An engagement ring is the first symbol of a couple’s commitment to each other, a symbol of their relationship that will be displayed for the rest of their lives. As such, it is important that the ring reflect the styles of both the prospective bride and groom, as well as their relationship. The engagement ring is what marks her as committed before the wedding, but for many women, it is also an important accessory throughout her married life, so she is going to find it important to have the right ring.
There is a certain conventional wisdom that bigger is better, but that is not always the case. Some women prefer something more understated, or the convenience of a few smaller stones over one, larger one. Personal taste and a woman’s occupation and lifestyle must be taken into account. A woman who works with her hands or engages in a lot of active hobbies might fall into the category where a smaller stone may be preferable. Likewise, settings can be simple or ornate. The main consideration in choosing a setting is to make sure that the stone is secure. Few things cause more trauma than a diamond come loose from its ring, which tends to happen at inopportune times, like on a vacation.
Recent tradition has leaned toward diamonds as the mainstay in engagement ring gems, but rubies, emeralds, sapphires, opals, or any other gem, especially if the gem, or the color, has significant meaning to the prospective bride or groom, or to the couple together, can be used. Likewise, while a solitaire stone has become the most traditional engagement ring stone, settings with multiple stones (with or without a central focal point).
The main way to know if a woman is going to love the ring that is presented with an offer of her hand is to know your prospective bride, guys. If you don’t know her well enough to have a good idea of what her tastes in jewelry are, consider getting to know her better, so that you can have something truly personal to present when you pop the question. That ring is going to be around for a long time, so take your time and get it right. Prince Charles originally picked a sapphire ring for his first bride to match the color of her eyes, but the ring had a lot more value to its next recipient, as the Duchess of Cambridge received the family heirloom from both her groom and his brother, who had inherited it. In the end, it’s not about the ring, it’s about the rest of your lives, but your selection of a ring gives her a glimpse into that.
