Rules of Engagement-Tips for finding the ideal engagement ring

Upholding tradition, research shows that a majority of well-mannered men proudly propose with an engagement ring in hand, on bended knee, and uttering the words “will you marry me,” even securing the parents’ blessings beforehand.

But whether he knows it or not, the bride does play a key role in the selection of the engagement ring. In fact, in a recent online poll nearly three quarters of brides reported to be present when their ring was purchased or had shopped around with the groom during the process. Even among brides who claimed to be somewhat or not at all involved in the ring selection, the majority dropped hints—from clipped magazine ads to hints from friends and family.

A broad brushstroke of the trends categorize brides with a classic sensibility are prone to the timeless six-prong solitaire style; casual, sporty brides are inclined toward modern sleek designs, often in matte finish with bezel-set diamonds; and romantic types fond of feminine things are partial to micro pave, while those with a penchant for nostalgia prefer vintage looks including engraving, fine filigree work and rose-cut diamonds.
For brides with something very specific in mind, there is always custom design, a route actress Katherine Heigel chose when creating her platinum and pear-shaped diamond ring by Ryan Ryan. She incorporated part of the shank of her mother’s engagement ring to make her own—nice touch!

Lately, brides seem to be favoring styles with multiple stones like a prong-set diamond center with diamond baguettes, channel-set diamond accents or diamond pave on the ring. Choice center cuts for brides are round and princess, but Hollywood’s elite also prefers cushion, emerald, and Asscher cuts.

Although 95% of the engagement rings purchased are set with white diamonds, there are maverick brides who opt for color as either a center stone or accents, especially in gems like blue and pink sapphire, and other birthstones, as well as color diamonds. For inspiration check out the rings of singer Mariah Carey, who wears a 17-carat pink diamond in platinum by Jacob & Co., and Brooke Mueller, wife of actor Charlie Sheen, who sports an 11-carat yellow diamond in platinum by Lord Alon Barak.

Design trends also favor white metal in wedding rings. Studies reveal that a large percentage of brides prefer platinum but end up with white gold because they believe platinum is out of reach. But many of todays most popular jewelry designers are creating beautiful platinum mountings for well under $1000. While platinum may be slightly more expensive than gold, it provides the best return on investment and best value for the couple.

Hypoallergenic, platinum jewelry is generally 95% pure, unlike 18k-gold that is only 75% pure. The pure white luster of platinum enhances the true brilliance of diamonds and is the ideal background for color. Its density and weight make it more durable than other jewelry metals, able to hold stones securely in their settings. Platinum is resistant to heat and acids and does not wear down as quickly as other jewelry metals.

Your wedding rings should be the highest priority. So, if you’re worried about your wedding budget, why not scale back by creatively cutting corners with DIY and green components, a more casual reception, or a home front honeymoon.

Remember, you’ll be wearing your ring every day—long past the last the bite of wedding cake is devoured. Imagine if you had to wear one outfit everyday. You’d choose wisely, investing in the most durable, comfortable, beautiful fabric crafted in an enduring style that speaks to your personality. The same care should be given to selecting your engagement ring, as well as both wedding bands.

In fact, I advise couples to look for the bands while shopping for the engagement ring, or at least begin your search six months prior to the wedding. The most important symbols of your marriage should not be relegated as a second thought.

By Michael O’Connor, Jewelry and Style Expert