolizes your union, combining timeless elegance with personal meaning to create a unique and important symbol of your romance. With our guidance, you'll navigate this important step with confidence, ensuring that your chosen ring is as special as your love story.

Measure Ring Size

Knowing your bride-to-be's ring size before shopping for an engagement ring is essential, especially if you're planning a surprise proposal. To discreetly determine her ring size, you can borrow a ring she wears on her ring finger and have it measured by a jeweler. Alternatively, you could trace the inner circumference of one of her rings on paper or press it into a bar of soap to create an impression. Enlisting the help of her friends or family for this covert mission can also be an effective way to proceed. Ensuring the correct ring size before you buy will make the moment even more special, allowing her to wear the ring comfortably from the start.

Set a Budget

Before you set out to purchase an engagement ring, setting a budget is crucial as it helps you immediately identify the options and features within your price range. This foresight not only streamlines your search, but also ensures you don’t fall in love with a ring beyond your means. Staying within a budget can also help you discover better deals, as you'll be more focused on value rather than impulsive splurging. It's important to remember that stunning engagement rings are available at any budget, so you can find a beautiful and meaningful symbol of your love without breaking the bank.

A close-up of an opulent halo engagement ring, displayed alongside two wedding bands.

Consider the 4 Cs

Before purchasing an engagement ring, it's essential to consider the 4 Cs— color, clarity, cut, and carat weight. These are the universal standards in which all diamonds are graded. Color refers to the diamond's hue, with the most valuable stones being colorless. Clarity measures the presence of internal or external imperfections, with fewer flaws increasing the stone's value. Cut evaluates how well the diamond has been shaped and faceted, influencing its brilliance and sparkle. Carat weight indicates the diamond's size, with larger diamonds with whole carat weights being more expensive. Each of these factors contributes to the ring's overall cost, so understanding them helps you make an informed decision that balances beauty and budget.

Give Your Ring a Unique Touch

Adding a unique touch to your engagement ring can create a one-of-a-kind symbol of your love, making it truly special. Customizing your engagement ring not only reflects your partner's personality, but also your shared journey, making it all the more special. Consider selecting a distinctive diamond cut, such as a marquise or pear shape, for the center stone rather than the more traditional round cut. You might also opt for a side stone or split shank band to add extra sparkle and a higher degree of individuality. For a bold statement, you could also select a different gemstone, such as sapphire, emerald, or pearl, instead of a traditional diamond. These small personal touches ensure your ring stands out among the rest and becomes a meaningful and exclusive symbol of your love story. 

A close-up of a person’s hand, an engagement ring and wedding band in their palm.

Work with a Reputable Jeweler

Working alongside a trustworthy jeweler can make your engagement ring shopping journey infinitely easier. A knowledgeable and reputable jeweler can guide you to the best options within your budget, ensuring you get the most value for your investment. Their expertise also helps you navigate the complexities of the 4 Cs, gemstone choices for the center stone, and design options with ease. Moreover, a reliable jeweler provides peace of mind during this pivotal purchase, offering assurances about the quality and authenticity of your purchase. By partnering with a professional, you gain a trusted advisor who is dedicated to helping you find the perfect ring to symbolize your love and commitment.

A stunning engagement ring displayed in an open ring box.

Shop Gorgeous Engagement Rings at Davidson & Licht

Whether you’re looking for something opulent or more minimalistic, you’ll find stunning engagement rings that perfectly capture your love story at Davidson & Licht. Visit our showroom in Walnut Creek, California, to explore our extensive selection of exquisite engagement rings and loose diamonds to find that exclusive symbol of your union. We also offer in-house custom design services to create a one-of-a-kind piece tailored to your unique vision. Our expert staff is dedicated to helping you find or design the ring of your dreams. We invite you to visit our showroom or request an appointment for a personalized experience with one of our knowledgeable team members. Let us help you find the perfect symbol of your commitment.