A Gentleman's Guide: Choosing the Perfect Engagement Ring
2018-08-18

Congratulations! You’ve finally decided to pop the question. Now, you’ve thought of the perfect way to pop the question, it’s time to do so with the perfect ring.

Much like everything else wedding-related, it is one of those purchases that require careful consideration. For many guys, stepping inside a jewellery store is like entering a maze. There are many turns to make and even many more questions to ask. What is a carat? What is the difference between a princess cut and a cushion cut? Then again, what is a diamond cut? Well fear not, we have created a guide to help you find the perfect engagement rings Singapore.

The four Cs

All diamonds are measured based on the standard of the 4Cs. They represent the Colour, Cut, Clarity and Carat of the diamond. Colour refers to the diamond’s shade, starting from D to Z. The best grades are D, E, and F, which are all colourless, while the lower grades may have a slight yellow tint.  Cut describes how well the diamond ring sparkles when light reflects off it. Regardless of whether you are opting for a princess, cushion, marquise, oval or emerald cut, be sure you choose a grading that adds to the elegance of your ring.

Clarity focuses on the flawlessness of the diamond, which includes surface blemishes and inner inclusions. A GIA-certified scale ranges from FL (flawless) to I3 (pronounced inclusions), so opt for grades that are higher on the scale. These imperfections can affect the sparkle by altering the path of light through the diamond.

Finally, Carat refers to diamond size. A carat is the equivalent of 0.2g, though diamonds of the same carat can have different prices depending on their clarity, cut and colour.

The band

The type of metal you choose for a proposal ring band influences the overall appearance of the stone. Platinum and white gold have been the popular options for years; both deliver a sleek, contemporary look. Rose gold on the other hand will give off a softer and more romantic vibe. Important points to note when choosing a metal is its sturdiness, hardness and whether it tarnishes easily. If not, you might have to spend even more on re-plating or polishing the ring in subsequent years!

The setting

In the proposal ring, the placement of the diamond is important because the setting can accentuate the beauty of the stone as well as protect it from damage.

Common types of settings include the prong (the diamond held in position by 4 to 6 narrow metal supports), the bezel setting (the gem is held in place by a surrounding thin metal strip), and the halo setting (smaller diamonds surrounding the centre stone).

The choice of setting can also serve as an optical illusion for the gem to appear bigger. For instance, choosing a halo setting for your proposal ring can make it look bigger and more radiant.

Side stones

A unique way to jazz up a proposal ring is through side stones, to add a dash of stylishness while creating a classy look. Popular options include diamond baguettes on each side of the centre stone, colour gems in different configurations and paved diamonds along the ring.

Understanding the bride-to-be’s taste in jewellery

To understand her taste in jewellery, you can take the straightforward route by asking her, or opt to surprise her by observing her current collection of jewellery and by consulting her girlfriends. Whether it’s a statement ring or an elegant bling, it’s ultimately what your fiancé wants that really matters.

Now that you know better, visit a jewellery store pick out that perfect proposal ring for your upcoming pre wedding photoshoot Singapore. Good luck!