So, you've encountered the love of your life and want to give her an engagement ring to make your life together official. Fortunately, the hardest part, which is finding your soul mate, is over. But that doesn't change the fact that choosing an engagement ring is difficult, especially if it's your first time shopping for fine jewelry.
In the past, it was common for men to shop for Toronto engagement rings alone and then present them to their lovers by surprise, but an increasing number of couples are shopping for engagement rings together. Whether you shop alone or together, there are several factors you ought to keep in mind when evaluating engagement rings and they are the 4Cs, your budget, the type of metal, and the diamond's shape and setting.
Budget
Setting a budget is the first step you must take after deciding that you're going to purchase your significant other an engagement ring. Traditionally, the rule of thumb is to purchase a ring that costs the equivalent of two months of your salary. Today, more people are deciding to take advantage of the option in selecting the Style and Diamond of choice to create a price that they are comfortable with. After all, she does deserve it and if you can afford it, Bigger is better!
The 4Cs
Before you start looking at Toronto engagement rings, you must learn about the 4Cs, which are carat, cut, clarity, and color. The price per carat of a diamond is determined by its carat weight. Typically, the larger the diamond, the more expensive it will be per carat. A diamond's clarity impacts its sparkle and brilliance. Preferably, you'll be able to find a clear diamond that has few inclusions (internal flaws) and blemishes (surface flaws).
Color measures how transparent a diamond is. Colorless diamonds are highly valued because they refract light and therefore sparkle more. Cut is the most important factor to consider when you shop around for a diamond at Toronto engagement rings because the cut of a diamond gives it its brilliance.
Metals
When you are shopping around for Toronto engagement rings, you'll probably notice that most rings are made with one of the following metals: white gold, yellow gold, platinum, or palladium. Some even feature a combination of yellow metal and white metal.
Platinum being hypoallergenic is the most popular white metal because it is highly resistant to tarnishing. Palladium also from the Platinum group of precious metals is naturally white, hypoallergenic with more shine and luster than white gold.
Yellow gold rings are available in 14-karat, 18-karat and 22-karat gold and unique to Toronto engagement rings: 18-karat Rouge gold.
Shape and Setting
Popular diamond shapes used for Toronto engagement rings include pear, oval, heart, emerald, round, princess, radiant, and cushion. Engagement ring settings include the refined and classic solitaire setting, the multi-diamond setting with side stones, and the three-stone trinity setting. When deciding on the shape and setting of an engagement ring, allow yourself the time in the convenience of your own home to find and compare the perfect ring for your partner.