To understand exactly what you are buying, start with an unbiased, scientific evaluation like a GIA diamond report from the organization that set the international diamond grading standard. Diamonds may look alike. A GIA report will reveal the difference.
Be sure to consult with a quality diamond jeweler. Their expertise will go a long way towards guiding you in the world of diamond buying. And, above all, don’t let the dizzying array of choices confuse you. Simply take a good look at the jewelry she wears on a daily basis. Is it mostly gold or silver? Contemporary or traditional? If you buy something similar to what you already know she likes, you can’t go wrong.
Your budget also plays a large role in determining which ring you’ll end up choosing. The standard rule is two months salary but this is only a place to start. While jewelers will sell you a preset ring, you can often get a more exquisite piece of jewelry for your money if you choose the diamond first and then decide on the setting.
Depending on what you order, it could take a couple weeks or more to have the stone set, do any engraving, or custom design your ring. So if you want to propose on a certain date, make sure you start working on the diamond engagement ring early.
Below are a few popular setting styles:
Solitaire Setting
Solitaire Setting is a popular diamond engagement ring setting. The head secures the diamond. The prongs allow the diamond to catch the most light. A four-prong setting shows more of the diamond, but a six-prong setting is often more secure.
Settings with Sidestones
Settings with Sidestones, such as diamonds or gemstones, add additional sparkle or color. Popular sidestone settings are Channel, which protects stones by keeping them flush, and bar-channel, which allows more light to enter the sidestones.