How Men Can Get the Ring Right the First Time

Shopping for an engagement ring is bound to be one of the most exciting experiences of your life. Since you want to make sure your intended is just as thrilled with the ring you choose, here are some tips on how to select the perfect one. 

Style

When it comes to choosing a ring style, it helps if you narrow down your options to avoid becoming overwhelmed. First, determine your budget. It’s traditional to spend around two months’ salary on an engagement ring, but this isn’t a hard and fast rule, especially nowadays.

Next, consider what kind of stone you’re looking for. If you’ve decided on a diamond ring, think about which cut (or shape) would look best on your fiancée’s hand. Familiarize yourself with “the 4 C’s”—cut, color, clarity, and carat—to make sure you buy the highest-quality stone you can afford.

The ring’s setting is just as important as the cut of the stone. Look closely at the type of jewelry your girl usually wears. This will help direct you toward the rings that would fit in naturally with her personal style. 

Size

If you don’t already know your girl’s ring size, it’s time to find out, even if you have to get creative. Messing up the ring’s size can be dangerous if you get it too tight. Besides, once you’ve presented her with the ring, she’s going to want to wear it. It would be disappointing to have to hand it right back to the jeweler to be sized when she should be showing it off to everyone.

The best way to size a ring is to wrap a length of paper around the base of the ring finger and mark the point where it begins to overlap, then measure the length and compare it to a size chart. Alternatively, you can borrow one of her existing rings and perform the same trick. Just be sure to measure the diameter of the interior and not the exterior. 

Material

With engagement rings, it’s important to consider the type of material used in the setting. Since she’ll likely wear the ring every day, durability is as important as aesthetics. Look for a platinum setting if she usually wears silver or white-gold jewelry, or 14 karat yellow gold if that’s more her style. Rose gold is an unusual alternative, but it’s not for everybody (and it’s not hypoallergenic, which could be a concern). Use your judgment.

In short, the more you know about your bride, the easier it will be to choose a ring that will bring her joy for the rest of your lives together.
You’re going to want to look your best for your upcoming wedding, so make sure to get your suit, and even the suits of your groomsman from Vittorio Menswear & Tuxedo!