Selecting the Perfect Engagement Ring

The perfect engagement ring should be perfect for you now, but also in the years to come. Consider these few points before making that investment.

Stone color. Do you have a favorite color? Has it always been your favorite color, or is it just a fashion statement for this season? Selecting an engagement ring with colored diamonds or gems needs a little thought. While beautifully toned diamonds can and do go with everything, some brightly colored gems, such as rubies or sapphires, may start to lose their appeal eventually. Will you still be wearing navy in 20 years? What will you do when you want to wear colors that clash with your engagement ring?

Beware of engagement ring styles dating. We have all seen women wearing engagement rings that automatically scream 1980, or some other the year, style and jewelry trend. Some engagement ring trends are more easy to date than others. A great example of a style that is extremely easy to pick is the "Princess Diana" style engagement ring. Hers was a huge sapphire surrounded by tiny marquise diamonds. Look around at women of her generation and you will see them everywhere. If you are leery of having your engagement ring dating you, opt for a more traditional style, antique or vintage style, or go for a one-off.

Lifestyle. This is a huge consideration that many couples don't think to factor in for their engagement ring choice. Do you work with your hands? Come into contact with harsh chemicals? Do you play loads of sport? Garden frequently? Women with active lifestyles, or those in occupations that are heavy on their hands may prefer to select engagement rings in more sturdy settings, or opt for lower settings. Some gems such as opals, pearls, and emeralds, are not quite as forgiving to harsh chemicals and hard bumps as the diamond. Will your engagement ring be taken off after the wedding and only brought out for special occasions? Alternatively, do you plan on never taking your engagement ring off?

Wedding ring. Before selecting your engagement ring take a moment or two to consider your wedding ring. Plain wedder, bridal set, or diamond studded eternity band? Will you be wearing your engagement ring and wedding ring together always? There is nothing more disappointing than discovering that the wedding ring of your dreams will never be worn up next to your engagement ring. Check that the two will go together before making a final decision.