Engagement ring shopping? Start here.

It’s that time of year—while big weddings may be on hold, engagements are a go. And that means a decision on an engagement ring—often a couple’s first, large investment. Before you start shopping, here’s some useful background info on what your jeweler will ask you.

What cut/shape do you want?

Here are the 6 most popular engagement ring shapes, according to Brides:

1. Round brilliant: The most popular (75%) and most sparkly, this has a universal shape for different ring styles.
2. Princess cut: More geometrical, with square or rectangle sides; gives a more contemporary look with brilliance ,and is less expensive than round-cut.
3. Cushion cut: Perfect for a vintage, old-world feeling—square cut with rounded corners; not as brilliant as round cut.
4. Emerald cut: This has a sleek, angular Art Deco feel from its rectangular step cut and cropped corners; clarity is important and it doesn’t have the brilliance of a round cut.
5. Marquise cut: This cut (shaped like a football) has a regal feel; it may look larger in a setting, since more of the stone shows if you’re looking down on the ring.
6. Radiant cut: More facets than the emerald cut = more brilliance.

Which cut gives you what you want?

I want…

• …the most sparkle for my money: Round brilliant
• …my finger to look longer: marquise, pear, or oval-cut
• …a vintage look: Cushion cut
• …a contemporary look: Princess cut
• …a super romantic feel: Heart-shaped
• …a low-key look: Baguette cut; often used as accent diamonds on engagement rings
• …an unconventional ring: Trillion-cut—triangular with either rounded or pointed edges
• …a sleek, angular look: Emerald cut or a radiant cut , which has more facets than the emerald cut for a bigger shine

What metal do you want for your band?

You’ve got several choices, depending on your budget and preference. Here are the four most popular:

• Platinum: Beautiful, lustrous silvery white; hypoallergenic, doesn’t tarnish , but most expensive of popular metals.
• 18K white gold: More affordable than platinum but looks similar; needs regular replating; Reconsider if you have a nickel allergy.
• 14K rose gold: Blush-pink alloy of gold and copper, this is a durable metal that’s about the same price as white and yellow gold.
• 18K yellow gold: Classic metal that’s 75% fine gold and 25% alloys (to strengthen the metal); durable for general use.

Get a ring that fits your style, your personality, and your budget. And when you have it, make sure to get an independent appraisal and insurance to protect it from “oopsies.” I can help. Contact me with questions or to set up an appointment at 617-304-0174 or at aimee@ambappraisal.com.

Brilliantly yours, Aimee