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How to choose an engagement ring

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The Gemological Institute of America advises you know the Four Cs to determine the quality of a stone:

• Carat refers to the weight of the stone. One carat is equal to 200 milligrams or 100 points.

• Clarity refers to the number of inclusions – minerals or fractures that occur when the diamond is formed. The fewer inclusions, the more brilliant the stone.

• Color refers to the degree to which a diamond is colorless. Diamonds can range in color from different shades of white to rose, blue and yellow. The less color, the higher the value, but is a matter of preference.

• Cut is the term for shape, proportions, angles and facets in a diamond to best reflect the light and bring out the brilliance of the stone.

The engagement ring is meant to be time less to symbolize a journey full of love, laughter and challenges. Choosing the ring should be a fun and rewarding process says third-generation jeweler Jon Dolgin.

“The ring truly becomes a part of you, so be true to yourself – there are a lot of choices out there,” says Jon. “We make the experience pleasurable by considering personal taste and incorporating the elements that are essential to the customer.”

The preliminaries
“What I recommend to men is to do a little window-shopping with your girlfriend. Then, when you get an idea of what she likes, buy it and surprise her. That’s what it’s all about,” Dolgin adds.

When window shopping some things to pay attention to are the shape of diamond the woman likes. Stones come in eight common shapes: round, emerald, princess, marquise, trillion, heart, oval, and pear. Does she light up at colored stones — diamonds in yellow, pink and blue? What kind of jewelry she already wears — platinum or white or yellow gold?

Choose your setting
Dolgin says that couples can choose from a wide range of settings from modern to traditional styles. Contemporary settings have bezel sets for the stone, where the diamond is held in place at the edges or placed flush to the surface of the metal. Traditional rings have four or six prongs holding the stone in the setting.

“Platinum continues to be a very popular setting, but so is white gold and much less expensive,” says Dolgin. “However, platinum is stronger than gold and is less likely to scratch or bend.”

Ten selection steps

Jon Dolgin Jewelers has been selling fine jewelry and offers these tips on how to shop for an engagement ring:

1. Know the four Cs – carat, cut, clarity and color – and how they affect the value of a gem.

2. Notice her clothes and lifestyle. Is she casual or formal? Is she an outdoor girl? A sports enthusiast? Look for a setting to match. She may prefer a setting that sits lower and is less likely to trap dirt or catch on things.

3. Set a budget and stick to it. You’re better off buying a smaller, better quality diamond than a big, dull rock.

4. Decide when you want to propose and allow ample time to shop around. Once it’s ordered, a ring can take six weeks to be ready.

5. Shop at a jeweler who has been recommended or has a great reputation.

6. Decide on the carat weight, shape and color you want, and then compare diamonds to fit your requirements.

7. Buy diamonds unmounted. You can better inspect the stone, and you are avoiding a decision based on the setting.

8. As you select a setting, consider its strength and ability to secure the stone for years of constant wear.

9. Ask about any unadvertised sales or discounts.

10. Insist on a diamond grading report. If no report is available, make the sale contingent on an independent appraiser’s opinion. Once it’s appraised, have it insured.

Be careful

The American Gemological Institute of America recommends choosing a jeweler as carefully as you would a doctor or lawyer. A professional jeweler will explain the four Cs of diamond quality and will encourage you to compare diamonds that match your price range.

Buying an engagement ring may only be the beginning of your relationship with a jeweler. Chances are you’ll go back to the same jeweler for wedding bands, anniversary presents, and repairs.

“Some guys will look at the AFS Diamond Quality Document more than the stone,” Dolgin explains. “But, after all is said and done, every time either of you look at that ring, it should make you feel good. The main focus should be on the beauty of the diamond and the smile on her face.”