While all types of jewelry are immortal in their own right, the permanence and beauty associated with an engagement ring have allured couples for centuries. The only possible issue is that price may be standing between the ideal ring and a decidedly tight budget. What are some of the ways in which you can make a financially prudent decision while still purchasing the ring of your dreams? Are there any professional tricks and suggestions to consider? Let’s examine some lesser-known strategies to employ.

The Stone Itself

Assuming that you are hoping to purchase a diamond engagement ring, the quality of the stone is important. This is why it is first a good idea to become familiar with the four C’s (color, clarity, cut, and carat weight). Each of these factors will impact the price of the diamond (and therefore, the ring). Try to find a balance between the carat weight and the appearance of the stone.

Also, be sure that the diamond has been properly graded by accredited authorities such as the Gemological Institute of America (GIA) or the American Gem Society (AGS). You can then remain confident that the stone is authentic and priced correctly.

The Illusion of Size

We are all attracted to larger engagement rings. However, let’s remember that prices will rise substantially if the stone is larger than one carat. Thankfully, there is another option to consider. Certain cuts (such as round brilliant cuts) are known to provide the illusion of size while hiding any small imperfections that may be present. You can therefore choose a slightly larger stone that may have a handful of nearly invisible flaws while still saving a substantial amount of money. It is wise to peruse this Pricescope diamond carat weight guide to learn more about the different types of cuts and how these will impact the apparent size of the stone.

Alternatives to Gold

Another useful strategy to consider involves the type of precious metal associated with the ring. Certain amalgams of gold (such as rose gold and white gold) have become extremely popular due to their cost-effective nature. You could instead opt for silver if you wish to achieve a more subdued appearance. Silver is also an excellent way to enhance the radiance (sparkle) of the diamond itself.

Online Diamond Retailers

Keep in mind that the price of an engagement ring will be impacted by variables such as how long it took to create and the type of setting. One way to minimize these costs is to leverage the power of online diamond wholesalers. You will often be able to obtain a quality stone at a highly discounted price. This will help to mitigate the costs associated with other “middlemen” within the traditional engagement ring industry. However, make certain that the stone has been certified by the appropriate authorities.

These are some of the best ways to accommodate a stringent budget while simultaneously purchasing a truly one-of-a-kind ring. You will be pleasantly surprised to learn about the sheer number of options!

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