We can all agree that purchasing an engagement ring is not a place you want to cut corners on quality or design. The ring you are using as a symbol of promise should be beautiful, well-made, and well-suited to your partner.
However, sometimes it’s not more money you need to secure that perfectly stunning piece, but a little more creativity. Here are some insider tips that will allow you to think outside the box instead of reaching deeper into your wallet.
When every ring is made uniquely for each of our clients, the customization of your ring with the best stone for your budget. is simple.
1. Change up the size of the stone.
Do you think you can tell the difference between a .98ct diamond when compared to a 1.00ct diamond with your naked eye? Likely not. But you better believe you’ll notice a difference in the price! Most jewelers operate with “magic" sizes for stones such as .5ct, 1ct, and 1.5ct which typically demand a premium price tag. If you are willing to be flexible about the size of your stone, it could mean significant savings with barely any visual sacrifice.
2. Be open to different shapes.
When you think of a diamond, what you probably picture is a round shape of some sort. Circular-shaped diamonds are classic, but considering an alternative shape such as an oval, marquis, or pear could do more than just create a unique piece. These shapes actually appear optically larger on the hand when compared to a round diamond of the same weight.
Keeping with English royal tradition, blue sapphires are an excellent choice for an engagement ring. This classic three stone is only $4,500 compared to the $11,000+ equivalent if the center stone was a diamond.
3. Consider an alternative stone.
The center diamond makes up for the bulk of the price tag on an engagement ring. However, we have moved beyond the days when an engagement ring has to mean a diamond ring. There are a variety of gemstones in gorgeous hues that can be used as a center stone for a fraction of the cost. Consider a high-quality sapphire or spinel - both of which are stunning centerpieces and have a durability second only to diamonds.
4. Look at a variety of setting styles.
You may not consider the style of the setting as making a big difference on the appearance of the center stone, but it is an important factor. Some settings can dwarf the size of a stone, and some can actually make a stone that is on the smaller side look larger. Keep this in mind when you are comparing rings, remembering to look at the impact of the ring as a whole rather than just limiting yourself to the size of the stone.
Halo and bezel settings enhance the visual size of a diamonds. Our Harbor Light design starts at $1,200.