Finding Jewelry That Will Stand The Test of Time

Selecting the perfect engagement ring for your wife-to-be can be a baffling task, especially if your lady usually chooses her own jewelry. The following guide arms you with the basic information you need to make this important jewelry buying decision.

The 4 Cs

The price and beauty of any diamond depend on a combination of factors, known as the 4 Cs:

1. Cut: The cut of a diamond is refers to how well the stone's facets interact with light. The facets of a higher-priced diamond are cut to reflect and refract the light, giving it the most sparkle.
2. Color: The color grade of a diamond is actually an assessment of its lack of color. Beginning with a D-grade diamond of pure white, the grading system continues to progress down the alphabet, depending on the amount of tint or discoloration visible in the diamond.
3. Clarity: A diamond's natural inclusions and visible imperfections are rated on a clarity scale ranging from Flawless to Included.
4. Carat Weight: Diamonds are measured by weight, rather than size. The weight is expressed in carats and points, with one carat equaling 100 points, a half-carat equaling 50 points, and so on.

Which one of the 4 Cs is most important when choosing a diamond engagement ring? The answer really depends on you. For example, if the size of the stone is most important, perhaps a stone with a higher carat weight and lower clarity or color grade will work best for you.

Shape

When selecting a custom engagement ring, make sure you know which diamond shape suits your soon-to-be fiancé. She will likely be wearing this ring every single day for the rest of your married life, so it's important to choose one that complements her other jewelry and her personal style. Here are a few tips to get you started:

• Before you settle on a ring, take notice of other jewelry (including rings) that she wears on a regular basis.
• Think about the style of her clothing and accessories. Does she usually stick to clean, modern lines or does she prefer more ornate styles?
• Consider your lady's lifestyle so you choose a ring that doesn't interfere with her everyday life. For instance, if she is a nurse, a deep-cut diamond could make it tough to wear rubber gloves at work.  

If you really don't know which shape to choose, your best bet may be to stick with a classic cut, such as round or princess cut, because it often coordinates well with most styles.

Many couples shop for an engagement ring together. However, if you want to surprise her, this guide should help you make the right choice.